A university professor on Thursday said she was "100 per cent" certain that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago, telling a dramatic US Senate hearing she feared he would rape and perhaps accidentally kill her.

Christine Blasey Ford, her voice sometimes cracking with emotion, appeared in public for the first time to detail her allegation against Kavanaugh, a conservative federal appeals court judge chosen for a lifetime job on the top US court. He also faces allegations of sexual misconduct by two other women.

Kavanaugh was due to testify later in the day before the Judiciary Committee in a momentous hearing that could determine whether he will be confirmed by the Senate after a pitched political battle between Trump's fellow Republicans and Democrats who oppose the nominee. Kavanaugh has denied the allegations by all three women.

"With what degree of certainty do you believe Brett Kavanaugh assaulted you?" Democratic Senator Richard Durbin asked Ford.

"One hundred per cent," she replied, remaining firm and unruffled through hours of testimony even under questioning by a sex crimes prosecutor hired by the committee's Republicans.

Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, said a drunken Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15 in 1982.

Ford said "absolutely not" when Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein asked her if it could be a case of mistaken identity, as Kavanaugh has suggested.

The hearing, which has riveted Americans and intensified the political polarization in the United States, occurred against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault.

"I have found your testimony powerful and credible and I believe you," Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told Ford.

While some Republicans and Trump have called the allegations by Ford and the two other women against Kavanaugh part of a smear campaign, Ford told the committee, "I am an independent person and I am no pawn."

Ford was seated at a table in the packed hearing room flanked by her lawyers, facing a bank of senators. Cameras from news photographers clicked as she entered the room and took her seat, smiling nervously. Ford told the senators she was "terrified" to testify but felt it was her civic duty come forward. The audience at the hearing remained in rapt attention.

"Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes. He had a hard time because he was very inebriated and because I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit under my clothing. I believed he was going to rape me. I tried to yell for help," Ford said, adding that Kavanaugh and a friend of his, Mark Judge, were "drunkenly laughing during the attack."

Democratic senators sought to score political points during their five minutes apiece of questioning Ford. The panel's Republican senators, all men, did not question her, assigning that task to Rachel Mitchell, a sex crimes prosecutor.

While Mitchell sought to probe Ford's account including any gaps in her story, her questioning seemed disjointed. She took turns with the Democratic senators to ask questions in five-minute segments, disrupting her flow.

"The first thing that struck me from your statement this morning was that you are terrified. And I just wanted to let you know, I'm very sorry. That's not right," Mitchell said.

Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin. That means that a handful of moderate Republican senators who have not announced whether or not they support Kavanaugh could determine his fate.

The committee could vote on Kavanaugh's confirmation on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week.

Some Democrats have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations.

'Terrified me the most'

Ford said Kavanaugh put his hand over her mouth to stop her from screaming during the assault, adding, "This was what terrified me the most, and has had the most lasting impact on my life. It was hard for me to breathe, and I thought that Brett was accidentally going to kill me."

Ford said she has suffered from claustrophobia and anxiety as a result of her experience and initially struggled when at college.

Her strongest memory of the incident, Ford said, was the "uproarious laughter between the two (Kavanaugh and Judge) and their having fun at my expense." She said the laughter has haunted her ever since.

The controversy has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 congressional elections in which Democrats are trying to seize control of Congress from Trump's fellow Republicans. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right.

Falling back on her own professional expertise, Ford fended off Mitchell's questions about her memories by explaining the biological underpinnings of memory formation and what factors can prompt anxiety.

Republican Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee who strongly supported Kavanaugh during confirmation hearings earlier in the month, declined to give his views on Ford's testimony.

"I shouldn't comment until we're all done and maybe not comment until I've slept on it," Grassley told reporters during a break.

Feinstein said Ford should be treated with more respect during the hearing than Anita Hill, who in 1991 accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment, was treated. Thomas was ultimately confirmed by the Senate and still sits on the court.

In his prepared testimony, Kavanaugh again "unequivocally and categorically" denied her allegation, as well as "other false and uncorroborated accusations" by his other accusers.

"Sexual assault is horrific. It is morally wrong. It is illegal. It is contrary to my religious faith. And it contradicts the core promise of this nation that all people are created equal and entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Kavanaugh said.

Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s.

Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University.

Swetnick said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so they could be raped. She said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party where she was raped.

Trump chose Kavanaugh to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy, who retired effective in July.

A university professor on Thursday said she was "100 per cent" certain that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago, telling a dramatic US Senate hearing she feared he would rape and perhaps accidentally kill her.

A university professor on Thursday said she was "100 per cent" certain that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago, telling a dramatic US Senate hearing she feared he would rape and perhaps accidentally kill her. Christine Blasey Ford, her voice sometimes cracking with emotion, appeared in public for the first time to detail her allegation against Kavanaugh, a conservative federal appeals court judge chosen for a lifetime job on the top US court. He also faces allegations of sexual misconduct by two other women. Kavanaugh was due to testify later in the day before the Judiciary Committee in a momentous hearing that could determine whether he will be confirmed by the Senate after a pitched political battle between Trump's fellow Republicans and Democrats who oppose the nominee. Kavanaugh has denied the allegations by all three women. "With what degree of certainty do you believe Brett Kavanaugh assaulted you?" Democratic Senator Richard Durbin asked Ford. "One hundred per cent," she replied, remaining firm and unruffled through hours of testimony even under questioning by a sex crimes prosecutor hired by the committee's Republicans. Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, said a drunken Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15 in 1982. Ford said "absolutely not" when Democratic Senator Dianne Feinstein asked her if it could be a case of mistaken identity, as Kavanaugh has suggested. The hearing, which has riveted Americans and intensified the political polarization in the United States, occurred against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault. "I have found your testimony powerful and credible and I believe you," Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told Ford. While some Republicans and Trump have called the allegations by Ford and the two other women against Kavanaugh part of a smear campaign, Ford told the committee, "I am an independent person and I am no pawn." Ford was seated at a table in the packed hearing room flanked by her lawyers, facing a bank of senators. Cameras from news photographers clicked as she entered the room and took her seat, smiling nervously. Ford told the senators she was "terrified" to testify but felt it was her civic duty come forward. The audience at the hearing remained in rapt attention. "Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes. He had a hard time because he was very inebriated and because I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit under my clothing. I believed he was going to rape me. I tried to yell for help," Ford said, adding that Kavanaugh and a friend of his, Mark Judge, were "drunkenly laughing during the attack." Democratic senators sought to score political points during their five minutes apiece of questioning Ford. The panel's Republican senators, all men, did not question her, assigning that task to Rachel Mitchell, a sex crimes prosecutor. While Mitchell sought to probe Ford's account including any gaps in her story, her questioning seemed disjointed. She took turns with the Democratic senators to ask questions in five-minute segments, disrupting her flow. "The first thing that struck me from your statement this morning was that you are terrified. And I just wanted to let you know, I'm very sorry. That's not right," Mitchell said. Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin. That means that a handful of moderate Republican senators who have not announced whether or not they support Kavanaugh could determine his fate. The committee could vote on Kavanaugh's confirmation on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week. Some Democrats have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations. 'Terrified me the most' Ford said Kavanaugh put his hand over her mouth to stop her from screaming during the assault, adding, "This was what terrified me the most, and has had the most lasting impact on my life. It was hard for me to breathe, and I thought that Brett was accidentally going to kill me." Ford said she has suffered from claustrophobia and anxiety as a result of her experience and initially struggled when at college. Her strongest memory of the incident, Ford said, was the "uproarious laughter between the two (Kavanaugh and Judge) and their having fun at my expense." She said the laughter has haunted her ever since. The controversy has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 congressional elections in which Democrats are trying to seize control of Congress from Trump's fellow Republicans. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right. Falling back on her own professional expertise, Ford fended off Mitchell's questions about her memories by explaining the biological underpinnings of memory formation and what factors can prompt anxiety. Republican Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee who strongly supported Kavanaugh during confirmation hearings earlier in the month, declined to give his views on Ford's testimony. "I shouldn't comment until we're all done and maybe not comment until I've slept on it," Grassley told reporters during a break. Feinstein said Ford should be treated with more respect during the hearing than Anita Hill, who in 1991 accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment, was treated. Thomas was ultimately confirmed by the Senate and still sits on the court. In his prepared testimony, Kavanaugh again "unequivocally and categorically" denied her allegation, as well as "other false and uncorroborated accusations" by his other accusers. "Sexual assault is horrific. It is morally wrong. It is illegal. It is contrary to my religious faith. And it contradicts the core promise of this nation that all people are created equal and entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Kavanaugh said. Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University. Swetnick said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so they could be raped. She said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party where she was raped. Trump chose Kavanaugh to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy, who retired effective in July.

'100 per cent' certain he assaulted me, says Brett Kavanaugh accuser in US Senate hearing

President Donald Trump has postponed a meeting where he is expected to decide on whether to keep the deputy attorney general in charge of the Russia collusion probe in his job, the White House said Thursday.

"The president spoke with Rod Rosenstein a few minutes ago and they plan to meet next week," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said.

A meeting had been expected Thursday, but Sanders said Trump did not want to interfere with the Senate hearings into his nominee for the Supreme Court, Brett Kavanaugh.

Rosenstein's position in the politically sensitive post has been in doubt since sensational press reports that he secretly discussed wearing a wire to record Trump to gather evidence in a push to remove the president from office on grounds of incompetence.

Rosenstein has denied the reports, but throughout the week rumours swirled that he would resign or be fired -- a step that would then throw the Russia collusion probe into doubt.

Rosenstein and the Kavanaugh confirmation process -- which risks being derailed by a series of sexual assault allegations from his school and college years -- present Trump with two of the most politically explosive crises of his presidency.&nbsp;

President Donald Trump has postponed a meeting where he is expected to decide on whether to keep the deputy attorney general in charge of the Russia collusion probe in his job, the White House said Thursday.

President Donald Trump has postponed a meeting where he is expected to decide on whether to keep the deputy attorney general in charge of the Russia collusion probe in his job, the White House said Thursday. "The president spoke with Rod Rosenstein a few minutes ago and they plan to meet next week," White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders said. A meeting had been expected Thursday, but Sanders said Trump did not want to interfere with the Senate hearings into his nominee for the Supreme Court, Brett Kavanaugh. Rosenstein's position in the politically sensitive post has been in doubt since sensational press reports that he secretly discussed wearing a wire to record Trump to gather evidence in a push to remove the president from office on grounds of incompetence. Rosenstein has denied the reports, but throughout the week rumours swirled that he would resign or be fired -- a step that would then throw the Russia collusion probe into doubt. Rosenstein and the Kavanaugh confirmation process -- which risks being derailed by a series of sexual assault allegations from his school and college years -- present Trump with two of the most politically explosive crises of his presidency.

Trump postpones meeting with embattled deputy attorney general: White House

The Palestinians will no longer accept the United States as the sole mediator in the Middle East peace process, their president Mahmud Abbas said Thursday, accusing Donald Trump's "biased" administration of undermining a two-state solution.

Speaking a day after the US president said he favoured a two-state solution to end the conflict between the Israel and Palestinians and revealed he would unveil a new peace plan within months, Abbas said Trump could not be regarded as a neutral broker.

"We will also not accept sole American mediation in the peace process," Abbas said in a speech before the United Nations General Assembly, saying the US president had shown that he was "biased" towards Israel since coming to power.

"This administration has reneged on all previous US commitments, and has undermined the two-state solution, and has revealed its false claims of concern about the humanitarian conditions of the Palestinian people," the Palestinian Authority president said.

Abbas, in particular, criticized Trump's decisions to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, his order to close the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) office in Washington and to cut off aid funding, including to a UN agency that supports millions of Palestinian refugees.

"All such decisions threaten the Palestinian national cause and constitute an assault on international law and relevant United Nations resolutions," said Abbas.

"It is ironic that the American administration still talks about what they call the 'deal of the century'. But what is left for this administration to give to the Palestinian people? Humanitarian solutions?"

The Palestinians will no longer accept the United States as the sole mediator in the Middle East peace process, their president Mahmud Abbas said Thursday, accusing Donald Trump's "biased" administration of undermining a two-state solution.

The Palestinians will no longer accept the United States as the sole mediator in the Middle East peace process, their president Mahmud Abbas said Thursday, accusing Donald Trump's "biased" administration of undermining a two-state solution. Speaking a day after the US president said he favoured a two-state solution to end the conflict between the Israel and Palestinians and revealed he would unveil a new peace plan within months, Abbas said Trump could not be regarded as a neutral broker. "We will also not accept sole American mediation in the peace process," Abbas said in a speech before the United Nations General Assembly, saying the US president had shown that he was "biased" towards Israel since coming to power. "This administration has reneged on all previous US commitments, and has undermined the two-state solution, and has revealed its false claims of concern about the humanitarian conditions of the Palestinian people," the Palestinian Authority president said. Abbas, in particular, criticized Trump's decisions to recognize Jerusalem as Israel's capital, his order to close the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) office in Washington and to cut off aid funding, including to a UN agency that supports millions of Palestinian refugees. "All such decisions threaten the Palestinian national cause and constitute an assault on international law and relevant United Nations resolutions," said Abbas. "It is ironic that the American administration still talks about what they call the 'deal of the century'. But what is left for this administration to give to the Palestinian people? Humanitarian solutions?"

Abbas says 'biased' US cannot be sole Mideast mediator

University professor Christine Blasey Ford offered gripping testimony before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday about the alleged sex assault she says she suffered at the hands of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.

The following are key quotes from her remarks:

No doubt

"100 per cent"

Blasey Ford, when asked her degree of certainty as to the identity of her attacker

'Uproarious laughter'&nbsp;

"Indelible in the hippocampus is the laughter, the uproarious laughter between the two, and they are having fun at my expense. (...) &nbsp;I was underneath one of them while the two laughed."

Blasey Ford about her most stark memory about the incident in question

'Terrified'

"I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school."

Blasey Ford, in her opening statement

'Brett groped me'

"I was pushed from behind into a bedroom across from the bathroom. I couldn't see who pushed me. Brett and Mark came into the bedroom and locked the door behind them. There was music playing in the bedroom. (...) I was pushed onto the bed and Brett got on top of me. He began running his hands over my body and grinding into me. (...) Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes."

Blasey Ford, recounting what she says happened at a party in 1982 when she and Kavanaugh were attending private high schools in the Washington area

Fears of rape, or worse

"I believed he was going to rape me. (...) It was hard for me to breathe, and I thought that Brett was accidentally going to kill me."

-- Blasey Ford, describing the alleged sexual assault&nbsp;

Long term

"Brett's assault on me drastically altered my life for a very long time."

Blasey Ford, explaining how the alleged attack has affected her

Reality bites

"My greatest fears have been realized and the reality has been far worse than what I expected."

Blasey Ford, on the effect her claims have had on her life

University professor Christine Blasey Ford offered gripping testimony before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday about the alleged sex assault she says she suffered at the hands of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh.

University professor Christine Blasey Ford offered gripping testimony before the US Senate Judiciary Committee on Thursday about the alleged sex assault she says she suffered at the hands of Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh. The following are key quotes from her remarks: No doubt "100 per cent" Blasey Ford, when asked her degree of certainty as to the identity of her attacker 'Uproarious laughter' "Indelible in the hippocampus is the laughter, the uproarious laughter between the two, and they are having fun at my expense. (...) I was underneath one of them while the two laughed." Blasey Ford about her most stark memory about the incident in question 'Terrified' "I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school." Blasey Ford, in her opening statement 'Brett groped me' "I was pushed from behind into a bedroom across from the bathroom. I couldn't see who pushed me. Brett and Mark came into the bedroom and locked the door behind them. There was music playing in the bedroom. (...) I was pushed onto the bed and Brett got on top of me. He began running his hands over my body and grinding into me. (...) Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes." Blasey Ford, recounting what she says happened at a party in 1982 when she and Kavanaugh were attending private high schools in the Washington area Fears of rape, or worse "I believed he was going to rape me. (...) It was hard for me to breathe, and I thought that Brett was accidentally going to kill me." -- Blasey Ford, describing the alleged sexual assault Long term "Brett's assault on me drastically altered my life for a very long time." Blasey Ford, explaining how the alleged attack has affected her Reality bites "My greatest fears have been realized and the reality has been far worse than what I expected." Blasey Ford, on the effect her claims have had on her life

Key quotes from Kavanaugh accuser hearing

Asian markets swung on Thursday as investors considered the prospect of more US interest rate hikes and Donald Trump's latest broadside in his trade war with China.

The US central bank lifted borrowing costs for the third time this year, as expected, citing an increasingly strong economy and jobs market, with governor Jerome Powell saying he saw no vulnerabilities in the financial system.

The post-meeting statement removed mention of being "accommodative", which was seen as symbolically important as observers said it indicated the bank is moving away from the days of lower rates. However, Powell said this did not mean the Fed would tighten policy more quickly.

Still, the bank is widely expected to lift rates again in December, while analysts are betting on another three in 2019.

Powell also said there remained risks from trade tensions, which could lift inflation, but added it was too soon to tell what impact it would have.

After the meeting, Wall Street's three main indexes fell and the dollar edged up on the prospect of higher rates through the year.

In Asia, markets fluctuated but by the end of the morning, Tokyo was down 0.1 per cent, while Singapore added 0.5 per cent and Seoul rose 0.6 per cent.

Hong Kong edged up 0.2 per cent, Shanghai shed 0.2 per cent, Taipei gained 0.3 per cent and Sydney was flat.

Eye on Hong Kong rates&nbsp;

Trump ramped up his criticism of China on Wednesday, accusing it of trying to sway November's mid-term elections against his Republican party because of the trade row and admitting his relationship with President Xi Jinping may have been permanently damaged.

His comments will do little to ease concerns about an all-out trade war between the two economic giants, which have exchanged tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods, with no sign of a let-up in hostilities.

On oil markets, both main contracts jumped more than one per cent after US energy secretary Rick Perry pushed back against speculation the government could tap its emergency stockpiles in order to lower prices.

Crude is around four-year highs after OPEC and other key producers decided against lifting output, despite being urged to do so by Trump.

Hong Kong dealers are keeping a close eye on commercial interest rates after the Hong Kong Monetary Authority -- the de facto central bank -- lifted its benchmark rate Thursday in line with the Fed owing to the city's dollar peg.

But retail borrowing costs have not been raised by lenders since 2006 owing to a huge pile of cash swirling around in Hong Kong's financial system, which means they have had easy access to cheap money.

However, with much of that cash now having been soaked up by the HKMA to support the weakening local dollar, bets are on a rise in rates.

HKMA chief executive Norman Chan said: "Many market participants are expecting that the prime rate and saving deposit rates may soon be raised."

The prospect of higher borrowing costs for consumers hit property stocks in Hong Kong, with Sino Land down more than one per cent, Country Garden 0.8 per cent off and New World Development 0.2 per cent lower.

Asian markets swung on Thursday as investors considered the prospect of more US interest rate hikes and Donald Trump's latest broadside in his trade war with China.

Asian markets swung on Thursday as investors considered the prospect of more US interest rate hikes and Donald Trump's latest broadside in his trade war with China. The US central bank lifted borrowing costs for the third time this year, as expected, citing an increasingly strong economy and jobs market, with governor Jerome Powell saying he saw no vulnerabilities in the financial system. The post-meeting statement removed mention of being "accommodative", which was seen as symbolically important as observers said it indicated the bank is moving away from the days of lower rates. However, Powell said this did not mean the Fed would tighten policy more quickly. Still, the bank is widely expected to lift rates again in December, while analysts are betting on another three in 2019. Powell also said there remained risks from trade tensions, which could lift inflation, but added it was too soon to tell what impact it would have. After the meeting, Wall Street's three main indexes fell and the dollar edged up on the prospect of higher rates through the year. In Asia, markets fluctuated but by the end of the morning, Tokyo was down 0.1 per cent, while Singapore added 0.5 per cent and Seoul rose 0.6 per cent. Hong Kong edged up 0.2 per cent, Shanghai shed 0.2 per cent, Taipei gained 0.3 per cent and Sydney was flat. Eye on Hong Kong rates Trump ramped up his criticism of China on Wednesday, accusing it of trying to sway November's mid-term elections against his Republican party because of the trade row and admitting his relationship with President Xi Jinping may have been permanently damaged. His comments will do little to ease concerns about an all-out trade war between the two economic giants, which have exchanged tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of goods, with no sign of a let-up in hostilities. On oil markets, both main contracts jumped more than one per cent after US energy secretary Rick Perry pushed back against speculation the government could tap its emergency stockpiles in order to lower prices. Crude is around four-year highs after OPEC and other key producers decided against lifting output, despite being urged to do so by Trump. Hong Kong dealers are keeping a close eye on commercial interest rates after the Hong Kong Monetary Authority -- the de facto central bank -- lifted its benchmark rate Thursday in line with the Fed owing to the city's dollar peg. But retail borrowing costs have not been raised by lenders since 2006 owing to a huge pile of cash swirling around in Hong Kong's financial system, which means they have had easy access to cheap money. However, with much of that cash now having been soaked up by the HKMA to support the weakening local dollar, bets are on a rise in rates. HKMA chief executive Norman Chan said: "Many market participants are expecting that the prime rate and saving deposit rates may soon be raised." The prospect of higher borrowing costs for consumers hit property stocks in Hong Kong, with Sino Land down more than one per cent, Country Garden 0.8 per cent off and New World Development 0.2 per cent lower.

Asian markets fluctuate after Fed hike, Trump China comments

A university professor detailed her allegations that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago during a momentous Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he will be confirmed to the lifetime job after a pitched political battle.

The hearing, which has riveted Americans and intensified the political polarization in the United States, occurred against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault.

Christine Blasey Ford and Kavanaugh, a conservative federal appeals court judge picked by Trump in July for a lifetime job on the high court, were the only two witnesses scheduled for the Judiciary Committee. Kavanaugh has been accused of sexual misconduct by two other women as well. He has denied all the allegations.

"I am here today not because I want to be. I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school," Ford said, reading from her prepared testimony, her voice breaking with emotion.

Ford was seated at a table in the packed hearing room flanked by her lawyers, facing a bank of senators. Cameras from news photographers clicked as she entered the room and took her seat, smiling nervously.

Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, said a drunken Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15.

"Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes. He had a hard time because he was very inebriated and because I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit under my clothing. I believed he was going to rape me. I tried to yell for help," Ford said, adding that Kavanaugh and a friend of his were "drunkenly laughing during the attack."

Ford said that when she tried to yell out, he put his hand over her mouth. She said she was able to escape when Kavanaugh and another boy she said was in the room fell off the bed.

Republican Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee, said at the opening of the hearing that he wanted it to be "safe comfortable and dignified for both of our witnesses." He decried the "media circus" around the allegations against Kavanaugh and said the nominee and Ford had been through a terrible couple of weeks since Ford leveled her accusation.

"What they have endured ought to be considered by all of us as unacceptable and a poor reflection on the state of civility in our democracy," Grassley said. "So I want to apologize to you both for the way you've been treated."

"I lament how this hearing has come about," he added, noting that Ford's allegations emerged only after Kavanaugh's original confirmation hearing earlier this month was over. Grassley said it was up to the Senate to assess the credibility of Kavanaugh and Ford.

Senator Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the committee, said in her opening statement that sexual violence is a serious problem in the United States "and one that goes largely unseen." She thanked Ford for coming forward and referenced the #MeToo movement.

'Rush to judgment'

"What I find most inexcusable is this rush to judgment, the unwillingness to take these kinds of allegations at face value and look at them for what they are: a real question of character for someone who is asking for a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court," Feinstein said.

Feinstein said Ford should be treated with more respect than Anita Hill, who in 1991 accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment. Thomas was ultimately confirmed by the Senate and still sits on the court.

Ford, who before the hearing had not spoken or appeared publicly, will give her account of an alleged incident in which she has said Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her in 1982 at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when both of them were in high school.

Supporters of Ford were spotted throughout the Senate office building where the hearing was being held, including a group of about 50 women who attended the same school that Ford did at the time of the alleged incident.

The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford. Democratic senators are set to ask their own questions.

In his prepared testimony, Kavanaugh again "unequivocally and categorically" denied her allegation, as well as "other false and uncorroborated accusations" by his other accusers.

"Sexual assault is horrific. It is morally wrong. It is illegal. It is contrary to my religious faith. And it contradicts the core promise of this nation that all people are created equal and entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Kavanaugh said.

Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin. That means that a handful of moderate Republican senators who have not announced whether or not they support Kavanaugh could determine his fate. Committee member Jeff Flake is among these.

The committee could vote on Kavanaugh's confirmation on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week.

Some Democrats have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations.

The controversy has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 congressional elections in which Democrats are trying to seize control of Congress from Trump's fellow Republicans. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right.

Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have also accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s.

Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University.

Swetnick, whose allegations emerged on Wednesday, said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so that they could be raped. She also said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party at which she was raped.

Trump and some other Republicans described the allegations as part of a last-minute "smear" campaign, though the president indicated that he will be paying close attention to the hearing. "I can always be convinced," Trump said on Wednesday.

Trump chose Kavanaugh to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy, who retired effective in July.

A university professor detailed her allegations that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago during a momentous Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he will be confirmed to the lifetime job after a pitched political battle.

A university professor detailed her allegations that Brett Kavanaugh, President Donald Trump's Supreme Court nominee, sexually assaulted her 36 years ago during a momentous Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he will be confirmed to the lifetime job after a pitched political battle. The hearing, which has riveted Americans and intensified the political polarization in the United States, occurred against the backdrop of the #MeToo movement against sexual harassment and assault. Christine Blasey Ford and Kavanaugh, a conservative federal appeals court judge picked by Trump in July for a lifetime job on the high court, were the only two witnesses scheduled for the Judiciary Committee. Kavanaugh has been accused of sexual misconduct by two other women as well. He has denied all the allegations. "I am here today not because I want to be. I am terrified. I am here because I believe it is my civic duty to tell you what happened to me while Brett Kavanaugh and I were in high school," Ford said, reading from her prepared testimony, her voice breaking with emotion. Ford was seated at a table in the packed hearing room flanked by her lawyers, facing a bank of senators. Cameras from news photographers clicked as she entered the room and took her seat, smiling nervously. Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, said a drunken Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15. "Brett groped me and tried to take off my clothes. He had a hard time because he was very inebriated and because I was wearing a one-piece bathing suit under my clothing. I believed he was going to rape me. I tried to yell for help," Ford said, adding that Kavanaugh and a friend of his were "drunkenly laughing during the attack." Ford said that when she tried to yell out, he put his hand over her mouth. She said she was able to escape when Kavanaugh and another boy she said was in the room fell off the bed. Republican Chuck Grassley, the chairman of the committee, said at the opening of the hearing that he wanted it to be "safe comfortable and dignified for both of our witnesses." He decried the "media circus" around the allegations against Kavanaugh and said the nominee and Ford had been through a terrible couple of weeks since Ford leveled her accusation. "What they have endured ought to be considered by all of us as unacceptable and a poor reflection on the state of civility in our democracy," Grassley said. "So I want to apologize to you both for the way you've been treated." "I lament how this hearing has come about," he added, noting that Ford's allegations emerged only after Kavanaugh's original confirmation hearing earlier this month was over. Grassley said it was up to the Senate to assess the credibility of Kavanaugh and Ford. Senator Dianne Feinstein, the top Democrat on the committee, said in her opening statement that sexual violence is a serious problem in the United States "and one that goes largely unseen." She thanked Ford for coming forward and referenced the #MeToo movement. 'Rush to judgment' "What I find most inexcusable is this rush to judgment, the unwillingness to take these kinds of allegations at face value and look at them for what they are: a real question of character for someone who is asking for a lifetime appointment on the Supreme Court," Feinstein said. Feinstein said Ford should be treated with more respect than Anita Hill, who in 1991 accused Supreme Court nominee Clarence Thomas of sexual harassment. Thomas was ultimately confirmed by the Senate and still sits on the court. Ford, who before the hearing had not spoken or appeared publicly, will give her account of an alleged incident in which she has said Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her in 1982 at a gathering of teenagers in Maryland when both of them were in high school. Supporters of Ford were spotted throughout the Senate office building where the hearing was being held, including a group of about 50 women who attended the same school that Ford did at the time of the alleged incident. The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford. Democratic senators are set to ask their own questions. In his prepared testimony, Kavanaugh again "unequivocally and categorically" denied her allegation, as well as "other false and uncorroborated accusations" by his other accusers. "Sexual assault is horrific. It is morally wrong. It is illegal. It is contrary to my religious faith. And it contradicts the core promise of this nation that all people are created equal and entitled to be treated with dignity and respect," Kavanaugh said. Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin. That means that a handful of moderate Republican senators who have not announced whether or not they support Kavanaugh could determine his fate. Committee member Jeff Flake is among these. The committee could vote on Kavanaugh's confirmation on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week. Some Democrats have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations. The controversy has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 congressional elections in which Democrats are trying to seize control of Congress from Trump's fellow Republicans. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right. Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have also accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct in the 1980s. Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University. Swetnick, whose allegations emerged on Wednesday, said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so that they could be raped. She also said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party at which she was raped. Trump and some other Republicans described the allegations as part of a last-minute "smear" campaign, though the president indicated that he will be paying close attention to the hearing. "I can always be convinced," Trump said on Wednesday. Trump chose Kavanaugh to replace Justice Anthony Kennedy, who retired effective in July.

Woman details sexual assault allegation against Trump supreme court nominee Brett Kavanaugh

A high-stakes hearing over the future of the US Supreme Court opened Thursday with university professor Christine Blasey Ford set to testify that President Donald Trump's nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her 36 years ago.

The accusation, which Kavanaugh steadfastly denies, has thrust the Trump administration into the #MeToo movement's harsh glare, and threatens to derail a conservative effort to tilt the high court to the right for years to come.

In prepared testimony, Blasey Ford alleges a drunken Kavanaugh shut her in a bedroom and tried to forcibly remove her clothing while they were in high school in the Washington area in 1982.

The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford.

Democratic senators are also set to ask their own questions.

A conservative appeals court judge, Kavanaugh was nominated by President Donald Trump in July and appeared to be heading toward confirmation by the Republican-controlled Senate until Ford's allegations became public earlier this month.

If Kavanaugh's nomination survives what is expected to be tough questioning from Democratic senators on Thursday, the committee could vote on his appointment on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week.

A high-stakes hearing over the future of the US Supreme Court opened Thursday with university professor Christine Blasey Ford set to testify that President Donald Trump's nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her 36 years ago.

A high-stakes hearing over the future of the US Supreme Court opened Thursday with university professor Christine Blasey Ford set to testify that President Donald Trump's nominee Brett Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her 36 years ago. The accusation, which Kavanaugh steadfastly denies, has thrust the Trump administration into the #MeToo movement's harsh glare, and threatens to derail a conservative effort to tilt the high court to the right for years to come. In prepared testimony, Blasey Ford alleges a drunken Kavanaugh shut her in a bedroom and tried to forcibly remove her clothing while they were in high school in the Washington area in 1982. The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford. Democratic senators are also set to ask their own questions. A conservative appeals court judge, Kavanaugh was nominated by President Donald Trump in July and appeared to be heading toward confirmation by the Republican-controlled Senate until Ford's allegations became public earlier this month. If Kavanaugh's nomination survives what is expected to be tough questioning from Democratic senators on Thursday, the committee could vote on his appointment on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week.

Brett Kavanaugh and accuser Christine Blasey Ford testify at historic Senate hearing 

A woman who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982 will testify at a high-stakes Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he is confirmed or rejected for the nation's top court.

Christine Blasey Ford will give her account of an alleged incident, in which she said Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a party when both of them were in high school.

Kavanaugh, who denies the allegations made by Ford as well as two other women who have come forward, will also testify, although he will not be in the room when Ford is speaking.

The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford.

Democratic senators are set to ask their own questions.

A conservative appeals court judge, Kavanaugh was nominated by President Donald Trump in July and appeared to be heading toward confirmation by the Republican-controlled Senate until Ford's allegations became public earlier this month.

Now his fate is unclear. Although Republican leaders say they want to move forward with a confirmation vote, some moderate Republicans have not yet committed to voting for him.

They include Senator Jeff Flake, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee.

A line had begun to form outside Capitol Hill hours ahead of the hearing that begins at 10 am&nbsp;(1400 GMT).

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and all the Democrats on the judiciary panel have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations, and said if he does not, an FBI investigation is needed before any Senate confirmation vote.

If Kavanaugh's nomination survives what is expected to be tough questioning from Democratic senators on Thursday, the committee could vote on his appointment on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week.

Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin.

The controversy in Kavanaugh's nomination process has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm congressional elections. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right.

Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, has said a drunk Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a party in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15.

Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have also accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct during his youth. Their allegations will also likely be discussed at the hearing.

Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University.

Swetnick, whose allegations emerged on Wednesday, said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so that they could be raped. She also said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party at which she was raped.

Reuters has not verified the accusations.

Kavanaugh has denied all the allegations, which Trump and some other Republicans described as last-minute smear campaigns.

Julie Swetnick, in an interview on MSNBC on Thursday, said she had not planned to air her allegations one day before the hearing. Her attorney Michael Avenatti, who also represents adult film star Stormy Daniels in a lawsuit against Trump, echoed Democrats in an CNN interview on Thursday in calling for the Federal Bureau of Investigation to investigate.

"Kavanaugh is going for a seat where he's going to have that seat on the Supreme Court for the rest of his life. And, if he's going to have that seat legitimately, all of these things should be investigated," Swetnick told MSNBC.

A woman who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982 will testify at a high-stakes Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he is confirmed or rejected for the nation's top court.

A woman who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982 will testify at a high-stakes Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he is confirmed or rejected for the nation's top court. Christine Blasey Ford will give her account of an alleged incident, in which she said Kavanaugh sexually assaulted her at a party when both of them were in high school. Kavanaugh, who denies the allegations made by Ford as well as two other women who have come forward, will also testify, although he will not be in the room when Ford is speaking. The all-male Republican majority on the Senate Judiciary Committee has hired a female lawyer with experience prosecuting sex crimes, Rachel Mitchell, to question Ford. Democratic senators are set to ask their own questions. A conservative appeals court judge, Kavanaugh was nominated by President Donald Trump in July and appeared to be heading toward confirmation by the Republican-controlled Senate until Ford's allegations became public earlier this month. Now his fate is unclear. Although Republican leaders say they want to move forward with a confirmation vote, some moderate Republicans have not yet committed to voting for him. They include Senator Jeff Flake, who sits on the Senate Judiciary Committee. A line had begun to form outside Capitol Hill hours ahead of the hearing that begins at 10 am (1400 GMT). Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer and all the Democrats on the judiciary panel have called on Kavanaugh to withdraw in light of the allegations, and said if he does not, an FBI investigation is needed before any Senate confirmation vote. If Kavanaugh's nomination survives what is expected to be tough questioning from Democratic senators on Thursday, the committee could vote on his appointment on Friday, with a final Senate vote early next week. Supreme Court appointments must be confirmed by the Senate, and Trump's fellow Republicans control the chamber by a narrow 51-49 margin. The controversy in Kavanaugh's nomination process has unfolded just weeks ahead of the Nov. 6 midterm congressional elections. Kavanaugh's confirmation would cement conservative control of the high court as Trump moves to shift it and the broader federal judiciary to the right. Ford, a psychology professor at Palo Alto University in California, has said a drunk Kavanaugh attacked her and tried to remove her clothing at a party in Maryland when he was 17 years old and she was 15. Two other women, Deborah Ramirez and Julie Swetnick, have also accused Kavanaugh of sexual misconduct during his youth. Their allegations will also likely be discussed at the hearing. Ramirez accused Kavanaugh of exposing himself during a drunken dormitory party during the 1983-84 academic year when both attended Yale University. Swetnick, whose allegations emerged on Wednesday, said she witnessed efforts by Kavanaugh and others to get girls drunk at parties so that they could be raped. She also said Kavanaugh was present at a 1982 party at which she was raped. Reuters has not verified the accusations. Kavanaugh has denied all the allegations, which Trump and some other Republicans described as last-minute smear campaigns. Julie Swetnick, in an interview on MSNBC on Thursday, said she had not planned to air her allegations one day before the hearing. Her attorney Michael Avenatti, who also represents adult film star Stormy Daniels in a lawsuit against Trump, echoed Democrats in an CNN interview on Thursday in calling for the Federal Bureau of Investigation to investigate. "Kavanaugh is going for a seat where he's going to have that seat on the Supreme Court for the rest of his life. And, if he's going to have that seat legitimately, all of these things should be investigated," Swetnick told MSNBC.

Woman who accused Trump's Supreme Court nominee of sexual assault to face high-stakes hearing

The Chinese defence ministry on Thursday denounced flyovers by US B-52 bombers over the South China Sea and East China Sea as "provocative" actions amid soaring tensions between the two global powers.

The Pentagon said Wednesday the heavy bombers had taken part in a combined operation with Japan over the East China Sea and had flown through international airspace over the South China Sea a day before.

"Regarding the provocative actions of US military aircraft in the South China Sea, we are always resolutely opposed to them, and will continue to take necessary measures in order to strongly handle (this issue)," Chinese defence ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang told a monthly news briefing.&nbsp;

China has claimed large swaths of the strategic waterway and built up a series of islands and maritime features, turning them into military facilities.

Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims to the region, and an international maritime tribunal ruled in 2016 that China's claims have no legal basis.

Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said this week's flights were part of "regularly scheduled operations."

The United States rejects China's territorial claims and routinely says the military will "continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows at times and places of our choosing."

Washington this week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports while it last week sanctioned a Chinese military organisation for buying Russian weapons.&nbsp;

China has reacted angrily, and this week scrapped a US warship's planned port visit to Hong Kong and cancelled a meeting between the head of the Chinese navy and his American counterpart.

US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said he was not concerned the US transit flights would increase tensions with China.

"If it was 20 years ago and they have not militarised those features there, it would have just been another bomber on its way to Diego Garcia or whatever," he told Pentagon reporters, referring to the US military base in the Indian Ocean.

"So there's nothing out of the ordinary about it, nor about our ships sailing through there."

The Pentagon chief went on to say there is no "fundamental shift in anything."

"We're just going through one of those periodic points where we've got to learn to manage our differences," he said.

The Chinese defence ministry on Thursday denounced flyovers by US B-52 bombers over the South China Sea and East China Sea as "provocative" actions amid soaring tensions between the two global powers.

The Chinese defence ministry on Thursday denounced flyovers by US B-52 bombers over the South China Sea and East China Sea as "provocative" actions amid soaring tensions between the two global powers. The Pentagon said Wednesday the heavy bombers had taken part in a combined operation with Japan over the East China Sea and had flown through international airspace over the South China Sea a day before. "Regarding the provocative actions of US military aircraft in the South China Sea, we are always resolutely opposed to them, and will continue to take necessary measures in order to strongly handle (this issue)," Chinese defence ministry spokesman Ren Guoqiang told a monthly news briefing. China has claimed large swaths of the strategic waterway and built up a series of islands and maritime features, turning them into military facilities. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam have competing claims to the region, and an international maritime tribunal ruled in 2016 that China's claims have no legal basis. Pentagon spokesman Lieutenant Colonel Dave Eastburn said this week's flights were part of "regularly scheduled operations." The United States rejects China's territorial claims and routinely says the military will "continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows at times and places of our choosing." Washington this week enacted new tariffs against China covering another $200 billion of its imports while it last week sanctioned a Chinese military organisation for buying Russian weapons. China has reacted angrily, and this week scrapped a US warship's planned port visit to Hong Kong and cancelled a meeting between the head of the Chinese navy and his American counterpart. US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis said he was not concerned the US transit flights would increase tensions with China. "If it was 20 years ago and they have not militarised those features there, it would have just been another bomber on its way to Diego Garcia or whatever," he told Pentagon reporters, referring to the US military base in the Indian Ocean. "So there's nothing out of the ordinary about it, nor about our ships sailing through there." The Pentagon chief went on to say there is no "fundamental shift in anything." "We're just going through one of those periodic points where we've got to learn to manage our differences," he said.

China denounces flyovers by US B-52 bombers over the South China Sea 

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/america-had-no-achievements-un-general-assembly-iran-president-hassan-rouhani-167997">America had no achievements at UN General Assembly: Iran President Hassan Rouhani</a>

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pak-raising-kashmir-issue-international-forum-unwarranted-india-168008">Pakistan raising Kashmir issue at international forum 'unwarranted': India</a>

India has raised objections over Pakistan raising the Kashmir issue at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting, saying it is completely "unwarranted" for the grouping as well as its member countries to discuss matters related to India's internal affairs in any multilateral set up.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-announce-verdict-entry-women-sabarimala-temple-friday-167989">Supreme Court's verdict on </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-announce-verdict-entry-women-sabarimala-temple-friday-167989">entry</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-announce-verdict-entry-women-sabarimala-temple-friday-167989"> of women in Sabarimala tomorrow</a>

Supreme Court will pronounce its verdict Friday on a batch of petitions on entry of women between the ages of 10 to 50 at the Sabarimala temple in Kerala, reports said.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-rockets-hit-ghazni-during-president-ashraf-ghanis-visit-taliban-claims">Afghanistan: Rockets hit Ghazni during president Ashraf Ghani's visit, Taliban claims responsibility</a>

Three rockets hit the Afghan's Ghazni on Thursday while President Ashraf Ghani was visiting the city.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-top-court-pick-brett-kavanaugh-accuser-face-high-stakes-hearing-168001">Woman</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-top-court-pick-brett-kavanaugh-accuser-face-high-stakes-hearing-168001"> who accused Trump's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault to face </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-top-court-pick-brett-kavanaugh-accuser-face-high-stakes-hearing-168001">high-stakes</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-top-court-pick-brett-kavanaugh-accuser-face-high-stakes-hearing-168001"> hearing</a>

A woman who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982 will testify at a high-stakes Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he is confirmed or rejected for the nation's top court.

&nbsp;

America had no achievements at UN General Assembly: Iran President Hassan Rouhani The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

America had no achievements at UN General Assembly: Iran President Hassan Rouhani The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday. Pakistan raising Kashmir issue at international forum 'unwarranted': India India has raised objections over Pakistan raising the Kashmir issue at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) meeting, saying it is completely "unwarranted" for the grouping as well as its member countries to discuss matters related to India's internal affairs in any multilateral set up. Supreme Court's verdict on entry of women in Sabarimala tomorrow Supreme Court will pronounce its verdict Friday on a batch of petitions on entry of women between the ages of 10 to 50 at the Sabarimala temple in Kerala, reports said. Afghanistan: Rockets hit Ghazni during president Ashraf Ghani's visit, Taliban claims responsibility Three rockets hit the Afghan's Ghazni on Thursday while President Ashraf Ghani was visiting the city. Woman who accused Trump's Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexual assault to face high-stakes hearing A woman who has accused US Supreme Court nominee Brett Kavanaugh of sexually assaulting her in 1982 will testify at a high-stakes Senate hearing on Thursday that could determine whether he is confirmed or rejected for the nation's top court.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US President Donald Trump had a handshake with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a luncheon in New York, the White House said, but Qureshi described it as an "informal meeting" when they discussed bilateral ties.

The episode happened on Tuesday at a luncheon on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting.

Qureshi in an interview with the official Pakistani media described it as an "informal meeting" with Trump during which, he claimed, they discussed matters relating to bilateral relations.

"I met with President Trump at the reception where I had the opportunity to discuss Pak-US relations with him. I requested him to rebuild the cordial relations that we have enjoyed in the past," Qureshi told Pakistan Television.

Several Pakistani media outlets, including Dawn and Pakistan Tribune, reported the "informal meeting" citing the PTV report.

According to official news agency Associated Press of Pakistan, Qureshi received a "positive response" from Trump, who said they intend to "rebuild" the bilateral relations.

However, the White House said only a handshake happened between the two at the luncheon.

"It was a handshake at a luncheon with other world leaders," a National Security Council spokesperson told PTI.

Informed sources in New York tracking Trump's engagement confirmed to PTI that Trump had no meeting with Qureshi and that it was never planned.

The pool of reporters who follow Trump and report about his meetings with the world leaders did not mention the US president's meeting with Qureshi either.

The White House pool, which covered the luncheon, also did not mention Trump having a long chat with Qureshi, which would have had come to the attention of the reporters.

"Spotted: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau briefly approached Trump and shook his hand as Trump stayed seated at the head table just before lunch started," a White House pool report said.

"He (Trump) is shaking hands and mingling," it said.

The luncheon was hosted by the UN secretary general in honour of the heads of state and government.

The lunch kicked off at 1:27 pm (local time), with the secretary general offering the introductory remarks, according to a White House pool report of the luncheon.

"Trump sat with his arms crossed and occasionally nodded. Secretary general offered a toast and Trump took a sip of what appeared to be a glass of red wine after the toast. Trump began his remarks at 1:31 pm," the report stated.

"I've long said the United Nations has great potential...," Trump said according to the report.

"His toast ended at 1:33 pm. Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa is seated at Trump's table as is Croatia president, others unknown," the pool report stated.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump had a handshake with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a luncheon in New York, the White House said, but Qureshi described it as an "informal meeting" when they discussed bilateral ties.

US President Donald Trump had a handshake with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi during a luncheon in New York, the White House said, but Qureshi described it as an "informal meeting" when they discussed bilateral ties. The episode happened on Tuesday at a luncheon on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meeting. Qureshi in an interview with the official Pakistani media described it as an "informal meeting" with Trump during which, he claimed, they discussed matters relating to bilateral relations. "I met with President Trump at the reception where I had the opportunity to discuss Pak-US relations with him. I requested him to rebuild the cordial relations that we have enjoyed in the past," Qureshi told Pakistan Television. Several Pakistani media outlets, including Dawn and Pakistan Tribune, reported the "informal meeting" citing the PTV report. According to official news agency Associated Press of Pakistan, Qureshi received a "positive response" from Trump, who said they intend to "rebuild" the bilateral relations. However, the White House said only a handshake happened between the two at the luncheon. "It was a handshake at a luncheon with other world leaders," a National Security Council spokesperson told PTI. Informed sources in New York tracking Trump's engagement confirmed to PTI that Trump had no meeting with Qureshi and that it was never planned. The pool of reporters who follow Trump and report about his meetings with the world leaders did not mention the US president's meeting with Qureshi either. The White House pool, which covered the luncheon, also did not mention Trump having a long chat with Qureshi, which would have had come to the attention of the reporters. "Spotted: Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau briefly approached Trump and shook his hand as Trump stayed seated at the head table just before lunch started," a White House pool report said. "He (Trump) is shaking hands and mingling," it said. The luncheon was hosted by the UN secretary general in honour of the heads of state and government. The lunch kicked off at 1:27 pm (local time), with the secretary general offering the introductory remarks, according to a White House pool report of the luncheon. "Trump sat with his arms crossed and occasionally nodded. Secretary general offered a toast and Trump took a sip of what appeared to be a glass of red wine after the toast. Trump began his remarks at 1:31 pm," the report stated. "I've long said the United Nations has great potential...," Trump said according to the report. "His toast ended at 1:33 pm. Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa is seated at Trump's table as is Croatia president, others unknown," the pool report stated.

Pak foreign minister claims he had 'informal meeting' with Trump, US says only handshake 

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

Rouhani and US&nbsp;President Donald Trump exchanged threats and insults during their speeches at the UN&nbsp;assembly.

"The Americans had no achievements in this public assembly," Rouhani said, at a news conference broadcast on state TV on his return to Tehran.

The assembly had shown America's isolation, he said.

"When Mr. Trump was speaking and at the beginning of his speech bragged a lot about the accomplishments of his two-year-old administration, everyone laughed."

"What's important is that today, other than one or two countries, no one is supporting America," he said. "It's a historic political isolation that is rare for America."

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday.

The United States was not able to register any achievements at the United Nations General Assembly meeting which took place this week, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Thursday. Rouhani and US President Donald Trump exchanged threats and insults during their speeches at the UN assembly. "The Americans had no achievements in this public assembly," Rouhani said, at a news conference broadcast on state TV on his return to Tehran. The assembly had shown America's isolation, he said. "When Mr. Trump was speaking and at the beginning of his speech bragged a lot about the accomplishments of his two-year-old administration, everyone laughed." "What's important is that today, other than one or two countries, no one is supporting America," he said. "It's a historic political isolation that is rare for America."

America had no achievements at UN General Assembly: Iran President Hassan Rouhani 

China's foreign ministry said on Thursday that Beijing does not interfere in other countries' internal affairs after US&nbsp;President Donald Trump accused it of seeking to meddle in the November&nbsp;6 US&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-china-meddling-2018-election-beijing-rejects-charge-167853">congressional elections</a>, reported news agency Reuters.

The international community is clear which country interferes most in other countries' affairs, ministry spokesman Geng Shuang was quoted as saying&nbsp;at a regular briefing in Beijing.

Geng urged the US&nbsp;to stop doing things that damaged relations with China.

Trump on Wednesday told a UN&nbsp;Security Council meeting that Beijing was interfering because they did not want his Republican Party to do well, given the party's pugnacious stance on trade.

"China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration," Trump said.

China's foreign ministry said on Thursday that Beijing does not interfere in other countries' internal affairs after US President Donald Trump accused it of seeking to meddle in the November 6 US congressional elections, reported news agency Reuters.

China's foreign ministry said on Thursday that Beijing does not interfere in other countries' internal affairs after US President Donald Trump accused it of seeking to meddle in the November 6 US congressional elections, reported news agency Reuters. The international community is clear which country interferes most in other countries' affairs, ministry spokesman Geng Shuang was quoted as saying at a regular briefing in Beijing. Geng urged the US to stop doing things that damaged relations with China. Trump on Wednesday told a UN Security Council meeting that Beijing was interfering because they did not want his Republican Party to do well, given the party's pugnacious stance on trade. "China has been attempting to interfere in our upcoming 2018 election, coming up in November. Against my administration," Trump said.

China responds to Trump's charges; says it does not interfere in other countries' affairs

Two powerful Democratic women senators have urged the Trump administration not to go ahead with its decision to revoke the authorisation to immigrants on H-4 visas, a majority of who are Indian-Americans, as doing so would impact about 100,000 women.

H-4 visas are issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to immediate family members, spouse and children under 21 years of age, of the holder of H-1B visa, the most sought-after among Indian IT professionals.

Senators Kamala Harris from California and Kirsten Gillibrand from New York wrote a letter on the matter to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and USCIS Director L Francis Cissna.

The letter comes after Department of Homeland Security told a US court last week it is going to revoke employment authorisation of H-4 visa holders and a notification in this connection is to be issued in less than three months.

The Trump administration is reviewing the H-1B visa policy that it thinks is being misused by companies to replace American workers. It has said publicly and also in its court filing it wants to revoke work permits to H-4 visa holders,

The move will have a major impact on Indian women as they are a major beneficiary of the Obama-era rule.

"Rescinding the H-4 rule will result in significant personal hardship to women who will be forced to abandon their professional careers," the two senators wrote in their letter.

"Preventing women from engaging in employment can lead to isolation, depression, anxiety, feelings of guilt, and a loss of self-worth. Revoking a wife's ability to work leaves her and her children entirely dependent on her spouse. Increased isolation, coupled with complete financial dependence, can make leaving an abusive relationship dangerous and, in some cases, impossible," they wrote.

Asserting that independence and equal opportunity are fundamental American values, they said an action to deprive spousal H-4 visa holders the ability to continue to pursue their professional careers is antithetical to principles this country is built on.

"We urge you to consider the economic, psychological, and personal harms that rescinding the H-4 rule will cause to more than 100,000 professional women, their families, and their American communities," they said.

Harris, the first Indian-origin American Senator, and Gillibrand said a revocation of the H-4 rule would "disproportionately target" South Asian women.

"In 2017, 94 per cent of H-4 visa holders with work authorisation were women and 93 per cent were from India. Currently, no more than seven per cent of approximately 375,000 family and employment-based green cards issued annually can go to nationals from the same country," they said.

"As a result, over 306,000 Indian applicants and 67,000 Chinese applicants whose applications have been approved are currently in line to receive a green card. Because of the backlog, H1-B visa holders and dependent H-4 visa holders from certain countries in the US&nbsp;Are forced to wait from 12 years to an impossible 150 years to receive green cards," they said.&nbsp;

In the letter, Harris and Gillibrand said requiring professional women to give up their careers to keep their families united will cause serious harm to their children.

Many H-1B families live in higher-cost areas such as Silicon Valley or Seattle, where having two incomes is not a luxury but a necessity.

"Rescinding the H-4 rule would create a permanent barrier to employment, including self-employment, for these women, reinforcing a harmful stereotype that women do not belong in the workplace and widening the gender equality gap," the senators wrote.&nbsp;

Two powerful Democratic women senators have urged the Trump administration not to go ahead with its decision to revoke the authorisation to immigrants on H-4 visas, a majority of who are Indian-Americans, as doing so would impact about 100,000 women.

Two powerful Democratic women senators have urged the Trump administration not to go ahead with its decision to revoke the authorisation to immigrants on H-4 visas, a majority of who are Indian-Americans, as doing so would impact about 100,000 women. H-4 visas are issued by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) to immediate family members, spouse and children under 21 years of age, of the holder of H-1B visa, the most sought-after among Indian IT professionals. Senators Kamala Harris from California and Kirsten Gillibrand from New York wrote a letter on the matter to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen and USCIS Director L Francis Cissna. The letter comes after Department of Homeland Security told a US court last week it is going to revoke employment authorisation of H-4 visa holders and a notification in this connection is to be issued in less than three months. The Trump administration is reviewing the H-1B visa policy that it thinks is being misused by companies to replace American workers. It has said publicly and also in its court filing it wants to revoke work permits to H-4 visa holders, The move will have a major impact on Indian women as they are a major beneficiary of the Obama-era rule. "Rescinding the H-4 rule will result in significant personal hardship to women who will be forced to abandon their professional careers," the two senators wrote in their letter. "Preventing women from engaging in employment can lead to isolation, depression, anxiety, feelings of guilt, and a loss of self-worth. Revoking a wife's ability to work leaves her and her children entirely dependent on her spouse. Increased isolation, coupled with complete financial dependence, can make leaving an abusive relationship dangerous and, in some cases, impossible," they wrote. Asserting that independence and equal opportunity are fundamental American values, they said an action to deprive spousal H-4 visa holders the ability to continue to pursue their professional careers is antithetical to principles this country is built on. "We urge you to consider the economic, psychological, and personal harms that rescinding the H-4 rule will cause to more than 100,000 professional women, their families, and their American communities," they said. Harris, the first Indian-origin American Senator, and Gillibrand said a revocation of the H-4 rule would "disproportionately target" South Asian women. "In 2017, 94 per cent of H-4 visa holders with work authorisation were women and 93 per cent were from India. Currently, no more than seven per cent of approximately 375,000 family and employment-based green cards issued annually can go to nationals from the same country," they said. "As a result, over 306,000 Indian applicants and 67,000 Chinese applicants whose applications have been approved are currently in line to receive a green card. Because of the backlog, H1-B visa holders and dependent H-4 visa holders from certain countries in the US Are forced to wait from 12 years to an impossible 150 years to receive green cards," they said. In the letter, Harris and Gillibrand said requiring professional women to give up their careers to keep their families united will cause serious harm to their children. Many H-1B families live in higher-cost areas such as Silicon Valley or Seattle, where having two incomes is not a luxury but a necessity. "Rescinding the H-4 rule would create a permanent barrier to employment, including self-employment, for these women, reinforcing a harmful stereotype that women do not belong in the workplace and widening the gender equality gap," the senators wrote.

Over 100,000 professional women will be impacted: Trump urged against ending work permit

The Trump administration's proposed rule, under which immigrants may be denied green card if they have received government benefits in the past or are likely to receive one in the future, is likely to have a major impact on immigrants from South Asian countries, a community organisation said Tuesday.

"The new rule would hit the South Asian American communities particularly hard, as over 10 per cent of green card recipients in FY 2016 were from South Asian countries," the South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) said.

It condemned the Department of Homeland Security announcement of the proposed "public charge" rules that would deny permanent resident status ("green cards") to immigrants who use government services such as nutrition programmes and housing assistance.

According to a recent Pew Research Center study, one in four immigrants in the US from Bangladesh and Nepal and one in three immigrants from Bhutan already live in poverty. This new rule would put all these individuals at great risk, it said.

SAALT said the term "public charge" predated federal immigration law entirely. In the early 1800s, the states would only free individual slaves on the condition that they never become a "public charge". This framework was now being expanded to criminalise the immigrant communities, it said.

"This policy is about who this administration considers a desirable immigrant. It is designed to instil fear in immigrant communities of colour and relegate the non-citizens and their families to second-class status," said Suman Raghunathan, Executive Director of SAALT.

"It will punish the immigrants who rightfully access the public benefits to which they are entitled, it will punish parents for taking care of their children and it will force immigrant families to choose between citizenship and basic needs," she added.

"Rather than taxing the one per cent, this administration chooses to punish immigrant families over and over again. Today, on the one-year anniversary of Muslim Ban 3.0, we say no to more racist and anti-immigrant policies," Raghunathan said.

Congressman Bobby Scott from Virginia said the proposed policy was making grounds for denying legal US residency to immigrants.

"The Trump administration's 'public charge' proposal would force hundreds of thousands of immigrants to make the impossible choice between receiving basic assistance for food and shelter and risking being separated from their families.

"This proposal is cruel, counterproductive and in violation of the basic principles that make America an example for the world," Scott said.

According to Congressman Tony Cardenas, the policy is equal parts cruel and senseless. "Not only will this hurt the tax-paying families, it will also have a hugely negative impact on the US economy and on American citizens," he said.

In 2014, the immigrants in this country earned USD 1.3 trillion and paid more than USD 223 billion in federal taxes, while paying another USD 105 billion in combined state and local taxes, Cardenas said.

"We are talking about people who are vital to the American economy and it is insane to threaten people who are legal, rule-following contributors to American communities. This proposed rule will hurt the grocery stores, farmers and healthcare providers. Our American economy will suffer. It just does not make any sense," he added.

"In their quest to shame and isolate immigrants to this country, the Trump administration is gambling with the health of children, wagering that their lives matter less because they were not born here," Congresswoman Judy Chu said.

Asserting that there was no justification for this rule change "outside of bald-faced xenophobia", Chu said the change applied to the immigrants who were here legally and had done nothing to merit punishment.

"Immigrant families are no less entitled to food or housing support than any other person trying to get by in this unequal economy. Moreover, by working and paying taxes, many of these immigrants have actually earned these benefits. Others, like children and seniors who are not working should not be punished for somebody else's prejudice," she said.

The American Immigration Lawyers' Association (AILA) said the new rule would prevent many immigrants from securing lawful permanent residence and remaining with their families in the US, simply because they previously received some type of basic healthcare support, nutrition assistance or other vital services.

"The proposed rule is the Trump administration's latest assault on immigrant families, who are integral to the fabric of the American society and have been pivotal to our nation's success," said Benjamin Johnson, AILA executive director.&nbsp;

The Trump administration's proposed rule, under which immigrants may be denied green card if they have received government benefits in the past or are likely to receive one in the future, is likely to have a major impact on immigrants from South Asian countries, a community organisation said Tuesday.

The Trump administration's proposed rule, under which immigrants may be denied green card if they have received government benefits in the past or are likely to receive one in the future, is likely to have a major impact on immigrants from South Asian countries, a community organisation said Tuesday. "The new rule would hit the South Asian American communities particularly hard, as over 10 per cent of green card recipients in FY 2016 were from South Asian countries," the South Asian Americans Leading Together (SAALT) said. It condemned the Department of Homeland Security announcement of the proposed "public charge" rules that would deny permanent resident status ("green cards") to immigrants who use government services such as nutrition programmes and housing assistance. According to a recent Pew Research Center study, one in four immigrants in the US from Bangladesh and Nepal and one in three immigrants from Bhutan already live in poverty. This new rule would put all these individuals at great risk, it said. SAALT said the term "public charge" predated federal immigration law entirely. In the early 1800s, the states would only free individual slaves on the condition that they never become a "public charge". This framework was now being expanded to criminalise the immigrant communities, it said. "This policy is about who this administration considers a desirable immigrant. It is designed to instil fear in immigrant communities of colour and relegate the non-citizens and their families to second-class status," said Suman Raghunathan, Executive Director of SAALT. "It will punish the immigrants who rightfully access the public benefits to which they are entitled, it will punish parents for taking care of their children and it will force immigrant families to choose between citizenship and basic needs," she added. "Rather than taxing the one per cent, this administration chooses to punish immigrant families over and over again. Today, on the one-year anniversary of Muslim Ban 3.0, we say no to more racist and anti-immigrant policies," Raghunathan said. Congressman Bobby Scott from Virginia said the proposed policy was making grounds for denying legal US residency to immigrants. "The Trump administration's 'public charge' proposal would force hundreds of thousands of immigrants to make the impossible choice between receiving basic assistance for food and shelter and risking being separated from their families. "This proposal is cruel, counterproductive and in violation of the basic principles that make America an example for the world," Scott said. According to Congressman Tony Cardenas, the policy is equal parts cruel and senseless. "Not only will this hurt the tax-paying families, it will also have a hugely negative impact on the US economy and on American citizens," he said. In 2014, the immigrants in this country earned USD 1.3 trillion and paid more than USD 223 billion in federal taxes, while paying another USD 105 billion in combined state and local taxes, Cardenas said. "We are talking about people who are vital to the American economy and it is insane to threaten people who are legal, rule-following contributors to American communities. This proposed rule will hurt the grocery stores, farmers and healthcare providers. Our American economy will suffer. It just does not make any sense," he added. "In their quest to shame and isolate immigrants to this country, the Trump administration is gambling with the health of children, wagering that their lives matter less because they were not born here," Congresswoman Judy Chu said. Asserting that there was no justification for this rule change "outside of bald-faced xenophobia", Chu said the change applied to the immigrants who were here legally and had done nothing to merit punishment. "Immigrant families are no less entitled to food or housing support than any other person trying to get by in this unequal economy. Moreover, by working and paying taxes, many of these immigrants have actually earned these benefits. Others, like children and seniors who are not working should not be punished for somebody else's prejudice," she said. The American Immigration Lawyers' Association (AILA) said the new rule would prevent many immigrants from securing lawful permanent residence and remaining with their families in the US, simply because they previously received some type of basic healthcare support, nutrition assistance or other vital services. "The proposed rule is the Trump administration's latest assault on immigrant families, who are integral to the fabric of the American society and have been pivotal to our nation's success," said Benjamin Johnson, AILA executive director.

Proposed changes in green card policy to adversely impact South Asians: SAALT

US President Donald Trump addresses 73rd session of UNGA

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace.

"Their words go against their actions and their action is absolutely clear (and) is destroying the possibility of the two-state solution," Husam Zomlot, head of the recently closed Palestinian mission in Washington, told AFP.

He added that Trump's comments alone were not enough to bring the Palestinians back to the negotiating table.

Speaking in New York on Wednesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestinian state.

"That's what I think works best, that's my feeling," he said.

Zomlot pointed to the closure of the Palestinian mission in Washington, the cut in hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital as evidence the Trump administration was not serious about achieving peace.

"Every action President Trump has made is in the opposite direction of the two-state solution," he said.

The Palestinians have boycotted Trump's administration since December when he recognised the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace.

A senior Palestinian official rejected US President Donald Trump's comments in support of a two-state solution on Wednesday, saying his White House's policies were destroying hopes of peace. "Their words go against their actions and their action is absolutely clear (and) is destroying the possibility of the two-state solution," Husam Zomlot, head of the recently closed Palestinian mission in Washington, told AFP. He added that Trump's comments alone were not enough to bring the Palestinians back to the negotiating table. Speaking in New York on Wednesday alongside Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestinian state. "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling," he said. Zomlot pointed to the closure of the Palestinian mission in Washington, the cut in hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and the recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital as evidence the Trump administration was not serious about achieving peace. "Every action President Trump has made is in the opposite direction of the two-state solution," he said. The Palestinians have boycotted Trump's administration since December when he recognised the disputed city of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel.

Trump two-state solution comments fall short: Palestinian official

A Chinese national who came to the US on a student visa was arrested Tuesday in Chicago and accused of helping Beijing attempt to recruit American scientists and engineers.

Ji Chaoqun was allegedly tasked with providing Chinese intelligence with biographical information about eight American citizens -- some of whom were US defence contractors.&nbsp;

The 27-year-old, who first arrived in Chicago in 2013 to study electrical engineering on a student visa, was charged with one count of knowingly acting as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the US Attorney General.

According to a court affidavit, Ji was working at the direction of a "high-level intelligence officer" in China's Ministry of State Security, which "handles civilian intelligence collection and is responsible for counter-intelligence and foreign intelligence, as well as political security."&nbsp;

All eight of the people Ji allegedly researched were naturalized American citizens who were born in Taiwan or China, according to authorities. The targets either currently worked or were recently retired from a career in the science and technology industry.&nbsp;

An affidavit filed in federal court by an FBI investigator specializing in espionage, claims among the people targeted was an engineer at one of "the world's top aircraft engine suppliers for both commercial and military aircraft."

After one of Ji's handlers was arrested, he met with US undercover agents in April and May, and admitted to his work, which included collecting background checks, the affidavit said.&nbsp;

He allegedly told the undercover agents: "They just wanted me to purchase some documents on their behalf. Their reason was just because it was inconvenient for them to make payments from China."&nbsp;

Ji also enlisted in the US Army Reserves, according to the US Attorney's office, but failed to disclose his foreign contacts to the military.

A Chinese national who came to the US on a student visa was arrested Tuesday in Chicago and accused of helping Beijing attempt to recruit American scientists and engineers.

A Chinese national who came to the US on a student visa was arrested Tuesday in Chicago and accused of helping Beijing attempt to recruit American scientists and engineers. Ji Chaoqun was allegedly tasked with providing Chinese intelligence with biographical information about eight American citizens -- some of whom were US defence contractors. The 27-year-old, who first arrived in Chicago in 2013 to study electrical engineering on a student visa, was charged with one count of knowingly acting as an agent of a foreign government without prior notification to the US Attorney General. According to a court affidavit, Ji was working at the direction of a "high-level intelligence officer" in China's Ministry of State Security, which "handles civilian intelligence collection and is responsible for counter-intelligence and foreign intelligence, as well as political security." All eight of the people Ji allegedly researched were naturalized American citizens who were born in Taiwan or China, according to authorities. The targets either currently worked or were recently retired from a career in the science and technology industry. An affidavit filed in federal court by an FBI investigator specializing in espionage, claims among the people targeted was an engineer at one of "the world's top aircraft engine suppliers for both commercial and military aircraft." After one of Ji's handlers was arrested, he met with US undercover agents in April and May, and admitted to his work, which included collecting background checks, the affidavit said. He allegedly told the undercover agents: "They just wanted me to purchase some documents on their behalf. Their reason was just because it was inconvenient for them to make payments from China." Ji also enlisted in the US Army Reserves, according to the US Attorney's office, but failed to disclose his foreign contacts to the military.

US arrests Chinese national on spying charge

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said&nbsp;he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro.

He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out. I want the people to be safe. We're going to take care of Venezuela".

On his meeting&nbsp;with Maduro, Trump said, "If he's here, if he wants to meet ... it was not on my mind, it was not on my plate but if I can help people that's what I'm here for."

Venezuela is suffering an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro.

Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders.

Speaking before entering talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly Meeting, Trump said he would present a two-state peace plan for the Middle East in the coming months.

He also expressed confidence that the Palestinians would return to talks despite his unwavering support for Israel.

Trump said that it was a "dream" of his to bring about a peaceful solution to a conflict that has eluded several of his predecessors.&nbsp;

"I would say over the next two to three to four months," Trump said, referring to his prospective timetable for presenting a plan as he met Netanyahu.

Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestine, saying: "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling."

"I really believe something will happen. It is a dream of mine to be able to get that done prior to the end of my first term," added Trump.

The Middle East peace process has effectively been stalled since the Palestinians broke off contacts with the Trump administration last year in protest at the US president's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state.

The Palestinians also want Jerusalem to be their capital and have long argued that the status of the holy city should only be settled as part of a larger peace agreement.

Relations between the Palestinian Authority and the United States have fallen even lower in recent weeks after Washington cut off funding, including to a UN agency that helps millions of Palestinian refugees.

(With inputs from AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday assured help to Venezuela and said he was willing to meet the Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. He said, "I just want to see Venezuela straightened out. I want the people to be safe. We're going to take care of Venezuela". On his meeting with Maduro, Trump said, "If he's here, if he wants to meet ... it was not on my mind, it was not on my plate but if I can help people that's what I'm here for." Venezuela is suffering an economic collapse and mass emigration under Nicolas Maduro. Last week, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that the United States was preparing a "series of actions" to raise pressure on Maduro, whom Washington and its allies accuse of stifling democracy by jailing opposition leaders. Speaking before entering talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly Meeting, Trump said he would present a two-state peace plan for the Middle East in the coming months. He also expressed confidence that the Palestinians would return to talks despite his unwavering support for Israel. Trump said that it was a "dream" of his to bring about a peaceful solution to a conflict that has eluded several of his predecessors. "I would say over the next two to three to four months," Trump said, referring to his prospective timetable for presenting a plan as he met Netanyahu. Trump for the first time said explicitly that he backed a two-state solution that would create an independent Palestine, saying: "That's what I think works best, that's my feeling." "I really believe something will happen. It is a dream of mine to be able to get that done prior to the end of my first term," added Trump. The Middle East peace process has effectively been stalled since the Palestinians broke off contacts with the Trump administration last year in protest at the US president's decision to recognize Jerusalem as the capital of the Jewish state. The Palestinians also want Jerusalem to be their capital and have long argued that the status of the holy city should only be settled as part of a larger peace agreement. Relations between the Palestinian Authority and the United States have fallen even lower in recent weeks after Washington cut off funding, including to a UN agency that helps millions of Palestinian refugees. (With inputs from AFP)

Trump assures help to Venezuela; pledges new Middle East peace plan within months

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year.

FUNDAMENTALS

** Spot gold &lt;XAU=&gt; was down 0.1 per cent at $1,200.18, as of 0057 GMT.

** US gold futures &lt;GCcv1&gt; little changed at $1,204.6 an ounce.

** Investors await details from the two-day Federal Reserve meeting that began on Tuesday, with the US central bank expected to raise benchmark interest rates and shed light on the path for future rate hikes.

** Higher US interest rates typically pressure gold, since it costs to store and insure, but does not pay interest.

** US consumer confidence surged to an 18-year high in September as households grew more upbeat about the labour market, pointing to sustained strength in the economy despite an increasingly bitter trade dispute between the United States and China.

** US President Donald Trump's top trade official said on Tuesday that changing China's economic policies to become more market-oriented "is not going to be easy" even with tariffs now in place on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods.

** Although gold is generally considered to be a safe-haven asset, the months-long trade rift between Washington and Beijing has instead prompted investors to buy US dollars in the belief that the United States has less to lose from the dispute.

** The dollar index &lt;.DXY&gt;, which weighs the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, was up 0.1 per cent.&nbsp;

** Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday.

** Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday with the US President vowing more sanctions against Tehran and Rouhani suggesting his American counterpart suffers from a "weakness of intellect."

** Money markets now anticipate the ECB will lift interest rates in September 2019, bringing forward expectations for a first rate hike in a sign of growing conviction that a move will come before Mario Draghi's term as ECB chief ends.

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year.

Gold prices nudged down early Wednesday on a firmer dollar, as investors waited for details of the US Federal Reserve's two-day meeting that should give clues whether policymakers will raise interest rates for the third time this year. FUNDAMENTALS ** Spot gold <XAU=> was down 0.1 per cent at $1,200.18, as of 0057 GMT. ** US gold futures <GCcv1> little changed at $1,204.6 an ounce. ** Investors await details from the two-day Federal Reserve meeting that began on Tuesday, with the US central bank expected to raise benchmark interest rates and shed light on the path for future rate hikes. ** Higher US interest rates typically pressure gold, since it costs to store and insure, but does not pay interest. ** US consumer confidence surged to an 18-year high in September as households grew more upbeat about the labour market, pointing to sustained strength in the economy despite an increasingly bitter trade dispute between the United States and China. ** US President Donald Trump's top trade official said on Tuesday that changing China's economic policies to become more market-oriented "is not going to be easy" even with tariffs now in place on $250 billion worth of Chinese goods. ** Although gold is generally considered to be a safe-haven asset, the months-long trade rift between Washington and Beijing has instead prompted investors to buy US dollars in the belief that the United States has less to lose from the dispute. ** The dollar index <.DXY>, which weighs the greenback against a basket of six major currencies, was up 0.1 per cent. ** Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday. ** Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani exchanged taunts at the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday with the US President vowing more sanctions against Tehran and Rouhani suggesting his American counterpart suffers from a "weakness of intellect." ** Money markets now anticipate the ECB will lift interest rates in September 2019, bringing forward expectations for a first rate hike in a sign of growing conviction that a move will come before Mario Draghi's term as ECB chief ends.

Gold inches down as dollar firms; Fed in focus

Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump's administration recently began increasing the pressure on Canada, urging it to conclude a deal by Sunday or face exclusion from a revised North American Free Trade Agreement.

A spokesman for Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland brushed off the latest remarks from the United States, saying Canada was not interested in focusing on timelines.

US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said there was "some distance" between the two sides on issues such as access to Canada's dairy market and how best to settle trade disputes.

"The fact is, Canada is not making concessions in areas where we think they're essential," he said at the Concordia Summit in New York.

"We're going to go ahead with Mexico," he said. "If Canada comes along now, that would be the best. If Canada comes along later, then that's what will happen."

He added: "We're sort of running out of time." But Freeland's spokesman, Adam Austen, said Canada would only sign a good deal.

"Our focus is the substance, not timelines. We will continue to negotiate with a view to getting a deal that is in Canada’s national interest," he said.

Mexican government spokesman Eduardo Sanchez said on Twitter late on Tuesday that Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly.

"The leaders exchanged points of view on the process of renegotiation of NAFTA," said Sanchez.

Lighthizer and Freeland are also in New York for the UN meeting but it is unclear whether they will meet.

US automakers and congressional aides now believe a deal with Canada is not possible by the deadline, which they said would most likely prompt the United States to move ahead with a bilateral agreement with Mexico.

But they also predicted new talks with Canada in another attempt to settle outstanding issues before the signing with Mexico, which would be set for November 30.

'HOPEFULLY END UP WITH SOMETHING'

The Trump administration has said the text of an agreement is needed by Sunday to allow the current Mexican government to sign it before it leaves office at the end of November.

Trump has demanded major changes to NAFTA, which he has said caused US manufacturing jobs to move to low-wage Mexico. Markets are nervous about the impact on a deal that underpins $1.2 trillion in annual trade.

Canadian officials have said that despite the US threats to go it alone with Mexico, they do not believe Trump can by himself turn the 1994 pact into a bilateral deal.

US business groups, alarmed by the potential disruption to the three increasingly integrated economies, have lobbied the White House to keep NAFTA as a trilateral deal.

Trudeau, who has repeatedly stated he would rather walk away from NAFTA than sign a bad deal, spoke before Lighthizer at an event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations in New York and took a more cautious tone.

"They (the United States and Mexico) made certain agreements," he said. "I think there's a possibility there to build on what they agreed."

"With Mexico, we're not going to say: 'No deal' because of Canada," Lighthizer said. "That doesn't make any sense at all, so hopefully we'll end up with something with Canada."

Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday.

Canada is not making concessions needed to reach a deal with the United States for a trilateral NAFTA pact and is running out of time before Washington proceeds with a Mexico-only agreement, a top US official said on Tuesday. US President Donald Trump's administration recently began increasing the pressure on Canada, urging it to conclude a deal by Sunday or face exclusion from a revised North American Free Trade Agreement. A spokesman for Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland brushed off the latest remarks from the United States, saying Canada was not interested in focusing on timelines. US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer said there was "some distance" between the two sides on issues such as access to Canada's dairy market and how best to settle trade disputes. "The fact is, Canada is not making concessions in areas where we think they're essential," he said at the Concordia Summit in New York. "We're going to go ahead with Mexico," he said. "If Canada comes along now, that would be the best. If Canada comes along later, then that's what will happen." He added: "We're sort of running out of time." But Freeland's spokesman, Adam Austen, said Canada would only sign a good deal. "Our focus is the substance, not timelines. We will continue to negotiate with a view to getting a deal that is in Canada’s national interest," he said. Mexican government spokesman Eduardo Sanchez said on Twitter late on Tuesday that Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, held a bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly. "The leaders exchanged points of view on the process of renegotiation of NAFTA," said Sanchez. Lighthizer and Freeland are also in New York for the UN meeting but it is unclear whether they will meet. US automakers and congressional aides now believe a deal with Canada is not possible by the deadline, which they said would most likely prompt the United States to move ahead with a bilateral agreement with Mexico. But they also predicted new talks with Canada in another attempt to settle outstanding issues before the signing with Mexico, which would be set for November 30. 'HOPEFULLY END UP WITH SOMETHING' The Trump administration has said the text of an agreement is needed by Sunday to allow the current Mexican government to sign it before it leaves office at the end of November. Trump has demanded major changes to NAFTA, which he has said caused US manufacturing jobs to move to low-wage Mexico. Markets are nervous about the impact on a deal that underpins $1.2 trillion in annual trade. Canadian officials have said that despite the US threats to go it alone with Mexico, they do not believe Trump can by himself turn the 1994 pact into a bilateral deal. US business groups, alarmed by the potential disruption to the three increasingly integrated economies, have lobbied the White House to keep NAFTA as a trilateral deal. Trudeau, who has repeatedly stated he would rather walk away from NAFTA than sign a bad deal, spoke before Lighthizer at an event hosted by the Council on Foreign Relations in New York and took a more cautious tone. "They (the United States and Mexico) made certain agreements," he said. "I think there's a possibility there to build on what they agreed." "With Mexico, we're not going to say: 'No deal' because of Canada," Lighthizer said. "That doesn't make any sense at all, so hopefully we'll end up with something with Canada."

Canada not making concessions needed for NAFTA deal: US

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-says-trump-kim-summit-more-likely-after-october-report-167820">Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says Trump-Kim summit more likely after October: Report</a>

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was working to set up the next summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but any meeting will likely be after October.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/uidai-sees-victory-sc-judgement-says-private-usage-restricted-167800">Aadhaar verdict: UIDAI sees victory in Supreme Court judgement, says private usage restricted</a>

The UIDAI Wednesday termed the Supreme Court judgement, which upheld Aadhaar as a constitutionally valid scheme, as a victory.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/10-afghan-children-2-women-dead-air-strike-un-initial-report-167798">10 Afghan children, 2 women dead in air strike: UN initial report</a>

An air strike appears to have killed 12 members of an Afghan family, most of them children, the United Nations said, citing preliminary findings, as US and Afghan forces ramp up aerial bombardments against militants.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/uk-labour-partys-corbyn-say-will-vote-against-pm-mays-brexit-deal-it-stands-167816">Labour will vote against PM May's Chequers Brexit plan, says Jeremy Corbyn</a>

British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Wednesday Labour would vote against a Brexit deal based on Theresa May's proposals, the strongest warning yet to a prime minister whose plan to leave the European Union is hanging by a thread.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-parliament-passes-pension-bill-key-second-reading-167808">Russian parliament passes pension bill in </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-parliament-passes-pension-bill-key-second-reading-167808">key</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/russian-parliament-passes-pension-bill-key-second-reading-167808"> second reading</a>

The Russian parliament's lower house, State Duma passed the controversial pension bill in key second reading on Wednesday.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says Trump-Kim summit more likely after October: Report Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was working to set up the next summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but any meeting will likely be after October.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo says Trump-Kim summit more likely after October: Report Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was working to set up the next summit between US President Donald Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, but any meeting will likely be after October. Aadhaar verdict: UIDAI sees victory in Supreme Court judgement, says private usage restricted The UIDAI Wednesday termed the Supreme Court judgement, which upheld Aadhaar as a constitutionally valid scheme, as a victory. 10 Afghan children, 2 women dead in air strike: UN initial report An air strike appears to have killed 12 members of an Afghan family, most of them children, the United Nations said, citing preliminary findings, as US and Afghan forces ramp up aerial bombardments against militants. Labour will vote against PM May's Chequers Brexit plan, says Jeremy Corbyn British opposition leader Jeremy Corbyn said on Wednesday Labour would vote against a Brexit deal based on Theresa May's proposals, the strongest warning yet to a prime minister whose plan to leave the European Union is hanging by a thread. Russian parliament passes pension bill in key second reading The Russian parliament's lower house, State Duma passed the controversial pension bill in key second reading on Wednesday.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday lauded India's efforts to lift millions of its citizens out of poverty as he addressed world leaders at the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly.

"There is India, a free society (of) over a billion people, successfully lifting countless millions out of poverty and into the middle class," Trump said in his second address to the General Debate of the UN General Assembly that opened here Tuesday.

In his about 35-minute address, he said over the years, history has transpired in the halls of the UN General Assembly. "We think of the many before us who have come here to address the challenges of their nations and of their times and our thoughts turn to the same question that ran through all their speeches, resolutions and through every word and every hope."

"It is the question of what kind of world will we leave for our children and what kind of nations they will inherit," Trump said.

He said the dreams that fill the UNGA hall today are as diverse as the people who have stood at this podium and as varied as the countries represented in the United Nations. "It really is something. It really is great great history."&nbsp;

Trump also cited Saudi Arabia's bold new reforms and Israel "proudly celebrating" its 70th anniversary as a thriving democracy in the Holy Land.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday lauded India's efforts to lift millions of its citizens out of poverty as he addressed world leaders at the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly.

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday lauded India's efforts to lift millions of its citizens out of poverty as he addressed world leaders at the 73rd session of the UN General Assembly. "There is India, a free society (of) over a billion people, successfully lifting countless millions out of poverty and into the middle class," Trump said in his second address to the General Debate of the UN General Assembly that opened here Tuesday. In his about 35-minute address, he said over the years, history has transpired in the halls of the UN General Assembly. "We think of the many before us who have come here to address the challenges of their nations and of their times and our thoughts turn to the same question that ran through all their speeches, resolutions and through every word and every hope." "It is the question of what kind of world will we leave for our children and what kind of nations they will inherit," Trump said. He said the dreams that fill the UNGA hall today are as diverse as the people who have stood at this podium and as varied as the countries represented in the United Nations. "It really is something. It really is great great history." Trump also cited Saudi Arabia's bold new reforms and Israel "proudly celebrating" its 70th anniversary as a thriving democracy in the Holy Land.

India a free society, successfully lifting millions out of poverty: Trump tells UN

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/despite-requests-no-plans-meet-iran-president-trump-167606">Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President'</a>

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. &nbsp;&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/business-economy/bad-debts-decline-loan-recovery-picking-psu-banks-says-arun-jaitley-167633">Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley</a>

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/virat-kohli-mirabai-chanu-conferred-rajiv-gandhi-khel-ratna-award-167619">Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award</a>

Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/supreme-court-pronounce-judgment-aadhaar-validity-tomorrow-167609">Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow</a>

The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/merkel-says-still-unclear-what-britain-wants-brexit-talks-167599">German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks</a>

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

&nbsp;

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.

Iran rejects US offer for top-level meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Bad debts on a decline, loan recovery of PSU banks picking up, says Arun Jaitley Finance Minister Arun Jaitley Tuesday said bad debts or NPAs in the banking system are on the decline as recoveries of unpaid loans have picked up. Virat Kohli, Mirabai Chanu conferred Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award Indian Cricket team captain Virat Kohli and weightlifter Mirabai Chanu were conferred with the Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award by President Ram Nath Kovind at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Tuesday. Can Aadhaar be made mandatory? Supreme Court judgement tomorrow The Supreme Court will likely pronounce the crucial judgment on petitions challenging the validity of Aadhaar on Wednesday. German Chancellor Angela Merkel says still unclear what Britain wants in Brexit talks German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Britain had still not expressed a clear position on its post-Brexit relations with the EU, warning that only "six to eight weeks" remained to reach an agreement.

Ahead of the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-un-look-progress-north-korea-brace-trump-167312">UN General Assembly meetin</a>g, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Describing&nbsp;Iran President&nbsp;Hassan Rouhani as&nbsp;an&nbsp;absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said&nbsp;"Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.''

Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!"

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1044540438806482944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Meanwhile, a&nbsp;top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters.

Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up&nbsp;to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran.

Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May.

He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil.

Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal.

President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord.

Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies.

He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday.

(With inputs from Reuters) 
&nbsp;

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

Ahead of the UN General Assembly meeting, both US President Donald Trump and top adviser to Iran claimed that they had rejected a 'meeting'' with each other. Describing Iran President Hassan Rouhani as an absolutely ''lovely man'', Trump said "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.'' Trump tweeted, "Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man!" Despite requests, I have no plans to meet Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Maybe someday in the future. I am sure he is an absolutely lovely man! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 25, 2018 × Meanwhile, a top adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader rejected a US offer for top-level meetings, according to news agency Reuters. Iran's elite Revolutionary Guards also kept up the anti-US rhetoric in the build-up to the UN session, calling President Donald Trump "evil and adventurous" and accusing him of waging economic war on Tehran. Relations between the two countries worsened after Trump pulled out of an international nuclear deal with Iran in May. He has since started reinstating economic penalties and pressing other countries to stop buying Iranian oil. Trump said in July he was ready to meet Iran's President Hassan Rouhani without preconditions to negotiate a new deal. President Rouhani, seen as a moderate, has stopped short of ruling out meetings between the two countries. But he has come under increasing pressure from hardliners, including the Guards, since Trump withdrew from the 2015 nuclear accord. Trump is set to address the UNGA meeting on Tuesday where he is likely to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies. He will chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction on Wednesday. (With inputs from Reuters)

Iran rejects US offer for meeting even as Trump tweets 'no plans to meet Iranian President' 

US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a free trade agreement on Monday that Trump hailed as a "historic milestone in trade."

Trump, who has sought to renegotiate trade deals with several countries around the world, said the revised agreement would reduce bureaucracy and increase prosperity in the United States and South Korea.

"Our two countries have set an example of friendship and cooperation for trade that rarely you see in this age," he said.

US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a free trade agreement on Monday that Trump hailed as a "historic milestone in trade." Trump, who has sought to renegotiate trade deals with several countries around the world, said the revised agreement would reduce bureaucracy and increase prosperity in the United States and South Korea.

US President Donald Trump and South Korean President Moon Jae-in signed a free trade agreement on Monday that Trump hailed as a "historic milestone in trade." Trump, who has sought to renegotiate trade deals with several countries around the world, said the revised agreement would reduce bureaucracy and increase prosperity in the United States and South Korea. "Our two countries have set an example of friendship and cooperation for trade that rarely you see in this age," he said.

Trump calls new US-South Korea trade deal a historic milestone

United States President Donald Trump on Monday opened the high-level meet of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with an event focusing on tackling the world drug problem.

Delivering the inaugural address at the event, Trump acknowledged the growing menace and vouched to stand united in fighting the same.

"It is a great honour to address you on an issue that affects every nation across the globe: the world drug problem. And a big problem it is. The scourge of drug addiction continues to claim too many lives in the United States and in nations around the world. Today, we commit to fighting the drug epidemic together," he said.

Furthermore, Trump highlighted a record increase in the production of cocaine and opium and an increase of 60 per cent in deaths resulting from the consumption of drugs.

"As the 2018 World Drug Report highlights, cocaine and opium production have hit record highs - incredibly - and global deaths caused by drug use have increased by 60 per cent from the year 2000 to 2015. So, in 15 years, it has gone up by 60 per cent, which is absolutely terrible," Trump said.

Calling for stern action against increasing drug addiction, Trump said, "As we know, illicit drugs are linked to organised crime, illegal financial flows, corruption, and terrorism.

It's vital for public health and national security that we fight drug addiction and stop all forms of trafficking and smuggling that provide the financial lifeblood for vicious transnational cartels. In the United States, we're taking aggressive action, securing our border, supporting law enforcement, devoting record funding to the opioid crisis, and promoting treatment and recovery."

The US President also congratulated newly-elected Columbian President Ivan Duque and praised him for the action taken against drug menace.

"Many nations here today are also taking bold action. Newly elected President Duque, Colombia, campaigned on an anti-drug platform and won a very, very impressive victory. Congratulations. We look forward to partnering with his new administration to eradicate coca production in his country. All of us must work together to dismantle drug production and defeat drug addiction," he added.

Speaking on the US' initiative "Global Call to Action on the World Drug Problem," Trump said, "The call is simple: reduce drug demand; cut off the supply of illicit drugs; expand treatment; and strengthen international cooperation. If we take these steps together, we can save the lives of countless people in all corners of the world. And when I say countless, I'm talking about millions and millions of people."

"I'm thrilled that every country in the room today has agreed to answer our call, and I want to thank each and every one of you for your commitment to this important initiative," he added.

The session was attended by leaders from across the world, including India's External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj.

Also present at the event were United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and National Security Advisor John Bolton.

Trump is slated to address the UNGA on Tuesday and is scheduled to chair the world body's Security Council meeting on Wednesday.&nbsp;

United States President Donald Trump on Monday opened the high-level meet of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with an event focusing on tackling the world drug problem.

United States President Donald Trump on Monday opened the high-level meet of the United Nations General Assembly in New York with an event focusing on tackling the world drug problem. Delivering the inaugural address at the event, Trump acknowledged the growing menace and vouched to stand united in fighting the same. "It is a great honour to address you on an issue that affects every nation across the globe: the world drug problem. And a big problem it is. The scourge of drug addiction continues to claim too many lives in the United States and in nations around the world. Today, we commit to fighting the drug epidemic together," he said. Furthermore, Trump highlighted a record increase in the production of cocaine and opium and an increase of 60 per cent in deaths resulting from the consumption of drugs. "As the 2018 World Drug Report highlights, cocaine and opium production have hit record highs - incredibly - and global deaths caused by drug use have increased by 60 per cent from the year 2000 to 2015. So, in 15 years, it has gone up by 60 per cent, which is absolutely terrible," Trump said. Calling for stern action against increasing drug addiction, Trump said, "As we know, illicit drugs are linked to organised crime, illegal financial flows, corruption, and terrorism. It's vital for public health and national security that we fight drug addiction and stop all forms of trafficking and smuggling that provide the financial lifeblood for vicious transnational cartels. In the United States, we're taking aggressive action, securing our border, supporting law enforcement, devoting record funding to the opioid crisis, and promoting treatment and recovery." The US President also congratulated newly-elected Columbian President Ivan Duque and praised him for the action taken against drug menace. "Many nations here today are also taking bold action. Newly elected President Duque, Colombia, campaigned on an anti-drug platform and won a very, very impressive victory. Congratulations. We look forward to partnering with his new administration to eradicate coca production in his country. All of us must work together to dismantle drug production and defeat drug addiction," he added. Speaking on the US' initiative "Global Call to Action on the World Drug Problem," Trump said, "The call is simple: reduce drug demand; cut off the supply of illicit drugs; expand treatment; and strengthen international cooperation. If we take these steps together, we can save the lives of countless people in all corners of the world. And when I say countless, I'm talking about millions and millions of people." "I'm thrilled that every country in the room today has agreed to answer our call, and I want to thank each and every one of you for your commitment to this important initiative," he added. The session was attended by leaders from across the world, including India's External Affairs Minister, Sushma Swaraj. Also present at the event were United States Ambassador to the United Nations, Nikki Haley, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, and National Security Advisor John Bolton. Trump is slated to address the UNGA on Tuesday and is scheduled to chair the world body's Security Council meeting on Wednesday.

Trump calls for action against global drug menace at UN

North Korea and Iran will dominate this week's gathering of world leaders at the United Nations, where President Donald Trump will be in the spotlight as he continues to upend global diplomacy.

After warming up to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and ditching the Iran nuclear deal, the unpredictable Trump takes the podium on Tuesday to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies at the UN General Assembly.

On Wednesday, he will for the first time chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction that will focus heavily on Iran -- likely triggering a clash with other big powers.

"It will be the most watched Security Council meeting ever," US Ambassador Nikki Haley said of Trump's first time wielding the gavel.

The diplomatic gathering will take stock of the thaw in relations between North and South Korea, and groundbreaking US-North Korea moves to address the threat from Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

Last year, world leaders shuddered when Trump threatened to totally destroy North Korea and belittled Kim as "Rocket Man" who was "on a suicide mission."

An exchange of insults ensued, with Kim calling out the "mentally deranged US dotard."

U-turn on North Korea

Trump's address to the assembly will be the "polar opposite of what we heard last year," said Suzanne DiMaggio, an expert on North Korea and Iran at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

The president will tout his June face-to-face with Kim as a major diplomatic win but "he should think twice if he plans to repeat his claim that North Korea is no longer a nuclear threat," she said.

Despite the Trump-Kim landmark summit in Singapore, there has been little concrete progress on denuclearization.

North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has been invited by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for talks on the sidelines of the assembly meeting. Ri is scheduled to deliver his address on September 29.&nbsp;

South Korea's President Moon Jae-in will encourage Trump to press on with the rapprochement, but the US president is likely to get a different message from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has taken a tough stance on maintaining sanctions pressure on Pyongyang.

When he takes the podium shortly after Trump on Tuesday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will meanwhile address the fall-out from the US decision to abandon the 2015 nuclear deal which lifted international sanctions in exchange for curbs to Iran's nuclear program.

European countries along with Russia and China are still working to salvage the accord and will use the council meeting chaired by Trump to defend what they consider a milestone in non-proliferation.

"The members of the Security Council are not going to take kindly to being lectured by President Trump on the subject of Iran," said DiMaggio.

"These very countries, which include our closest allies, are now facing US sanctions as they scramble to save the agreement."

Pompeo reiterated Sunday that Trump is willing to meet Rouhani as part of a "constructive dialogue" -- but added on NBC's "Meet the Press" that that seemed unlikely at present.

In a weekend op-ed in the Washington Post, Rouhani charged that Trump's offer of direct talks was not "genuine" and came with a list of "openly insulting pre-conditions."

And Haley -- while she condemned "any terrorist attack" after the deadly assault on a military parade in southwest Iran -- urged Rouhani to acknowledge popular discontent.

"He has oppressed his people for a long time," Haley told CNN on Sunday.&nbsp;

UN under fire

The UN rendezvous takes place during a sharp divide between the United States, accused of turning its back on multilateralism, and countries that view the global rules-based order as their best hope to tackle the world's problems. &nbsp;

Struggling with tighter budgets from US cuts, the United Nations has been put on the defensive as its peace efforts in Syria, Libya and Yemen fall short.

"Multilateralism is under attack from many different directions precisely when we need it most," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. 
About 130 heads of state and government are turning up for the six-day marathon of speeches and meetings on tackling a long list of issues from climate change to poverty.

Russia and China will be represented by their foreign ministers.

Among those making their debut on the world stage will be Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has signed a historic peace deal with Eritrea, Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

North Korea and Iran will dominate this week's gathering of world leaders at the United Nations, where President Donald Trump will be in the spotlight as he continues to upend global diplomacy.

North Korea and Iran will dominate this week's gathering of world leaders at the United Nations, where President Donald Trump will be in the spotlight as he continues to upend global diplomacy. After warming up to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and ditching the Iran nuclear deal, the unpredictable Trump takes the podium on Tuesday to face foes and increasingly uneasy allies at the UN General Assembly. On Wednesday, he will for the first time chair a Security Council meeting on non-proliferation and weapons of mass destruction that will focus heavily on Iran -- likely triggering a clash with other big powers. "It will be the most watched Security Council meeting ever," US Ambassador Nikki Haley said of Trump's first time wielding the gavel. The diplomatic gathering will take stock of the thaw in relations between North and South Korea, and groundbreaking US-North Korea moves to address the threat from Pyongyang's nuclear and ballistic missile programs. Last year, world leaders shuddered when Trump threatened to totally destroy North Korea and belittled Kim as "Rocket Man" who was "on a suicide mission." An exchange of insults ensued, with Kim calling out the "mentally deranged US dotard." U-turn on North Korea Trump's address to the assembly will be the "polar opposite of what we heard last year," said Suzanne DiMaggio, an expert on North Korea and Iran at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. The president will tout his June face-to-face with Kim as a major diplomatic win but "he should think twice if he plans to repeat his claim that North Korea is no longer a nuclear threat," she said. Despite the Trump-Kim landmark summit in Singapore, there has been little concrete progress on denuclearization. North Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho has been invited by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for talks on the sidelines of the assembly meeting. Ri is scheduled to deliver his address on September 29. South Korea's President Moon Jae-in will encourage Trump to press on with the rapprochement, but the US president is likely to get a different message from Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who has taken a tough stance on maintaining sanctions pressure on Pyongyang. When he takes the podium shortly after Trump on Tuesday, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani will meanwhile address the fall-out from the US decision to abandon the 2015 nuclear deal which lifted international sanctions in exchange for curbs to Iran's nuclear program. European countries along with Russia and China are still working to salvage the accord and will use the council meeting chaired by Trump to defend what they consider a milestone in non-proliferation. "The members of the Security Council are not going to take kindly to being lectured by President Trump on the subject of Iran," said DiMaggio. "These very countries, which include our closest allies, are now facing US sanctions as they scramble to save the agreement." Pompeo reiterated Sunday that Trump is willing to meet Rouhani as part of a "constructive dialogue" -- but added on NBC's "Meet the Press" that that seemed unlikely at present. In a weekend op-ed in the Washington Post, Rouhani charged that Trump's offer of direct talks was not "genuine" and came with a list of "openly insulting pre-conditions." And Haley -- while she condemned "any terrorist attack" after the deadly assault on a military parade in southwest Iran -- urged Rouhani to acknowledge popular discontent. "He has oppressed his people for a long time," Haley told CNN on Sunday. UN under fire The UN rendezvous takes place during a sharp divide between the United States, accused of turning its back on multilateralism, and countries that view the global rules-based order as their best hope to tackle the world's problems. Struggling with tighter budgets from US cuts, the United Nations has been put on the defensive as its peace efforts in Syria, Libya and Yemen fall short. "Multilateralism is under attack from many different directions precisely when we need it most," UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said. About 130 heads of state and government are turning up for the six-day marathon of speeches and meetings on tackling a long list of issues from climate change to poverty. Russia and China will be represented by their foreign ministers. Among those making their debut on the world stage will be Ethiopia's Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, who has signed a historic peace deal with Eritrea, Zimbabwe's Emmerson Mnangagwa and Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel.

World leaders at UN look for progress on North Korea, brace for Trump

US President Donald Trump will fail in his confrontation with Iran, just like Iraq's Saddam Hussein, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday, referring to the war between the two Middle Eastern powers and vowing that Tehran will not abandon its missiles.

Tensions have ramped up between Iran and the United States after Trump withdrew from a landmark multilateral nuclear deal in May and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic last month.

As Rouhani spoke, Iran began displaying its naval power in the Gulf during annual parades in the capital Tehran and the port of Bandar Abbas on the Gulf marking the start of the country’s 1980-88 war with Iraq.

Iran has suggested in recent weeks that it could take military action in the Gulf to block other countries’ oil exports in retaliation for US sanctions intended to halt its sales of crude.

Washington maintains a fleet in the Gulf that protects oil shipping routes.

"The same will happen to Trump. America will suffer the same fate as Saddam Hussein," Rouhani said in a speech carried live by state television.

"Iran will not abandon its defensive weapons ... including its missiles that make America so angry," Rouhani said.

State media said about 600 vessels took part in the Gulf naval drill on Saturday, a day after Iran held aerial exercises in the waterway, vowing that a "pounding reply" awaited the country's enemies.

US President Donald Trump will fail in his confrontation with Iran, just like Iraq's Saddam Hussein, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday, referring to the war between the two Middle Eastern powers and vowing that Tehran will not abandon its missiles.

US President Donald Trump will fail in his confrontation with Iran, just like Iraq's Saddam Hussein, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Saturday, referring to the war between the two Middle Eastern powers and vowing that Tehran will not abandon its missiles. Tensions have ramped up between Iran and the United States after Trump withdrew from a landmark multilateral nuclear deal in May and reimposed sanctions on the Islamic Republic last month. As Rouhani spoke, Iran began displaying its naval power in the Gulf during annual parades in the capital Tehran and the port of Bandar Abbas on the Gulf marking the start of the country’s 1980-88 war with Iraq. Iran has suggested in recent weeks that it could take military action in the Gulf to block other countries’ oil exports in retaliation for US sanctions intended to halt its sales of crude. Washington maintains a fleet in the Gulf that protects oil shipping routes. "The same will happen to Trump. America will suffer the same fate as Saddam Hussein," Rouhani said in a speech carried live by state television. "Iran will not abandon its defensive weapons ... including its missiles that make America so angry," Rouhani said. State media said about 600 vessels took part in the Gulf naval drill on Saturday, a day after Iran held aerial exercises in the waterway, vowing that a "pounding reply" awaited the country's enemies.

Iran will defeat Trump just like it did Saddam, won't abandon missiles: Hassan Rouhani

US President Donald Trump will receive his Chilean counterpart, Sebastian Pinera, late this month for talks on "efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela," the White House said Friday.

The Chilean president had planned to visit the United States for the annual United Nations General Assembly meeting next week.

His visit on September 28 to the White House comes with regional concerns growing about an exodus of Venezuelans fleeing their country's economic meltdown.

Trump has accused Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro of leading a "dictatorship" and a report in The New York Times earlier this month said US officials had met with Venezuelan military officers seeking support for a coup.

Pinera will be received by Trump for what the White House described as a "working visit."

Trump and Pinera "will build upon the strong partnership between their nations in pursuit of a more prosperous, secure, and democratic Western Hemisphere," the White House statement said.

"The leaders expect to discuss a shared commitment to pro-growth policies, combating corrupt and illicit networks, strategic partnerships in energy and cybersecurity, and efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela," it said.

US President Donald Trump will receive his Chilean counterpart, Sebastian Pinera, late this month for talks on "efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela," the White House said Friday.

US President Donald Trump will receive his Chilean counterpart, Sebastian Pinera, late this month for talks on "efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela," the White House said Friday. The Chilean president had planned to visit the United States for the annual United Nations General Assembly meeting next week. His visit on September 28 to the White House comes with regional concerns growing about an exodus of Venezuelans fleeing their country's economic meltdown. Trump has accused Venezuela's leftist President Nicolas Maduro of leading a "dictatorship" and a report in The New York Times earlier this month said US officials had met with Venezuelan military officers seeking support for a coup. Pinera will be received by Trump for what the White House described as a "working visit." Trump and Pinera "will build upon the strong partnership between their nations in pursuit of a more prosperous, secure, and democratic Western Hemisphere," the White House statement said. "The leaders expect to discuss a shared commitment to pro-growth policies, combating corrupt and illicit networks, strategic partnerships in energy and cybersecurity, and efforts to restore democracy in Venezuela," it said.

Trump to meet Chile's president for talks on Venezuela

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