India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar addresses a meeting in Bangkok. Watch this video to know what he has to say.

S Jaishankar addresses meeting in Bangkok

Minister of External Affairs S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit, Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok. Watch this video to know more.

First India-US meet post Trump's remark

EAM S Jaishankar likely to have pull aside with Mike Pompeo

India's External affairs minister S. Jaishankar has reached Bangkok to attend the ASEAN-India meet. Watch full video to know more.

Foreign minister S. Jaishankar reach Bangkok for East Asia Summit

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/donald-trump-wants-troop-withdrawal-in-afghan-before-2020-election-us-state-secretary-mike-pompeo-239310">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> insisted Thursday that Washington was not asking Southeast Asian nations to "choose" between his country and rival power China, as he trailed a rebooted security and trade strategy at a Bangkok summit.

The denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, a bitter trade war between the superpowers and open access to contested seas dominated talks between Pompeo and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of a summit of Southeast Asia's top diplomats.

Pompeo is in Bangkok tasked with reassuring Asian allies that the US remains a key player in the region, as China builds up its military presence in disputed seas and airspace and cements its economic and political primacy across the region.

The rivalry between the two superpowers is framed by a trade war that has cramped global growth and seeded uncertainty across Asia's economies.

Pompeo and Wang shook hands and smiled before the brief talks.

Both later played down the rifts between their nations, with Wang describing the meeting as a "deep communication" that "has helped to increase our mutual understanding".

"There may be various kinds of issues and problems between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/have-begun-purchasing-farm-goods-says-china-after-resuming-trade-talks-with-us-239902">China and the United States</a>," he said.

"But no matter how many problems.. we all need to sit down and continue to communicate."&nbsp;

In a tweet Pompeo said he had "an in-depth exchange of views" with Wang - including on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-north-korea-conducting-missile-tests-239757">North Korea</a> - adding "when it advances US&nbsp;interests, we are ready to cooperate with China."

Pompeo also insisted the US was not prodding Southeast Asian nations to "choose between countries".&nbsp;

"Our engagement in this region has not been and will not be a zero-sum exercise," he said in short remarks at the opening of a meeting with the 10-member ASEAN states.

"Our interests simply naturally converge with yours to our mutual benefit".

China on Thursday said it had begun buying more US farm goods, a day after trade negotiations resumed in Shanghai in a bid to find a way through the tit-for-tat tariff war.

Beijing's orbit

Among the tension points with China is the South China Sea, an area Beijing believes to be its orbit and outside the US sphere of influence.

China is accused of deploying warships, militarising outposts and ramming fishing vessels in contested waters, one of the world's key shipping routes and which the US is desperate to keep open.&nbsp;

Several rival Southeast Asian claimants to the sea say Beijing has used its military, economic and diplomatic heft to slow progress on a binding Code of Conduct in the flashpoint zone.

The US wants guarantees of open seas and has offered its support to several of the claimant nations in the face of Chinese aggression.&nbsp;

The administration of President Donald Trump, which early on pulled out from a massive Asia-Pacific trade pact, is pushing an "Indo-Pacific" strategy of bilateral commercial deals and security support for the region.

China rebuffs US intentions in the region and is the driving force behind a separate trade-pact which sweeps in Southeast Asia.

On Wednesday Wang described Southeast Asia as China's "neighbourhood" and in barely concealed swipe at the US urged "non-regional countries" to not "sow distrust" in the area.

US-led efforts to tease North Korea into ending its nuclear ambitions were also covered in discussions, with Beijing's leading diplomat welcoming the high-visibility summits between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un.

Before his arrival, Pompeo also suggested he would address the political crisis enveloping Hong Kong, where weeks of mass anti-government protests have been marred by violent increasingly violent clashes.

On Friday, America's top diplomat will meet his South Korean and Japanese counterparts hoping to help defuse a bitter diplomatic row between two key US allies that has billowed out into a trade dispute.

The issue has its roots a decades-long quarrel over Japanese forced labour during World War II.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo insisted Thursday that Washington was not asking Southeast Asian nations to "choose" between his country and rival power China, as he trailed a rebooted security and trade strategy at a Bangkok summit.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo insisted Thursday that Washington was not asking Southeast Asian nations to "choose" between his country and rival power China, as he trailed a rebooted security and trade strategy at a Bangkok summit. The denuclearisation of the Korean Peninsula, a bitter trade war between the superpowers and open access to contested seas dominated talks between Pompeo and his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of a summit of Southeast Asia's top diplomats. Pompeo is in Bangkok tasked with reassuring Asian allies that the US remains a key player in the region, as China builds up its military presence in disputed seas and airspace and cements its economic and political primacy across the region. The rivalry between the two superpowers is framed by a trade war that has cramped global growth and seeded uncertainty across Asia's economies. Pompeo and Wang shook hands and smiled before the brief talks. Both later played down the rifts between their nations, with Wang describing the meeting as a "deep communication" that "has helped to increase our mutual understanding". "There may be various kinds of issues and problems between China and the United States," he said. "But no matter how many problems.. we all need to sit down and continue to communicate." In a tweet Pompeo said he had "an in-depth exchange of views" with Wang - including on North Korea - adding "when it advances US interests, we are ready to cooperate with China." Pompeo also insisted the US was not prodding Southeast Asian nations to "choose between countries". "Our engagement in this region has not been and will not be a zero-sum exercise," he said in short remarks at the opening of a meeting with the 10-member ASEAN states. "Our interests simply naturally converge with yours to our mutual benefit". China on Thursday said it had begun buying more US farm goods, a day after trade negotiations resumed in Shanghai in a bid to find a way through the tit-for-tat tariff war. Beijing's orbit Among the tension points with China is the South China Sea, an area Beijing believes to be its orbit and outside the US sphere of influence. China is accused of deploying warships, militarising outposts and ramming fishing vessels in contested waters, one of the world's key shipping routes and which the US is desperate to keep open. Several rival Southeast Asian claimants to the sea say Beijing has used its military, economic and diplomatic heft to slow progress on a binding Code of Conduct in the flashpoint zone. The US wants guarantees of open seas and has offered its support to several of the claimant nations in the face of Chinese aggression. The administration of President Donald Trump, which early on pulled out from a massive Asia-Pacific trade pact, is pushing an "Indo-Pacific" strategy of bilateral commercial deals and security support for the region. China rebuffs US intentions in the region and is the driving force behind a separate trade-pact which sweeps in Southeast Asia. On Wednesday Wang described Southeast Asia as China's "neighbourhood" and in barely concealed swipe at the US urged "non-regional countries" to not "sow distrust" in the area. US-led efforts to tease North Korea into ending its nuclear ambitions were also covered in discussions, with Beijing's leading diplomat welcoming the high-visibility summits between Donald Trump and Kim Jong-Un. Before his arrival, Pompeo also suggested he would address the political crisis enveloping Hong Kong, where weeks of mass anti-government protests have been marred by violent increasingly violent clashes. On Friday, America's top diplomat will meet his South Korean and Japanese counterparts hoping to help defuse a bitter diplomatic row between two key US allies that has billowed out into a trade dispute. The issue has its roots a decades-long quarrel over Japanese forced labour during World War II.

Not asking ASEAN allies to 'choose' between US and China: Mike Pompeo

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-east-asia/southeast-asia-should-ban-foreign-trash-imports-environmentalists-228309">Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)</a> after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital.

Tensions have risen in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-holds-military-drills-in-south-china-sea-near-taiwan-239171">South China Sea</a> over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims.

Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region.

"We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions.

"Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries."

China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous".

Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises.

The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers.

"Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique.

The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen.

China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims.

China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals.

Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China.

But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong.

"That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines.

"What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States.

China's top diplomat on Wednesday warned outside countries not to amplify disputes in the South China Sea, where recent Chinese manoeuvring in the energy-rich waters has rattled regional states and drawn condemnation from the United States. Chinese Councillor Wang Yi touted progress on an eventual Code of Conduct with the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) after meeting counterparts in the Thai capital. Tensions have risen in the South China Sea over recent incidents between Chinese and Vietnamese and Philippine ships, the latest confrontations in a potential global flashpoint where the United States challenges China's sweeping maritime claims. Wang, who is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Bangkok, reiterated after meeting ASEAN foreign ministers that China opposes interference by countries outside the region. "We think non-regional countries should not deliberately amplify such differences or disputes left from the past," said Wang, responding to a question on the involvement of US and other non-Asian countries in the discussions. "Non-regional countries should also not make use of these differences to sow distrust between China and ASEAN countries." China recently said US criticism of its role in the South China Sea, including comments by Pompeo, were "slanderous". Wang said China is in discussions to expand and "institutionalise" joint military drills with ASEAN countries in the region following two previous exercises. The South China Sea was a key topic for ASEAN foreign ministers. "Concerns were expressed by some ministers on the land reclamations, activities and serious incidents in the area," they said in a final communique. The reference to "serious incidents" was stronger than that in the communique after their meeting last year, pointing to the extent to which tension over the region has risen. China claims large parts of the South China Sea through which roughly $3.4 trillion in shipping passes each year. Countries including Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam contest the territorial claims. China has unnerved the region and angered the United States by installing military equipment and other facilities on artificial islands it has made by reclaiming land and building up reefs and shoals. Researchers and analysts say the latest standoff between Chinese and Vietnamese vessels could give the United States a new incentive to pressure China. But they said China was unlikely to want to inflame the situation given its trade dispute with the United States and protests in Hong Kong. "That tension right now going on between China and Vietnam will be the United States' anchor into making any statements on the South China Sea," said Jay Batongbacal, an expert on the South China Sea at the University of the Philippines. "What China will be more concerned about is if the US tries to rally international support against China's activities," he said.

China warns outsiders not to 'sow distrust' in South China Sea

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand. 
 
Jaishankar will be in Bangkok from August 1 to August 2 and will also participate in ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, &nbsp;26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) &amp; 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting.

Jaishankar-Pompeo pull aside will be the first high-level engagement between US and India since&nbsp;President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump, a few weeks ago, had said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called for mediation in Kashmir issue.

This was dismissed by the Indian side. Jaioshankar had said that all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

During the two-day visit, Jaishankar will "enumerate India's Indo-Pacific vision, which was elaborated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June 2018", a ministry of external affairs release said. 
&nbsp; 
He will also meet the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and the British envoy to India Dominic Asquith. He is expected to meet foreign minister of Sri Lanka, Tilak Marapana. 13 foreign ministers will be in Bangkok for the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meeting.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is likely to have a pull-aside with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand. Jaishankar will be in Bangkok from August 1 to August 2 and will also participate in ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) & 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting. Jaishankar-Pompeo pull aside will be the first high-level engagement between US and India since President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir. US President Donald Trump, a few weeks ago, had said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called for mediation in Kashmir issue. This was dismissed by the Indian side. Jaioshankar had said that all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. During the two-day visit, Jaishankar will "enumerate India's Indo-Pacific vision, which was elaborated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June 2018", a ministry of external affairs release said. He will also meet the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab and the British envoy to India Dominic Asquith. He is expected to meet foreign minister of Sri Lanka, Tilak Marapana. 13 foreign ministers will be in Bangkok for the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meeting.

Foreign minister S Jaishankar likely to meet Mike Pompeo in Bangkok

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Monday that President Donald Trump directed him to reduce US combat troop numbers in Afghanistan by the next presidential election in 2020.

US to reduce Afghanistan forces by 2020

US President Donald Trump wants to begin <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/afghan-presidential-candidates-fear-for-safety-after-attack-239294">withdrawing troops from Afghanistan</a> before the 2020 election, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday.

Pompeo was asked during an event at the Economic Club of Washington if he expected to see a drawdown before November next year, and he answered, "That's my directive from the president of the United States."

"He's been unambiguous, end the endless wars, drawdown," said Pompeo.

Before winning the presidential election in 2016, Trump pledged to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan and end America's longest war.

But he agreed after taking power to send over more soldiers and now there are around 14,000 in Afghanistan.

For the past year, the US has been negotiating with the Taliban to reach a peace agreement ending the 18-year war.

Pompeo said Monday the talks have made "real progress" and he added that he was optimistic.

The US seems eager to speed up the peace talks as Afghanistan prepares for a presidential election in September and America for the 2020 vote.

US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad is in Kabul and in a few days will travel to Qatar for another round of negotiations with the Taliban.

US President Donald Trump wants to begin withdrawing troops from Afghanistan before the 2020 election, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday. Pompeo was asked during an event at the Economic Club of Washington if he expected to see a drawdown before November next year, and he answered, "That's my directive from the president of the United States.

US President Donald Trump wants to begin withdrawing troops from Afghanistan before the 2020 election, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Monday. Pompeo was asked during an event at the Economic Club of Washington if he expected to see a drawdown before November next year, and he answered, "That's my directive from the president of the United States." "He's been unambiguous, end the endless wars, drawdown," said Pompeo. Before winning the presidential election in 2016, Trump pledged to withdraw US troops from Afghanistan and end America's longest war. But he agreed after taking power to send over more soldiers and now there are around 14,000 in Afghanistan. For the past year, the US has been negotiating with the Taliban to reach a peace agreement ending the 18-year war. Pompeo said Monday the talks have made "real progress" and he added that he was optimistic. The US seems eager to speed up the peace talks as Afghanistan prepares for a presidential election in September and America for the 2020 vote. US negotiator Zalmay Khalilzad is in Kabul and in a few days will travel to Qatar for another round of negotiations with the Taliban.

Donald Trump wants troop withdrawal in Afghan before 2020 election: US State Secretary Mike Pompeo

Iran on Sunday invited Mike Pompeo to be interviewed by a state television anchor who was once detained in America after the top US diplomat said he was willing to talk to its people.

Pompeo said Thursday in an interview with Bloomberg that he would<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-happily-go-to-iran-to-address-tensions-with-us-over-sanctions-pompeo-238507"> "happily" go to Tehran and willingly appear on Iranian television</a> to explain US reasoning behind its sanctions against the Islamic republic.

"Our reporter Ms Marzieh Hashemi can go and interview (Pompeo) so that he can say what he intends to say," government spokesman Ali Rabiei said, quoted by official news agency IRNA.

Hashemi, a black Muslim convert who was born in the United States, works as an anchor for Iran's English-language channel Press TV.

She was arrested in the US in January under a law allowing the detention of people suspected of being potential witnesses in criminal cases.

Hashemi, who changed her name from Melanie Franklin after her conversion, was released after being held for 10 days.

She later travelled to Iran and has since accused the United States of violence and discrimination against Muslims and black people.

Tehran has been at loggerheads with Washington since President Donald Trump pulled the US out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year and reimposed punishing sanctions which Iran calls "economic terrorism."

The standoff has recently escalated with drones shot down and tankers mysteriously attacked in sensitive Gulf waters.

In his remarks on Sunday, Rabiei said Pompeo had been "forced" into saying he was ready to appear on Iranian TV because of his counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif's recent round of interviews with US media.

"We do not shy away from hearing what people say, (even though) what they did to our reporters... is an insult to both the media and discussions," Rabiei said.

Iran on Sunday invited Mike Pompeo to be interviewed by a state television anchor who was once detained in America after the top US diplomat said he was willing to talk to its people.

Iran on Sunday invited Mike Pompeo to be interviewed by a state television anchor who was once detained in America after the top US diplomat said he was willing to talk to its people. Pompeo said Thursday in an interview with Bloomberg that he would "happily" go to Tehran and willingly appear on Iranian television to explain US reasoning behind its sanctions against the Islamic republic. "Our reporter Ms Marzieh Hashemi can go and interview (Pompeo) so that he can say what he intends to say," government spokesman Ali Rabiei said, quoted by official news agency IRNA. Hashemi, a black Muslim convert who was born in the United States, works as an anchor for Iran's English-language channel Press TV. She was arrested in the US in January under a law allowing the detention of people suspected of being potential witnesses in criminal cases. Hashemi, who changed her name from Melanie Franklin after her conversion, was released after being held for 10 days. She later travelled to Iran and has since accused the United States of violence and discrimination against Muslims and black people. Tehran has been at loggerheads with Washington since President Donald Trump pulled the US out of the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran last year and reimposed punishing sanctions which Iran calls "economic terrorism." The standoff has recently escalated with drones shot down and tankers mysteriously attacked in sensitive Gulf waters. In his remarks on Sunday, Rabiei said Pompeo had been "forced" into saying he was ready to appear on Iranian TV because of his counterpart Mohammad Javad Zarif's recent round of interviews with US media. "We do not shy away from hearing what people say, (even though) what they did to our reporters... is an insult to both the media and discussions," Rabiei said.

Iran invites Mike Pompeo for interview by reporter once detained in US

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghanistan's President Ashraf Ghani agreed that it was time to "accelerate efforts" to end the war in Afghanistan, the State Department said on Thursday. Pompeo and Ghani spoke by phone on Wednesday, the State Department said. Pompeo assured Ghani that the United States remains committed to a conditions-based drawdown of troops, according to the State Department. Violence flared in Kabul on Thursday, with two explosions taking place moments after a bus carrying government employees was hit by a blast, killing five people.

Pompeo, Ghani agree to 'accelerate efforts' to end war in Afghanistan: State Department

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Thursday he would "happily" go to Tehran to address <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-have-downed-two-iranian-drones-last-week-general-238041">tensions between the two countries</a> over US sanctions on the &nbsp;Gulf nation.

Pompeo explained in an interview with Bloomberg he would willingly appear on Iranian television to explain US reasoning behind the sanctions.

"I would welcome the chance to speak directly to the Iranian people... about what it is their leadership has done and how it has harmed Iran," he said.

Tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since President Donald Trump pulled the US out of a deal with Iran last year that was aimed at curbing its nuclear program, and imposed punishing sanctions.

The US has said it brought down one and possibly two Iranian drones last week, and has blamed Iran for a series of mysterious attacks on tanker ships in strategic Gulf waters.

Tehran shot down an unmanned US aircraft in June, after which Trump announced that he had called off retaliatory airstrikes at the last minute because the resulting death toll would have been too high.

Iran's top diplomat renewed accusations during a visit to the United Nations last week that the US was using the sanctions to wage "economic terrorism."

Iranians are "subjected to the most brutal form of 'economic terrorism' -- deliberately targeting innocent civilians to achieve illegitimate political objectives," said Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif.

Pompeo brushed the accusations aside Thursday, saying Zarif was no more in charge of the Iranian government than "the man in the moon."

"At the end of the day, this is driven by the ayatollah," said Pompeo.

Watch:&nbsp;US should provide evidence, says Iran Ministry

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He said the US goal is to "create as much stability in the Middle East as we could."

"So we broke out of the deal, we stopped giving them money, we put pressure on the Iranian regime, and we're forcing them to make tough decisions about how they're going to behave," Pompeo said.&nbsp;

"We want change in behaviour from the Iranian leadership so that the Iranian people can ultimately get what it is they deserve."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Thursday he would "happily" go to Tehran to address tensions between the two countries over US sanctions on the Gulf nation.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Thursday he would "happily" go to Tehran to address tensions between the two countries over US sanctions on the Gulf nation. Pompeo explained in an interview with Bloomberg he would willingly appear on Iranian television to explain US reasoning behind the sanctions. "I would welcome the chance to speak directly to the Iranian people... about what it is their leadership has done and how it has harmed Iran," he said. Tensions between Washington and Tehran have soared since President Donald Trump pulled the US out of a deal with Iran last year that was aimed at curbing its nuclear program, and imposed punishing sanctions. The US has said it brought down one and possibly two Iranian drones last week, and has blamed Iran for a series of mysterious attacks on tanker ships in strategic Gulf waters. Tehran shot down an unmanned US aircraft in June, after which Trump announced that he had called off retaliatory airstrikes at the last minute because the resulting death toll would have been too high. Iran's top diplomat renewed accusations during a visit to the United Nations last week that the US was using the sanctions to wage "economic terrorism." Iranians are "subjected to the most brutal form of 'economic terrorism' -- deliberately targeting innocent civilians to achieve illegitimate political objectives," said Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif. Pompeo brushed the accusations aside Thursday, saying Zarif was no more in charge of the Iranian government than "the man in the moon." "At the end of the day, this is driven by the ayatollah," said Pompeo. Watch: US should provide evidence, says Iran Ministry He said the US goal is to "create as much stability in the Middle East as we could." "So we broke out of the deal, we stopped giving them money, we put pressure on the Iranian regime, and we're forcing them to make tough decisions about how they're going to behave," Pompeo said. "We want change in behaviour from the Iranian leadership so that the Iranian people can ultimately get what it is they deserve."

Will happily go to Iran to address tensions with US over sanctions: Pompeo

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-war-like-the-one-going-on-between-us-and-china-foolish-thailand-ambassador-at-wion-world-order-238434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwij9_GHsNLjAhUbHo8KHfTpAw0QFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3q6V_pmXlrHO0FOtaqNfXk">US-China trade war</a> capped gains.

Brent crude futures were up 23 cents at $63.62 per barrel at 0922 GMT, equivalent to a weekly rise of around 1.8%. They fell 6% last week.

US West Texas Intermediate crude was 25 cents higher at $56.27 a barrel, a weekly gain of 1.1%. It fell to 7.5% last week.

Tensions remained high around the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most important oil passageway, as Iran refused to release a British-flagged tanker it seized last week in the Gulf.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington had asked Japan, France, Germany, South Korea, Australia, and other nations to join a maritime security initiative in the Middle East so oil and other products can flow through the strait.

However, oil prices' reaction to the strains in the Gulf has been relatively muted. "It appears that the majority of market participants do not expect a military conflict that would hamper oil shipments," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said.

Prices also drew support from a crude inventory draw in the United States, but gains were limited as the fall appeared to have been largely anticipated. The US production in the Gulf of Mexico was still feeling the effects of Hurricane Barry.

WATCH:&nbsp;Iran-UK tanker tensions: Iran releases 9 crew members

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"Several indicators pointing to a slowdown of global oil demand growth appear to have taken over market sentiment," Jefferies analyst Jason Gammel said.

Reuters polls taken July 1-24 showed the growth outlook for nearly 90% of the more than 45 economies surveyed was downgraded or left unchanged. That applied not just to this year but also in 2020.

"Growing challenges in the macroeconomic environment have kept bullish bets in check as risk appetites remain soft over potential weakness in global fuel demand," said Benjamin Lu, commodities analyst at Singapore-based Phillip Futures.

The slowdown in global manufacturing and trade, and the associated hit to oil consumption, largely stems from a US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year.

Trade talks between the two countries broke down in May after nearing an agreement. Next week, the top US and Chinese negotiators meet for the first time since then. Any positive outcome of the meeting is expected to boost oil prices.

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the US-China trade war capped gains.

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the US-China trade war capped gains. Brent crude futures were up 23 cents at $63.62 per barrel at 0922 GMT, equivalent to a weekly rise of around 1.8%. They fell 6% last week. US West Texas Intermediate crude was 25 cents higher at $56.27 a barrel, a weekly gain of 1.1%. It fell to 7.5% last week. Tensions remained high around the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most important oil passageway, as Iran refused to release a British-flagged tanker it seized last week in the Gulf. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington had asked Japan, France, Germany, South Korea, Australia, and other nations to join a maritime security initiative in the Middle East so oil and other products can flow through the strait. However, oil prices' reaction to the strains in the Gulf has been relatively muted. "It appears that the majority of market participants do not expect a military conflict that would hamper oil shipments," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said. Prices also drew support from a crude inventory draw in the United States, but gains were limited as the fall appeared to have been largely anticipated. The US production in the Gulf of Mexico was still feeling the effects of Hurricane Barry. WATCH: Iran-UK tanker tensions: Iran releases 9 crew members × "Several indicators pointing to a slowdown of global oil demand growth appear to have taken over market sentiment," Jefferies analyst Jason Gammel said. Reuters polls taken July 1-24 showed the growth outlook for nearly 90% of the more than 45 economies surveyed was downgraded or left unchanged. That applied not just to this year but also in 2020. "Growing challenges in the macroeconomic environment have kept bullish bets in check as risk appetites remain soft over potential weakness in global fuel demand," said Benjamin Lu, commodities analyst at Singapore-based Phillip Futures. The slowdown in global manufacturing and trade, and the associated hit to oil consumption, largely stems from a US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year. Trade talks between the two countries broke down in May after nearing an agreement. Next week, the top US and Chinese negotiators meet for the first time since then. Any positive outcome of the meeting is expected to boost oil prices.

Oil prices rise as Iran tensions remain unresolved

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

"Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted.

During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added.

On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said. "Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted. During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added. On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

Mike Pompeo, Ashraf Ghani call for accelerated efforts to end Afghan war

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

"Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted.

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Good conversation with President &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@AshrafGhani&lt;/a&gt; yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Afghanistan&lt;/a&gt;. All parties must lead to move the &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#AfghanPeaceProcess&lt;/a&gt; forward.&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1154462263740456960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;July 25, 2019&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; 
&lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt; 
&nbsp;

During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added.

On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said. "Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Good conversation with President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshrafGhani</a> yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>. All parties must lead to move the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfghanPeaceProcess</a> forward.&mdash; Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1154462263740456960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added. On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/stepping-into-power-britains-johnson-seeks-more-diverse-cabinet-238044">Stepping into power, Britain's Johnson seeks more diverse cabinet</a>

Taking over as Britain's prime minister on Wednesday, Boris Johnson is expected unveil a more diverse top team in a government to be tasked with delivering Brexit by the end of October, with or without a deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-urges-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-to-take-action-against-terrorist-organisations-238060">Mike Pompeo urges Pakistan PM Imran Khan to take action against terrorist organisations</a>

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on Tuesday met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and urged him to take actions to defeat terrorist organisations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/big-tech-faces-broad-us-justice-department-antitrust-probe-238042">Big Tech faces broad US Justice Department antitrust probe</a>

The review will look into "whether and how market-leading online platforms have achieved market power and are engaging in practices that have reduced competition, stifled innovation, or otherwise harmed consumers," the Justice Department said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nike-shoes-race-to-437500-world-record-auction-price-for-sneakers-238057">Nike shoes race to $437,500 world record auction price for sneakers</a>

A pair of 1972 running shoes, one of the first pairs made by Nike Inc, sold for $437,500 on Tuesday, shattering the record for a pair of sneakers at public auction.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/john-oliver-confirms-beyonce-was-photoshopped-in-the-lion-king-cast-picture-238047">John Oliver confirms Beyonce was photoshopped in 'The Lion King' cast picture</a>

Addressing rumours that singer Beyonce had been photoshopped into the cast photo of 'The Lion King', John Oliver, who dubbed Zazu in the film, revealed that indeed she was not there, during a recent appearance on `The Late Show with Stephen Colbert` show.

Stepping into power, Britain's Johnson seeks more diverse cabinet Taking over as Britain's prime minister on Wednesday, Boris Johnson is expected unveil a more diverse top team in a government to be tasked with delivering Brexit by the end of October, with or without a deal.

Stepping into power, Britain's Johnson seeks more diverse cabinet Taking over as Britain's prime minister on Wednesday, Boris Johnson is expected unveil a more diverse top team in a government to be tasked with delivering Brexit by the end of October, with or without a deal. Mike Pompeo urges Pakistan PM Imran Khan to take action against terrorist organisations US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on Tuesday met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and urged him to take actions to defeat terrorist organisations. Big Tech faces broad US Justice Department antitrust probe The review will look into "whether and how market-leading online platforms have achieved market power and are engaging in practices that have reduced competition, stifled innovation, or otherwise harmed consumers," the Justice Department said in a statement. Nike shoes race to $437,500 world record auction price for sneakers A pair of 1972 running shoes, one of the first pairs made by Nike Inc, sold for $437,500 on Tuesday, shattering the record for a pair of sneakers at public auction. John Oliver confirms Beyonce was photoshopped in 'The Lion King' cast picture Addressing rumours that singer Beyonce had been photoshopped into the cast photo of 'The Lion King', John Oliver, who dubbed Zazu in the film, revealed that indeed she was not there, during a recent appearance on `The Late Show with Stephen Colbert` show.

News brief: Big stories of the day

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on Tuesday met Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-meet-the-taliban-and-get-them-to-talk-to-afghan-government-says-imran-khan-at-us-institute-of-peace-238014">Imran Khan</a> and urged him to take actions in order to defeat terrorist organisations.

"Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met today with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. Following up on their September 5, 2018 meeting in Islamabad, Secretary Pompeo emphasised the continued importance of the United States and Pakistan working together to advance shared priorities, including Pakistan's significant role in supporting the Afghan peace process and counterterrorism. Secretary Pompeo welcomed the occasion to discuss opportunities for enhanced cooperation, including expanded trade and investment opportunities," said US State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus.

"The Secretary looked forward to continued progress from Pakistan on shared security priorities, including defeating terrorist organisations, which he hoped would form the basis of a reinvigorated partnership," he added.

Watch: Imran Khan respond to WION on Hafiz Saeed &amp; Pulwama attacks

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Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mehmood and Pakistani envoy Asad Majeed Khan were also present during the meeting.

This comes a day after US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/could-win-afghanistan-war-in-a-week-or-ten-days-but-chose-not-to-do-so-says-donald-trump-in-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-237798">Donald Trump</a> held a meeting with Khan in the White House.

During the meeting, Khan and Trump held a discussion on a wide range of issues including counterterrorism, defence, energy, and trade.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on Tuesday met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and urged him to take actions in order to defeat terrorist organisations. "Secretary Michael R.

US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, on Tuesday met Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and urged him to take actions in order to defeat terrorist organisations. "Secretary Michael R. Pompeo met today with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan. Following up on their September 5, 2018 meeting in Islamabad, Secretary Pompeo emphasised the continued importance of the United States and Pakistan working together to advance shared priorities, including Pakistan's significant role in supporting the Afghan peace process and counterterrorism. Secretary Pompeo welcomed the occasion to discuss opportunities for enhanced cooperation, including expanded trade and investment opportunities," said US State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus. "The Secretary looked forward to continued progress from Pakistan on shared security priorities, including defeating terrorist organisations, which he hoped would form the basis of a reinvigorated partnership," he added. Watch: Imran Khan respond to WION on Hafiz Saeed & Pulwama attacks × Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Foreign Secretary Sohail Mehmood and Pakistani envoy Asad Majeed Khan were also present during the meeting. This comes a day after US President Donald Trump held a meeting with Khan in the White House. During the meeting, Khan and Trump held a discussion on a wide range of issues including counterterrorism, defence, energy, and trade.

Mike Pompeo urges Pakistan PM Imran Khan to take action against terrorist organisations

The United States has sanctioned Chinese state-run energy company Zhuhai Zhenrong Co Ltd for allegedly violating restrictions imposed on Iran's oil sector, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-pleased-to-see-un-designating-jem-chief-masood-azhar-a-global-terrorist-mike-pompeo-230658">US&nbsp;Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> said in a speech on Monday.

"We've said that we will sanction any sanctionable behaviour, and we mean it," Pompeo said in a speech in Florida in which he announced the move.

It comes amid increased tensions between Iran and the West as well as between the United States and China, which have been engaged in a major trade war.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's administration has stepped up its sanctions against Iran after breaking from a nuclear pact brokered between Tehran and other Western nations under the previous administration of President Barack Obama.

In a later statement, Pompeo said Zhuhai Zhenrong "knowingly engaged in a significant transaction for the purchase or acquisition of crude oil from Iran" after the expiration of a US sanctions waiver covering China on May 2.

He said the sanctions blocked all property and interests in property of Zhuhai Zhenrong in the United States and barred its chief executive, Youmin Li, from entry into the country.

"Any entity considering evading our sanctions should take notice of this action today," Pompeo said. "It underscores our commitment to enforcement and to holding the Iranian regime accountable."

China's embassy in Washington rejected the US stance.

"China firmly opposes the US imposition of unilateral sanctions and so-called 'long-arm jurisdiction' on China and other countries invoking its domestic law," a spokesperson said by email.

"We urge the US to immediately correct its wrongdoing and earnestly respect other parties' legal rights and interests."Zhuhai Zhenrong, which specializes mainly in buying Iranian oil and is based in Beijing, was previously sanctioned in 2012 by the Obama administration over its dealings with Iran.

The company became a subsidiary of Macau-based, state-controlled conglomerate Nam Kwong Group in a merger mandated by Beijing in late 2015.

In a brief statement on its website on Tuesday, Nam Kwong said Zhuhai Zhenrong had been "officially spun off" since Sept. 30, 2018. Nam Kwong had "no equity ties, or any business or legal relations" with the oil trader, it said.

A Nam Kwong spokesman declined to comment further.

Analysts at ClearView Energy Partners said Zhuhai Zhenrong is largely disconnected from the Chinese financial system, which would limit the "contagion" of the sanctions to other entities and banking systems. But they said Washington's move was another shot across the bow to demonstrate the Trump administration's stance on Iran.

"We see the shot as being aimed just at China, but also at other potential buyers," such as Turkey and possibly Russia, which could serve as a middleman for brokering oil from Iran to other countries, ClearView said.

The United States reimposed sanctions on Iran in November after pulling out of the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and six world powers.

Last month, the US special representative for Iran, Brian Hook, said Washington would sanction any country that continued to import Iranian oil and warned that it would look at reports of Iranian crude going to China.

According to data from government and trade sources, Asia's crude oil imports from Iran fell in May to the lowest in at least five years after China and India wound down purchases amid US sanctions, while Japan and South Korea halted imports.

The United States has sanctioned Chinese state-run energy company Zhuhai Zhenrong Co Ltd for allegedly violating restrictions imposed on Iran's oil sector, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a speech on Monday.

The United States has sanctioned Chinese state-run energy company Zhuhai Zhenrong Co Ltd for allegedly violating restrictions imposed on Iran's oil sector, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said in a speech on Monday. "We've said that we will sanction any sanctionable behaviour, and we mean it," Pompeo said in a speech in Florida in which he announced the move. It comes amid increased tensions between Iran and the West as well as between the United States and China, which have been engaged in a major trade war. US President Donald Trump's administration has stepped up its sanctions against Iran after breaking from a nuclear pact brokered between Tehran and other Western nations under the previous administration of President Barack Obama. In a later statement, Pompeo said Zhuhai Zhenrong "knowingly engaged in a significant transaction for the purchase or acquisition of crude oil from Iran" after the expiration of a US sanctions waiver covering China on May 2. He said the sanctions blocked all property and interests in property of Zhuhai Zhenrong in the United States and barred its chief executive, Youmin Li, from entry into the country. "Any entity considering evading our sanctions should take notice of this action today," Pompeo said. "It underscores our commitment to enforcement and to holding the Iranian regime accountable." China's embassy in Washington rejected the US stance. "China firmly opposes the US imposition of unilateral sanctions and so-called 'long-arm jurisdiction' on China and other countries invoking its domestic law," a spokesperson said by email. "We urge the US to immediately correct its wrongdoing and earnestly respect other parties' legal rights and interests."Zhuhai Zhenrong, which specializes mainly in buying Iranian oil and is based in Beijing, was previously sanctioned in 2012 by the Obama administration over its dealings with Iran. The company became a subsidiary of Macau-based, state-controlled conglomerate Nam Kwong Group in a merger mandated by Beijing in late 2015. In a brief statement on its website on Tuesday, Nam Kwong said Zhuhai Zhenrong had been "officially spun off" since Sept. 30, 2018. Nam Kwong had "no equity ties, or any business or legal relations" with the oil trader, it said. A Nam Kwong spokesman declined to comment further. Analysts at ClearView Energy Partners said Zhuhai Zhenrong is largely disconnected from the Chinese financial system, which would limit the "contagion" of the sanctions to other entities and banking systems. But they said Washington's move was another shot across the bow to demonstrate the Trump administration's stance on Iran. "We see the shot as being aimed just at China, but also at other potential buyers," such as Turkey and possibly Russia, which could serve as a middleman for brokering oil from Iran to other countries, ClearView said. The United States reimposed sanctions on Iran in November after pulling out of the 2015 nuclear accord between Tehran and six world powers. Last month, the US special representative for Iran, Brian Hook, said Washington would sanction any country that continued to import Iranian oil and warned that it would look at reports of Iranian crude going to China. According to data from government and trade sources, Asia's crude oil imports from Iran fell in May to the lowest in at least five years after China and India wound down purchases amid US sanctions, while Japan and South Korea halted imports.

US sanctions Chinese oil buyer over alleged Iran violations

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-turning-blind-eye-to-human-rights-abuses-in-xinjiang-237376">far northwestern region of Xinjiang</a> is an "inseparable" part of China despite efforts by extremists to distort history and facts in a bid to split the country, the Chinese government said in a document published late on Sunday.

The government said in a white paper published by the State Council Information Office it was wrong to suggest members of Xinjiang's minority Uighur Muslim community were descended from Turks, noting they had become the political tool of pan-Turkic and pan-Islamic groups.

The paper said, "hostile forces in and outside China, especially separatists, religious extremists and terrorists, have tried to split China and break it apart by distorting history and facts".

Beijing has been accused of persecuting Uighurs, with at least a million believed to be detained in what China insists are vocational centres aimed at reducing the spread of Islamist extremism.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mike-pompeo-expresses-disappointment-over-turkeys-acquisition-of-russian-s-400-missiles-237351">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> branded China's treatment of its Uighur minority as the "stain of the century" on Thursday.

The government white paper said Xinjiang has been a part of China since the Han dynasty in the third century and its people and ethnic cultures were formed by a long process of migration and integration.

It also said Islam was not the indigenous or sole belief system of the Uighurs but was imposed by the expansion of the Arab Empire, and that "theocracy" and "religious supremacism" were a betrayal that needed to be opposed.

"Hostile foreign forces and separatist, religious extremist and terrorist forces that have colluded to distort history ... will be cast aside by history and the people," it said.

The far northwestern region of Xinjiang is an "inseparable" part of China despite efforts by extremists to distort history and facts in a bid to split the country, the Chinese government said in a document published late on Sunday.

The far northwestern region of Xinjiang is an "inseparable" part of China despite efforts by extremists to distort history and facts in a bid to split the country, the Chinese government said in a document published late on Sunday. The government said in a white paper published by the State Council Information Office it was wrong to suggest members of Xinjiang's minority Uighur Muslim community were descended from Turks, noting they had become the political tool of pan-Turkic and pan-Islamic groups. The paper said, "hostile forces in and outside China, especially separatists, religious extremists and terrorists, have tried to split China and break it apart by distorting history and facts". Beijing has been accused of persecuting Uighurs, with at least a million believed to be detained in what China insists are vocational centres aimed at reducing the spread of Islamist extremism. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded China's treatment of its Uighur minority as the "stain of the century" on Thursday. The government white paper said Xinjiang has been a part of China since the Han dynasty in the third century and its people and ethnic cultures were formed by a long process of migration and integration. It also said Islam was not the indigenous or sole belief system of the Uighurs but was imposed by the expansion of the Arab Empire, and that "theocracy" and "religious supremacism" were a betrayal that needed to be opposed. "Hostile foreign forces and separatist, religious extremist and terrorist forces that have colluded to distort history ... will be cast aside by history and the people," it said.

China says Xinjiang 'inseparable' despite attempts to distort history

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Turkey's Foreign Minister on Saturday and expressed disappointment over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-hails-s-400-deal-as-turkey-marks-2016-coup-bid-anniversary-236260">country's acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system</a>, the US State Department said in a statement.

Turkey's defence ministry on Friday had said&nbsp;that it has received the first batch of the S-400 Russian missile defence systems which has been a source of tension between Turkey and NATO ally United States.

Washington had opposed Turkey's purchase of the Russian missile defence system and threatened to impose sanctions. Since then, President Donald Trump has been unclear over whether his administration was planning such action.

The US fears that if Ankara integrates the S-400 into its defences, data about the US-built F-35 fighter jet could leak back to the Russians, and Washington has threatened to deny Turkey access to the stealth aircraft.

Members of the US Congress have repeatedly voiced opposition to the move and threatened sanctions.

Several Republican and Democratic US lawmakers on Thursday as well pressed Trump to impose sanctions on Turkey over the purchase.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Turkey's Foreign Minister on Saturday and expressed disappointment over the country's acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system, the US State Department said in a statement.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Turkey's Foreign Minister on Saturday and expressed disappointment over the country's acquisition of the Russian S-400 missile system, the US State Department said in a statement. Turkey's defence ministry on Friday had said that it has received the first batch of the S-400 Russian missile defence systems which has been a source of tension between Turkey and NATO ally United States. Washington had opposed Turkey's purchase of the Russian missile defence system and threatened to impose sanctions. Since then, President Donald Trump has been unclear over whether his administration was planning such action. The US fears that if Ankara integrates the S-400 into its defences, data about the US-built F-35 fighter jet could leak back to the Russians, and Washington has threatened to deny Turkey access to the stealth aircraft. Members of the US Congress have repeatedly voiced opposition to the move and threatened sanctions. Several Republican and Democratic US lawmakers on Thursday as well pressed Trump to impose sanctions on Turkey over the purchase. (With inputs from agencies)

Mike Pompeo expresses disappointment over Turkey's acquisition of Russian S-400 missiles

The US Secretary of State&nbsp;Mike&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;on Thursday called China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority the "stain of the century", reported news agency Reuters

"China is home to one of the worst human rights crises of our time; it is truly the stain of the century,"&nbsp;Pompeo&nbsp;told the final day of the international conference in Washington.

He also accused Beijing of pressuring countries not to attend a US-hosted conference on religious freedom.

Pompeo&nbsp;said Chinese government officials had sought to discourage countries from attending the three-day event he has hosted, attended by 106 countries.

"Is that consistent with the guarantee of religious belief that is found directly in the Chinese constitution?" he asked.

Congratulating countries which had defied Chinese pressure, he said: "If you have declined to attend for the same reason, we take note."

Pompeo&nbsp;did not name any of the countries and a State Department spokesman could not provide a figure.

"We know the Chinese government called countries specifically to discourage participation. We cannot prove the exact number they successfully impacted," he said.

Pompeo's remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump met at the White House with victims of religious persecution from countries including China, Turkey, North Korea, Iran and Myanmar.

The Chinese government on Thursday rejected any suggestion that it abuses religious and human rights.

(With inputs from Reuters)

The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday called China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority the "stain of the century", reported news agency Reuters "China is home to one of the worst human rights crises of our time; it is truly the stain of the century," Pompeo told the final day of the international conference in Washington.

The US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday called China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority the "stain of the century", reported news agency Reuters "China is home to one of the worst human rights crises of our time; it is truly the stain of the century," Pompeo told the final day of the international conference in Washington. He also accused Beijing of pressuring countries not to attend a US-hosted conference on religious freedom. Pompeo said Chinese government officials had sought to discourage countries from attending the three-day event he has hosted, attended by 106 countries. "Is that consistent with the guarantee of religious belief that is found directly in the Chinese constitution?" he asked. Congratulating countries which had defied Chinese pressure, he said: "If you have declined to attend for the same reason, we take note." Pompeo did not name any of the countries and a State Department spokesman could not provide a figure. "We know the Chinese government called countries specifically to discourage participation. We cannot prove the exact number they successfully impacted," he said. Pompeo's remarks came a day after US President Donald Trump met at the White House with victims of religious persecution from countries including China, Turkey, North Korea, Iran and Myanmar. The Chinese government on Thursday rejected any suggestion that it abuses religious and human rights. (With inputs from Reuters)

Pompeo calls China's treatment of Uighurs 'stain of the century'

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday called China's treatment of its Uighur Muslim minority the "stain of the century" and accused Beijing of pressuring countries not to attend a U.S.-hosted conference on religious freedom.

Pompeo calls China's treatment of Uighurs 'stain of the century'

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif warned Monday that the United States is "playing with fire," echoing remarks by President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-declines-to-set-united-states-uranium-production-quotas-235511">Donald Trump</a> as the two sides are locked in a standoff over Tehran's nuclear program.

The United States quit an international deal aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program last year, hitting Tehran with crippling sanctions.

Tensions have since soared, with the US calling off airstrikes against Iran at the last minute after Tehran downed an American drone, and Washington blaming the Islamic republic for a series of attacks on tanker ships.

"I think the United States is playing with fire," Zarif told NBC News.

Iran announced last week that it had <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-uranium-enrichment-passes-45-exceeding-deal-cap-234015">enriched uranium past the 3.67 per cent limit </a>set by the nuclear deal, and has also surpassed the 300-kilogram cap on enriched uranium reserves.

But "it can be reversed within hours," Zarif told the channel, adding,&nbsp;"We are not about to develop nuclear weapons. Had we wanted to develop nuclear weapons, we would have been able to do it (a) a long time ago."

Zarif's comments came as the United States imposed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-visa-to-irans-javad-zarif-for-united-nation-meeting-this-week-sources-236046">unusually harsh restrictions on his movements</a> during a visit to the United Nations.

Weeks after the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-will-defend-itself-against-any-aggression-says-foreign-minister-221768">United States threatened sanctions against Zarif</a>, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Washington issued him a visa but forbade him from moving beyond six blocks of Iran's UN mission in Midtown Manhattan.

"US diplomats don't roam around Tehran, so we don't see any reason for Iranian diplomats to roam freely around New York City, either," Pompeo told The Washington Post.

UN 'concerns'&nbsp;

No US diplomats are based in Iran as the two countries broke off relations in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the Western-backed shah.

"Foreign Minister Zarif, he uses the freedoms of the United States to come here and spread malign propaganda," the top US diplomat said.

UN spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters that the UN Secretariat was in contact with the US and Iranian missions about Zarif's travel restrictions and "has conveyed its concerns to the host country."

The United States, as host of the United Nations, has an agreement to issue visas promptly to foreign diplomats on UN business and only rarely declines.

Washington generally bars diplomats of hostile nations from travelling outside a 40-kilometre (25-mile) radius of New York's Columbus Circle.

Zarif is scheduled to speak Wednesday at the UN Economic and Social Council, which is holding a high-level meeting on sustainable development.

Despite the restrictions, the decision to admit Zarif is the latest sign that Trump's administration appears to be retreating from its vow to place sanctions on him as part of its "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on June 24 that sanctions against Zarif would come later that week.

Critics questioned the legal rationale for targeting Zarif and noted that sanctions would all but end the possibility of dialogue -- which Trump has said is his goal.

Zarif said in an interview with The New York Times he would not be affected by sanctions as he owns no assets outside of Iran.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif warned Monday that the United States is "playing with fire," echoing remarks by President Donald Trump as the two sides are locked in a standoff over Tehran's nuclear program.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif warned Monday that the United States is "playing with fire," echoing remarks by President Donald Trump as the two sides are locked in a standoff over Tehran's nuclear program. The United States quit an international deal aimed at curbing Iran's nuclear program last year, hitting Tehran with crippling sanctions. Tensions have since soared, with the US calling off airstrikes against Iran at the last minute after Tehran downed an American drone, and Washington blaming the Islamic republic for a series of attacks on tanker ships. "I think the United States is playing with fire," Zarif told NBC News. Iran announced last week that it had enriched uranium past the 3.67 per cent limit set by the nuclear deal, and has also surpassed the 300-kilogram cap on enriched uranium reserves. But "it can be reversed within hours," Zarif told the channel, adding, "We are not about to develop nuclear weapons. Had we wanted to develop nuclear weapons, we would have been able to do it (a) a long time ago." Zarif's comments came as the United States imposed unusually harsh restrictions on his movements during a visit to the United Nations. Weeks after the United States threatened sanctions against Zarif, Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said that Washington issued him a visa but forbade him from moving beyond six blocks of Iran's UN mission in Midtown Manhattan. "US diplomats don't roam around Tehran, so we don't see any reason for Iranian diplomats to roam freely around New York City, either," Pompeo told The Washington Post. UN 'concerns' No US diplomats are based in Iran as the two countries broke off relations in the aftermath of the 1979 Islamic revolution that toppled the Western-backed shah. "Foreign Minister Zarif, he uses the freedoms of the United States to come here and spread malign propaganda," the top US diplomat said. UN spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters that the UN Secretariat was in contact with the US and Iranian missions about Zarif's travel restrictions and "has conveyed its concerns to the host country." The United States, as host of the United Nations, has an agreement to issue visas promptly to foreign diplomats on UN business and only rarely declines. Washington generally bars diplomats of hostile nations from travelling outside a 40-kilometre (25-mile) radius of New York's Columbus Circle. Zarif is scheduled to speak Wednesday at the UN Economic and Social Council, which is holding a high-level meeting on sustainable development. Despite the restrictions, the decision to admit Zarif is the latest sign that Trump's administration appears to be retreating from its vow to place sanctions on him as part of its "maximum pressure" campaign on Iran. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on June 24 that sanctions against Zarif would come later that week. Critics questioned the legal rationale for targeting Zarif and noted that sanctions would all but end the possibility of dialogue -- which Trump has said is his goal. Zarif said in an interview with The New York Times he would not be affected by sanctions as he owns no assets outside of Iran.

Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif warns US, says it's 'playing with fire'

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.&nbsp;

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-veto-of-house-defence-bill-over-spending-levels-wall-234525&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj49Ke1q6rjAhUxheYKHd2aDEwQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29-_WQn5bRLvCHPQycTYv8">US trade-preference scheme</a> and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable".

"India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump.

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India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!
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During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry. "On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade-preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable". "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump. India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 9, 2019 × During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India-US trade talks to be held on July 12 in New Delhi

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs.&nbsp;

A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry.

"On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday.

This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit.

The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5.

The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-threatens-veto-of-house-defence-bill-over-spending-levels-wall-234525&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj49Ke1q6rjAhUxheYKHd2aDEwQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw29-_WQn5bRLvCHPQycTYv8">US trade-preference scheme</a> and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries.

On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers.

On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable".

"India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump.

During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them.

Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

India and the United States are to hold talks here on July 12 aimed at resolving the recent trade tensions between the two countries against the backdrop of President Trump's remarks on high Indian trade tariffs. A team of US Trade Representative (USTR) will hold talks with senior officials of the Commerce ministry. "On trade, Foreign Secretary (Vijay Gokhale) did mention in his briefing that the two sides will meet very soon. And I understand that ministry officials from the two sides are going to meet in the next couple of weeks," External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar told the media last Thursday. This would be the first engagement between the two sides on trade issues after the meeting Prime Minister Narendra Modi had with US President Donald Trump in Osaka on the sidelines of the G20 summit. The trade talks between the two countries slowed down after Washington rolled back the privileges that New Delhi was enjoying under their GSP or Generalised System of Preferences programme since June 5. The GSP, implemented since 1974, is the largest and oldest US trade-preference scheme and it allows duty-free imports for thousands of products from designated beneficiary countries. On its part, India had also imposed retaliatory tariffs on 25 American goods, less than two weeks after the Trump administration announced an end to the preferential trade treatment for India over the trade barriers. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump once again attacked New Delhi for imposing high import duties, saying that tariffs are "no longer acceptable". "India has long had a field day putting Tariffs on American products. No longer acceptable!" tweeted Trump. During US State Secretary Mike Pompeo's visit to New Delhi, India and the US had acknowledged there were issues between the two countries on trade and committed themselves to remove differences between them. Speaking to the media after talks with the visiting US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar said both the countries should take "constructive and pragmatic view" on the issues pertaining to trade between them.

Hong Kong media boss and democracy campaigner Jimmy Lai met U.S. Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday to discuss concerns about the former British colony’s autonomy amid widespread protests over legislation that would allow the extradition of alleged criminal suspects to mainland China, their aides said.

A day after Kowloon protest, Jimmy Lai Meets Pence, Pompeo on Hong Kong Issues

Iraqi Prime Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi sought on Monday (July 1) to curb the powers of influential Iranian-backed Shi'ite Muslim militias, a politically risky move apparently aimed at placating the United States.

Iraq PM orders Iran-allied militias to be reined in

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Qatar, officials said, in a fresh attempt to make political headway as the United States seeks a peace deal with the Taliban within three months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-will-keep-strong-intel-presence-in-afghanistan-even-after-troops-withdrawal-donald-trump-232171">President Donald Trump</a> said in an interview broadcast Monday that he wants to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan, but will leave a strong intelligence presence there to counter what he termed the "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-will-keep-strong-intel-presence-in-afghanistan-even-after-troops-withdrawal-donald-trump-232171">Harvard of terrorists</a>."

The Taliban, who on Monday killed six people with a powerful bomb targeted at Afghanistan's defence ministry, has refused to negotiate with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-president-ashraf-ghani-to-visit-pakistan-in-bid-to-step-up-peace-effort-230645">President Ashraf Ghani</a>, and a previous attempt to bring the insurgents together with government officials in Doha collapsed in April in a dispute over attendees.

Germany, a key player in international support for the post-Taliban government, and Qatar, which maintains contacts with the militants, said that they jointly extended invitations for dialogue in Doha on Sunday and Monday.

The Afghans "will participate only in their personal capacity and on an equal footing," Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, said in a statement released Monday by the United States.

"Afghanistan stands at a critical moment of opportunity for progress towards peace," he said.

"An essential component of any process leading to this objective will be direct engagement between Afghans," he said.

The meeting comes after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-weighing-full-range-of-options-to-counter-iran-including-a-military-strike-mike-pompeo-on-iran-227800">US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo</a> paid a previously unannounced visit last week to Kabul where he voiced hope for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1."

The ambitious timeframe would allow a deal before Afghanistan holds elections in September, which Western officials fear could inject a new dose of instability.

Trump wants to pull all US troops from Afghanistan, believing that America's longest war launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks -- no longer makes military or financial sense.

But he said the US will "be leaving very strong intelligence, far more than you would normally think," in an interview with the Fox News Channel's "Tucker Carlson Tonight."

"It just seems to be a lab for terrorists... I call it the Harvard of terrorists," Trump said.

Taliban attack wounds children

The Taliban have refused to halt their violence, believing that they have the upper hand as the United States is eager to leave.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazen-attack-in-kabul-demonstrates-talibans-callous-disregard-for-afghans-us-232196">Monday's bombing </a>was followed by Taliban gunmen storming a nearby building, trigging a gunbattle with special forces.

The bombing and shootout wounded dozens of people, including 50 children, most of whom were hurt by flying glass, officials said.

Save the Children branded the strike "utterly deplorable," warning that "children's smaller bodies sustain more serious injuries than adults" and that the trauma of such attacks can stay with them for years.

The White House condemned the "brazen" attack, saying it "demonstrates the Taliban's callous disregard for their fellow Afghans, who have repeatedly voiced the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict."

But Washington made no move to interrupt its seventh round of talks with the Taliban in Doha that started on Saturday.

"Once the timeline for the withdrawal of foreign forces is set in the presence of international observers, then we will begin the talks to the Afghan sides, but we will not talk to the Kabul administration as a government," tweeted Suhail Shaheen, the spokesman for the Taliban's office in Qatar.

Under a peace deal, the United States plans to pull its roughly 14,000 troops from Afghanistan.

In return, the Taliban would provide assurances that they will never allow their territory to be a base for foreign attacks -- the primary reason for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago.

Zalmay Khalilzad, the US negotiator with the Taliban, said that dialogue among Afghans was an essential part of a peace deal.

"Mutual acceptance, seeking consensus, and agreeing to resolve political differences without force is what is needed to learn from the tragedy of the last 40 years," Khalilzad said, referring to Afghanistan's nearly incessant conflict since the Soviet invasion in 1979.

"I wish participants success," he tweeted.

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Qatar, officials said, in a fresh attempt to make political headway as the United States seeks a peace deal with the Taliban within three months.

Rival Afghans will meet Sunday in Qatar, officials said, in a fresh attempt to make political headway as the United States seeks a peace deal with the Taliban within three months. President Donald Trump said in an interview broadcast Monday that he wants to withdraw US forces from Afghanistan, but will leave a strong intelligence presence there to counter what he termed the "Harvard of terrorists." The Taliban, who on Monday killed six people with a powerful bomb targeted at Afghanistan's defence ministry, has refused to negotiate with President Ashraf Ghani, and a previous attempt to bring the insurgents together with government officials in Doha collapsed in April in a dispute over attendees. Germany, a key player in international support for the post-Taliban government, and Qatar, which maintains contacts with the militants, said that they jointly extended invitations for dialogue in Doha on Sunday and Monday. The Afghans "will participate only in their personal capacity and on an equal footing," Markus Potzel, Germany's special representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, said in a statement released Monday by the United States. "Afghanistan stands at a critical moment of opportunity for progress towards peace," he said. "An essential component of any process leading to this objective will be direct engagement between Afghans," he said. The meeting comes after US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo paid a previously unannounced visit last week to Kabul where he voiced hope for a peace deal with the Taliban "before September 1." The ambitious timeframe would allow a deal before Afghanistan holds elections in September, which Western officials fear could inject a new dose of instability. Trump wants to pull all US troops from Afghanistan, believing that America's longest war launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks -- no longer makes military or financial sense. But he said the US will "be leaving very strong intelligence, far more than you would normally think," in an interview with the Fox News Channel's "Tucker Carlson Tonight." "It just seems to be a lab for terrorists... I call it the Harvard of terrorists," Trump said. Taliban attack wounds children The Taliban have refused to halt their violence, believing that they have the upper hand as the United States is eager to leave. Monday's bombing was followed by Taliban gunmen storming a nearby building, trigging a gunbattle with special forces. The bombing and shootout wounded dozens of people, including 50 children, most of whom were hurt by flying glass, officials said. Save the Children branded the strike "utterly deplorable," warning that "children's smaller bodies sustain more serious injuries than adults" and that the trauma of such attacks can stay with them for years. The White House condemned the "brazen" attack, saying it "demonstrates the Taliban's callous disregard for their fellow Afghans, who have repeatedly voiced the urgency of finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict." But Washington made no move to interrupt its seventh round of talks with the Taliban in Doha that started on Saturday. "Once the timeline for the withdrawal of foreign forces is set in the presence of international observers, then we will begin the talks to the Afghan sides, but we will not talk to the Kabul administration as a government," tweeted Suhail Shaheen, the spokesman for the Taliban's office in Qatar. Under a peace deal, the United States plans to pull its roughly 14,000 troops from Afghanistan. In return, the Taliban would provide assurances that they will never allow their territory to be a base for foreign attacks -- the primary reason for the US invasion nearly 18 years ago. Zalmay Khalilzad, the US negotiator with the Taliban, said that dialogue among Afghans was an essential part of a peace deal. "Mutual acceptance, seeking consensus, and agreeing to resolve political differences without force is what is needed to learn from the tragedy of the last 40 years," Khalilzad said, referring to Afghanistan's nearly incessant conflict since the Soviet invasion in 1979. "I wish participants success," he tweeted.

Fresh bid set to bring Afghans to table for peace deal

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters shortly before departing South Korea on Sunday that a fresh round of talks will likely happen "sometime in July" and the North's negotiators would be foreign ministry diplomats.

Fresh round of US-North Korea talks likely in July: U.S

The Iranian embassy in India reacted to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo's allegation against Iran's role in sponsoring terrorism. Pompeo made the remarks during his India visit earlier this week.

Iran slams Mike Pompeo's remarks against the country's role in sponsoring terrorism

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his American counterpart Mike Pompeo on Wednesday and discussed ways to strengthen the Indo-US strategic partnership.

Pompeo, who arrived here Tuesday night, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secretary-of-state-of-state-mike-pompeo-meets-pm-modi-in-new-delhi-230479">called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> in the morning and discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship.

"Working together to further deepen our strategic partnership. Secretary Pompeo called on PM Narendra Modi to exchange views on various aspects of Indo-US relationship. PM will meet President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Osaka Summit," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted along with pictures of the meeting.

The US Secretary of State's talks with the Indian leadership are the first high-level interaction between the two countries after the return of the Modi government to power last month.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets EAM Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, Ministry Of External Affairs. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a>. <a href="https://t.co/zfulw60phk">pic.twitter.com/zfulw60phk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1143775043018776576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Pompeo's visit comes ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, later this week.

Ahead of the strategically-important India-US talks, diplomatic sources on Tuesday said India meets the US waiver criteria for procuring the S-400 missile defence system from sanctions-hit Russia, and asserted that New Delhi cannot "wish away" its defence ties with Moscow.

The details of the Jaishankar-Pompeo meeting were immediately not known, but India's missile defence system deal with Russia, terrorism, H-1B visas, trade and the situation arising out of US sanctions on buying oil from Iran, were likely to be discussed during the talks.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his American counterpart Mike Pompeo on Wednesday and discussed ways to strengthen the Indo-US strategic partnership. Pompeo, who arrived here Tuesday night, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the morning and discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met his American counterpart Mike Pompeo on Wednesday and discussed ways to strengthen the Indo-US strategic partnership. Pompeo, who arrived here Tuesday night, called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the morning and discussed various aspects of the bilateral relationship. "Working together to further deepen our strategic partnership. Secretary Pompeo called on PM Narendra Modi to exchange views on various aspects of Indo-US relationship. PM will meet President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the upcoming G20 Osaka Summit," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted along with pictures of the meeting. The US Secretary of State's talks with the Indian leadership are the first high-level interaction between the two countries after the return of the Modi government to power last month. #WATCH: US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo meets EAM Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan, Ministry Of External Affairs. #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/zfulw60phk — ANI (@ANI) June 26, 2019 × Pompeo's visit comes ahead of a meeting between US President Donald Trump and Modi on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, later this week. Ahead of the strategically-important India-US talks, diplomatic sources on Tuesday said India meets the US waiver criteria for procuring the S-400 missile defence system from sanctions-hit Russia, and asserted that New Delhi cannot "wish away" its defence ties with Moscow. The details of the Jaishankar-Pompeo meeting were immediately not known, but India's missile defence system deal with Russia, terrorism, H-1B visas, trade and the situation arising out of US sanctions on buying oil from Iran, were likely to be discussed during the talks.

Jaishankar, Pompeo hold talks to strengthen Indo-US strategic partnership

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