India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/in-5-hour-long-meeting-pm-modi-and-amit-shah-discuss-new-cabinet-222396">Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term</a> on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus also said that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was looking forward having a "robust discussion" with his Indian counterpart on a wide range of issues.

The Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Pompeo, congratulated Prime Minister Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party on the spectacular electoral victory in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We, of course, will work closely with Modi, as we have many times," Ortagus told reporters in response to a question during an off-camera news conference on Tuesday.

"We're confident in the fairness and integrity of the elections, and I think that Secretary Pompeo will have a very robust discussion on a range of issues. India is a great ally and partner of the United States," Ortagus said.

Her comment came amid a report that Pompeo may visit New Delhi next month on his way to Osaka, Japan for the G20 summit to be attended by Prime Minister Modi, US President Donald Trump and other leaders.

Watch:&nbsp;'Modi united India like no PM in decades'

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Meanwhile, US lawmakers and senior government officials continue to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on his electoral victory.

According to a compilation made by the Indian Embassy here, more than 50 Congressmen, Senators and the senior government officials have sent congratulatory messages to Modi.

"India continues to have amazing potential and is a strong US partner.&nbsp;Congratulations to Narendra Modi on your success with the elections and the direction you are taking India. We look forward to seeing our partnership continue to strengthen," tweeted Indian-American politician Nikki Haley.

"Congratulations to Modi 'on being re-elected' as Prime Minister of India, said Congressman Al Green.

"I wish peace and prosperity for India and its neighbours and look forward to seeing you at India House in my congressional district in Houston, Texas, USA," he said.

In the first back-to-back majority for a single party in over three decades, the Modi-led BJP won 303 out of the total 542 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday. State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus also said that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was looking forward having a "robust discussion" with his Indian counterpart on a wide range of issues. The Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Pompeo, congratulated Prime Minister Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party on the spectacular electoral victory in the Lok Sabha elections. "We, of course, will work closely with Modi, as we have many times," Ortagus told reporters in response to a question during an off-camera news conference on Tuesday. "We're confident in the fairness and integrity of the elections, and I think that Secretary Pompeo will have a very robust discussion on a range of issues. India is a great ally and partner of the United States," Ortagus said. Her comment came amid a report that Pompeo may visit New Delhi next month on his way to Osaka, Japan for the G20 summit to be attended by Prime Minister Modi, US President Donald Trump and other leaders. Watch: 'Modi united India like no PM in decades' Meanwhile, US lawmakers and senior government officials continue to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on his electoral victory. According to a compilation made by the Indian Embassy here, more than 50 Congressmen, Senators and the senior government officials have sent congratulatory messages to Modi. "India continues to have amazing potential and is a strong US partner. Congratulations to Narendra Modi on your success with the elections and the direction you are taking India. We look forward to seeing our partnership continue to strengthen," tweeted Indian-American politician Nikki Haley. "Congratulations to Modi 'on being re-elected' as Prime Minister of India, said Congressman Al Green. "I wish peace and prosperity for India and its neighbours and look forward to seeing you at India House in my congressional district in Houston, Texas, USA," he said. In the first back-to-back majority for a single party in over three decades, the Modi-led BJP won 303 out of the total 542 Lok Sabha seats.

US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson

A knife-wielding attacker killed a 12-year-old schoolgirl and a man before stabbing himself to death in a rampage outside Tokyo Tuesday that also injured more than a dozen, including several children.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-mass-stabbing-one-child-among-two-killed-19-injured-222099">mass stabbing in the town of Kawasaki</a>, south of the Japanese capital, was a rare attack in a country with one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world, and there was no immediate detail on the suspect's motive.

Kiyoshi Matsuda, deputy director of the Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital, told reporters that the 12-year-old schoolgirl and a 39-year-old man had succumbed to their injuries.

Local media reported that the suspected attacker, a man in his 50s, had also died of his wounds after turning the knife on himself. Emergency services said at least 16 others had been injured in the attack.

"It is a very harrowing case. I feel strong anger," Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in televised remarks.

"I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly."

According to local media, eyewitnesses saw a middle-aged man clasping a knife near the bus stop where the children were waiting, shouting "I will kill you".

A local man living nearby, who identified himself as Matsumoto, 25, said he went outside after hearing screams.

"It's hard to describe what it was like, how it sounded. It wasn't girls having fun, it was a sound that was absolutely not normal," he told AFP.

"I saw a man lying on the street. I also saw a girl hunched over on the ground. There were also five or six girls, maybe they were the ones who screamed... There was blood all over them."

Watch: Witnesses describe Japan stabbing

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'Prayers and sympathy'

The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school. Fire department officials said they received the first emergency calls shortly before 8:00 am local time (2300 GMT Monday).

The scene of the attack was still swarming with emergency personnel hours later, with three police vans parked around the spot to block it from view.

Emergency workers set up an orange medical tent to treat the wounded, and ambulances and fire engines were parked nearby.

A white school bus with blue stripes was parked at the site, with the name "Caritas Gakuen (school)" written on the side, said an AFP correspondent at the scene.

The bloodshed came as Donald Trump wrapped up a state visit to Japan, and the US president offered his "prayers and sympathy" to the victims as he met troops outside Tokyo.

Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families".

A local resident, who declined to give his name, said children attending the Caritas school lined up for the bus at the site every day.

"If you live in this neighbourhood, everybody knows that these kids are there," the 66-year-old told AFP.

"I've been in this area for a long time, I cannot believe that somebody targeted this bus and targeted these small children."

'Serious injuries'

An official at the St Marianna University School of Medicine said a "woman in her forties and three girls... suffered serious injuries."

"They will go through surgery for the injuries, mainly to their heads and necks. After that, they will be transferred to the ICU," said Takehito Otsubo, the hospital's assistant director.

Police earlier told AFP one suspect had been detained and an eyewitness told local media that the man had stabbed himself.

"I saw a man holding a knife... I couldn't see clearly, but he apparently stabbed himself in the neck," one eyewitness told NHK.

The broadcaster said two knives were spotted at the scene, but there was no immediate confirmation.

Violent crime is extremely rare in Japan, and children often travel to and from schools alone.

The country has famously strict gun control regulations and gun crime is unusual, but there have been a few high-profile stabbing attacks.

In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service.

And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death at a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness.

A knife-wielding attacker killed a 12-year-old schoolgirl and a man before stabbing himself to death in a rampage outside Tokyo Tuesday that also injured more than a dozen, including several children.

A knife-wielding attacker killed a 12-year-old schoolgirl and a man before stabbing himself to death in a rampage outside Tokyo Tuesday that also injured more than a dozen, including several children. The mass stabbing in the town of Kawasaki, south of the Japanese capital, was a rare attack in a country with one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world, and there was no immediate detail on the suspect's motive. Kiyoshi Matsuda, deputy director of the Nippon Medical School Musashi Kosugi Hospital, told reporters that the 12-year-old schoolgirl and a 39-year-old man had succumbed to their injuries. Local media reported that the suspected attacker, a man in his 50s, had also died of his wounds after turning the knife on himself. Emergency services said at least 16 others had been injured in the attack. "It is a very harrowing case. I feel strong anger," Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said in televised remarks. "I offer my heartfelt condolences to the victims and hope the injured recover quickly." According to local media, eyewitnesses saw a middle-aged man clasping a knife near the bus stop where the children were waiting, shouting "I will kill you". A local man living nearby, who identified himself as Matsumoto, 25, said he went outside after hearing screams. "It's hard to describe what it was like, how it sounded. It wasn't girls having fun, it was a sound that was absolutely not normal," he told AFP. "I saw a man lying on the street. I also saw a girl hunched over on the ground. There were also five or six girls, maybe they were the ones who screamed... There was blood all over them." Watch: Witnesses describe Japan stabbing × 'Prayers and sympathy' The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school. Fire department officials said they received the first emergency calls shortly before 8:00 am local time (2300 GMT Monday). The scene of the attack was still swarming with emergency personnel hours later, with three police vans parked around the spot to block it from view. Emergency workers set up an orange medical tent to treat the wounded, and ambulances and fire engines were parked nearby. A white school bus with blue stripes was parked at the site, with the name "Caritas Gakuen (school)" written on the side, said an AFP correspondent at the scene. The bloodshed came as Donald Trump wrapped up a state visit to Japan, and the US president offered his "prayers and sympathy" to the victims as he met troops outside Tokyo. Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families". A local resident, who declined to give his name, said children attending the Caritas school lined up for the bus at the site every day. "If you live in this neighbourhood, everybody knows that these kids are there," the 66-year-old told AFP. "I've been in this area for a long time, I cannot believe that somebody targeted this bus and targeted these small children." 'Serious injuries' An official at the St Marianna University School of Medicine said a "woman in her forties and three girls... suffered serious injuries." "They will go through surgery for the injuries, mainly to their heads and necks. After that, they will be transferred to the ICU," said Takehito Otsubo, the hospital's assistant director. Police earlier told AFP one suspect had been detained and an eyewitness told local media that the man had stabbed himself. "I saw a man holding a knife... I couldn't see clearly, but he apparently stabbed himself in the neck," one eyewitness told NHK. The broadcaster said two knives were spotted at the scene, but there was no immediate confirmation. Violent crime is extremely rare in Japan, and children often travel to and from schools alone. The country has famously strict gun control regulations and gun crime is unusual, but there have been a few high-profile stabbing attacks. In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service. And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death at a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness.

Very harrowing! I feel strong anger: Japanese PM Abe on mass stabbing

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-says-trumps-comment-reflected-hope-for-progress-in-trade-talks-by-august-222105">US&nbsp;President Donald Trump</a> expects that Japan's military will reinforce US&nbsp;forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US&nbsp;ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores.

Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters.

The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing.

"With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck.

The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster US&nbsp;forces operating from Japan by providing a refuelling platform for US&nbsp;Marine F-35Bs.

Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe

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Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defence spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad.

He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognise the existence of Japan's military.

The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries.

Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the US-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America.

On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defence capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment.

Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered.

Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology.

"This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo.

The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the US&nbsp;Seventh Fleet.

US President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce US forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores.

US President Donald Trump expects that Japan's military will reinforce US forces throughout Asia and elsewhere, he said on Tuesday, as the key US ally upgrades the ability of its forces to operate further from its shores. Trump's comments followed his inspection of Japan's largest warship, the Kaga, a helicopter carrier designed to carry submarine-hunting helicopters to distant waters. The vessel, which will soon be upgraded to handle F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) jets, sailed to India on a flag-flying mission last year, going through the contested South China Sea, much of which is claimed by Beijing. "With this extraordinary new equipment the Kaga will help our nations defend against a range of complex threats in the region and far beyond," Trump said in a speech on the ship's hangar deck. The refit of the vessel, and its sister ship, the Izumo, is expected to bolster US forces operating from Japan by providing a refuelling platform for US Marine F-35Bs. Watch: In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who accompanied Trump on the visit to the Kaga, has boosted defence spending since taking office in December 2012, stretching the pacifist constitution to ease limits on troop activities abroad. He also wants to revise the post-World War Two charter to recognise the existence of Japan's military. The Kaga and the Izumo are the biggest aircraft carriers Japan has operated since its wartime defeat, but its Self Defence Forces designate them as destroyers, as constitutional curbs forbid possession of weapons that could be used to attack other countries. Trump is winding up a four-day state visit meant to underscore the US-Japan alliance, but shadowed by friction over Tokyo's big trade surplus with America. On Monday he told a news conference that Washington supported Japan's efforts to improve its defence capability and touted Tokyo's purchases of American military equipment. Japan last year unveiled a plan to buy 45 more F-35 stealth fighters, including some B variants, worth about $4 billion, adding to the 42 jets it has already ordered. Japan says it eventually wants to field a force of around 150 of the advanced fighter jets, as it tries to keep ahead of China's advances in military technology. "This purchase would give Japan the largest fleet of F-35s of any of our allies," Trump said on the Kaga, docked at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo. The base is the headquarters of the Japanese fleet and also the home port of the US Seventh Fleet.

After visit, Trump expects Japan's military to reinforce United States in Asia and beyond

US President Donald Trump is on a purposeful trip to Japan. The bilateral ties between US and Japan has been escalates with a mega defence deal. Both nations are on a edge to make ties more stronger and wealthier.

In eventful trip to Japan, Trump inks mega defence deal with Abe

A mass <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/two-feared-dead-17-hurt-after-japan-mass-stabbing-222086">stabbing rampage outside of Tokyo</a> on Tuesday killed a schoolgirl, and the suspected attacker was also dead after turning his knife on himself, according to local media.

The attack, in the town of Kawasaki, south of the Japanese capital, also injured 19 people, local emergency officials told AFP.

The rampage was a rare attack in a country with one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world and there was no immediate detail on the motive of the knifeman.

It came as Donald Trump wraps up a state visit to Japan, and the US president offered his "prayers and sympathy" to the victims as he met troops outside Tokyo.

Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families".

The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school in Kawasaki.

Local media said the attack killed a schoolgirl and that the suspected attacker, who was taken into custody by police, had died after stabbing himself.

"One man and one female child are showing no vital signs," fire department official Yuji Sekizawa had earlier told AFP, employing a phrase commonly used in Japan to mean the victims have died but the death has not yet been certified by an official medical professional.

The fire department said children were also among the 19&nbsp;others injured.

The scene of the attack was swarming with emergency personnel, including police who had parked three police vans around the site to block it from view.

A white school bus with blue stripes could be seen parked, however, with the name "Caritas Gakuen (school)" written on the side, an AFP correspondent at the scene said.

Emergency workers had also set up an orange medical tent to treat the wounded, and ambulances and fire engines were parked nearby.

An official at a local hospital said it had received five people wounded in the attack and that four of them had suffered serious injuries.

Among them were a woman, a man and "three girls who are all six years old".

Police earlier told AFP one suspect had been detained and an eyewitness told local media that the man had stabbed himself.

"I saw a man holding a knife... I couldn't see clearly, but he apparently stabbed himself in the neck," one eyewitness told NHK.

The broadcaster said two knives were spotted at the scene, but there was no immediate confirmation from officials.

'Scary to see'

How the attack unfolded was not immediately clear, with some initial reports saying it occurred in a park, but subsequent accounts describing it as taking place at a nearby bus stop.

"I heard the sound of lots of ambulances and I saw a man lying near a bus stop bleeding," a male eyewitness, who was not identified, told NHK.

"There is another bus stop near the elementary school and I also saw elementary schoolchildren lying on the ground... It's a quiet neighbourhood, it's scary to see this kind of thing happen."

"It is a very harrowing incident," government spokesman Yoshihide Suga told reporters, referring all further questions on the attack to police.

Violent crime is extremely rare in Japan, and children often travel to and from schools alone, but there have been a few high-profile attacks.

In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service.

And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death in a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness.

A mass stabbing rampage outside of Tokyo on Tuesday killed a schoolgirl, and the suspected attacker was also dead after turning his knife on himself, according to local media.

A mass stabbing rampage outside of Tokyo on Tuesday killed a schoolgirl, and the suspected attacker was also dead after turning his knife on himself, according to local media. The attack, in the town of Kawasaki, south of the Japanese capital, also injured 19 people, local emergency officials told AFP. The rampage was a rare attack in a country with one of the lowest rates of violent crime in the developed world and there was no immediate detail on the motive of the knifeman. It came as Donald Trump wraps up a state visit to Japan, and the US president offered his "prayers and sympathy" to the victims as he met troops outside Tokyo. Standing aboard a Japanese military ship, he said that "all Americans stand with the people of Japan and grieve for the victims and for their families". The attack occurred during the busy early morning commute as workers headed to their offices and children to school in Kawasaki. Local media said the attack killed a schoolgirl and that the suspected attacker, who was taken into custody by police, had died after stabbing himself. "One man and one female child are showing no vital signs," fire department official Yuji Sekizawa had earlier told AFP, employing a phrase commonly used in Japan to mean the victims have died but the death has not yet been certified by an official medical professional. The fire department said children were also among the 19 others injured. The scene of the attack was swarming with emergency personnel, including police who had parked three police vans around the site to block it from view. A white school bus with blue stripes could be seen parked, however, with the name "Caritas Gakuen (school)" written on the side, an AFP correspondent at the scene said. Emergency workers had also set up an orange medical tent to treat the wounded, and ambulances and fire engines were parked nearby. An official at a local hospital said it had received five people wounded in the attack and that four of them had suffered serious injuries. Among them were a woman, a man and "three girls who are all six years old". Police earlier told AFP one suspect had been detained and an eyewitness told local media that the man had stabbed himself. "I saw a man holding a knife... I couldn't see clearly, but he apparently stabbed himself in the neck," one eyewitness told NHK. The broadcaster said two knives were spotted at the scene, but there was no immediate confirmation from officials. 'Scary to see' How the attack unfolded was not immediately clear, with some initial reports saying it occurred in a park, but subsequent accounts describing it as taking place at a nearby bus stop. "I heard the sound of lots of ambulances and I saw a man lying near a bus stop bleeding," a male eyewitness, who was not identified, told NHK. "There is another bus stop near the elementary school and I also saw elementary schoolchildren lying on the ground... It's a quiet neighbourhood, it's scary to see this kind of thing happen." "It is a very harrowing incident," government spokesman Yoshihide Suga told reporters, referring all further questions on the attack to police. Violent crime is extremely rare in Japan, and children often travel to and from schools alone, but there have been a few high-profile attacks. In 2018, a man was arrested in central Japan after stabbing one person to death and injuring two others aboard a bullet train, an attack that prompted new security measures on the famed rail service. And in 2016, a man stabbed 19 people to death in a disability centre south of Tokyo in what he described as a mission to rid the world of people with mental illness.

All Americans stand with people of Japan and grieve for victims: Trump reacts to mass stabbing

A US military veteran has launched construction on the first section of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrants-at-us-mexico-border-say-trumps-tough-talk-wont-deter-them-128286">private border wall</a> between the United States and Mexico, using money crowdsourced by supporters of President Donald Trump.

Sporting a red "Make America Great Again" hat, New Mexico resident Jeff Allen proudly oversaw the groundbreaking last weekend as workers with heavy construction equipment began erecting a towering fence of steel slats on land he co-owns in the city of Sunland Park, across from Ciudad Juarez, in Mexico.

"This is Americans' way of saying, 'Congress, you're worthless, and we're fighting it. We're going to build (the wall) ourselves,'" Allen, 56, told AFP.

"This is not Europe. This is America. We protect our borders."

Determined to help Trump fulfil his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/migrants-jump-us-mexico-border-fence-at-night-181501">promise to build a "big, beautiful wall" on the border</a>, Allen decided to do part of it himself, together with the United Constitutional Patriots, a right-wing militia that carries out vigilante border patrols.

He said the project was being funded by We Build the Wall, a company launched by war veteran and triple amputee Brian Kolfage using millions of dollars in private donations he raised through an online campaign called "We The People Will Fund The Wall."

The company's advisory board is chaired by Steve Bannon, the far-right strategist and former Trump advisor.

Kolfage celebrated the new wall Monday by posting a sleek video of its construction on Facebook.

"WE DID IT!!! First, a privately funded wall is nearly complete! DONATE NOW to fund more walls!" he wrote.

The new private barrier is being built at the spot where the states of New Mexico and Texas intersect with Mexico, outside El Paso.

It is a spot often used by migrants, mainly Central Americans, to reach the United States. US Border Patrol says 98,052 migrants were detained in the El Paso sector from October to April.

Allen, a Cincinnati, Ohio native who moved here six years ago, said it was also a crossing point rife with crime. Border crossers have tried to kill his dog, slashed his tires and thrown rocks at him, he said.

The wall will be finished within a week, measure half a mile (800 meters) long, and is being built to the same specifications as government border fencing in the area, he said.

The US government has built three sections of fencing in the El Paso-Ciudad Juarez area since 2016, covering around 25 miles.

'Not about racism'

Trump has struggled to get Congress to allocate the billions of dollars he wants for his wall, leading to a political battle that shut down the US government for more than a month.

A federal judge dealt the president another blow Friday, issuing a temporary injunction on his plan to use military funds to build sections of the wall along the nearly 2,000-mile (more than 3,000-kilometer) border.

As workers manoeuvred sections of the fence into place behind him, Allen said illegal immigration had cost the United States more than $100 billion this year.

Allen insisted he had nothing against immigrants. He is married to a Mexican woman, and his daughter was born in Ciudad Juarez, where he lived for three and a half years.

"This is not about racism. This is about me protecting myself, and America having a secure border. If people want to immigrate, they should go to a port of entry and apply," he said, calling himself "a patriot."

He said he also wanted to protect migrants.

"People are bringing children up here, and they're dying. They're dragging them across the desert. Maybe a wall will stop that. They can make arrangements and come through legally, and they don't have to kill their children," he said.

He declined to say how much the barrier would cost.

Kolfage raised around $20 million on the website GoFundMe -- well short of the $1 billion he wanted to donate to the government -- before announcing that he was cancelling that project and launching We Build the Wall to build sections of border barrier privately.

A US military veteran has launched construction on the first section of private border wall between the United States and Mexico, using money crowdsourced by supporters of President Donald Trump.

A US military veteran has launched construction on the first section of private border wall between the United States and Mexico, using money crowdsourced by supporters of President Donald Trump. Sporting a red "Make America Great Again" hat, New Mexico resident Jeff Allen proudly oversaw the groundbreaking last weekend as workers with heavy construction equipment began erecting a towering fence of steel slats on land he co-owns in the city of Sunland Park, across from Ciudad Juarez, in Mexico. "This is Americans' way of saying, 'Congress, you're worthless, and we're fighting it. We're going to build (the wall) ourselves,'" Allen, 56, told AFP. "This is not Europe. This is America. We protect our borders." Determined to help Trump fulfil his promise to build a "big, beautiful wall" on the border, Allen decided to do part of it himself, together with the United Constitutional Patriots, a right-wing militia that carries out vigilante border patrols. He said the project was being funded by We Build the Wall, a company launched by war veteran and triple amputee Brian Kolfage using millions of dollars in private donations he raised through an online campaign called "We The People Will Fund The Wall." The company's advisory board is chaired by Steve Bannon, the far-right strategist and former Trump advisor. Kolfage celebrated the new wall Monday by posting a sleek video of its construction on Facebook. "WE DID IT!!! First, a privately funded wall is nearly complete! DONATE NOW to fund more walls!" he wrote. The new private barrier is being built at the spot where the states of New Mexico and Texas intersect with Mexico, outside El Paso. It is a spot often used by migrants, mainly Central Americans, to reach the United States. US Border Patrol says 98,052 migrants were detained in the El Paso sector from October to April. Allen, a Cincinnati, Ohio native who moved here six years ago, said it was also a crossing point rife with crime. Border crossers have tried to kill his dog, slashed his tires and thrown rocks at him, he said. The wall will be finished within a week, measure half a mile (800 meters) long, and is being built to the same specifications as government border fencing in the area, he said. The US government has built three sections of fencing in the El Paso-Ciudad Juarez area since 2016, covering around 25 miles. 'Not about racism' Trump has struggled to get Congress to allocate the billions of dollars he wants for his wall, leading to a political battle that shut down the US government for more than a month. A federal judge dealt the president another blow Friday, issuing a temporary injunction on his plan to use military funds to build sections of the wall along the nearly 2,000-mile (more than 3,000-kilometer) border. As workers manoeuvred sections of the fence into place behind him, Allen said illegal immigration had cost the United States more than $100 billion this year. Allen insisted he had nothing against immigrants. He is married to a Mexican woman, and his daughter was born in Ciudad Juarez, where he lived for three and a half years. "This is not about racism. This is about me protecting myself, and America having a secure border. If people want to immigrate, they should go to a port of entry and apply," he said, calling himself "a patriot." He said he also wanted to protect migrants. "People are bringing children up here, and they're dying. They're dragging them across the desert. Maybe a wall will stop that. They can make arrangements and come through legally, and they don't have to kill their children," he said. He declined to say how much the barrier would cost. Kolfage raised around $20 million on the website GoFundMe -- well short of the $1 billion he wanted to donate to the government -- before announcing that he was cancelling that project and launching We Build the Wall to build sections of border barrier privately.

Trump backers launch construction on private border wall with crowdsourced money

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-us-after-trump-nuclear-weapons-comment-222087">Iran slams US after Trump nuclear weapons comment</a>

Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-mass-stabbing-one-child-among-two-killed-19-injured-222099">Japan mass stabbing: One child among two killed, 19 injured</a>

A mass stabbing rampage outside of Tokyo on Tuesday killed a schoolgirl, and the suspected attacker was also dead after turning his knife on himself, according to local media.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-former-president-mohamed-nasheed-tipped-as-new-speaker-222097">Maldives former President Mohamed Nasheed tipped as new Speaker</a>

The former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed has been nominated as the country's parliamentary speaker and is set to be sworn in Tuesday, a party official said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ied-blast-wounds-11-security-personnel-in-jharkhand-222091">IED blast wounds 11 security personnel in Jharkhand</a>

An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Jharkhand's Kuchai area of Saraikella on early Tuesday, news agency ANI reported.&nbsp;

As per reports, the blast occurred at around 4:53 am and targeted the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/being-serena-its-a-lot-to-carry-williams-struggles-to-800th-victory-222094">'Being Serena, it's a lot to carry': Williams struggles to 800th victory</a>

Serena Williams admitted the 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' logo which adorned her Roland Garros outfit on Monday was "a lot to carry, but so is being Serena".

&nbsp;

Iran slams US after Trump nuclear weapons comment Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran.

Iran slams US after Trump nuclear weapons comment Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran. Japan mass stabbing: One child among two killed, 19 injured A mass stabbing rampage outside of Tokyo on Tuesday killed a schoolgirl, and the suspected attacker was also dead after turning his knife on himself, according to local media. Maldives former President Mohamed Nasheed tipped as new Speaker The former Maldives president Mohamed Nasheed has been nominated as the country's parliamentary speaker and is set to be sworn in Tuesday, a party official said. IED blast wounds 11 security personnel in Jharkhand An Improvised Explosive Device (IED) exploded in Jharkhand's Kuchai area of Saraikella on early Tuesday, news agency ANI reported. As per reports, the blast occurred at around 4:53 am and targeted the troops of 209 CoBRA and Jharkhand Police. 'Being Serena, it's a lot to carry': Williams struggles to 800th victory Serena Williams admitted the 'mother, champion, queen, goddess' logo which adorned her Roland Garros outfit on Monday was "a lot to carry, but so is being Serena".

News brief: Big stories of the day

Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-not-looking-for-regime-change-in-iran-trump-221945">government was not seeking regime change</a> and that he would welcome talks with Tehran.

The Trump administration was "hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on his Twitter account.

"Actions -- not words -- will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif added, referencing the US president's Twitter handle.

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Ayatollah <a href="https://twitter.com/khamenei_ir?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@khamenei_ir</a> long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons—by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/B_Team?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#B_Team</a>'s <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EconomicTerrorism?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EconomicTerrorism</a> is hurting the Iranian people &amp; causing tension in the region. Actions—not words—will show whether or not that's <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>'s intent
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1133080561235484672?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that "we're not looking for regime change (in Iran)... we're looking for no nuclear weapons".

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons -- by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," the foreign minister tweeted.

Khamenei is said to have issued a fatwa against nuclear weapons in 2003 and has reiterated it several times since.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-invited-by-saudi-arabia-to-talks-over-iran-tensions-221847">Iran is locked in a tense standoff with the United States</a> which has beefed up its military presence in the Middle East in response to alleged threats from the Islamic republic.

On Saturday, Zarif called a deployment of extra US troops to the region "very dangerous and a threat to international peace and security."

It follows a US decision earlier this month to send an aircraft carrier strike force and B-52 bombers in a show of force against what Washington's leaders said they believed was an imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets.

Washington says the latest reinforcements are in response to a "campaign" of recent attacks including a rocket launched into the Green Zone in Baghdad, explosive devices that damaged four tankers near the entrance to the Gulf, and drone strikes by Yemeni rebels on a key Saudi oil pipeline.

Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks.

Watch: Saudi Arabia calls for emergency meeting over US-Iran conflicts

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&nbsp;

Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran.

Iran hit out at the United States on Monday for "causing tensions" after President Donald Trump said his government was not seeking regime change and that he would welcome talks with Tehran. The Trump administration was "hurting the Iranian people and causing tension in the region," Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif wrote on his Twitter account. "Actions -- not words -- will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent," Zarif added, referencing the US president's Twitter handle. Ayatollah @khamenei_ir long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons—by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them.#B_Team's #EconomicTerrorism is hurting the Iranian people & causing tension in the region. Actions—not words—will show whether or not that's @realDonaldTrump's intent — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) May 27, 2019 × Zarif also denied Iran was seeking nuclear weapons, after Trump said during a visit to Japan that "we're not looking for regime change (in Iran)... we're looking for no nuclear weapons". Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei "long ago said we're not seeking nuclear weapons -- by issuing a fatwa (edict) banning them," the foreign minister tweeted. Khamenei is said to have issued a fatwa against nuclear weapons in 2003 and has reiterated it several times since. Iran is locked in a tense standoff with the United States which has beefed up its military presence in the Middle East in response to alleged threats from the Islamic republic. On Saturday, Zarif called a deployment of extra US troops to the region "very dangerous and a threat to international peace and security." It follows a US decision earlier this month to send an aircraft carrier strike force and B-52 bombers in a show of force against what Washington's leaders said they believed was an imminent Iranian plan to attack US assets. Washington says the latest reinforcements are in response to a "campaign" of recent attacks including a rocket launched into the Green Zone in Baghdad, explosive devices that damaged four tankers near the entrance to the Gulf, and drone strikes by Yemeni rebels on a key Saudi oil pipeline. Iran has denied any involvement in the attacks. Watch: Saudi Arabia calls for emergency meeting over US-Iran conflicts ×

After Trump nuclear weapons comment, Iran says US 'causing tensions'

Canada took a first step toward ratifying a new North American trade agreement on Monday just three days ahead of US Vice President Mike Pence's trip to Ottawa to discuss the passage of the treaty.

Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland presented what is known as a "ways and means motion" to the House of Commons, which opens the way for the formal presentation of a bill.

The deal known as the USMCA, which would replace the 25-year-old <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-us-reach-nafta-deal-report-168658">North American Free Trade Agreement</a>, has yet to be approved by legislatures of the three participating countries - Canada, Mexico and the United States.

The United States struck deals on May 17 to lift tariffs on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-lifts-steel-aluminum-tariffs-on-canada-mexico-219657">steel and aluminium imports from Canada and Mexico</a>, removing a major obstacle to legislative approval. Pence is due to meet Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa on Thursday.

The United States is Canada's top trading partner, taking in 75 per cent of its goods exports. Reaching a new trade deal had been a priority for Trudeau's Liberal government, and a national election is five months away.

Freeland said she had spoken over the weekend with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and less than two weeks ago with Mexico's government about their ratification process.

The administration of US President Donald Trump, a Republican, negotiated the deal but some US Democratic lawmakers demand stronger enforcement provisions for USMCA's new labour and environmental standards.

John Manley, a former Canadian Liberal foreign minister, said on Friday that Canada should pass the new treaty this summer.

"To fail to pass it is going to be a signal to the US Congress that it is still open for renegotiations," Manley told Reuters.

Some US lawmakers have said passing the treaty would become more difficult after the congressional summer recess due to budget battles and increased campaigning ahead of the November 2020 presidential election.

Canada took a first step toward ratifying a new North American trade agreement on Monday just three days ahead of US Vice President Mike Pence's trip to Ottawa to discuss the passage of the treaty.

Canada took a first step toward ratifying a new North American trade agreement on Monday just three days ahead of US Vice President Mike Pence's trip to Ottawa to discuss the passage of the treaty. Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland presented what is known as a "ways and means motion" to the House of Commons, which opens the way for the formal presentation of a bill. The deal known as the USMCA, which would replace the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement, has yet to be approved by legislatures of the three participating countries - Canada, Mexico and the United States. The United States struck deals on May 17 to lift tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada and Mexico, removing a major obstacle to legislative approval. Pence is due to meet Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Ottawa on Thursday. The United States is Canada's top trading partner, taking in 75 per cent of its goods exports. Reaching a new trade deal had been a priority for Trudeau's Liberal government, and a national election is five months away. Freeland said she had spoken over the weekend with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and less than two weeks ago with Mexico's government about their ratification process. The administration of US President Donald Trump, a Republican, negotiated the deal but some US Democratic lawmakers demand stronger enforcement provisions for USMCA's new labour and environmental standards. John Manley, a former Canadian Liberal foreign minister, said on Friday that Canada should pass the new treaty this summer. "To fail to pass it is going to be a signal to the US Congress that it is still open for renegotiations," Manley told Reuters. Some US lawmakers have said passing the treaty would become more difficult after the congressional summer recess due to budget battles and increased campaigning ahead of the November 2020 presidential election.

Canada takes first step toward ratifying trade deal with US, Mexico

US President Donald Trump's comment signalling an announcement on trade in August probably reflected his hope for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-pm-shinzo-abe-calls-for-strengthing-ties-with-india-221913">quick progress in negotiations</a>, Japan's Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday.

Trump's government is trying to renegotiate trade agreements with major economies, including Japan, to lower the US trade deficit and address what it sees to be unfair trade practices.

After <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-buy-105-f-35-us-stealth-warplanes-donald-trump-221898">Trump met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe</a> on Monday, he told reporters he expected the two countries to be "announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries" on trade.

However, at a regular cabinet meeting, Motegi told reporters, "When you look at the exact wording of his comments, you can see that the president was voicing his hopes of swift progress in talks toward something that is mutually beneficial."

Japanese officials have denied that the two countries had agreed to reach a trade deal by August.

Motegi, who is in charge of trade talks, said his meeting in Tokyo last week with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer made clear there were differences in views that needed to be ironed out in future negotiations.

Watch: Trump meets new Japanese emperor in ceremonial highlight of state visit

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"We've agreed that we'll strive to narrow the gap, including through possibly holding working-level talks," Motegi said, adding that no timetable had yet been set for future talks.

The United States is in the middle of an expensive trade war with China, and trade tension is also simmering with Japan and the European Union.

US President Donald Trump's comment signalling an announcement on trade in August probably reflected his hope for quick progress in negotiations, Japan's Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump's comment signalling an announcement on trade in August probably reflected his hope for quick progress in negotiations, Japan's Economy Minister Toshimitsu Motegi said on Tuesday. Trump's government is trying to renegotiate trade agreements with major economies, including Japan, to lower the US trade deficit and address what it sees to be unfair trade practices. After Trump met Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday, he told reporters he expected the two countries to be "announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries" on trade. However, at a regular cabinet meeting, Motegi told reporters, "When you look at the exact wording of his comments, you can see that the president was voicing his hopes of swift progress in talks toward something that is mutually beneficial." Japanese officials have denied that the two countries had agreed to reach a trade deal by August. Motegi, who is in charge of trade talks, said his meeting in Tokyo last week with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer made clear there were differences in views that needed to be ironed out in future negotiations. Watch: Trump meets new Japanese emperor in ceremonial highlight of state visit × "We've agreed that we'll strive to narrow the gap, including through possibly holding working-level talks," Motegi said, adding that no timetable had yet been set for future talks. The United States is in the middle of an expensive trade war with China, and trade tension is also simmering with Japan and the European Union.

Japan says Trump's comment reflected hope for progress in trade talks by August

Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after US President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear programme was possible.

Washington withdrew last year from a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-slams-us-after-trump-nuclear-weapons-comment-222087">2015 international nuclear deal </a>with Tehran and is ratcheting up sanctions in efforts to strangle Iran's economy by ending its international sales of crude oil.

Trump said on Monday,&nbsp;"I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen."

Asked about Trump's comments in a news conference in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency,&nbsp;"We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America."

"Iran pays no attention to words; What matters to us is a change of approach and behaviour."

Trump also said that the United States was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-looking-for-regime-change-in-iran-despite-middle-east-tensions-trump-221965">not looking for regime change in Iran</a>, adding that "we are looking for no nuclear weapons."

Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said on Tuesday the country was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapon as this was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's highest authority.

Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States since Washington deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict.

Watch: Saudi Arabia calls for emergency meeting over US-Iran conflicts

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&nbsp;

Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after US President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear programme was possible.

Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with the United States, a foreign ministry spokesman said on Tuesday, a day after US President Donald Trump said a deal with Tehran on its nuclear programme was possible. Washington withdrew last year from a 2015 international nuclear deal with Tehran and is ratcheting up sanctions in efforts to strangle Iran's economy by ending its international sales of crude oil. Trump said on Monday, "I really believe that Iran would like to make a deal, and I think that's very smart of them, and I think that's a possibility to happen." Asked about Trump's comments in a news conference in Tehran, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi was quoted as saying by the semi-official Fars news agency, "We currently see no prospect of negotiations with America." "Iran pays no attention to words; What matters to us is a change of approach and behaviour." Trump also said that the United States was not looking for regime change in Iran, adding that "we are looking for no nuclear weapons." Iranian Vice President Eshaq Jahangiri said on Tuesday the country was not allowed to pursue the development of nuclear weapon as this was banned by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's highest authority. Tensions have risen between Iran and the United States since Washington deployed a carrier strike group and bombers and announced plans to deploy 1,500 troops to the Middle East, prompting fears of a conflict. Watch: Saudi Arabia calls for emergency meeting over US-Iran conflicts ×

Iran sees no prospect of negotiations with US: Foreign ministry

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-buy-105-f-35-us-stealth-warplanes-donald-trump-221898">press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump</a> who is on a state visit to the Asian country.

Abe said, "We will expand and enhance our efforts on free and open Indo-Pacific with India, Australia and ASEAN countries."

Abe, who shares close ties with PM-designate Narendra Modi, was the first foreign leader to congratulate the latter after his landslide victory in India's 17th general election.

Abe and Modi will be meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan from June 28 to 29.

The Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India later this year for the 14th India Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan.&nbsp;

Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which the East Asian country announced that it will join New Delhi led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement.

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-beef-aside-trump-and-abe-bond-over-burgers-sumo-and-golf-221840">Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe</a> held a joint press conference after holding talks.

While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world.

Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time.

"I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries."&nbsp;

Trump and Abe are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. &nbsp;

The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade.&nbsp;

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump who is on a state visit to the Asian country.

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump who is on a state visit to the Asian country. Abe said, "We will expand and enhance our efforts on free and open Indo-Pacific with India, Australia and ASEAN countries." Abe, who shares close ties with PM-designate Narendra Modi, was the first foreign leader to congratulate the latter after his landslide victory in India's 17th general election. Abe and Modi will be meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan from June 28 to 29. The Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India later this year for the 14th India Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan. Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which the East Asian country announced that it will join New Delhi led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement. US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference after holding talks. While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world. Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time. "I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries." Trump and Abe are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade.

Japan PM Shinzo Abe calls for strengthening ties with India

US President Donald Trump and Japan President Shinzo Abe holds a formal meeting in Tokyo, Japan. President Donald Trump exclusively talks about billateral ties between Japan and US, and how they are best.

'Ties with Japan have never been better' says Donald Trump during formal meeting with Shinzo Abe

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-beef-aside-trump-and-abe-bond-over-burgers-sumo-and-golf-221840">after holding talks</a>.&nbsp;

While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world.

The US President also informed that Japan will be buying 105 F-35 US stealth warplanes, adding that the two countries look forward to collaborating on space exploration.

Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time.

"I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries."&nbsp;

Both the leaders are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. &nbsp;

The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade.&nbsp;

Top Japanese and American trade negotiators spent more than two hours locked in talks on Saturday night but failed to achieve a breakthrough, although the Japanese side said there was more "understanding" between the two.

There exists 'full support' from Trump for meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, Abe said.&nbsp;

Trump is in Japan as the first foreign leader to visit the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-becomes-first-foreign-leader-to-meet-japans-new-emperor-221846">country's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito</a> - an honour Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks.

Monday marked the start of the official programme for the two leaders after a fun-filled weekend of sumo, golf and meals out. Trump said on Sunday he was having a "great time" with his friend and close ally Abe.

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Trump honours Japanese sumo wrestler with 'Trump Award'

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&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference after holding talks. While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world.

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference after holding talks. While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world. The US President also informed that Japan will be buying 105 F-35 US stealth warplanes, adding that the two countries look forward to collaborating on space exploration. Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time. "I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries." Both the leaders are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade. Top Japanese and American trade negotiators spent more than two hours locked in talks on Saturday night but failed to achieve a breakthrough, although the Japanese side said there was more "understanding" between the two. There exists 'full support' from Trump for meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un, Abe said. Trump is in Japan as the first foreign leader to visit the country's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito - an honour Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks. Monday marked the start of the official programme for the two leaders after a fun-filled weekend of sumo, golf and meals out. Trump said on Sunday he was having a "great time" with his friend and close ally Abe. (With inputs from AFP) Watch: Trump honours Japanese sumo wrestler with 'Trump Award' ×

Japan to buy 105 F-35 US stealth warplanes: Donald Trump 

The winner of a sumo tournament in Tokyo this weekend will take home a unique prize: a custom-made “Trump Award” presented by President Trump himself.

Trump honours Japanese sumo wrestler with 'Trump Award'

North Korea slammed US National Security Advisor John Bolton on Monday, calling him a "human defect" that had to be banished, just as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-respect-between-us-and-north-korea-donald-trump-221859">President Donald Trump offered a positive outlook on relations with Pyongyang</a>.

Talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked since the collapse of a summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Hanoi in February when they failed to agree a deal on denuclearisation.

The North has since sought to raise the pressure and carried out two short-range missile tests earlier this month.

Bolton said Saturday there was "no doubt" they violated UN Security Council resolutions against ballistic missile launches, but insisted Washington was still ready to resume talks.

A spokesman for the North's foreign ministry dismissed Bolton's remarks, saying Pyongyang had never accepted the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-missile-test-violated-un-resolution-john-bolton-221446">UN bans on ballistic technology</a>, which denied its "rights as a sovereign nation".

"Bolton said our regular military drills violated UNSC resolutions, which is beyond stupid," he said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Without referring to the weapons as missiles, the statement said the launches did not target or threaten any neighbouring countries.

"Banning launches using ballistic technology is equal to telling us to give up our right to self-defence," he added.

The spokesman went on to denounce Bolton, calling him a "war maniac" and accusing him of "whispering war" into Trump's ears, referring to Washington's approach towards the Middle East and South America.

Calling the hawkish official "structurally faulty", he added that Bolton was working to "destroy peace and security".

"Such human defect must go away as soon as possible," the spokesman said.

The statement came just minutes after Trump -- on a visit to Japan -- said there was "great respect" between the United States and North Korea and predicted "lots of good things".

Trump expressed confidence in his relationship with Kim at the weekend and downplayed Pyongyang's recent missile launches, calling them "small weapons" that "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me".

Last week, KCNA launched a diatribe against Democratic former US vice president Joe Biden, calling him an "imbecile" and a "fool of low IQ", prompting White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders to say that Trump agreed with the assessment.

Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US

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North Korea slammed US National Security Advisor John Bolton on Monday, calling him a "human defect" that had to be banished, just as President Donald Trump offered a positive outlook on relations with Pyongyang.

North Korea slammed US National Security Advisor John Bolton on Monday, calling him a "human defect" that had to be banished, just as President Donald Trump offered a positive outlook on relations with Pyongyang. Talks between Washington and Pyongyang have been deadlocked since the collapse of a summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un in Hanoi in February when they failed to agree a deal on denuclearisation. The North has since sought to raise the pressure and carried out two short-range missile tests earlier this month. Bolton said Saturday there was "no doubt" they violated UN Security Council resolutions against ballistic missile launches, but insisted Washington was still ready to resume talks. A spokesman for the North's foreign ministry dismissed Bolton's remarks, saying Pyongyang had never accepted the UN bans on ballistic technology, which denied its "rights as a sovereign nation". "Bolton said our regular military drills violated UNSC resolutions, which is beyond stupid," he said in a statement carried by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). Without referring to the weapons as missiles, the statement said the launches did not target or threaten any neighbouring countries. "Banning launches using ballistic technology is equal to telling us to give up our right to self-defence," he added. The spokesman went on to denounce Bolton, calling him a "war maniac" and accusing him of "whispering war" into Trump's ears, referring to Washington's approach towards the Middle East and South America. Calling the hawkish official "structurally faulty", he added that Bolton was working to "destroy peace and security". "Such human defect must go away as soon as possible," the spokesman said. The statement came just minutes after Trump -- on a visit to Japan -- said there was "great respect" between the United States and North Korea and predicted "lots of good things". Trump expressed confidence in his relationship with Kim at the weekend and downplayed Pyongyang's recent missile launches, calling them "small weapons" that "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me". Last week, KCNA launched a diatribe against Democratic former US vice president Joe Biden, calling him an "imbecile" and a "fool of low IQ", prompting White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders to say that Trump agreed with the assessment. Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US ×

North Korea calls US National Security Advisor John Bolton 'human defect'

Donald Trump on Monday became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito -- an honour Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks.

The palace visit in the morning, followed by a royal banquet in the evening, was the main event in a feel-good trip that started Saturday and has seen Abe and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-differences-in-the-background-trump-and-abe-do-diplomacy-over-golf-and-sumo-221677">Trump playing golf, eating out</a>, watching sumo and generally enjoying an all-Japanese weekend.

Dining with Abe and their wives at a typical Tokyo grill restaurant on Sunday, Trump said he "had a great time" and was looking forward to meeting Naruhito, who took the Chrysanthemum Throne only three weeks ago, after his father stepped down in the first abdication in two centuries.

"Tomorrow is really the main event -- a very important event in the history of Japan. It's over 200 years since something like this has happened. So it's a great honour to be representing the United States," Trump said.

After calling on Naruhito in the morning, Trump and his avowed close friend Abe will meet for summit talks and have lunch, before holding a press conference.

On Sunday, they grinned for a selfie and praised each other's golf game. Before the dinner, Abe also accompanied Trump to a sumo tournament where the US president presented a gigantic trophy, brought from the United States, to the champion wrestler.

Abe hopes those <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-greater-japanese-investment-in-us-knocks-trade-advantage-221583">good vibes will spread into talks on trade</a>, military ties, the stumbling efforts to rein in North Korea's nuclear weapons programme, and a growing superpower rivalry between Washington and Beijing.

Within an hour of touching down in Tokyo, Trump railed against what he sees as a trade imbalance between the world's top and third-largest economies and vowed to make the relationship "a little bit more fair".

But on Sunday, Trump struck a softer note, saying that "much" of that deal would wait until Abe faces upper house elections likely in July -- as rumours swirl that the popular prime minister will combine that vote with a snap general election.

With his trade war against China getting bogged down, Trump won't want to rock the boat for his closest Asian ally.

Top Japanese and American trade negotiators spent more than two hours locked in talks on Saturday night but failed to achieve a breakthrough, although the Japanese side said there was more "understanding" between the two sides.

'Small weapons'

On North Korea, Trump appeared to undercut his own national security advisor, the hawkish John Bolton, by downplaying two recent short-range missile tests by Kim which raised tensions in the region.

"North Korea fired off some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me," Trump tweeted.

"I have confidence that Chairman Kim will keep his promise to me."

Before Trump landed in Tokyo, Bolton had told reporters there was "no doubt" that the launches contravened UN Security Council resolutions, the first time a senior US administration official has said this.

The issue is bound to come up as the leaders meet families of people abducted by North Korea during the Cold War era to train Pyongyang's spies, an emotive issue in Japan that Abe has pressed Trump to raise in talks with Kim.

The nationalist Abe himself has frequently offered to meet Kim to solve the "abductee problem", as it is known in Japan.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, Trump is expected to address troops at a US base in Japan, highlighting the military alliance between the two allies.

His visit there will underline another big US priority -- arms sales to Japan, which is considering revamping its air force with advanced US F-35 warplanes.

Donald Trump on Monday became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito -- an honour Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks.

Donald Trump on Monday became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito -- an honour Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks. The palace visit in the morning, followed by a royal banquet in the evening, was the main event in a feel-good trip that started Saturday and has seen Abe and Trump playing golf, eating out, watching sumo and generally enjoying an all-Japanese weekend. Dining with Abe and their wives at a typical Tokyo grill restaurant on Sunday, Trump said he "had a great time" and was looking forward to meeting Naruhito, who took the Chrysanthemum Throne only three weeks ago, after his father stepped down in the first abdication in two centuries. "Tomorrow is really the main event -- a very important event in the history of Japan. It's over 200 years since something like this has happened. So it's a great honour to be representing the United States," Trump said. After calling on Naruhito in the morning, Trump and his avowed close friend Abe will meet for summit talks and have lunch, before holding a press conference. On Sunday, they grinned for a selfie and praised each other's golf game. Before the dinner, Abe also accompanied Trump to a sumo tournament where the US president presented a gigantic trophy, brought from the United States, to the champion wrestler. Abe hopes those good vibes will spread into talks on trade, military ties, the stumbling efforts to rein in North Korea's nuclear weapons programme, and a growing superpower rivalry between Washington and Beijing. Within an hour of touching down in Tokyo, Trump railed against what he sees as a trade imbalance between the world's top and third-largest economies and vowed to make the relationship "a little bit more fair". But on Sunday, Trump struck a softer note, saying that "much" of that deal would wait until Abe faces upper house elections likely in July -- as rumours swirl that the popular prime minister will combine that vote with a snap general election. With his trade war against China getting bogged down, Trump won't want to rock the boat for his closest Asian ally. Top Japanese and American trade negotiators spent more than two hours locked in talks on Saturday night but failed to achieve a breakthrough, although the Japanese side said there was more "understanding" between the two sides. 'Small weapons' On North Korea, Trump appeared to undercut his own national security advisor, the hawkish John Bolton, by downplaying two recent short-range missile tests by Kim which raised tensions in the region. "North Korea fired off some small weapons, which disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me," Trump tweeted. "I have confidence that Chairman Kim will keep his promise to me." Before Trump landed in Tokyo, Bolton had told reporters there was "no doubt" that the launches contravened UN Security Council resolutions, the first time a senior US administration official has said this. The issue is bound to come up as the leaders meet families of people abducted by North Korea during the Cold War era to train Pyongyang's spies, an emotive issue in Japan that Abe has pressed Trump to raise in talks with Kim. The nationalist Abe himself has frequently offered to meet Kim to solve the "abductee problem", as it is known in Japan. On Tuesday, Trump is expected to address troops at a US base in Japan, highlighting the military alliance between the two allies. His visit there will underline another big US priority -- arms sales to Japan, which is considering revamping its air force with advanced US F-35 warplanes.

Trump becomes first foreign leader to meet Japan's new emperor

President Donald Trump Monday held out the possibility of talks with Iran, stressing he did not want "terrible things" to happen, amid <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-invited-by-saudi-arabia-to-talks-over-iran-tensions-221847">mounting tensions with the historic American foe</a>.

"I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump told reporters at Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's office ahead of a summit between both leaders.

"We'll see what happens, but I know for a fact that the prime minister (Abe) is very close with the leadership of Iran... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me."

Shinzo Abe is reportedly weighing a trip to Tehran in a bid to mediate in the Middle East crisis and Trump appeared to give the green light, saying "we'll see what happens, that would be fine".

Trump is in Japan for a state visit which aimed at reducing trade tension between both countries.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-greater-japanese-investment-in-us-knocks-trade-advantage-221583">Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus</a>&nbsp;and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-defend-itself-against-any-aggression-says-foreign-minister-221768">Strains have increased between Iran and the United States</a>, which is a firm backer of Tehran's regional rival Saudi Arabia, after this month's attack on oil tankers in the Gulf region that Washington has blamed on Iran.

Tehran has distanced itself from the bombings, but the United States has sent an aircraft carrier and an extra 1,500 troops to the Gulf, sparking concerns about the risks of conflict in a volatile region.

Washington has been seeking to tighten sanctions against Iran, as relations worsen under President Donald Trump, who last year pulled out of a nuclear agreement his predecessor Barack Obama had signed with Iran alongside other world powers in 2015.

Watch: US officials seek to tamp down Trump rhetoric on Iran

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President Donald Trump Monday held out the possibility of talks with Iran, stressing he did not want "terrible things" to happen, amid mounting tensions with the historic American foe.

President Donald Trump Monday held out the possibility of talks with Iran, stressing he did not want "terrible things" to happen, amid mounting tensions with the historic American foe. "I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," Trump told reporters at Japan Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's office ahead of a summit between both leaders. "We'll see what happens, but I know for a fact that the prime minister (Abe) is very close with the leadership of Iran... nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me." Shinzo Abe is reportedly weighing a trip to Tehran in a bid to mediate in the Middle East crisis and Trump appeared to give the green light, saying "we'll see what happens, that would be fine". Trump is in Japan for a state visit which aimed at reducing trade tension between both countries. Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. Strains have increased between Iran and the United States, which is a firm backer of Tehran's regional rival Saudi Arabia, after this month's attack on oil tankers in the Gulf region that Washington has blamed on Iran. Tehran has distanced itself from the bombings, but the United States has sent an aircraft carrier and an extra 1,500 troops to the Gulf, sparking concerns about the risks of conflict in a volatile region. Washington has been seeking to tighten sanctions against Iran, as relations worsen under President Donald Trump, who last year pulled out of a nuclear agreement his predecessor Barack Obama had signed with Iran alongside other world powers in 2015. Watch: US officials seek to tamp down Trump rhetoric on Iran ×

'If they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk,' says US President Trump on Iran

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/great-respect-between-us-and-north-korea-donald-trump-221859">'Great respect' between US and North Korea: Donald Trump</a>

There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/netanyahu-says-coalition-deal-still-possible-as-talk-of-new-polls-mounts-221841">Netanyahu says coalition deal still possible as talk of new polls mounts</a>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he believed a deal to form a new coalition government remained possible, as speculation mounted over the possibility of fresh elections only days ahead of a deadline.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-visit-varanasi-today-221858">Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Varanasi today, hold a roadshow</a>

Preparations are going on in full swing in Varanasi ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to his parliamentary constituency today after getting a landslide victory in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-becomes-first-foreign-leader-to-meet-japans-new-emperor-221846">Trump becomes first foreign leader to meet Japan's new emperor</a>

Donald Trump on Monday became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito -- an honour Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-beef-aside-trump-and-abe-bond-over-burgers-sumo-and-golf-221840">Trade beef aside, Trump and Abe bond over burgers, sumo and golf</a>

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

'Great respect' between US and North Korea: Donald Trump There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang.

'Great respect' between US and North Korea: Donald Trump There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang. Netanyahu says coalition deal still possible as talk of new polls mounts Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Sunday he believed a deal to form a new coalition government remained possible, as speculation mounted over the possibility of fresh elections only days ahead of a deadline. Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit Varanasi today, hold a roadshow Preparations are going on in full swing in Varanasi ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to his parliamentary constituency today after getting a landslide victory in the recently concluded Lok Sabha elections. Trump becomes first foreign leader to meet Japan's new emperor Donald Trump on Monday became the first foreign leader to meet with Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito -- an honour Prime Minister Shinzo Abe hopes will help charm the US president when it comes to thorny trade talks. Trade beef aside, Trump and Abe bond over burgers, sumo and golf US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - May 27th, 2019

There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang.

"I personally think that lots of good things will come with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-still-has-confidence-in-north-koreas-kim-jong-un-221636">North Korea</a>, I feel that. I may be right, I may be wrong, but I feel that" Trump said at the start of bilateral talks with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo.

"We've come a long way," the US leader added.

"There's good respect built, maybe great respect built between certainly the United States and North Korea."

The comments come despite short-range missile launches by Pyongyang in May that Trump's own <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korean-missile-test-violated-un-resolution-john-bolton-221446">National Security Advisor John Bolton</a> said over the weekend were in violation of UN Security Council resolutions.

Trump appeared to dispute Bolton's assessment in a tweet on Sunday, in which he called the missiles "small weapons" that "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me".

The US president is in Tokyo for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-becomes-first-foreign-leader-to-meet-japans-new-emperor-221846">state visit that included a meeting with ship the newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito</a> on Monday morning, the first time the monarch has met a foreign leader since taking the throne.

Trump's bilateral talks with Abe are expected to focus on trade, North Korea and military issues, as well as other diplomatic crises, including the tensions between Washington and Tehran.

Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a mediator and is said to be weighing a state visit to Iran, and Trump said he remained open to talks.

"I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," he said.

"Nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me," he added.

Trump said US-Japan relations have "never been better," but the allies are locked in negotiations over trade, with the US leader repeating Monday that America suffers a "tremendous imbalance" with Japan on trade.

"We're working on that, and I'm sure that will work out over a period of time," Trump added, saying he expected the allies to be "announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries".

Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US

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"We'll get the balance of trade straightened out rapidly."

There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang.

There is "great respect" between the United States and North Korea, President Donald Trump said Monday, predicting "lots of good things" despite recent missile launches by Pyongyang. "I personally think that lots of good things will come with North Korea, I feel that. I may be right, I may be wrong, but I feel that" Trump said at the start of bilateral talks with Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. "We've come a long way," the US leader added. "There's good respect built, maybe great respect built between certainly the United States and North Korea." The comments come despite short-range missile launches by Pyongyang in May that Trump's own National Security Advisor John Bolton said over the weekend were in violation of UN Security Council resolutions. Trump appeared to dispute Bolton's assessment in a tweet on Sunday, in which he called the missiles "small weapons" that "disturbed some of my people, and others, but not me". The US president is in Tokyo for a state visit that included a meeting with ship the newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito on Monday morning, the first time the monarch has met a foreign leader since taking the throne. Trump's bilateral talks with Abe are expected to focus on trade, North Korea and military issues, as well as other diplomatic crises, including the tensions between Washington and Tehran. Abe has reportedly proposed serving as a mediator and is said to be weighing a state visit to Iran, and Trump said he remained open to talks. "I do believe that Iran would like to talk, and if they'd like to talk, we'd like to talk also," he said. "Nobody wants to see terrible things happen, especially me," he added. Trump said US-Japan relations have "never been better," but the allies are locked in negotiations over trade, with the US leader repeating Monday that America suffers a "tremendous imbalance" with Japan on trade. "We're working on that, and I'm sure that will work out over a period of time," Trump added, saying he expected the allies to be "announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries". Watch: North Korea demands immediate return of Cargo Ship seized by US × "We'll get the balance of trade straightened out rapidly."

'Great respect' between US and North Korea: Donald Trump

Qatar said on Sunday that it had received an invitation from Saudi Arabia to attend <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-not-invited-to-emergency-arab-summits-in-saudi-arabia-qatari-official-220108">emergency regional talks</a> to discuss mounting tensions between Iran and the United States.

Riyadh had called two gatherings -- one for Arab League members, the other for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regional bloc nations -- after a spate of attacks.

Several tankers in Gulf waters were targeted under mysterious circumstances and a Saudi crude pipeline was hit by drone strikes coordinated by Yemen rebels who Riyadh said were acting on Iranian orders.

King Salman had invited Gulf leaders and Arab League members to summits in Mecca on May 30 but it was not stated if Qatar was also invited to the Arab bloc deliberations.

It was unclear if Qatar -- subject to a Saudi-led economic and diplomatic boycott over alleged support for Iran and Islamist movements -- would be invited at all, with Doha initially reporting it had not received an invite.

Qatar's emir "has received a written message" inviting the government to join the crisis talks, the government's information office said in a statement.

The invitation was received by Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani during a meeting with the secretary general of the GCC, it added.

Al-Thani has previously called for a "dialogue" between Iran and the United States to resolve the crisis between their countries.

Qatar said on Sunday that it had received an invitation from Saudi Arabia to attend emergency regional talks to discuss mounting tensions between Iran and the United States.

Qatar said on Sunday that it had received an invitation from Saudi Arabia to attend emergency regional talks to discuss mounting tensions between Iran and the United States. Riyadh had called two gatherings -- one for Arab League members, the other for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) regional bloc nations -- after a spate of attacks. Several tankers in Gulf waters were targeted under mysterious circumstances and a Saudi crude pipeline was hit by drone strikes coordinated by Yemen rebels who Riyadh said were acting on Iranian orders. King Salman had invited Gulf leaders and Arab League members to summits in Mecca on May 30 but it was not stated if Qatar was also invited to the Arab bloc deliberations. It was unclear if Qatar -- subject to a Saudi-led economic and diplomatic boycott over alleged support for Iran and Islamist movements -- would be invited at all, with Doha initially reporting it had not received an invite. Qatar's emir "has received a written message" inviting the government to join the crisis talks, the government's information office said in a statement. The invitation was received by Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al-Thani during a meeting with the secretary general of the GCC, it added. Al-Thani has previously called for a "dialogue" between Iran and the United States to resolve the crisis between their countries.

Qatar invited by Saudi Arabia to talks over Iran tensions

For a second time, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will miss her Indian counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-stakes-claim-to-form-the-government-swearing-in-likely-on-may-30-221611/amp">Narendra Modi's swearing-in</a> on May 30 as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, officials here said Monday.

According to a government release here, Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq will attend the ceremony as the senior-most Cabinet member of the Bangladesh government.

Prime Minister Hasina will be on a tri-nation visit to Japan, Saudi Arabia and Finland beginning Tuesday, it said.

She could not attend the previous swearing-in ceremony of Modi in 2014 as she was abroad then too.

Last time, Parliament Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony held on May 26.

Prime Minister Modi will be administered the oath of office for his second term along with his new council of ministers on May 30, the President's Office said Sunday in New Delhi.

Several global leaders including US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have congratulated Modi on his resounding victory.

Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha.

Soon after Prime Minister Modi's victory, the two leaders pledged to continue to raise the relationship between the two countries to an "unprecedented new heights".

The Bangladesh Prime Minister was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Prime Minister Modi following his election victory, reflecting the "extraordinarily close and cordial ties" between India and Bangladesh, and the excellent rapport that the two leaders enjoy, the report said.

She also spoke to Modi on Thursday and said this "emphatic verdict is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed on you by the people of the world's largest democracy."&nbsp;

For a second time, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will miss her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's swearing-in on May 30 as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, officials here said Monday.

For a second time, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will miss her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi's swearing-in on May 30 as she will be on a three-nation foreign visit, officials here said Monday. According to a government release here, Liberation War Affairs Minister AKM Mozammel Huq will attend the ceremony as the senior-most Cabinet member of the Bangladesh government. Prime Minister Hasina will be on a tri-nation visit to Japan, Saudi Arabia and Finland beginning Tuesday, it said. She could not attend the previous swearing-in ceremony of Modi in 2014 as she was abroad then too. Last time, Parliament Speaker Dr Shirin Sharmin Chaudhury attended Modi's swearing-in ceremony held on May 26. Prime Minister Modi will be administered the oath of office for his second term along with his new council of ministers on May 30, the President's Office said Sunday in New Delhi. Several global leaders including US President Donald Trump, Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan have congratulated Modi on his resounding victory. Prime Minister Modi on Thursday led his Bharatiya Janata Party to a landmark victory for a second five-year term in office, winning 303 seats in the 543-member Lok Sabha. Soon after Prime Minister Modi's victory, the two leaders pledged to continue to raise the relationship between the two countries to an "unprecedented new heights". The Bangladesh Prime Minister was one of the first foreign leaders to congratulate Prime Minister Modi following his election victory, reflecting the "extraordinarily close and cordial ties" between India and Bangladesh, and the excellent rapport that the two leaders enjoy, the report said. She also spoke to Modi on Thursday and said this "emphatic verdict is a reflection of the trust and confidence reposed on you by the people of the world's largest democracy."

Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina will not attend Modi's swearing-in ceremony for second time

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-urges-greater-japanese-investment-in-us-knocks-trade-advantage-221583">Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus</a> and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are also engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide.

But it was all smiles on Sunday as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/with-trade-differences-in-the-background-trump-and-abe-do-diplomacy-over-golf-and-sumo-221677">two leaders played golf</a> and later, with wives Melania and Akie, watched giant sumo wrestlers grapple on the final day of a 15-day tournament won by rising Japanese star Asanoyama.

Trump, the first US president to watch sumo in the sport's homeland, waved to the audience as he entered the hallowed Kokugikan and then saluted them with applause as they waved and raised their phones to take photos.

Arriving just in time for Asanoyama's bout, Trump nodded as Abe gestured in explanation, later watching as the three final wrestlers, wearing only traditional loincloths, lifted their legs high and stamped them to the ground in a ritual entrance.

The two couples used armchairs instead of sitting cross-legged on the "zabuton" cushions traditional for close ringside seats.

Trump, using a special set of wooden stairs fitted to the sumo ring, presented the 25-year-old Asanoyama with the President's Cup, a trophy topped with a bald eagle, the US national bird.

"In honour of your outstanding achievement as Sumo Grand Champion, I hereby award you the United States President's Cup," Trump said, reading from a prize certificate.

Security was tight, with fans forced to pass through metal detectors. The traditional throwing of cushions to mark an exciting round was prohibited.

Burgers and trade beefs

The two met early at a suburban golf course. Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, smiled for photographers before taking off for their game, which took place in 30 degree Celsius (86 F) temperatures as an unseasonal heat wave blasts Japan.

Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together, Trump wearing a red "USA" cap. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-japan-to-open-trade-talks-amid-china-deal-optimism-210692">Japan-US alliance</a> "even more unshakeable."

Despite the bonhomie, trade was never far from mind.

"Great progress being made in our trade negotiations with Japan. Agriculture and beef heavily in play," Trump tweeted after arriving back in Tokyo from the suburban golf course where the two played 16 holes.

"Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers."

Later, prior to the start of dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant where the food is handed to the diners on paddles, Trump said the two had had a productive day.

"The prime minister and I talked a lot today about trade and military and various others things," he said. "I think we had a very productive day."

An election for the upper house of parliament is likely to take place in July, though there is also speculation Abe may call a snap election for the lower house at the same time.

Beef was also heavily in play at lunch. The golf was followed by double cheeseburgers made with US beef, Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty.

During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made.

"With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said.

"Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months."

US officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip.

The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, another point where their thinking diverges.

Though Japan has said North Korea's recent missile launches were a violation of UN resolutions aimed at halting Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about them and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises.

Also read: US President Trump reaches Japan on four-day visit

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US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday played golf with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and presented a trophy to the winner of a sumo tournament, turning to personal diplomacy for the second day of a Japan visit shadowed by tough trade talk. Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are also engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide. But it was all smiles on Sunday as the two leaders played golf and later, with wives Melania and Akie, watched giant sumo wrestlers grapple on the final day of a 15-day tournament won by rising Japanese star Asanoyama. Trump, the first US president to watch sumo in the sport's homeland, waved to the audience as he entered the hallowed Kokugikan and then saluted them with applause as they waved and raised their phones to take photos. Arriving just in time for Asanoyama's bout, Trump nodded as Abe gestured in explanation, later watching as the three final wrestlers, wearing only traditional loincloths, lifted their legs high and stamped them to the ground in a ritual entrance. The two couples used armchairs instead of sitting cross-legged on the "zabuton" cushions traditional for close ringside seats. Trump, using a special set of wooden stairs fitted to the sumo ring, presented the 25-year-old Asanoyama with the President's Cup, a trophy topped with a bald eagle, the US national bird. "In honour of your outstanding achievement as Sumo Grand Champion, I hereby award you the United States President's Cup," Trump said, reading from a prize certificate. Security was tight, with fans forced to pass through metal detectors. The traditional throwing of cushions to mark an exciting round was prohibited. Burgers and trade beefs The two met early at a suburban golf course. Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, smiled for photographers before taking off for their game, which took place in 30 degree Celsius (86 F) temperatures as an unseasonal heat wave blasts Japan. Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together, Trump wearing a red "USA" cap. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the Japan-US alliance "even more unshakeable." Despite the bonhomie, trade was never far from mind. "Great progress being made in our trade negotiations with Japan. Agriculture and beef heavily in play," Trump tweeted after arriving back in Tokyo from the suburban golf course where the two played 16 holes. "Much will wait until after their July elections where I anticipate big numbers." Later, prior to the start of dinner at a traditional Japanese restaurant where the food is handed to the diners on paddles, Trump said the two had had a productive day. "The prime minister and I talked a lot today about trade and military and various others things," he said. "I think we had a very productive day." An election for the upper house of parliament is likely to take place in July, though there is also speculation Abe may call a snap election for the lower house at the same time. Beef was also heavily in play at lunch. The golf was followed by double cheeseburgers made with US beef, Japan's Foreign Ministry said in a statement. The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty. During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made. "With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said. "Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months." US officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip. The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs, another point where their thinking diverges. Though Japan has said North Korea's recent missile launches were a violation of UN resolutions aimed at halting Pyongyang's nuclear and missile programs, Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about them and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises. Also read: US President Trump reaches Japan on four-day visit ×

Trade beef aside, Trump and Abe bond over burgers, sumo and golf

Pro-European&nbsp;parties&nbsp;kept a firm grip on the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;on Monday as liberal and green&nbsp;parties&nbsp;matched a&nbsp;surge&nbsp;by&nbsp;eurosceptic&nbsp;parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/green-wave-in-eu-vote-amid-climate-crisis-221921">European elections </a>for the first time.

The far-right and&nbsp;nationalists&nbsp;in Italy, Britain, France and Poland came out on top in their national votes on Sunday, shaking up politics at home but failing to dramatically alter the balance of&nbsp;pro-European power in&nbsp;EU&nbsp;assembly.

Facing a more hostile Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable US President Donald Trump, many&nbsp;Europeans appeared to heed a message that the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;needed to stick together to&nbsp;protect workers' rights, free speech and democracy.

"We are going to build a social&nbsp;Europe, a&nbsp;Europe that&nbsp;protects," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-votes-in-second-round-local-regional-eu-polls-221755">Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez</a>, whose revival among Spanish voters offset a fall in centre-left support in Germany, told a news conference late on Sunday night.

Investor sentiment was bolstered by the smaller than expected gains by populist&nbsp;parties. However, the drop in support for the main centre-right and centre-left blocs could complicate policymaking and require broader cross-party agreements and discipline, market analysts said.

Provisional results published at 08:18 GMT on Monday showed the Socialists, Greens, liberals and conservatives with 507 of the 751 seats in the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Parliament, which helps pass laws for more than 500 million&nbsp;Europeans.

The search for a majority, as well as securing the top&nbsp;EU&nbsp;jobs, will now dominate as&nbsp;pro-EU&nbsp;groups seek to shield the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;from anti-establishment forces, who want to break up the world's largest trading bloc but who are split over its future.

French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist Renaissance platform added to gains for liberals at the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;level while support for the Greens&nbsp;surged, giving four groups the&nbsp;pro-middle ground and holding on to two-thirds of seats.

Macron and Sanchez were to meet later on Monday, the first in a series of meetings between&nbsp;EU&nbsp;leaders before they gather for a summit on Tuesday evening in Brussels to discuss the outcome of the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;vote.

BREXIT, FAR-RIGHT&nbsp;PROTEST

A stronger voice for the liberals and Greens could see the next&nbsp;EU&nbsp;executive seek a tougher line on regulating polluting industries, taxing multinational companies or demanding trading partners help contain climate change.

They could also press&nbsp;EU&nbsp;member states, notably in the east, not to damage civil rights.

Cries of "Europe is back" among voters waving blue and gold&nbsp;EU&nbsp;flags outside&nbsp;European&nbsp;Parliament&nbsp;in Brussels on Sunday night also showed the ebullient mood among&nbsp;Europeans delighted with a sharply higher turnout across the bloc.

Turnout in the world's second-biggest election rose to 51% from 43% in 2014, its highest in 20 years and the first reverse of falling participation since the first direct&nbsp;EU&nbsp;vote in 1979.

Disenchantment with the&nbsp;European&nbsp;project, which has struggled through economic and migration crises over the past five years, has made the bloc seem distant to voters and anger with the traditional&nbsp;parties&nbsp;was palpable across the bloc.

Riding a wave of anger at the British government's failure to take the United Kingdom out of the&nbsp;European Union, Nigel Farage's Brexit Party won a resounding victory.

The result showed Britain even more polarised over its Brexit divorce, nearly three years since a 2016 referendum in which it voted 52% to 48% to leave.

While Britain's departure from the bloc will require its&nbsp;EU&nbsp;lawmakers to give up their seats, Farage's party and its allies won 29 seats, the same number as Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right&nbsp;European People's Party in Germany.

In Italy, the far-right League became Italy's largest party, giving greater authority to its leader Matteo Salvini who is pushing for swingeing tax cuts in defiance of&nbsp;EU&nbsp;budget rules.

Poland's&nbsp;eurosceptic ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) also came out ahead. In France, Marine Le Pen's anti-immigration, anti-Brussels National Rally edged Macron's&nbsp;pro-European centrist movement. Far-right separatists also saw support&nbsp;surge&nbsp;in Belgium.

FIGHT FOR&nbsp;EU&nbsp;POSTS

Provisional results for the&nbsp;EU&nbsp;Parliament&nbsp;put the EPP on 182 seats, ahead of the S&amp;D on 147, with the liberals on 109, up 41 seats, and Greens on 69, up 17. On the far-right, two groups in the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;had well over 100 seats, a 40% jump from 2014.

Three existing&nbsp;eurosceptic groups, including those of Le Pen and Salvini's League, will make up about 25% of the chamber, up from around 20 per cent in the current&nbsp;parliament.

With four, rather than two, centrist alliances in the assembly, it is less clear who will be the next head of the Commission," Guntram Wolff, the director of think-tank Bruegel, told Reuters. "First the&nbsp;parliament&nbsp;needs a coalition agreement on substance and personalities," he said.

That agreement should include more humane immigration policies and tackling climate change, said Maria Nyman, secretary general of charity Caritas&nbsp;Europa.

Leaders for the four&nbsp;pro-EU&nbsp;centre&nbsp;parties&nbsp;were set to hold their first talks on Monday and there will be weeks and possibly months of hard bargaining over who will run&nbsp;EU institutions.

Parliament&nbsp;says one of its members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive&nbsp;European Commission but many national leaders, who will meet for dinner in Brussels on Tuesday, have said they will not be bound by that demand.

Pro-European parties kept a firm grip on the EU parliament on Monday as liberal and green parties matched a surge by eurosceptic parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in European elections for the first time.

Pro-European parties kept a firm grip on the EU parliament on Monday as liberal and green parties matched a surge by eurosceptic parties, who won control of a quarter of seats in European elections for the first time. The far-right and nationalists in Italy, Britain, France and Poland came out on top in their national votes on Sunday, shaking up politics at home but failing to dramatically alter the balance of pro-European power in EU assembly. Facing a more hostile Russia, China's growing economic might and an unpredictable US President Donald Trump, many Europeans appeared to heed a message that the EU needed to stick together to protect workers' rights, free speech and democracy. "We are going to build a social Europe, a Europe that protects," Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, whose revival among Spanish voters offset a fall in centre-left support in Germany, told a news conference late on Sunday night. Investor sentiment was bolstered by the smaller than expected gains by populist parties. However, the drop in support for the main centre-right and centre-left blocs could complicate policymaking and require broader cross-party agreements and discipline, market analysts said. Provisional results published at 08:18 GMT on Monday showed the Socialists, Greens, liberals and conservatives with 507 of the 751 seats in the EU Parliament, which helps pass laws for more than 500 million Europeans. The search for a majority, as well as securing the top EU jobs, will now dominate as pro-EU groups seek to shield the EU from anti-establishment forces, who want to break up the world's largest trading bloc but who are split over its future. French President Emmanuel Macron's centrist Renaissance platform added to gains for liberals at the EU level while support for the Greens surged, giving four groups the pro-middle ground and holding on to two-thirds of seats. Macron and Sanchez were to meet later on Monday, the first in a series of meetings between EU leaders before they gather for a summit on Tuesday evening in Brussels to discuss the outcome of the parliament vote. BREXIT, FAR-RIGHT PROTEST A stronger voice for the liberals and Greens could see the next EU executive seek a tougher line on regulating polluting industries, taxing multinational companies or demanding trading partners help contain climate change. They could also press EU member states, notably in the east, not to damage civil rights. Cries of "Europe is back" among voters waving blue and gold EU flags outside European Parliament in Brussels on Sunday night also showed the ebullient mood among Europeans delighted with a sharply higher turnout across the bloc. Turnout in the world's second-biggest election rose to 51% from 43% in 2014, its highest in 20 years and the first reverse of falling participation since the first direct EU vote in 1979. Disenchantment with the European project, which has struggled through economic and migration crises over the past five years, has made the bloc seem distant to voters and anger with the traditional parties was palpable across the bloc. Riding a wave of anger at the British government's failure to take the United Kingdom out of the European Union, Nigel Farage's Brexit Party won a resounding victory. The result showed Britain even more polarised over its Brexit divorce, nearly three years since a 2016 referendum in which it voted 52% to 48% to leave. While Britain's departure from the bloc will require its EU lawmakers to give up their seats, Farage's party and its allies won 29 seats, the same number as Chancellor Angela Merkel's centre-right European People's Party in Germany. In Italy, the far-right League became Italy's largest party, giving greater authority to its leader Matteo Salvini who is pushing for swingeing tax cuts in defiance of EU budget rules. Poland's eurosceptic ruling Law and Justice party (PiS) also came out ahead. In France, Marine Le Pen's anti-immigration, anti-Brussels National Rally edged Macron's pro-European centrist movement. Far-right separatists also saw support surge in Belgium. FIGHT FOR EU POSTS Provisional results for the EU Parliament put the EPP on 182 seats, ahead of the S&D on 147, with the liberals on 109, up 41 seats, and Greens on 69, up 17. On the far-right, two groups in the parliament had well over 100 seats, a 40% jump from 2014. Three existing eurosceptic groups, including those of Le Pen and Salvini's League, will make up about 25% of the chamber, up from around 20 per cent in the current parliament. With four, rather than two, centrist alliances in the assembly, it is less clear who will be the next head of the Commission," Guntram Wolff, the director of think-tank Bruegel, told Reuters. "First the parliament needs a coalition agreement on substance and personalities," he said. That agreement should include more humane immigration policies and tackling climate change, said Maria Nyman, secretary general of charity Caritas Europa. Leaders for the four pro-EU centre parties were set to hold their first talks on Monday and there will be weeks and possibly months of hard bargaining over who will run EU institutions. Parliament says one of its members should succeed Jean-Claude Juncker as president of the executive European Commission but many national leaders, who will meet for dinner in Brussels on Tuesday, have said they will not be bound by that demand.

Nationalists surge in EU Parliament, but pro-EU parties remain dominant

US President Donald Trump met new Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako today in the ceremonial highlight of a state visit overshadowed by trade tensions between the two allies.

Trump meets new Japanese emperor in ceremonial highlight of state visit

With the Trump administration in command, there have been a lot of moderation done in the norms and reports of Immigration, the most widely touched been the H1B visa schemes.

Trump administration to ban work permits for spouses of H-1B holders

Qatar said that it had received an invitation from Saudi Arabia to attend emergency regional talks to discuss mounting tensions between Iran and the United States.

Saudi Arabia calls for emergency meeting over US-Iran conflicts

Day of bonding between Donald Trump and Shinzo Abe

US President Donald Trump kicked off the second day of a Japan visit on Sunday with a round of golf with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, engaging in personal diplomacy aimed at smoothing tough discussions over differences on trade.

Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, met on a lawn and smiled for photographers before taking off for their game.

Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the Japan-US alliance "even more unshakeable."

The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty.

Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide.

During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made.

"With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said.

"Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months."

Fox News reported on Sunday that Trump planned to wait until after Japanese elections in July to push for a trade deal, and officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip.

The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about recent missile launches from North Korea and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises.

After their golf game, Abe and Trump will attend a sumo tournament.

"I've always found that fascinating," Trump said about Japan's national sport during a meeting with Abe in Washington last month. "So, in fact, we're having a trophy made in this country. We're going to give the trophy to the winner of the championship."

That trophy, now finished, weighs 60-70 pounds and is being called the "President’s Cup," according to a White House official.

Trump will be the first US president to attend such a tournament, according to another US official, and the first to present a cup in the ring.

He is attending the final day of a 15-day tournament.

US President Donald Trump kicked off the second day of a Japan visit on Sunday with a round of golf with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, engaging in personal diplomacy aimed at smoothing tough discussions over differences on trade.

US President Donald Trump kicked off the second day of a Japan visit on Sunday with a round of golf with Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, engaging in personal diplomacy aimed at smoothing tough discussions over differences on trade. Trump, dressed in a red pullover, and Abe, wearing a blue blazer and white pants, met on a lawn and smiled for photographers before taking off for their game. Abe's office later posted a "selfie" picture on the course with Trump and Abe smiling together. Abe said in the post he hoped to make the Japan-US alliance "even more unshakeable." The president's state visit is meant to showcase the strength of the Japan-US relationship, but tensions over trade have provided a backdrop of uncertainty. Trump is unhappy with Japan's large trade surplus and is considering putting high tariffs on its auto exports if a bilateral trade agreement is not reached. The United States and China are engaged in an expensive trade war that has pounded financial markets worldwide. During remarks to business leaders on Saturday night, Trump ribbed Japan over its trading "edge" while saying progress had been made. "With this deal, we hope to address the trade imbalance, remove barriers to United States exports, and ensure fairness and reciprocity in our relationship. And we're getting closer," he said. "Just last week, US beef exports gained full access to Japan and to the markets in Japan for the first time since the year 2000. We welcome your support in these efforts, and we hope to have several further announcements soon, and some very big ones over the next few months." Fox News reported on Sunday that Trump planned to wait until after Japanese elections in July to push for a trade deal, and officials have played down prospects of any major progress on the president's trip. The two leaders are also likely to discuss North Korea's nuclear and missile programs. Trump said on Sunday he was not concerned about recent missile launches from North Korea and was confident that the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, would keep his promises. After their golf game, Abe and Trump will attend a sumo tournament. "I've always found that fascinating," Trump said about Japan's national sport during a meeting with Abe in Washington last month. "So, in fact, we're having a trophy made in this country. We're going to give the trophy to the winner of the championship." That trophy, now finished, weighs 60-70 pounds and is being called the "President’s Cup," according to a White House official. Trump will be the first US president to attend such a tournament, according to another US official, and the first to present a cup in the ring. He is attending the final day of a 15-day tournament.

With trade differences in the background, Trump and Abe do diplomacy over golf and sumo

China is digging in for a tough period of deteriorating ties with the United States, fanning the flames of patriotism with Korean War films, a viral song on the trade war, and editorials lambasting Washington.

The trade spat has turned into a war of words since President Donald Trump blacklisted Huawei last week over concerns the telecom giant's equipment could be used by Beijing for espionage.

The move, which bans US companies from providing technology Huawei needs, came as the two sides have yet to resume trade negotiations after they exchanged steep increases in tariffs.

A commentary on state-run Xinhua news agency Friday said China now had a "deeper understanding" of US "capriciousness" and was ready to fight with its "Long March" spirit.

It echoes President Xi Jinping's tough stance when he called on cadres earlier this week to brace themselves for a "new Long March" -- recalling the legendary strategic retreat by Communist revolutionaries in the 1930s who regrouped and went on to triumph in 1949.

Xi warned local officials of "complicated and long-term effects" of external influences.

The world's top two economies will "go through a long period of irrational conflict," said Zhang Yansheng, chief researcher at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, at a government organised briefing Wednesday.

"And then during this process, step by step... come to understand each other, resist each other, and (finally) cooperate with each other."

'Selfish and arrogant'

Trump has left the door open for reconciliation with plans to meet President Xi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan next month.

But Chinese state media have ramped up the rhetoric.

A Xinhua commentary Thursday called the US government "selfish and arrogant".

"The US is defying international rules, abandoning cooperation agreements and harping on America first, American privilege and American exceptionalism," it said.

Since Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods in mid-May, the Communist Party mouthpiece People's Daily has been running a daily column tag-lined "an alarm bell", rejecting Trump's arguments that China's rise was leading to American losses.

Korean War films stoking anti-US sentiments from the 1950s were broadcast for six consecutive days on state television from May 16, reminding audiences of a time when the Cold War came to China's doorstep as it fought on North's side against US-led UN forces defending the South.

Meanwhile, a song penned by a former Chinese government official vowing to beat the US "out of its wits" on the trade war went viral this week, before it was pulled down from popular social media platforms WeChat and Weibo for violating their content rules.

The song is set to the tune of a well-known wartime anti-Japanese propaganda film, "Tunnel War".&nbsp;

"The Chinese nation is facing a dangerous threat now, similar to the difficult times addressed in the film," lyricist Zhao Liangtian told AFP.

"I want to use this song to awaken the masses. We need to unite as one to develop and to fight."

'Fake' patriotism

Chinese netizens have rallied around Huawei after Trump's threat to kneecap the company, which is widely seen as a move to thwart Beijing's hi-tech ambitions.

An interview last week with the telecom giant's founder, Ren Zhengfei, was one of the top trending topics on China's Twitter-like microblogging platform Weibo.

Hundreds of commentators said they wouldn't abandon the company, while a few called for boycotting iPhones.

But several others said the idea of smashing iPhones was "mere fake patriotism," after Ren himself said his family uses Apple products.

"US attempts to damage Huawei is only a delay tactic, it won't lead to a deadlock," said Shi Yinhong, director of the American studies centre at Renmin University.

But China's tech sector would have to brace itself for a long, painful period as it had relied heavily on American technologies, he said.

"The American door is closing," he said, "but China still doesn't have a plan B."&nbsp;

China is digging in for a tough period of deteriorating ties with the United States, fanning the flames of patriotism with Korean War films, a viral song on the trade war, and editorials lambasting Washington.

China is digging in for a tough period of deteriorating ties with the United States, fanning the flames of patriotism with Korean War films, a viral song on the trade war, and editorials lambasting Washington. The trade spat has turned into a war of words since President Donald Trump blacklisted Huawei last week over concerns the telecom giant's equipment could be used by Beijing for espionage. The move, which bans US companies from providing technology Huawei needs, came as the two sides have yet to resume trade negotiations after they exchanged steep increases in tariffs. A commentary on state-run Xinhua news agency Friday said China now had a "deeper understanding" of US "capriciousness" and was ready to fight with its "Long March" spirit. It echoes President Xi Jinping's tough stance when he called on cadres earlier this week to brace themselves for a "new Long March" -- recalling the legendary strategic retreat by Communist revolutionaries in the 1930s who regrouped and went on to triumph in 1949. Xi warned local officials of "complicated and long-term effects" of external influences. The world's top two economies will "go through a long period of irrational conflict," said Zhang Yansheng, chief researcher at the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, at a government organised briefing Wednesday. "And then during this process, step by step... come to understand each other, resist each other, and (finally) cooperate with each other." 'Selfish and arrogant' Trump has left the door open for reconciliation with plans to meet President Xi on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan next month. But Chinese state media have ramped up the rhetoric. A Xinhua commentary Thursday called the US government "selfish and arrogant". "The US is defying international rules, abandoning cooperation agreements and harping on America first, American privilege and American exceptionalism," it said. Since Trump raised tariffs on $200 billion in Chinese goods in mid-May, the Communist Party mouthpiece People's Daily has been running a daily column tag-lined "an alarm bell", rejecting Trump's arguments that China's rise was leading to American losses. Korean War films stoking anti-US sentiments from the 1950s were broadcast for six consecutive days on state television from May 16, reminding audiences of a time when the Cold War came to China's doorstep as it fought on North's side against US-led UN forces defending the South. Meanwhile, a song penned by a former Chinese government official vowing to beat the US "out of its wits" on the trade war went viral this week, before it was pulled down from popular social media platforms WeChat and Weibo for violating their content rules. The song is set to the tune of a well-known wartime anti-Japanese propaganda film, "Tunnel War". "The Chinese nation is facing a dangerous threat now, similar to the difficult times addressed in the film," lyricist Zhao Liangtian told AFP. "I want to use this song to awaken the masses. We need to unite as one to develop and to fight." 'Fake' patriotism Chinese netizens have rallied around Huawei after Trump's threat to kneecap the company, which is widely seen as a move to thwart Beijing's hi-tech ambitions. An interview last week with the telecom giant's founder, Ren Zhengfei, was one of the top trending topics on China's Twitter-like microblogging platform Weibo. Hundreds of commentators said they wouldn't abandon the company, while a few called for boycotting iPhones. But several others said the idea of smashing iPhones was "mere fake patriotism," after Ren himself said his family uses Apple products. "US attempts to damage Huawei is only a delay tactic, it won't lead to a deadlock," said Shi Yinhong, director of the American studies centre at Renmin University. But China's tech sector would have to brace itself for a long, painful period as it had relied heavily on American technologies, he said. "The American door is closing," he said, "but China still doesn't have a plan B."

China digs in for protracted trade fight with US

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