Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US Vice President Kamala Harris on Thursday and discussed a host of global issues, including the pandemic and Pakistan's role in terrorism. This was the first meeting between the duo since January when Ms Harris became the first person of Indian-origin to be sworn-in as the US Vice President.

Indian PM Modi meets US Vice President Kamala Harris

Visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an in-person meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, their first meeting since the Indian-American Democrat took office earlier this year.

During their meeting at Washington DC, Modi invited Harris to visit India.

In a joint appearance with Modi, Harris said&nbsp;India is a vital companion of America.&nbsp;

Modi said in his address, "I applaud America for assisting India when it was in the grip of the second wave of COVID-19."&nbsp;

Harris said:&nbsp;"When India was hit by a COVID outbreak, the US was happy to assist India in meeting its need and fulfilling its responsibility to vaccine its citizens...India was an important source of vaccines for other countries early in the pandemic."&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-invites-us-vice-president-kamala-harris-to-india-says-her-election-a-historic-event-415348">Also read | PM Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India, says her election a historic event</a>

On COVID-19, "our nations have worked together. Early in the pandemic, India was a vital source of vaccines for other countries, "the US vice president said.

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Tête-à-tête between PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. <a href="https://t.co/siKcVe88c3">pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3</a>
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She also noted India's exceptional pace of vaccination given its vast population. She said, "I welcome India's announcement that it will soon be able to resume vaccine exports. It is particular note and admiration that India, I'm told, is currently vaccinating approximately 10 million people a day as of today." 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/why-pm-narendra-modis-meeting-with-semiconductor-firm-qualcomms-ceo-cristiano-e-amon-is-pivotal-for-india-415301">Why PM Modi's meeting with Qualcomm CEO is pivotal for India</a>

The two leaders also stressed "the importance of our shared belief in a free and open Indo-Pacific region."

"I know that India takes the issue of the climate crisis seriously," Harris said. "We believe that working together, the United States and India can have a profound impact not only on the people of our respective countries, but on the entire world."

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"When you and I last spoke in June, we talked about how our world is more interconnected and interdependent than ever before...and the challenges that we face today have highlighted that fact," says US V-P Kamala Harris, welcoming Indian PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://t.co/zODgjDZCCr">pic.twitter.com/zODgjDZCCr</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1441121748397658118?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>

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Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Harris' mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was born in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and immigrated to the United States as a teenager where she met Harris' father, Donald Harris, an immigrant from Jamaica.

Harris' maternal grandfather, PV Gopalan, had participated in the Indian independence movement and would later go on to become a senior civil servant in the country, at one point serving on an Indian diplomatic mission to Zambia.

Mukesh Aghi, President and Chief Executive Officer of the US-India Strategic Partnership, explained why the meeting between the two leaders is crucial. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-pm-narendra-modi-talking-technology-with-leading-american-ceos-from-key-sectors-415274">Indian PM Narendra Modi 'talking technology' with leading American CEOs from key sectors</a>

He said Harris is quite powerful within the administration and the connection between the two is going to help both countries in the short and long term.

In his remarks at their meeting, Modi said: "The vibrant and strong people to people connections between India and the US is a bridge between our two countries, their contributions are praiseworthy."

He noted that&nbsp;India and America are "natural partners", adding "we have similar values, geopolitical interests, and our coordination and cooperation is also increasing."&nbsp;

"Your election as Vice President of USA has been an important and historic event," he told Harris. "You are a source of inspiration for many across the world. I am confident that under President [Joe] Biden and your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights."

"I express my gratitude to the US for extending a helping hand to India when India was hit by the second wave of COVID19," Modi said in the joint statement with&nbsp;Harris.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an in-person meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, their first meeting since the Indian-American Democrat took office earlier this year.

Visiting Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an in-person meeting with US Vice President Kamala Harris, their first meeting since the Indian-American Democrat took office earlier this year. During their meeting at Washington DC, Modi invited Harris to visit India. In a joint appearance with Modi, Harris said India is a vital companion of America. Modi said in his address, "I applaud America for assisting India when it was in the grip of the second wave of COVID-19." Harris said: "When India was hit by a COVID outbreak, the US was happy to assist India in meeting its need and fulfilling its responsibility to vaccine its citizens...India was an important source of vaccines for other countries early in the pandemic." Also read | PM Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India, says her election a historic event On COVID-19, "our nations have worked together. Early in the pandemic, India was a vital source of vaccines for other countries, "the US vice president said. Tête-à-tête between PM @narendramodi and @VP Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3 — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) September 23, 2021 × She also noted India's exceptional pace of vaccination given its vast population. She said, "I welcome India's announcement that it will soon be able to resume vaccine exports. It is particular note and admiration that India, I'm told, is currently vaccinating approximately 10 million people a day as of today." Also read | Why PM Modi's meeting with Qualcomm CEO is pivotal for India The two leaders also stressed "the importance of our shared belief in a free and open Indo-Pacific region." "I know that India takes the issue of the climate crisis seriously," Harris said. "We believe that working together, the United States and India can have a profound impact not only on the people of our respective countries, but on the entire world." "When you and I last spoke in June, we talked about how our world is more interconnected and interdependent than ever before...and the challenges that we face today have highlighted that fact," says US V-P Kamala Harris, welcoming Indian PM @narendramodi pic.twitter.com/zODgjDZCCr — WION (@WIONews) September 23, 2021 × Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Harris' mother, Shyamala Gopalan, was born in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu and immigrated to the United States as a teenager where she met Harris' father, Donald Harris, an immigrant from Jamaica. Harris' maternal grandfather, PV Gopalan, had participated in the Indian independence movement and would later go on to become a senior civil servant in the country, at one point serving on an Indian diplomatic mission to Zambia. Mukesh Aghi, President and Chief Executive Officer of the US-India Strategic Partnership, explained why the meeting between the two leaders is crucial. Also read | Indian PM Narendra Modi 'talking technology' with leading American CEOs from key sectors He said Harris is quite powerful within the administration and the connection between the two is going to help both countries in the short and long term. In his remarks at their meeting, Modi said: "The vibrant and strong people to people connections between India and the US is a bridge between our two countries, their contributions are praiseworthy." He noted that India and America are "natural partners", adding "we have similar values, geopolitical interests, and our coordination and cooperation is also increasing." "Your election as Vice President of USA has been an important and historic event," he told Harris. "You are a source of inspiration for many across the world. I am confident that under President [Joe] Biden and your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights." "I express my gratitude to the US for extending a helping hand to India when India was hit by the second wave of COVID19," Modi said in the joint statement with Harris. (With inputs from agencies)

'India, US natural partners,' say Indian PM Narendra Modi, US Vice President Kamala Harris after first in-person meeting

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India.&nbsp;

He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India."

Harris is&nbsp;the first Indian-American woman and person of colour to be elected vice president of the United States. 
&nbsp;

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Tête-à-tête between PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/VP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@VP</a> Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. <a href="https://t.co/siKcVe88c3">pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3</a>
— Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1441132734492065792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India," PM Modi to US Vice President Kamala Harris, in Washington DC <a href="https://t.co/Gtw13sYnZW">pic.twitter.com/Gtw13sYnZW</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441128194686390274?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"Your election as Vice President of the United States has been an important and historic event," the Indian Prime Minister said of the Indian-origin Democratic leader.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Your (Kamala Harris) election as Vice President of USA has been an important &amp; historic event. You're a source of inspiration for many across the world. I'm confident that under Pres Biden &amp; your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights: PM Narendra Modi <a href="https://t.co/zEVruaiAWc">pic.twitter.com/zEVruaiAWc</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441129684482150401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"You are an inspiration to many people all around the world. I am certain that our bilateral ties will reach new heights under President Biden's and your leadership," he said.

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US: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice-President Kamala Harris seen having a conversation at the premises of the White House after their joint statement <a href="https://t.co/t4VVlK8PkD">pic.twitter.com/t4VVlK8PkD</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1441128383388151814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India. He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi today extended a formal invitation to US Vice President Kamala Harris to visit India. He said, "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India." Harris is the first Indian-American woman and person of colour to be elected vice president of the United States. Tête-à-tête between PM @narendramodi and @VP Kamala Harris before commencing delegation level talks. This is their first in-person meeting. pic.twitter.com/siKcVe88c3 — Arindam Bagchi (@MEAIndia) September 23, 2021 × #WATCH "The people of India are waiting to welcome you. I extend to you an invitation to visit India," PM Modi to US Vice President Kamala Harris, in Washington DC pic.twitter.com/Gtw13sYnZW — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × "Your election as Vice President of the United States has been an important and historic event," the Indian Prime Minister said of the Indian-origin Democratic leader. #WATCH Your (Kamala Harris) election as Vice President of USA has been an important & historic event. You're a source of inspiration for many across the world. I'm confident that under Pres Biden & your leadership our bilateral relations will touch new heights: PM Narendra Modi pic.twitter.com/zEVruaiAWc — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × "You are an inspiration to many people all around the world. I am certain that our bilateral ties will reach new heights under President Biden's and your leadership," he said. US: Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice-President Kamala Harris seen having a conversation at the premises of the White House after their joint statement pic.twitter.com/t4VVlK8PkD — ANI (@ANI) September 23, 2021 × Earlier in June this year, PM Modi held a telephonic conversation with Harris and discussed the US' strategy for global vaccine sharing and the Quad vaccine initiative to fight the COVID-19 pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

PM Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India, says her election a historic event

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.

Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi.&nbsp;

Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India

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&nbsp;

The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. &nbsp;

"Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added.

In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi.&nbsp;

"Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole."&nbsp;

Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.”

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-referred-to-pakistans-role-in-terrorism-during-meeting-with-pm-modi-shringla-415387">US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla</a>

Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups".

“She&nbsp;asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.”

Watch:&nbsp;India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris

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&nbsp;

For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan.

Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.”

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Shared w/ <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> <a href="https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7">https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7</a>
— Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/SMQureshiPTI/status/1441110737414332417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 23, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan.

Just as US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in cross-border terrorism during her meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Washington DC, her top diplomat was hosting Pakistani foreign minister in New York and "appreciating" Islamabad for its assistance in Afghanistan. Observers expressed doubts about the sincerity of Washington's approach towards Pakistan, wondering if America is changing tone depending on the audience, when formulating its approach towards its now-estranged ally in South Asia. US President Joe Biden, significantly, is yet to call Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. While Harris brought up the issue of cross-border terrorism on her own during her meeting with Modi, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken held his first in-person talks with Pakistani foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Watch: Prime Minister Narendra Modi invites US Vice President Kamala Harris to India × The two "discussed the way forward in Afghanistan," said a state department readout. "Secretary Blinken reiterated the importance of coordinating our diplomatic engagement and facilitating the departure of those wishing to leave Afghanistan. The secretary noted that the United States appreciates Pakistan’s support and assistance with both of these efforts," it added. In his remarks, Blinken said: "I’m very pleased to be meeting with my friend and counterpart from Pakistan, Foreign Minister Qureshi. "Appreciate the work that Pakistan has done to facilitate the departure of American citizens who wish to leave as well as others, but a lot to talk about there as well as our own bilateral relationship, including the economic relationship between our countries and working in the region as a whole." Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla, briefing reporters after the Modi-Harris meeting, said: “When the issue of terrorism came up, the vice president suo moto referred to Pakistan's role in that regard.” Also read: US Vice President Kamala Harris referred to Pakistan's role in terrorism during meeting with PM Modi: Shringla Harris agreed that India had been a victim of terrorism for several decades, Shringla said, and there was "a need to rein in, and closely monitor, Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups". “She asked Pakistan to take action so that this will not impact US security and that of India...She agreed with the prime minister's briefing on the fact of cross-border terrorism, and the fact that India has been a victim of terrorism for several decades now and on the need to rein in, and closely monitor Pakistan's support for such terrorist groups.” Watch: India is an important partner: US Vice-President Kamala Harris × For his part, Qureshi, during his talks with Blinken, raked up the Kashmir issue and sought legitimisation of the Taliban government in Kabul, warning the US against disengaging with Afghanistan. Saying that a "new political reality" had emerged in Afghanistan, he pointed out: “While the Taliban should be held to their commitments, the international community has a moral obligation to help the Afghan people deal with the growing humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.” Shared w/ @SecBlinken importance of int’l community holding Taliban to their commitments; also for the same community to recognise moral obligation to help the Afghan people with growing humanitarian crisis. The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with #Afghanistan https://t.co/a8jEmzzmk7 — Shah Mahmood Qureshi (@SMQureshiPTI) September 23, 2021 × “The world should not repeat the mistake of disengaging with Afghanistan consistently. There is no military solution and Pakistan is committed to facilitating inclusive political settlement,” he wrote later on Twitter.

Double standards? While Kamala Harris talks of Pak terror role, Blinken 'appreciates' it over Afghanistan

Cuban scientists have reportedly found no evidence of US diplomats being hit by the "Havana Syndrome".

The "Havana Syndrome" was first reported in 2016 after US officials complained about suspected electronic weapons causing nausea and headaches while also reportedly causing brain damage.

The cases were reported in Taiwan, Australia, Germany and China including the United States.

However, the Cuban Academy of Sciences found that cases were not "scientifically acceptable". The US media had reported earlier that there were several cases of the deadly syndrome reported in &nbsp;Austria this year.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/about-100-cia-officers-family-members-sick-due-to-havana-syndrome-400007">Also Read: About 100 CIA officers, family members sick due to 'Havana Syndrome'</a>

Reports claimed US Vice President Kamala Harris had delayed her visit to Vietnam after the US embassy in the country reported a possible case.

The Cuban report however said that there were "no evidence" of the attacks while declaring that "no known form of energy can selectively cause brain damage" even as it said it will review any new evidence.

The former Trump administration had pulled its staff in Havana and expelled Cuban diplomats over an alleged attack. Reports claim the CIA has been studying the syndrome which has puzzled experts.

(With inputs from Agencies)&nbsp;

Cuban scientists have reportedly found no evidence of US diplomats being hit by the "Havana Syndrome". The "Havana Syndrome" was first reported in 2016 after US officials complained about suspected electronic weapons causing nausea and headaches while also reportedly causing brain damage.

Cuban scientists have reportedly found no evidence of US diplomats being hit by the "Havana Syndrome". The "Havana Syndrome" was first reported in 2016 after US officials complained about suspected electronic weapons causing nausea and headaches while also reportedly causing brain damage. The cases were reported in Taiwan, Australia, Germany and China including the United States. However, the Cuban Academy of Sciences found that cases were not "scientifically acceptable". The US media had reported earlier that there were several cases of the deadly syndrome reported in Austria this year. Also Read: About 100 CIA officers, family members sick due to 'Havana Syndrome' Reports claimed US Vice President Kamala Harris had delayed her visit to Vietnam after the US embassy in the country reported a possible case. The Cuban report however said that there were "no evidence" of the attacks while declaring that "no known form of energy can selectively cause brain damage" even as it said it will review any new evidence. The former Trump administration had pulled its staff in Havana and expelled Cuban diplomats over an alleged attack. Reports claim the CIA has been studying the syndrome which has puzzled experts. (With inputs from Agencies)

No evidence of 'Havana Syndrome', say Cuban scientists

US Vice President Kamala Harris has paid tribute to all passengers and crew members on board Flight 93 who died when the flight crashed in Shanksville, Pennsylvania.

9/11 Attack Anniversary: US Vice President Kamala Harris pays tribute to those on Flight 93

An&nbsp;anomalous health incident potentially related to the mysterious Havana syndrome&nbsp;delayed&nbsp;the flight of&nbsp;US&nbsp;Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris to Vietnam.

However, Harris pushed through her tour and arrived in the Southeast Asian country's capital after a three-hour delay in Singapore that the US&nbsp;government blamed on reports that someone in Hanoi may have been targeted by the Havana syndrome, a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses.

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The incident upstaged a bid by President Joe Biden's top deputy to woo the allies Washington hopes will help it challenge China's assertive foreign policy in the region.

Beijing, meanwhile, attempted to stage its own diplomatic coup with a surprise meeting in Vietnam and a donation of 2 million COVID-19 vaccines to the country.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the Havana syndrome case was reported in Vietnam before&nbsp;Harris' departure but not confirmed. A safety assessment was done before sending&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;to the country, she said.

"The Vice President's office was made aware of a report of a recent possible anomalous health incident in Hanoi," the local U.S. Embassy said.

Some 200 U.S. officials and kin, including CIA officers, have been sickened&nbsp;by "Havana syndrome," CIA Director William Burns has said.

A US&nbsp;National Academy of Sciences panel in December found that a plausible theory is that "directed energy" beams caused the syndrome, which is so named because it first was reported by American officials based in the US&nbsp;embassy in Cuba in 2016.

The CIA sees a "very strong possibility" that the syndrome is intentionally caused, and that Russia could be responsible, but is withholding definitive conclusions pending further investigation. Moscow denies involvement.

The incident came as Washington faces icy relations with another global competitor, China.

As&nbsp;Harris's trip to Vietnam was delayed, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held the unannounced meeting with Chinese Ambassador Xiong Bo, during which Chinh said Vietnam does not align itself with one country against any other.

Earlier on Tuesday,&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;had accused&nbsp; Beijing of coercion and intimidation to back claims in the South China Sea, her most pointed comments on China during a visit to Southeast Asia, a region she said is critical to US&nbsp;security.

"The Prime Minister affirmed that Vietnam adheres to an independent, self-reliant, multilateral, and diverse foreign policy and is a responsible member of the international community," the Vietnamese government said in a statement.

"Vietnam does not align itself with one country against another," it said.

Territorial disputes in the South China Sea should be settled according to international law and "high-level common sense," it said.

The US&nbsp;administration has called rivalry with China "the biggest geopolitical test" of the century.

"The fact that China's ambassador insisted on a meeting with the Vietnamese prime minister shortly before&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;landed shows how anxious Beijing is that its communist neighbor may tilt toward the US," said Murray Hiebert, a Southeast Asia expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies.

During the meeting, Chinh thanked the ambassador for the vaccine donation. It was not immediately clear which vaccine China had donated.

Vietnam had successfully contained the coronavirus for most of last year but since April has been dealing with a large COVID-19 outbreak in Ho Chi Minh City, driven by the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus. Just under 2 per cent&nbsp;of its 98 million people are fully vaccinated.

(With inputs from agencies)

An anomalous health incident potentially related to the mysterious Havana syndrome delayed the flight of US Vice President Kamala Harris to Vietnam. However, Harris pushed through her tour and arrived in the Southeast Asian country's capital after a three-hour delay in Singapore that the US government blamed on reports that someone in Hanoi may have been targeted by the Havana syndrome, a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses.

An anomalous health incident potentially related to the mysterious Havana syndrome delayed the flight of US Vice President Kamala Harris to Vietnam. However, Harris pushed through her tour and arrived in the Southeast Asian country's capital after a three-hour delay in Singapore that the US government blamed on reports that someone in Hanoi may have been targeted by the Havana syndrome, a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses. The incident upstaged a bid by President Joe Biden's top deputy to woo the allies Washington hopes will help it challenge China's assertive foreign policy in the region. Beijing, meanwhile, attempted to stage its own diplomatic coup with a surprise meeting in Vietnam and a donation of 2 million COVID-19 vaccines to the country. White House press secretary Jen Psaki said the Havana syndrome case was reported in Vietnam before Harris' departure but not confirmed. A safety assessment was done before sending Harris to the country, she said. "The Vice President's office was made aware of a report of a recent possible anomalous health incident in Hanoi," the local U.S. Embassy said. Some 200 U.S. officials and kin, including CIA officers, have been sickened by "Havana syndrome," CIA Director William Burns has said. A US National Academy of Sciences panel in December found that a plausible theory is that "directed energy" beams caused the syndrome, which is so named because it first was reported by American officials based in the US embassy in Cuba in 2016. The CIA sees a "very strong possibility" that the syndrome is intentionally caused, and that Russia could be responsible, but is withholding definitive conclusions pending further investigation. Moscow denies involvement. The incident came as Washington faces icy relations with another global competitor, China. As Harris's trip to Vietnam was delayed, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held the unannounced meeting with Chinese Ambassador Xiong Bo, during which Chinh said Vietnam does not align itself with one country against any other. Earlier on Tuesday, Harris had accused Beijing of coercion and intimidation to back claims in the South China Sea, her most pointed comments on China during a visit to Southeast Asia, a region she said is critical to US security. "The Prime Minister affirmed that Vietnam adheres to an independent, self-reliant, multilateral, and diverse foreign policy and is a responsible member of the international community," the Vietnamese government said in a statement. "Vietnam does not align itself with one country against another," it said. Territorial disputes in the South China Sea should be settled according to international law and "high-level common sense," it said. The US administration has called rivalry with China "the biggest geopolitical test" of the century. "The fact that China's ambassador insisted on a meeting with the Vietnamese prime minister shortly before Harris landed shows how anxious Beijing is that its communist neighbor may tilt toward the US," said Murray Hiebert, a Southeast Asia expert at Washington's Center for Strategic and International Studies. During the meeting, Chinh thanked the ambassador for the vaccine donation. It was not immediately clear which vaccine China had donated. Vietnam had successfully contained the coronavirus for most of last year but since April has been dealing with a large COVID-19 outbreak in Ho Chi Minh City, driven by the highly contagious Delta variant of the virus. Just under 2 per cent of its 98 million people are fully vaccinated. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris trip delayed over possible 'Havana syndrome' case

US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Watch:&nbsp;Pentagon says no change in timeline of Afghan withdrawal

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During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims.

During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also&nbsp;announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said.

Her trip to Vietnam got delayed by several hours due to an investigation into two possible incidents of the so-called Havana syndrome&nbsp;in Hanoi.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israels-new-leader-to-present-iran-plan-in-first-white-house-visit-408170">Israel's new leader to present Iran plan in first White House visit</a>

The&nbsp;syndrome is&nbsp;a mysterious health ailment plaguing US&nbsp;diplomats. It is a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses.

Although the investigation was in its early stages, the&nbsp;officials deemed it safe for the&nbsp;vice president&nbsp;to make her scheduled stop.

Kamala Harris is on a week-long visit to Southeast Asia.&nbsp;She has arrived in Hanoi from Singapore where she delivered a sharp rebuke to China for its incursions in the South China Sea.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea. Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. Watch: Pentagon says no change in timeline of Afghan withdrawal × During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims. During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said. Her trip to Vietnam got delayed by several hours due to an investigation into two possible incidents of the so-called Havana syndrome in Hanoi. Also Read: Israel's new leader to present Iran plan in first White House visit The syndrome is a mysterious health ailment plaguing US diplomats. It is a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses. Although the investigation was in its early stages, the officials deemed it safe for the vice president to make her scheduled stop. Kamala Harris is on a week-long visit to Southeast Asia. She has arrived in Hanoi from Singapore where she delivered a sharp rebuke to China for its incursions in the South China Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

US vice president offers Vietnam support to counter Beijing in South China Sea 

An anomalous health incident potentially related to the mysterious Havana syndrome delayed the flight of US Vice President Kamala Harris to Vietnam. However, Harris pushed through her tour and arrived in the Southeast Asian country's capital

Kamala Harris' Vietnam trip delayed over possible 'Havana syndrome' case

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-consequences-us-china-clash-at-un-over-south-china-sea-row-404416">South China Sea</a>."

"Beijing's actions continue to undermine the rules-based order and threaten the sovereignty of nations," Harris said as China immediately hit back accusing US of "bullying, hegemonic behaviour".

"The current events in Afghanistan clearly tell us what the rules and order the US speaks of are," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said.

Watch:

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The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman added that the order that the US was speaking about included "wilfully slander, oppress, coerce and bully other countries and not have to pay any price".

"This is the order the US wants... but who will believe them now? it added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eye-on-china-kamala-harris-vows-us-will-pursue-a-free-and-open-indo-pacific-407925">Harris </a>will be stopping over in Vietnam in a trip intended to reset ties with countries with the Biden administration intent on deepening ties with countries in Southeast Asia amid China's growing influence in the region.

China claims several islands in the South China Sea despite disputes with other Southeast Asian nations including Taiwan.

Harris announced that the US put forward its proposal to host the 2023 APEC meeting which also includes China.

"Our engagement in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific is not against any one country, nor is it designed to make anyone choose between countries," Harris said amid deteriorating ties with China in the region.

Harris will head to Vietnam on Tuesday. The US vice president defended President Biden's decision to pull out of Afghanistan asserting that the United States has been focused on "safely evacuating American citizens" including "Afghans who worked side by side with us, and other Afghans at risk".

(With inputs from Agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the South China Sea.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on a visit to Singapore said Beijing continues to "coerce and intimidate" and "make claims to the vast majority of the South China Sea." "Beijing's actions continue to undermine the rules-based order and threaten the sovereignty of nations," Harris said as China immediately hit back accusing US of "bullying, hegemonic behaviour". "The current events in Afghanistan clearly tell us what the rules and order the US speaks of are," China's foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said. Watch: The Chinese foreign ministry spokesman added that the order that the US was speaking about included "wilfully slander, oppress, coerce and bully other countries and not have to pay any price". "This is the order the US wants... but who will believe them now? it added. Harris will be stopping over in Vietnam in a trip intended to reset ties with countries with the Biden administration intent on deepening ties with countries in Southeast Asia amid China's growing influence in the region. China claims several islands in the South China Sea despite disputes with other Southeast Asian nations including Taiwan. Harris announced that the US put forward its proposal to host the 2023 APEC meeting which also includes China. "Our engagement in Southeast Asia and the Indo-Pacific is not against any one country, nor is it designed to make anyone choose between countries," Harris said amid deteriorating ties with China in the region. Harris will head to Vietnam on Tuesday. The US vice president defended President Biden's decision to pull out of Afghanistan asserting that the United States has been focused on "safely evacuating American citizens" including "Afghans who worked side by side with us, and other Afghans at risk". (With inputs from Agencies)

US bullies other countries, who will believe them now? China hits back at Harris over Afghanistan

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea,&nbsp;US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;leader is currently on&nbsp;a trip to Singapore.&nbsp;During the visit, Harris will meet&nbsp;Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Watch: US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence

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The trip to Southeast Asia looks to bolster ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence.

The&nbsp;US&nbsp;Vice President will also visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy later.&nbsp;Harris is on a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam.

Also read | <a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/at-risk-afghans-us-grapples-with-august-31-evacuation-deadline-407919">'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline</a>

Even as Singapore is not a US treaty ally, it remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties.&nbsp;It aims to balance its relationships with both the United States and China by not taking sides.

As per a report released by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress,&nbsp;in April,&nbsp;"Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive. It has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment."

(With inputs from agencies)

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US leader is currently on a trip to Singapore. During the visit, Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. Watch: US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence × The trip to Southeast Asia looks to bolster ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. The US Vice President will also visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy later. Harris is on a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. Also read | 'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline Even as Singapore is not a US treaty ally, it remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. It aims to balance its relationships with both the United States and China by not taking sides. As per a report released by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress, in April, "Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive. It has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment." (With inputs from agencies)

Eye on China: Kamala Harris vows US will pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific

US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. 
 
Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and later visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US&nbsp;Navy. 
 
Singapore is not a US&nbsp;treaty ally, but remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. However, it also seeks to balance its relationships with the United States and China by not taking sides. 
 
The country is home to the biggest port in Southeast Asia, and supports continued free navigation in the area, where China is growing increasingly assertive. 
 
Harris arrived in Singapore on Sunday at the start of a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. During the visits, US&nbsp;officials will aim to address Washington's concerns about China's claims to disputed parts of the South China Sea. 
 
"Singapore has encouraged greater US&nbsp;engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive," according to a report released in April by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US&nbsp;Congress. 
 
"Singapore has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US&nbsp;retrenchment," the report said. 
 
In a recent interview with Reuters, Singapore's foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan, welcomed the role the United States and China play in the region - reflecting the delicate diplomacy it has succeeded at and one Harris has to navigate. 
 
He said the United States and Singapore will discuss topics such as the pandemic, the digital economy and cybersecurity.

US Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence.

US Vice President Kamala Harris will meet Singapore's leaders on Monday on the first working day of a trip to Southeast Asia aimed at bolstering ties as part of Washington's efforts to counter China's growing influence. Harris will meet Singapore's President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and later visit the Changi Naval Base and tour the USS Tulsa, a combat ship of the US Navy. Singapore is not a US treaty ally, but remains one of its strongest security partners in the region with deep trade ties. However, it also seeks to balance its relationships with the United States and China by not taking sides. The country is home to the biggest port in Southeast Asia, and supports continued free navigation in the area, where China is growing increasingly assertive. Harris arrived in Singapore on Sunday at the start of a seven-day visit to the region, which will also include a trip to Vietnam. During the visits, US officials will aim to address Washington's concerns about China's claims to disputed parts of the South China Sea. "Singapore has encouraged greater US engagement in Asia, but warned that efforts to 'contain' China's rise are counterproductive," according to a report released in April by the Congressional Research Service, which conducts research and analysis for the US Congress. "Singapore has maintained generally good relations with China, at least partly as a hedge against possible US retrenchment," the report said. In a recent interview with Reuters, Singapore's foreign minister Vivian Balakrishnan, welcomed the role the United States and China play in the region - reflecting the delicate diplomacy it has succeeded at and one Harris has to navigate. He said the United States and Singapore will discuss topics such as the pandemic, the digital economy and cybersecurity.

Kamala Harris visits Singapore to deepen ties, counter China's influence

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region.

Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer"&nbsp;to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan.&nbsp;"We look forward to following up on that discussion,"&nbsp;she said.

The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously.

It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. 
Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this.

The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel.

"I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift,"&nbsp;said Lee.

The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15.

Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF).

The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions.

Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here.

The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base.

"For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again,"&nbsp;he said.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors.

The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity.

The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen

Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016.

This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement.

It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents.

Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests"&nbsp;in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives.

Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part"&nbsp;of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity.

"The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow,"&nbsp;she said.

The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development.

Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments.

Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts.

"Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement.

The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone.

A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties.

The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence.

There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement.

Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions.

The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI).

Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others.

In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage.

The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand".

"Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. 
"By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region,"&nbsp;it said.

Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets.

Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport.

The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks.

"Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. 
Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions.

The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart

Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement.

"Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity.

Singapore on Monday offered America one of its tanker aircraft to airlift stranded civilians from war-torn Afghanistan, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said as he held talks with US Vice President Kamala Harris during which the two countries signed a number of key agreements to enhance cooperation, including in defence and cybersecurity. Vice President Harris' visit to Singapore is part of a diplomatic charm offensive by the Biden administration in Southeast Asia, a region that is crucial to the future prosperity and security of the United States, amidst China's aggressive actions in the region. Harris thanked Lee for the "very generous offer" to assist the US in its evacuations from Afghanistan. "We look forward to following up on that discussion," she said. The A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft of the Singapore Air Force, which attained full operational capability in April, is capable of conducting air-to-air refuelling and airlift roles simultaneously. It enhances the Singapore Armed Forces' ability to contribute to international humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions, and peace support operations. Lee, at a press conference held along with Harris, said that the safety and security of the civilians is on the minds of everyone all over the world, and that he hopes that all sides there can work to ensure this. The MRTT aircraft of the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) can carry up to 266 passengers or 37,000 kgs of cargo, and can be used to evacuate sick or injured personnel. "I mentioned to Vice President (Harris) that we knew that the US was conducting an evacuation operation of refugees from Afghanistan, and Singapore would like to offer to the US the use of (RSAF's MRTT) aircraft in order to help with the airlift," said Lee. The US is evacuating Americans from Kabul which fell to the Taliban on August 15. Lee noted that Singapore is not unfamiliar with the challenges, and that the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) have deployed personnel there in support of the International Security Assistance Force (ISEF). The ISEF was an international military mission in Afghanistan, established by the United Nations Security Council, to train the Afghan National Security Forces and assist the country in rebuilding key government institutions. Singapore has sent personnel to Afghanistan because it is a key battlefront in the global fight against extremist terrorism, Lee said, noting that extremist ideas and capabilities have been exported from there to the region here. The Prime Minister said that the US' intervention in the region 20 years ago has stopped terrorist groups from using Afghanistan as a safe base. "For this, Singapore is grateful. We hope Afghanistan does not become an epicentre for terrorism again," he said. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have signed three Memorandums of Understanding (MoU) to expand cooperation on cybersecurity in the public, defence and financial sectors. The MoUs were signed during the US Vice President's official visit to Singapore, where she is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation in multiple areas, including defence and cybersecurity. The first MoU was signed by Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) chief executive David Koh and director of the US' Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) Jen Easterly. It builds on a similar pact signed in 2016. This MoU will establish cooperation in areas like regular exchange of information on cyber threats, coordination of response to cybersecurity incidents, and joint cybersecurity training and exercises, the CSA said in a statement. It also covers mutual guidance on prevailing cybersecurity trends and best practices, joint cooperation in capacity building activities as well as raising cybersecurity awareness among respective constituents. Koh said Singapore and the US share "deep mutual interests" in improving cybersecurity cooperation, particularly as cybersecurity has become a ?key enabler? for both countries to utilise the benefits of digitalisation to grow their economies and improve lives. Easterly said the borderless nature of cyber threats makes international collaboration a "key part" of the current US administration's approach to cybersecurity. "The MoU allows us to strengthen our existing partnership with Singapore so that we can more effectively work together to collectively defend against the threats of today and secure against the risks of tomorrow," she said. The CSA said the pact will expand into new areas of cooperation, like critical technologies as well as research and development. Separately, Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) and the US' Department of Defence also signed an MoU on cyberspace cooperation, aimed at institutionalising cyber cooperation between both defence establishments. Signed on August 20, the pact will improve cooperation in information sharing, ops-to-ops and technical exchanges, as well as collaboration in regional capacity building efforts. "Such cooperation and engagements are professionally valuable, and help to build mutual understanding, and facilitate info-sharing and collaboration between trusted partners in capacity-building efforts," MINDEF said in a statement. The MoU concerning cooperation in cyberspace was signed by Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, Commander of the United States Indo-Pacific Command Admiral John Aquilino and Commander of the US Cyber Command General Paul Nakasone. A third MoU on cybersecurity cooperation was signed between Singapore's Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and the US' Department of the Treasury, aimed at maintaining and strengthening bilateral institutional ties. The agreement, signed on August 11, will cover information sharing related to the financial sector. This includes cybersecurity regulations and guidance, cybersecurity incidents, and cybersecurity threat intelligence. There will also be staff training and study visits, as well as competency-building activities including the conduct of cross-border cybersecurity exercises, the MAS said in a statement. Meanwhile, the US and Singapore have agreed to a partnership to better collaborate on climate action, environmental governance, sustainable development and low-carbon solutions. The US-Singapore Climate Partnership will "create opportunities for businesses and workers" in green growth sectors, including in energy transitions, clean energy infrastructure development, sustainable transport, sustainable finance and quality carbon credits markets, said the Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI). Climate change is one area in which Harris is looking to deepen bilateral cooperation, senior US administration officials had earlier said. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic, cybersecurity, defence and digital trade are the others. In February, Singapore unveiled the Green Plan 2030, a "whole of nation movement" to advance sustainable development. One area of focus is growing the green economy to create new jobs, transform industries and use sustainability as a competitive advantage. The MTI called climate change a "critical global challenge" and a top priority for Singapore and the US, saying that sustainability and economic growth can go "hand in hand". "Both countries support global efforts to address this key challenge and are fully committed to implementing our commitments under the Paris Agreement and taking bold climate actions. "By mainstreaming sustainability into the global economy, we can work together towards greater benefits and opportunities for Singapore, the US and the region," it said. Potential areas of cooperation under the partnership include sustainable finance, energy transitions and quality carbon credit markets. Sustainable finance includes the use of private capital for sustainable infrastructure and environmental risk management in the financial sector, while energy transitions include sustainable transport. The partnership could also involve expert consultations on the setting of green standards and the management of environmental financial risks. "Both countries will continue to explore opportunities to strengthen our collaboration in more areas of climate change and the green economy, in line with our mutual interests," the MTI said. Singapore and the US will also launch two new programmes next year on helping cities become more sustainable through the lowering of emissions. The programmes will improve knowledge sharing and collaboration between Singapore, US and other Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members through the ASEAN Smart Cities Network, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said in a statement. "Upscaling green digital solutions will also maximise the benefits of technology from the digital revolution," the ministry added.

Singapore offers tanker aircraft to US for Afghan evacuation as VP Harris holds talks with PM Lee

US Vice President Kamala Harris met with Singapore's Prime Minister and will meet with the country's President as she kicks off a visit to Southeast Asia focused on strengthening ties with key allies in the region.

US Vice Prez Kamala Harris visits Singapore to strengthen ties, counter China's influence

Just as US forces struggle with the desperate evacuation from Afghanistan, Vice President Kamala Harris embarks Friday on a trip to Vietnam, site of perhaps an even more infamous American military debacle.

The Southeast Asia trip, also taking in Singapore and a virtual meeting with ASEAN regional representatives, was planned long before a Taliban victory last weekend triggered the US scramble from Afghanistan.

Harris has taken some flak, especially from right-wing commentators who see the choice of Vietnam as, at best, tone-deaf.

The writers of "Veep," a television comedy series satirizing a hapless vice president, "could not have scripted this better," tweeted Sean Spicer, a former White House press secretary for president Donald Trump.

But US officials emphasize that the choice of Vietnam concerns geo-political challenges to come -- not the distant trauma of 1975 Saigon, when US helicopters ferried final evacuees from the embassy roof, as Viet Cong troops advanced.

The vice president "is focused on the threats of the future, not of the past," said a senior White House official, who asked not to be named.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/capitol-hill-bomb-threat-standoff-ends-as-suspect-surrenders-407037">Also read |&nbsp;Capitol Hill bomb threat standoff ends as suspect surrenders</a>

The official acknowledged that President Joe Biden's foreign policy focus is currently fixed on the crisis at Kabul airport, where a few thousand US troops are trying to evacuate potentially tens of thousands of US citizens and local allies.

But at a time when China is challenging US political sway and naval dominance in the Indo-Pacific region, Southeast Asia is "strategically important and economically important to this country. That hasn't changed with Afghanistan," the White House official said.

"We can do more than one thing at a time."

Officials expressed confidence that the debacle in Afghanistan will not harm allies' trust in US commitment to far-reaching strategic goals across Asia.

"We are confident that our partners throughout the Indo-Pacific see the United States as a steadfast partner. And that's certainly going to be one of the things the vice president emphasizes on this trip," an official said.

Harris, an Asian-American whose mother was of Indian origin, will be the first US vice president to visit Vietnam.

Before arriving in Hanoi late Tuesday, Harris will visit Singapore and meet, starting Monday, with President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

She will also stop at the Changi Naval Base, where she'll address US sailors aboard the visiting USS Tulsa, underscoring American security commitments to Singapore.

Harris is set to hold Vietnamese government meetings on Wednesday and will attend the opening of a Southeast Asian regional branch of the US Centers for Disease Control.

The global response to the coronavirus pandemic is set to dominate a meeting of ASEAN nations that Harris will join.

In her final events on Thursday, Harris will meet civil society representatives in communist Vietnam to "underscore the importance we place on supporting civil society as a driver of social change," an official said.

Just as US forces struggle with the desperate evacuation from Afghanistan, Vice President Kamala Harris embarks Friday on a trip to Vietnam, site of perhaps an even more infamous American military debacle.

Just as US forces struggle with the desperate evacuation from Afghanistan, Vice President Kamala Harris embarks Friday on a trip to Vietnam, site of perhaps an even more infamous American military debacle. The Southeast Asia trip, also taking in Singapore and a virtual meeting with ASEAN regional representatives, was planned long before a Taliban victory last weekend triggered the US scramble from Afghanistan. Harris has taken some flak, especially from right-wing commentators who see the choice of Vietnam as, at best, tone-deaf. The writers of "Veep," a television comedy series satirizing a hapless vice president, "could not have scripted this better," tweeted Sean Spicer, a former White House press secretary for president Donald Trump. But US officials emphasize that the choice of Vietnam concerns geo-political challenges to come -- not the distant trauma of 1975 Saigon, when US helicopters ferried final evacuees from the embassy roof, as Viet Cong troops advanced. The vice president "is focused on the threats of the future, not of the past," said a senior White House official, who asked not to be named. Also read | Capitol Hill bomb threat standoff ends as suspect surrenders The official acknowledged that President Joe Biden's foreign policy focus is currently fixed on the crisis at Kabul airport, where a few thousand US troops are trying to evacuate potentially tens of thousands of US citizens and local allies. But at a time when China is challenging US political sway and naval dominance in the Indo-Pacific region, Southeast Asia is "strategically important and economically important to this country. That hasn't changed with Afghanistan," the White House official said. "We can do more than one thing at a time." Officials expressed confidence that the debacle in Afghanistan will not harm allies' trust in US commitment to far-reaching strategic goals across Asia. "We are confident that our partners throughout the Indo-Pacific see the United States as a steadfast partner. And that's certainly going to be one of the things the vice president emphasizes on this trip," an official said. Harris, an Asian-American whose mother was of Indian origin, will be the first US vice president to visit Vietnam. Before arriving in Hanoi late Tuesday, Harris will visit Singapore and meet, starting Monday, with President Halimah Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. She will also stop at the Changi Naval Base, where she'll address US sailors aboard the visiting USS Tulsa, underscoring American security commitments to Singapore. Harris is set to hold Vietnamese government meetings on Wednesday and will attend the opening of a Southeast Asian regional branch of the US Centers for Disease Control. The global response to the coronavirus pandemic is set to dominate a meeting of ASEAN nations that Harris will join. In her final events on Thursday, Harris will meet civil society representatives in communist Vietnam to "underscore the importance we place on supporting civil society as a driver of social change," an official said.

In midst of Afghan crisis, US VP Harris visits Vietnam

US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than&nbsp;President Joe Biden in 2020 according to the&nbsp;tax returns filed by both of them.

While Harris had an income of over $1 million, Biden earned only $607,336 in comparison to her.

The president and the first lady, Jill, a teacher, filed their income tax return jointly and reported a downfall in their income of $377,887 from the previous year.

The first couple paid $157,414 in federal income tax and their 2020 effective federal income tax rate is 25.9 per cent, the White House said.

On the other hand, the Vice President and second gentleman Doug Emhoff&nbsp;paid $621,893 in federal income tax, amounting to a 2020 effective federal income tax rate of 36.7 per cent.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/underwater-polls-suggest-kamala-harris-least-popular-vice-president-since-1970s-402209">'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s</a>

According to the White House, the President and the first lady also reported donating $30,704 or about 5.1 per cent of their total income&nbsp;to 10 different charities.

The largest reported gift to charity was $10,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a public charity dedicated to ensuring that all children are free from the threat of abuse.

The President and the first lady also released their Delaware income tax return and reported paying $28,794 in Delaware income tax.

The first lady also released her Virginia income tax return and reported paying $443 in Virginia income tax.

As required by law, the President and Vice President also released their public financial disclosure reports.

The Ethics in Government Act of 1978 requires high-level federal officials to publicly disclose their personal financial interests.

The public filing system serves to prevent financial conflicts of interest by providing for a systematic review of the finances of government officials.

"Those finances are set forth in annual disclosures, which are reviewed and certified by the independent Office of Government Ethics. Neither the President nor the Vice President have any conflicts of interest," the White House said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than President Joe Biden in 2020 according to the tax returns filed by both of them. While Harris had an income of over $1 million, Biden earned only $607,336 in comparison to her.

US Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than President Joe Biden in 2020 according to the tax returns filed by both of them. While Harris had an income of over $1 million, Biden earned only $607,336 in comparison to her. The president and the first lady, Jill, a teacher, filed their income tax return jointly and reported a downfall in their income of $377,887 from the previous year. The first couple paid $157,414 in federal income tax and their 2020 effective federal income tax rate is 25.9 per cent, the White House said. On the other hand, the Vice President and second gentleman Doug Emhoff paid $621,893 in federal income tax, amounting to a 2020 effective federal income tax rate of 36.7 per cent. Also read | 'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s According to the White House, the President and the first lady also reported donating $30,704 or about 5.1 per cent of their total income to 10 different charities. The largest reported gift to charity was $10,000 to the Beau Biden Foundation, a public charity dedicated to ensuring that all children are free from the threat of abuse. The President and the first lady also released their Delaware income tax return and reported paying $28,794 in Delaware income tax. The first lady also released her Virginia income tax return and reported paying $443 in Virginia income tax. As required by law, the President and Vice President also released their public financial disclosure reports. The Ethics in Government Act of 1978 requires high-level federal officials to publicly disclose their personal financial interests. The public filing system serves to prevent financial conflicts of interest by providing for a systematic review of the finances of government officials. "Those finances are set forth in annual disclosures, which are reviewed and certified by the independent Office of Government Ethics. Neither the President nor the Vice President have any conflicts of interest," the White House said. (With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris earned more than President Joe Biden in 2020

After just six months in the White House as the Vice President of the United States, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a> has become the most unpopular VP since at least the 1970s.

Recent polls have revealed that Kamala Harris’ ratings have hit a record low as the majority of the Americans disapprove of her job performance.

As per local polls reported in the local media, such as the Telegraph, Harris’ ratings have dipped so low that she is now being indicated to be "underwater".

Two recent polls have concluded that 46 per cent of Americans approved of Harris, whereas 47 and 48 per cent of locals disapproved of the new VP. On the other hand, US President Joe Biden has gained 51.3 per cent approval, while only 44.9 per cent disapproved.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vice-president-kamala-harris-may-visit-vietnam-singapore-in-august-report-400909" hreflang="en">US&nbsp;Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris may&nbsp;visit Vietnam, Singapore in August: Report&nbsp;</a>

Her low ratings have come as a surprise as Democrats had expected her to not only help in Biden’s victory in US election 2020, but some strategists had also hoped that she would be able to replace Biden in the next elections.

Harris is the first African-American, Indian-origin female Vice President of the United States. During her campaigning days in the US election 2020, she had gained momentum on social media platforms for her Indian-origin-related posts, her boss-like styling, and her social media presence, along with her academic achievements.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/america-ferrera-calls-out-us-vice-president-kamala-harris-for-her-comments-on-migrants-theyd-promised-compassion-and-humanity-390877" hreflang="en">America Ferrera calls out US Vice President Kamala Harris for her comments on migrants: 'They'd promised compassion and humanity'</a>

However, her unpopularity has been seen majorly in the young people. A recent poll by YouGive/Economist showed that young people aged between 18-29 years found Harris "unfavourable" and only 36 per cent found her to be "favourable".

Her rating has also suffered in Hispanic voters, which might be a result of her role in US border policy.

The White House now aims to send her only in a few selected areas for campaigning, ahead of next year’s midterm congressional elections. Biden administration is also hoping to lift her ratings globally by sending her on more foreign trips in the coming months.

After just six months in the White House as the Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris has become the most unpopular VP since at least the 1970s. Recent polls have revealed that Kamala Harris’ ratings have hit a record low as the majority of the Americans disapprove of her job performance.

After just six months in the White House as the Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris has become the most unpopular VP since at least the 1970s. Recent polls have revealed that Kamala Harris’ ratings have hit a record low as the majority of the Americans disapprove of her job performance. As per local polls reported in the local media, such as the Telegraph, Harris’ ratings have dipped so low that she is now being indicated to be "underwater". Two recent polls have concluded that 46 per cent of Americans approved of Harris, whereas 47 and 48 per cent of locals disapproved of the new VP. On the other hand, US President Joe Biden has gained 51.3 per cent approval, while only 44.9 per cent disapproved. Also read | US Vice President Kamala Harris may visit Vietnam, Singapore in August: Report Her low ratings have come as a surprise as Democrats had expected her to not only help in Biden’s victory in US election 2020, but some strategists had also hoped that she would be able to replace Biden in the next elections. Harris is the first African-American, Indian-origin female Vice President of the United States. During her campaigning days in the US election 2020, she had gained momentum on social media platforms for her Indian-origin-related posts, her boss-like styling, and her social media presence, along with her academic achievements. Also read | America Ferrera calls out US Vice President Kamala Harris for her comments on migrants: 'They'd promised compassion and humanity' However, her unpopularity has been seen majorly in the young people. A recent poll by YouGive/Economist showed that young people aged between 18-29 years found Harris "unfavourable" and only 36 per cent found her to be "favourable". Her rating has also suffered in Hispanic voters, which might be a result of her role in US border policy. The White House now aims to send her only in a few selected areas for campaigning, ahead of next year’s midterm congressional elections. Biden administration is also hoping to lift her ratings globally by sending her on more foreign trips in the coming months.

'Underwater': Polls suggest Kamala Harris least popular Vice President since 1970s

During a meeting with governors on Friday, US President Joe Biden unintentionally revealed a note from his staff informing him that he had something on his face after a yellow mark was noticed on his chin.

When the President received the message, he was in the middle of a meeting on the White House grounds on wildfire prevention.&nbsp;

A video showing Biden's staffer handing him the message as Vice President Kamala Harris was speaking to the governors was quickly published on Twitter by the Republican National Committee (RNC).&nbsp;

“After a staffer gives Joe Biden a note saying, ‘there’s something on your chin,’ Biden wipes his chin,” tweeted the account, “[He] Then appears to put whatever was on his chin in his mouth?”&nbsp;

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After a staffer gives Joe Biden a note saying, “there’s something on your chin,” Biden wipes his chin. 
 
Then appears to put whatever was on his chin in his mouth? <a href="https://t.co/VvN17i4IWY">pic.twitter.com/VvN17i4IWY</a>
— RNC Research (@RNCResearch) <a href="https://twitter.com/RNCResearch/status/1421160907367927813?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 30, 2021</a></blockquote>
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However, the president flipped the sheet of paper over, exposing the message to everybody.

He was also seen wiping his chin and then inspecting his hand to see whether he had properly wiped it off in the footage.&nbsp;

On Twitter, his opponents mocked him for the gaffe, referring to his age — a common taunt of his predecessor, Donald Trump, who was known for making blunders while in government.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

During a meeting with governors on Friday, US President Joe Biden unintentionally revealed a note from his staff informing him that he had something on his face after a yellow mark was noticed on his chin.

During a meeting with governors on Friday, US President Joe Biden unintentionally revealed a note from his staff informing him that he had something on his face after a yellow mark was noticed on his chin. When the President received the message, he was in the middle of a meeting on the White House grounds on wildfire prevention. A video showing Biden's staffer handing him the message as Vice President Kamala Harris was speaking to the governors was quickly published on Twitter by the Republican National Committee (RNC). “After a staffer gives Joe Biden a note saying, ‘there’s something on your chin,’ Biden wipes his chin,” tweeted the account, “[He] Then appears to put whatever was on his chin in his mouth?” After a staffer gives Joe Biden a note saying, “there’s something on your chin,” Biden wipes his chin. Then appears to put whatever was on his chin in his mouth? pic.twitter.com/VvN17i4IWY — RNC Research (@RNCResearch) July 30, 2021 × However, the president flipped the sheet of paper over, exposing the message to everybody. He was also seen wiping his chin and then inspecting his hand to see whether he had properly wiped it off in the footage. On Twitter, his opponents mocked him for the gaffe, referring to his age — a common taunt of his predecessor, Donald Trump, who was known for making blunders while in government. (With inputs from agencies)

Watch: ‘Sir, there is something on your chin’ — Biden accidentally reveals staff note

Vice President Kamala&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;visited a border patrol facility near the US-Mexico border on Friday, aiming to counter claims from Republicans she has been slow to visit the region as part of her role addressing the root causes of immigration.

The trip&nbsp;comes a few days before Donald Trump visits the border, on June 30, in a bid to contrast his tough stance on immigration with successor Biden's more humane approach.&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-vice-president-to-visit-us-mexico-border-under-immigration-scrutiny-393931/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"The vice president's trip to Guatemala and Mexico earlier this year was about the root causes, and this border visit is about the effects," her spokesperson Symone Sanders, told reporters on Thursday. "Both trips will inform the administration's root causes strategy."

Harris&nbsp;was accompanied in El Paso by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee Dick Durbin and Democratic Representative from Texas Veronica Escobar, who called the El Paso area the new "Ellis Island," a reference to the famed area in New York Harbor that processed millions of immigrants as they entered the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Hundreds of thousands of migrants, many fleeing poverty and violence in Central America, have attempted to cross into the United States in recent months, prompting scathing criticism from Republicans that President Joe Biden's more humane approach to immigration was provoking rather than preventing a crisis.

Those numbers were boosted by a coronavirus pandemic-related ban on seeking asylum, which encouraged repeated attempts to cross the border because getting caught carried no legal consequences.

Biden tasked&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;earlier this year with overseeing efforts to address what the administration describes as root causes of migration from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

The vice president traveled to Guatemala and Mexico in early June to address the issue, but caught flak from critics for comments that appeared to downplay the border crisis.&nbsp;

She was also criticized for not stopping at the border for a firsthand look at the situation during her international mission.

Harris&nbsp;continues to address the root causes of illegal immigration "and work in coordination to get the situation under control," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

"This trip to the border on Friday will be a part of this effort."

Harris advisers have been careful to emphasize that her main focus related to immigration is addressing the root causes of migration.

She has been seeking economic and humanitarian solutions to improve conditions for residents of Central and North American countries who flee to the US. Her aides framed her trip to the border as part of an effort to better understand how to solve the problem.

Vice President Kamala Harris visited a border patrol facility near the US-Mexico border on Friday, aiming to counter claims from Republicans she has been slow to visit the region as part of her role addressing the root causes of immigration.

Vice President Kamala Harris visited a border patrol facility near the US-Mexico border on Friday, aiming to counter claims from Republicans she has been slow to visit the region as part of her role addressing the root causes of immigration. The trip comes a few days before Donald Trump visits the border, on June 30, in a bid to contrast his tough stance on immigration with successor Biden's more humane approach. "The vice president's trip to Guatemala and Mexico earlier this year was about the root causes, and this border visit is about the effects," her spokesperson Symone Sanders, told reporters on Thursday. "Both trips will inform the administration's root causes strategy." Harris was accompanied in El Paso by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Chairman of the Senate Judiciary Committee Dick Durbin and Democratic Representative from Texas Veronica Escobar, who called the El Paso area the new "Ellis Island," a reference to the famed area in New York Harbor that processed millions of immigrants as they entered the United States in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Hundreds of thousands of migrants, many fleeing poverty and violence in Central America, have attempted to cross into the United States in recent months, prompting scathing criticism from Republicans that President Joe Biden's more humane approach to immigration was provoking rather than preventing a crisis. Those numbers were boosted by a coronavirus pandemic-related ban on seeking asylum, which encouraged repeated attempts to cross the border because getting caught carried no legal consequences. Biden tasked Harris earlier this year with overseeing efforts to address what the administration describes as root causes of migration from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. The vice president traveled to Guatemala and Mexico in early June to address the issue, but caught flak from critics for comments that appeared to downplay the border crisis. She was also criticized for not stopping at the border for a firsthand look at the situation during her international mission. Harris continues to address the root causes of illegal immigration "and work in coordination to get the situation under control," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. "This trip to the border on Friday will be a part of this effort." Harris advisers have been careful to emphasize that her main focus related to immigration is addressing the root causes of migration. She has been seeking economic and humanitarian solutions to improve conditions for residents of Central and North American countries who flee to the US. Her aides framed her trip to the border as part of an effort to better understand how to solve the problem.

US Vice President Kamala Harris visits US-Mexico border after facing criticism for absence

Vice President Kamala Harris will visit the US-Mexico border on Friday as the Biden administration faces intense scrutiny over its handling of an immigration surge.

US Vice President to visit US-Mexico border under immigration scrutiny

US Vice President&nbsp;Kamala&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;on Friday will visit the country's border with Mexico, the White House announced, as the Biden administration faces intense scrutiny over its handling of an immigration surge.

Hundreds of thousands of migrants, many fleeing poverty and violence in Central America, have attempted to cross into the United States in recent months, prompting scathing criticism from Republicans that President Joe Biden's more humane approach to immigration was provoking rather than preventing a crisis.

Harris&nbsp;senior advisor Symone Sanders said Wednesday that the vice president will visit the border city of El Paso, Texas, and will be accompanied by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

Biden tasked&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;earlier this year with overseeing efforts to address what the administration describes as root causes of migration from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/john-mcafee-antivirus-software-creator-turned-fugitive-dies-by-hanging-in-spanish-jail-393513">Also Read |&nbsp;John McAfee, antivirus software creator turned fugitive, dies by hanging in Spanish jail</a>

The vice president travelled to Guatemala and Mexico in early June to address the issue but caught flak from critics for comments that appeared to downplay the border crisis.&nbsp;

She was also criticized for not stopping at the border for a firsthand look at the situation during her international mission.

Harris&nbsp;continues to address the root causes of illegal immigration "and work in coordination to get the situation under control," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said.

"This trip to the border on Friday will be a part of this effort."

The White House did not provide details on&nbsp;Harris's border plans, saying specifics would be forthcoming.

The vice president's trip will come a few days before Donald Trump visits the border, on June 30, in a bid to contrast his tough stance on immigration with successor Biden's more humane approach.&nbsp;

"After months of ignoring the crisis at the Southern Border, it is great that we got&nbsp;Kamala&nbsp;Harris&nbsp;to finally go and see the tremendous destruction and death that they've created -- a direct result of Biden ending my very tough but fair Border policies," the former president said in a statement.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday will visit the country's border with Mexico, the White House announced, as the Biden administration faces intense scrutiny over its handling of an immigration surge.

US Vice President Kamala Harris on Friday will visit the country's border with Mexico, the White House announced, as the Biden administration faces intense scrutiny over its handling of an immigration surge. Hundreds of thousands of migrants, many fleeing poverty and violence in Central America, have attempted to cross into the United States in recent months, prompting scathing criticism from Republicans that President Joe Biden's more humane approach to immigration was provoking rather than preventing a crisis. Harris senior advisor Symone Sanders said Wednesday that the vice president will visit the border city of El Paso, Texas, and will be accompanied by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Biden tasked Harris earlier this year with overseeing efforts to address what the administration describes as root causes of migration from El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras. Also Read | John McAfee, antivirus software creator turned fugitive, dies by hanging in Spanish jail The vice president travelled to Guatemala and Mexico in early June to address the issue but caught flak from critics for comments that appeared to downplay the border crisis. She was also criticized for not stopping at the border for a firsthand look at the situation during her international mission. Harris continues to address the root causes of illegal immigration "and work in coordination to get the situation under control," White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki said. "This trip to the border on Friday will be a part of this effort." The White House did not provide details on Harris's border plans, saying specifics would be forthcoming. The vice president's trip will come a few days before Donald Trump visits the border, on June 30, in a bid to contrast his tough stance on immigration with successor Biden's more humane approach. "After months of ignoring the crisis at the Southern Border, it is great that we got Kamala Harris to finally go and see the tremendous destruction and death that they've created -- a direct result of Biden ending my very tough but fair Border policies," the former president said in a statement.

Kamala Harris to visit US-Mexico border, after scrutiny over administration's record on immigration

Actress America Ferrera has spoken out against US Vice President Kamal Harris after she discouraged migrants from coming to the US.&nbsp; 
 
On her recent visit &nbsp;to Guatemala, told migrants looking to come to this country that they should not travel to the US Mexico border and claimed that they would be turned back if they did. 
 
"I want to emphasize that the goal of our work is to help Guatemalans find hope at home, at the same time I want to be clear to folks in this region who are thinking about making the dangerous trek to the United States-Mexico border -- do not come, do not come," she said. 
 
Shortly after the Vice President's speech, Ferrera appeared on 'The View' and criticised Harris' speech and also called out lack of Biden's administration's efforts at the US southern border.&nbsp; 
 
"Well, I had so many thoughts, but first and foremost, extreme disappointment and confusion at just how useless and futile and ineffective a strategy that is," Ferrera told host Joy Behar. 
 
"I know that Vice President Harris knows the stories too, but I have spent many years sitting in shelters, detention centers on this side of the border and on the other side of the border with, you know, Honduran families, Mexican families, Guatemalan families — hearing the stories of the violent and life-threatening circumstances they’re fleeing," Ferrara further added. The actress has been an active voice for the Latin migrants in the US and runs a company that "inspires, affirms, and informs Latinas."&nbsp; 
 
Ferrera compared Harris’ comments to telling a drowning person to "stop flailing for their life".&nbsp; 
 
"It’s not only incredibly ineffective, as she knows, it’s cruel," she continued. "That’s such a disappointment because — because Vice President Harris and President Biden promised compassion. They promised humanity. They promised that we were going to bring humanity back into our country’s governance and including in our immigration policy." 
 
The actress said, that Harris' comments to potential U.S. migrants is a "slap in the face" to those like her who campaigned for her and Biden in the 2020 presidential election.&nbsp; 
 
"Quite honestly, as somebody who campaigned for, rallied, and voted for Biden and Harris — it’s a slap in the face for all of the immigrant advocates who believed, you know, what they promised, which was change and compassion," she said. "So they know better and they should do better and I’m not under the impression, never was, that we were electing perfect people." 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Actress America Ferrera has spoken out against US Vice President Kamal Harris after she discouraged migrants from coming to the US. On her recent visit to Guatemala, told migrants looking to come to this country that they should not travel to the US Mexico border and claimed that they would be turned back if they did.

Actress America Ferrera has spoken out against US Vice President Kamal Harris after she discouraged migrants from coming to the US. On her recent visit to Guatemala, told migrants looking to come to this country that they should not travel to the US Mexico border and claimed that they would be turned back if they did. "I want to emphasize that the goal of our work is to help Guatemalans find hope at home, at the same time I want to be clear to folks in this region who are thinking about making the dangerous trek to the United States-Mexico border -- do not come, do not come," she said. Shortly after the Vice President's speech, Ferrera appeared on 'The View' and criticised Harris' speech and also called out lack of Biden's administration's efforts at the US southern border. "Well, I had so many thoughts, but first and foremost, extreme disappointment and confusion at just how useless and futile and ineffective a strategy that is," Ferrera told host Joy Behar. "I know that Vice President Harris knows the stories too, but I have spent many years sitting in shelters, detention centers on this side of the border and on the other side of the border with, you know, Honduran families, Mexican families, Guatemalan families — hearing the stories of the violent and life-threatening circumstances they’re fleeing," Ferrara further added. The actress has been an active voice for the Latin migrants in the US and runs a company that "inspires, affirms, and informs Latinas." Ferrera compared Harris’ comments to telling a drowning person to "stop flailing for their life". "It’s not only incredibly ineffective, as she knows, it’s cruel," she continued. "That’s such a disappointment because — because Vice President Harris and President Biden promised compassion. They promised humanity. They promised that we were going to bring humanity back into our country’s governance and including in our immigration policy." The actress said, that Harris' comments to potential U.S. migrants is a "slap in the face" to those like her who campaigned for her and Biden in the 2020 presidential election. "Quite honestly, as somebody who campaigned for, rallied, and voted for Biden and Harris — it’s a slap in the face for all of the immigrant advocates who believed, you know, what they promised, which was change and compassion," she said. "So they know better and they should do better and I’m not under the impression, never was, that we were electing perfect people."

America Ferrera calls out US Vice President Kamala Harris for her comments on migrants: 'They'd promised compassion and humanity'

The Vice-President of the United States Kamala Harris has urged would-be migrants in Guatemala not to try to enter the United States illegally.

'Do not come to US': Kamala Harris tells Guatemala migrants

US Vice President Kamala Harris declared her two-day trip to Central America a success after extensive discussions with leaders there. Harris defended not visiting the US-Mexico border following criticism.

Harris declares Central America trip 'a success' amid criticism over border

US&nbsp;Vice President Kamala Harris said on Monday she had 'robust' talks with Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei on fighting corruption to deter immigration from Central America and bluntly warned migrants to not come to the United States. 
 
Since President Joe Biden took office in January, the number of migrants taken into custody per month at the US&nbsp;Mexico border has risen to the highest levels in 20 years 
 
"Do not come. Do not come. The United States will continue to enforce our laws and secure our borders," Harris said at a news conference alongside Giammattei. "If you come to our border, you will be turned back." 
 
Harris also said a US&nbsp;anti-corruption task force would work with local prosecutors to punish corrupt actors in the region. 
 
The Biden administration has identified corruption as an underlying cause of the poverty and violence driving record numbers of Central Americans to go to the United States. 
 
The corruption task force has been previously floated, but Harris gave more details, saying it will combine resources from the Justice, State and Treasury departments. 
 
In the build-up to Harris' visit to Guatemala, her first official overseas trip, differences of opinion emerged about the fight against graft, with corruption fighters feted by Washington being criticised by Giammattei. 
 
"We had a robust, candid and thorough conversation," Harris said at the news conference after a three-hour meeting with Giammattei, who said they had discussed US&nbsp;concerns about developments in Guatemala. 
 
"The president and I discussed the importance of anti-corruption and the importance of an independent judiciary," Harris said. Washington has criticised the removal of a senior judge from Guatemala's top court, in what Giammattei has argued was a legitimate process. 
 
Giammattei defended his own record in fighting malfeasance, saying he had not been accused of wrongdoing and saying graft was not only a problem faced by politicians. The fight against drug trafficking needed to be an integral part of tackling corruption, he said. 
 
On the immigration front, he announced a new processing center for migrants sent back from Mexico and the United States, which could increase capacity. He said the focus of the two countries should be on creating prosperity. 
 
Most Guatemalan migrants leave because of poverty, he said, and come from a few rural municipalities. 
 
Harris, a Democratic former US&nbsp;senator from California, responded to Republican criticism against her for not visiting the US-Mexico border and the administration for ignoring what they say is a crisis there. She said she was working on the ground in Guatemala. 
 
"I'm just focused on that kind of work as opposed to grand gestures," she said. 
 
But she also took flak from fellow Democrats like US&nbsp;Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who said on Twitter she was disappointed by Harris's message to migrants. 
 
"Seeking asylum at any US&nbsp;border is a 100% legal method of arrival," she tweeted. She said the United States has contributed to regime change and destabilisation in Latin America for decades. "We can't help set someone's house on fire and then blame them for fleeing." 
 
The United States orchestrated a coup against democratically elected leftist government Jacobo Arbenz in 1954, ushering in decades of military governments and a civil war estimated to have killed more than 200,000 people by the time it ended in 1996. 
 
More recently, the US-financed, UN&nbsp;Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala helped bring down democratically elected conservative President Otto Perez Molina, a former general, who resigned after massive protests triggered by an investigation into corruption in his government.&nbsp; 
 
The Biden administration on Monday also unveiled details of another task force of prosecutors to combat human smuggling in Central America and Mexico. 
 
US&nbsp;Attorney General Merrick B&nbsp;Garland said the Joint Task Force Alpha would marshal Justice Department and Homeland Security resources against 'the most prolific and dangerous' human smuggling and trafficking groups in the region, according to a statement. It said the group will complement efforts against corrupt actors. 
 
However, Washington's push to tackle 'root causes' of migration in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras have been undermined by a backlash against anti-corruption bodies the United States considers independent but that local elites say are biased. 
 
Harris also met civil society leaders and entrepreneurs in Guatemala. The White House announced a $7.5 million commitment through USAID to support entrepreneurs in Guatemala, as well as millions more in investments in affordable housing, agri-businesses and loans to small businesses. 
 
Harris said she discussed sharing COVID-19 vaccines with Guatemala during Monday's meeting. She confirmed that the United States would supply half a million COVID-19 doses to Guatemala in addition to the $26 million it has given the country to fight the pandemic. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

US Vice President Kamala Harris said on Monday she had 'robust' talks with Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei on fighting corruption to deter immigration from Central America and bluntly warned migrants to not come to the United States.

US Vice President Kamala Harris said on Monday she had 'robust' talks with Guatemalan President Alejandro Giammattei on fighting corruption to deter immigration from Central America and bluntly warned migrants to not come to the United States. Since President Joe Biden took office in January, the number of migrants taken into custody per month at the US Mexico border has risen to the highest levels in 20 years "Do not come. Do not come. The United States will continue to enforce our laws and secure our borders," Harris said at a news conference alongside Giammattei. "If you come to our border, you will be turned back." Harris also said a US anti-corruption task force would work with local prosecutors to punish corrupt actors in the region. The Biden administration has identified corruption as an underlying cause of the poverty and violence driving record numbers of Central Americans to go to the United States. The corruption task force has been previously floated, but Harris gave more details, saying it will combine resources from the Justice, State and Treasury departments. In the build-up to Harris' visit to Guatemala, her first official overseas trip, differences of opinion emerged about the fight against graft, with corruption fighters feted by Washington being criticised by Giammattei. "We had a robust, candid and thorough conversation," Harris said at the news conference after a three-hour meeting with Giammattei, who said they had discussed US concerns about developments in Guatemala. "The president and I discussed the importance of anti-corruption and the importance of an independent judiciary," Harris said. Washington has criticised the removal of a senior judge from Guatemala's top court, in what Giammattei has argued was a legitimate process. Giammattei defended his own record in fighting malfeasance, saying he had not been accused of wrongdoing and saying graft was not only a problem faced by politicians. The fight against drug trafficking needed to be an integral part of tackling corruption, he said. On the immigration front, he announced a new processing center for migrants sent back from Mexico and the United States, which could increase capacity. He said the focus of the two countries should be on creating prosperity. Most Guatemalan migrants leave because of poverty, he said, and come from a few rural municipalities. Harris, a Democratic former US senator from California, responded to Republican criticism against her for not visiting the US-Mexico border and the administration for ignoring what they say is a crisis there. She said she was working on the ground in Guatemala. "I'm just focused on that kind of work as opposed to grand gestures," she said. But she also took flak from fellow Democrats like US Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, who said on Twitter she was disappointed by Harris's message to migrants. "Seeking asylum at any US border is a 100% legal method of arrival," she tweeted. She said the United States has contributed to regime change and destabilisation in Latin America for decades. "We can't help set someone's house on fire and then blame them for fleeing." The United States orchestrated a coup against democratically elected leftist government Jacobo Arbenz in 1954, ushering in decades of military governments and a civil war estimated to have killed more than 200,000 people by the time it ended in 1996. More recently, the US-financed, UN Commission Against Impunity in Guatemala helped bring down democratically elected conservative President Otto Perez Molina, a former general, who resigned after massive protests triggered by an investigation into corruption in his government. The Biden administration on Monday also unveiled details of another task force of prosecutors to combat human smuggling in Central America and Mexico. US Attorney General Merrick B Garland said the Joint Task Force Alpha would marshal Justice Department and Homeland Security resources against 'the most prolific and dangerous' human smuggling and trafficking groups in the region, according to a statement. It said the group will complement efforts against corrupt actors. However, Washington's push to tackle 'root causes' of migration in El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras have been undermined by a backlash against anti-corruption bodies the United States considers independent but that local elites say are biased. Harris also met civil society leaders and entrepreneurs in Guatemala. The White House announced a $7.5 million commitment through USAID to support entrepreneurs in Guatemala, as well as millions more in investments in affordable housing, agri-businesses and loans to small businesses. Harris said she discussed sharing COVID-19 vaccines with Guatemala during Monday's meeting. She confirmed that the United States would supply half a million COVID-19 doses to Guatemala in addition to the $26 million it has given the country to fight the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies)

Harris takes on graft in Guatemala, tells migrants 'do not come'

US Vice President Kamala Harris's plane was forced to land soon after take-off on Sunday due to a technical problem on her way to Guatemala for her first international trip.

"I'm good. I'm good," Harris told reporters, giving a thumbs-up after exiting the plane when it returned to Joint Base Andrews on the outskirts of Washington. "We all said a little prayer, but we're good." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-surge-in-india-heartbreaking-us-determined-to-help-the-country-vp-kamala-harris-383627">Also read — COVID-19 surge in India heartbreaking; US determined to help the country: VP Kamala Harris</a> 
 
The vice president switched planes, and a pool report said she arrived safely in Guatemala Sunday evening. Her spokeswoman Symone Sanders said that no major delays in her itinerary were expected.

The crew "noticed the landing gear was not storing as it should which could lead to further mechanical issues. While there was no immediate safety issue, out of an abundance of caution, they returned to Joint Base Andrews," Sanders said.

A journalist on board reported "an unusual noise" from the landing gear when the plane -- known as Air Force Two -- took off but said that the landing was "completely normal."

Harris will visit Guatemala and Mexico this week, intending to bring a message of hope to a region hammered by Covid-19 and which is the source of most of the undocumented migrants seeking entry to the United States.

Harris is taking her first trip abroad as President Joe Biden's deputy to tackle the root causes of migration from the region -- one of the thorniest issues facing the White House.

US Vice President Kamala Harris's plane was forced to land soon after take-off on Sunday due to a technical problem on her way to Guatemala for her first international trip.

US Vice President Kamala Harris's plane was forced to land soon after take-off on Sunday due to a technical problem on her way to Guatemala for her first international trip. "I'm good. I'm good," Harris told reporters, giving a thumbs-up after exiting the plane when it returned to Joint Base Andrews on the outskirts of Washington. "We all said a little prayer, but we're good." Also read — COVID-19 surge in India heartbreaking; US determined to help the country: VP Kamala Harris The vice president switched planes, and a pool report said she arrived safely in Guatemala Sunday evening. Her spokeswoman Symone Sanders said that no major delays in her itinerary were expected. The crew "noticed the landing gear was not storing as it should which could lead to further mechanical issues. While there was no immediate safety issue, out of an abundance of caution, they returned to Joint Base Andrews," Sanders said. A journalist on board reported "an unusual noise" from the landing gear when the plane -- known as Air Force Two -- took off but said that the landing was "completely normal." Harris will visit Guatemala and Mexico this week, intending to bring a message of hope to a region hammered by Covid-19 and which is the source of most of the undocumented migrants seeking entry to the United States. Harris is taking her first trip abroad as President Joe Biden's deputy to tackle the root causes of migration from the region -- one of the thorniest issues facing the White House.

Plane with Kamala Harris on board forced to turn around after 'technical issue'

US Vice President Kamala Harris spoke to Indian PM Narendra Modi over the phone on Thursday (June 3). During the conversation, Harris conveyed that United States will begin sharing vaccines with India, along with other countries by end of June.

News Alert: Indian PM Narendra Modi talks to US Vice President Kamala Harris

US has formally conveyed to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-distribute-80-million-vaccine-doses-through-covax-india-included-in-list-white-house-389263">India</a> that it will be giving Covid vaccines to the country during the telephonic conversation between Indian PM Modi and US Vice President&nbsp;Kamala Harris.

The conversation which took place with India's prime minister&nbsp;on Thursday evening was at the request of US Vice President.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India will be getting vaccines from the US as part of the 25 million Covid vaccines it will be giving to the world in the first tranche with nineteen&nbsp;million doses&nbsp;to be given via Covax and&nbsp;six&nbsp;million to be directly given to partners.&nbsp;

"Vice President notified the Biden-Harris administration will begin sharing the first 25 million doses of COVID vaccines," the&nbsp;US statement said. Washington will be giving out 80 million vaccines globally by the end of June.&nbsp;

During the talks, Prime Minister expressed his "appreciation" to Vice President Harris for the US decision, as well as for all "other forms of support and solidarity that India has received in recent days from the US government, businesses and the Indian expatriate community in the US", the PMO said.

During the talks, both sides also discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen the health supply chain between the US and India, including in the area of vaccine manufacturing. Cooperation under the Quad format was also discussed. During the Quad virtual meet of heads of government, a joint initiative on vaccines was announced with India being the production hub.

The US will be giving 75 per cent of the 25 million vaccines and&nbsp;19 million via the COVAX facility with six&nbsp;million doses for South and Central America, seven&nbsp;million for Asia and five&nbsp;million for African&nbsp;countries that will be selected in coordination with the African Union.

US President Biden in a statement said, "over 6 million&nbsp;will be shared directly with countries experiencing surges, those in crisis, and other partners and neighbours, including Canada, Mexico, India, and the Republic of Korea."

Over thirty&nbsp;countries will be getting vaccines in the first tranche. The&nbsp;vaccines will also be given to United Nations frontline workers, which will be shared directly.

US has formally conveyed to India that it will be giving Covid vaccines to the country during the telephonic conversation between Indian PM Modi and US Vice President Kamala Harris.

US has formally conveyed to India that it will be giving Covid vaccines to the country during the telephonic conversation between Indian PM Modi and US Vice President Kamala Harris. The conversation which took place with India's prime minister on Thursday evening was at the request of US Vice President. India will be getting vaccines from the US as part of the 25 million Covid vaccines it will be giving to the world in the first tranche with nineteen million doses to be given via Covax and six million to be directly given to partners. "Vice President notified the Biden-Harris administration will begin sharing the first 25 million doses of COVID vaccines," the US statement said. Washington will be giving out 80 million vaccines globally by the end of June. During the talks, Prime Minister expressed his "appreciation" to Vice President Harris for the US decision, as well as for all "other forms of support and solidarity that India has received in recent days from the US government, businesses and the Indian expatriate community in the US", the PMO said. During the talks, both sides also discussed ongoing efforts to strengthen the health supply chain between the US and India, including in the area of vaccine manufacturing. Cooperation under the Quad format was also discussed. During the Quad virtual meet of heads of government, a joint initiative on vaccines was announced with India being the production hub. The US will be giving 75 per cent of the 25 million vaccines and 19 million via the COVAX facility with six million doses for South and Central America, seven million for Asia and five million for African countries that will be selected in coordination with the African Union. US President Biden in a statement said, "over 6 million will be shared directly with countries experiencing surges, those in crisis, and other partners and neighbours, including Canada, Mexico, India, and the Republic of Korea." Over thirty countries will be getting vaccines in the first tranche. The vaccines will also be given to United Nations frontline workers, which will be shared directly.

Modi-Harris phone call: US conveys it will give coronavirus vaccines to India

President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> said Tuesday that he had directed Vice President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a> to lead Democrats in a sweeping legislative effort to protect voting rights, an issue that is critical to his legacy but one that faces increasingly daunting odds in a divided Senate.

"Today, I’m asking Vice President Harris to help these efforts, and lead them, among her many other responsibilities," Biden said during a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma. "With her leadership and your support, we’re going to overcome again, I promise you, but it’s going to take a hell of a lot of work."

ALso read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-formally-ends-trumps-remain-in-mexico-asylum-policy-388876" hreflang="en">US formally ends Trump’s 'remain in Mexico' asylum policy</a>

The president was in Oklahoma to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa massacre, when a white mob destroyed a vibrant Black business district and killed as many as 300 people. The massacre was one of the worst outbreaks of racist violence in American history.

Biden told the crowd that he saw the protection of voting rights as one of the most fundamental — and most endangered — pathways to ensure racial equity.

But his decision to install Harris as the leader of an effort to beat back bills in states nationwide that are trying to tighten voting rules — "a truly unprecedented assault on our democracy," Biden told the crowd — added another politically thorny problem to the vice president’s policy portfolio.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/for-biden-a-deeply-personal-memorial-day-weekend-observance-388519" hreflang="en">For Biden, a deeply personal Memorial Day weekend observance</a>

Harris has already been tasked with leading the administration's efforts to deter migration to the southwestern border by working to improve conditions in the Northern Triangle countries of Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala.

That work comes in addition to a host of other engagements, including but not limited to: selling the "American Rescue Plan," advocating Biden’s infrastructure package, representing women in the workforce, highlighting the Black maternal mortality rate, assisting small businesses, assessing water policy, promoting racial equity, combating vaccine hesitancy, and fighting for a policing overhaul.

"In the days and weeks ahead, I will engage the American people, and I will work with voting rights organizations, community organizations, and the private sector to help strengthen and uplift efforts on voting rights nationwide," the vice president said in a statement issued shortly after Biden's announcement. "And we will also work with members of Congress to help advance these bills."

President Joe Biden said Tuesday that he had directed Vice President Kamala Harris to lead Democrats in a sweeping legislative effort to protect voting rights, an issue that is critical to his legacy but one that faces increasingly daunting odds in a divided Senate.

President Joe Biden said Tuesday that he had directed Vice President Kamala Harris to lead Democrats in a sweeping legislative effort to protect voting rights, an issue that is critical to his legacy but one that faces increasingly daunting odds in a divided Senate. "Today, I’m asking Vice President Harris to help these efforts, and lead them, among her many other responsibilities," Biden said during a trip to Tulsa, Oklahoma. "With her leadership and your support, we’re going to overcome again, I promise you, but it’s going to take a hell of a lot of work." ALso read | US formally ends Trump’s 'remain in Mexico' asylum policy The president was in Oklahoma to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Tulsa massacre, when a white mob destroyed a vibrant Black business district and killed as many as 300 people. The massacre was one of the worst outbreaks of racist violence in American history. Biden told the crowd that he saw the protection of voting rights as one of the most fundamental — and most endangered — pathways to ensure racial equity. But his decision to install Harris as the leader of an effort to beat back bills in states nationwide that are trying to tighten voting rules — "a truly unprecedented assault on our democracy," Biden told the crowd — added another politically thorny problem to the vice president’s policy portfolio. Also read | For Biden, a deeply personal Memorial Day weekend observance Harris has already been tasked with leading the administration's efforts to deter migration to the southwestern border by working to improve conditions in the Northern Triangle countries of Honduras, El Salvador and Guatemala. That work comes in addition to a host of other engagements, including but not limited to: selling the "American Rescue Plan," advocating Biden’s infrastructure package, representing women in the workforce, highlighting the Black maternal mortality rate, assisting small businesses, assessing water policy, promoting racial equity, combating vaccine hesitancy, and fighting for a policing overhaul. "In the days and weeks ahead, I will engage the American people, and I will work with voting rights organizations, community organizations, and the private sector to help strengthen and uplift efforts on voting rights nationwide," the vice president said in a statement issued shortly after Biden's announcement. "And we will also work with members of Congress to help advance these bills."

Biden assigns Harris another difficult role: Protecting voting rights

As the US chanted 'Black Lives Matter' all around the city to mark one year since George Floyd's death, his family visited the White House to talk to the US President and urge stricter police reforms.

Floyd’s family was invited to the White House to meet <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> and Vice President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/kamala-harris">Kamala Harris</a>&nbsp;on Tuesday in a private meeting.

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It’s been one year since George Floyd was murdered. In that time, George’s family has shown extraordinary courage. Last month’s conviction was a step towards justice – but we cannot stop there. 
 
We face an inflection point. We have to act.
— President Biden (@POTUS) <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS/status/1397237895140888582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/year-after-george-floyds-death-poll-reveals-how-americans-feel-about-race-relations-386054">Year after George Floyd's death, poll reveals how Americans feel about race relations</a>

This meeting was seen as a sign of change brought back by the Biden administration. The previous administration, led by Donald Trump, was infamous for lack of empathy and genuine emotion.

"It takes a lot of courage to go through it." Joe Biden said. "And they've been wonderful." Biden also laughed about how&nbsp;Floyd’s seven-year-old daughter asked for snacks when she came in and had cheetos and milk.

<img alt="George Floyd's family meets Joe Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a9e41a5e-d9f9-45da-9ffd-8ee09d1b481a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/George%20Floyd%20%281%29.jpg" />

The family was more than happy to meet the Biden administration and described Biden to be a "genuine guy".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-year-after-george-floyd-los-angeles-confronts-its-future-and-its-past-387370" hreflang="en">A year after George Floyd, Los Angeles confronts its future and its past</a>

"They always speak from the heart and it's a pleasure just to be able to have the chance to meet with them when we have that opportunity to," Philonise, Floyd's brother, said.

While the private meeting, which went on for more than an hour, was criticised as a 'just for show' by some of the critics and opposition of the Biden administration, the Floyd family had an important task up their sleeve — police reform bill.

Floyd’s family has urged Biden to bring in a bill for stricter police reforms which will make sure such tragedies do not happen again.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/george-floyd-case-us-judge-postpones-trial-for-three-ex-cops-384839" hreflang="en">George Floyd case: US judge postpones trial for three ex-cops</a>

"If you can make federal laws to protect the bird which is the bald eagle, you can make federal law to protect people of colour," Philonise said.

Biden assured the family that the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act will soon be passed, under which chokeholds will be banned for the police.

"He let us know that he supports passing the bill, but he wants to make sure that it’s the right bill and not a rushed bill," Brandon Williams, Floyd’s nephew confirmed.

Floyd’s seven-year-old daughter, Gianna Floyd, was seen chanting "Say his name" while entering the White House and proudly claimed ‘daddy has changed the world’ when the leaders asked her about her deceased dad.

As the US chanted 'Black Lives Matter' all around the city to mark one year since George Floyd's death, his family visited the White House to talk to the US President and urge stricter police reforms.

As the US chanted 'Black Lives Matter' all around the city to mark one year since George Floyd's death, his family visited the White House to talk to the US President and urge stricter police reforms. Floyd’s family was invited to the White House to meet Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday in a private meeting. It’s been one year since George Floyd was murdered. In that time, George’s family has shown extraordinary courage. Last month’s conviction was a step towards justice – but we cannot stop there. We face an inflection point. We have to act. — President Biden (@POTUS) May 25, 2021 × Also read | Year after George Floyd's death, poll reveals how Americans feel about race relations This meeting was seen as a sign of change brought back by the Biden administration. The previous administration, led by Donald Trump, was infamous for lack of empathy and genuine emotion. "It takes a lot of courage to go through it." Joe Biden said. "And they've been wonderful." Biden also laughed about how Floyd’s seven-year-old daughter asked for snacks when she came in and had cheetos and milk. The family was more than happy to meet the Biden administration and described Biden to be a "genuine guy". Also read | A year after George Floyd, Los Angeles confronts its future and its past "They always speak from the heart and it's a pleasure just to be able to have the chance to meet with them when we have that opportunity to," Philonise, Floyd's brother, said. While the private meeting, which went on for more than an hour, was criticised as a 'just for show' by some of the critics and opposition of the Biden administration, the Floyd family had an important task up their sleeve — police reform bill. Floyd’s family has urged Biden to bring in a bill for stricter police reforms which will make sure such tragedies do not happen again. Also read | George Floyd case: US judge postpones trial for three ex-cops "If you can make federal laws to protect the bird which is the bald eagle, you can make federal law to protect people of colour," Philonise said. Biden assured the family that the George Floyd Justice in Policing Act will soon be passed, under which chokeholds will be banned for the police. "He let us know that he supports passing the bill, but he wants to make sure that it’s the right bill and not a rushed bill," Brandon Williams, Floyd’s nephew confirmed. Floyd’s seven-year-old daughter, Gianna Floyd, was seen chanting "Say his name" while entering the White House and proudly claimed ‘daddy has changed the world’ when the leaders asked her about her deceased dad.

Call for reforms, assurance and Cheetos: Floyd's family meets Biden on George's death anniversary

Kamala Harris is set to create history by becoming the first US vice president to have her wax statue on display at the Madame Tussauds wax museum in Times Square, New York.

Harris, who is the first woman vice president, as well as the first Black person and first person of Asian descent to hold the office, has been replicated into a wax figure at Madame Tussauds New York — a first for a U.S. vice president.

Both Biden and Harris's wax figures will be displayed in the museum's "Oval Office experience."

"I'm hugely honoured to be sculpting Kamala Harris," sculptor Vicky Grant said in a video shared on Twitter.

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Careful, there’s glass on the floor again...<a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a> will be the FIRST vice president to be immortalized by Madame Tussauds Wax Museum! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VIP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VIP</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Achievements?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Achievements</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/president?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#president</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/politics?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#politics</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GlassCeiling?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GlassCeiling</a> <a href="https://t.co/7t4tFUN1X0">pic.twitter.com/7t4tFUN1X0</a>
— Madame Tussauds USA (@TussaudsUSA) <a href="https://twitter.com/TussaudsUSA/status/1387466297450041359?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"I feel like the most important features of Kamala Harris to get right are not only her lovely, warm and welcoming smile but also her eyes," Grant said, "because I feel like she's so engaging when she smiles. She smiles with her eyes as well."

According to CNN, the figures will wear replicas of the outfits that Biden, 78, and Harris, 56, donned during Inauguration Day on January 20.

(With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris is set to create history by becoming the first US vice president to have her wax statue on display at the Madame Tussauds wax museum in Times Square, New York.

Kamala Harris is set to create history by becoming the first US vice president to have her wax statue on display at the Madame Tussauds wax museum in Times Square, New York. Harris, who is the first woman vice president, as well as the first Black person and first person of Asian descent to hold the office, has been replicated into a wax figure at Madame Tussauds New York — a first for a U.S. vice president. Both Biden and Harris's wax figures will be displayed in the museum's "Oval Office experience." "I'm hugely honoured to be sculpting Kamala Harris," sculptor Vicky Grant said in a video shared on Twitter. Careful, there’s glass on the floor again...@KamalaHarris will be the FIRST vice president to be immortalized by Madame Tussauds Wax Museum! #VP #VIP #Achievements #president #politics #GlassCeiling pic.twitter.com/7t4tFUN1X0 — Madame Tussauds USA (@TussaudsUSA) April 28, 2021 × "I feel like the most important features of Kamala Harris to get right are not only her lovely, warm and welcoming smile but also her eyes," Grant said, "because I feel like she's so engaging when she smiles. She smiles with her eyes as well." According to CNN, the figures will wear replicas of the outfits that Biden, 78, and Harris, 56, donned during Inauguration Day on January 20. (With inputs from agencies)

Kamala Harris becomes first US vice president to get a wax figure in Madame Tussauds

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