The United States said on Wednesday it would require senior Chinese diplomats to get State Department approval before visiting U.S. university campuses or holding cultural events with more than 50 people outside mission grounds.

US announces fresh restrictions on Chinese diplomats

India, Australia, Japan and South Korea are all set to join US to push back Beijing on every front, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said. He said that the entire world is standing against the unfair practices and aggression of China. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-seeking-to-destroy-uighurs-looking-forward-to-your-public-callout-pompeo-hits-out-at-iran-leader-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-324661">China seeking to destroy Uighurs, looking forward to your public callout: Pompeo hits out at Iran leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a> 
 
The US is strengthening pressure on China, heaping on visa boycotts, sanctions and different limitations that are battering the effectively disrupted ties between the world's two biggest economies.

In an interview to Fox News on Tuesday, Pompeo said, "I think you're seeing the entire world begin to unite around the central understanding that the Chinese Communist Party simply is going to refuse to compete in a fair, reciprocal and transparent way."

"So, whether it's our friends in India, our friends in Australia, friends in Japan or South Korea, I think they have all come to see the risk to their own people, to their own countries, and you'll see them partner with the US to push back (China) on every front that we've talked about this evening," he said, responding to a question posed by the host, Lou Dobbs, on India reportedly sending a warship into the South China Sea.

Dobbs said India's act was in response against the clashes on the border with China, and also it appears with some affinity with the US Navy that is in the South China Sea.

Dobbs wanted to know the importance of the US relationship with India in meeting the threat from China.

"It's central that we have friends and allies in this battle. We've worked for two years now to build that out. We've made real progress. You've seen lots of countries turn away from Huawei. You've seen them acknowledge the threat. They slept on this threat the same way America did for two decades," Pompeo said.

Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory.

China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam.

India has been maintaining that the South China Sea is a "part of global commons" and it firmly stands for the freedom of navigation and overflight in these international waterways.

The US had also categorically rejected the territorial claims made by Beijing in the South China Sea, asserting that the "Chinese predatory world view" has no place in the 21st century.

During the interview, Pompeo said America slept while China grew.

"You talked about their missile systems, their military, all the things that have grown the trade issues, all the economic issues that you've talked about on your show for months and months and months now.

"President (Donald) Trump is taking each of these on in a serious way, and I think you see the rhetoric from the Chinese Communist Party ratcheting up because they are feeling the pressure that's being put on them by this administration," he said.

Noting that the ruling Chinese Communist Party made some choices under its General Secretary Xi Jinping, Pompeo said he has made it clear whether it's his military buildup, the diplomatic efforts, the Belt and Road Initiative to try and create vassal states, a tyrannical regime all around the world for global hegemony -- the challenges are different.

President Trump will push back against China on every one of these fronts, he asserted. 
 
(With inputs from PTI)

India, Australia, Japan and South Korea are all set to join US to push back Beijing on every front, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said. He said that the entire world is standing against the unfair practices and aggression of China.

India, Australia, Japan and South Korea are all set to join US to push back Beijing on every front, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has said. He said that the entire world is standing against the unfair practices and aggression of China. China seeking to destroy Uighurs, looking forward to your public callout: Pompeo hits out at Iran leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei The US is strengthening pressure on China, heaping on visa boycotts, sanctions and different limitations that are battering the effectively disrupted ties between the world's two biggest economies. In an interview to Fox News on Tuesday, Pompeo said, "I think you're seeing the entire world begin to unite around the central understanding that the Chinese Communist Party simply is going to refuse to compete in a fair, reciprocal and transparent way." "So, whether it's our friends in India, our friends in Australia, friends in Japan or South Korea, I think they have all come to see the risk to their own people, to their own countries, and you'll see them partner with the US to push back (China) on every front that we've talked about this evening," he said, responding to a question posed by the host, Lou Dobbs, on India reportedly sending a warship into the South China Sea. Dobbs said India's act was in response against the clashes on the border with China, and also it appears with some affinity with the US Navy that is in the South China Sea. Dobbs wanted to know the importance of the US relationship with India in meeting the threat from China. "It's central that we have friends and allies in this battle. We've worked for two years now to build that out. We've made real progress. You've seen lots of countries turn away from Huawei. You've seen them acknowledge the threat. They slept on this threat the same way America did for two decades," Pompeo said. Beijing claims almost all of the 1.3 million square mile South China Sea as its sovereign territory. China has been building military bases on artificial islands in the region also claimed by Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam. India has been maintaining that the South China Sea is a "part of global commons" and it firmly stands for the freedom of navigation and overflight in these international waterways. The US had also categorically rejected the territorial claims made by Beijing in the South China Sea, asserting that the "Chinese predatory world view" has no place in the 21st century. During the interview, Pompeo said America slept while China grew. "You talked about their missile systems, their military, all the things that have grown the trade issues, all the economic issues that you've talked about on your show for months and months and months now. "President (Donald) Trump is taking each of these on in a serious way, and I think you see the rhetoric from the Chinese Communist Party ratcheting up because they are feeling the pressure that's being put on them by this administration," he said. Noting that the ruling Chinese Communist Party made some choices under its General Secretary Xi Jinping, Pompeo said he has made it clear whether it's his military buildup, the diplomatic efforts, the Belt and Road Initiative to try and create vassal states, a tyrannical regime all around the world for global hegemony -- the challenges are different. President Trump will push back against China on every one of these fronts, he asserted. (With inputs from PTI)

Entire world beginning to unite against China, says US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo

9/11 made the US launch its war on terror. Osama Bin Laden and his Al-Qaeda were the top targets. So too were the states which sponsored terrorism. Sudan was one of them.

9/11 made the US launch its war on terror. Osama Bin Laden and his Al-Qaeda were the top targets. So too were the states which sponsored terrorism. Sudan was one of them. Nearly 20 years later, America is easing up on Sudan. Mike Pompeo has become the first US Secretary of State to visit Khartoum in 15 years. So, why is America seeking deeper ties with Sudan? Reason number one: Democracy The pretext under which America usually interferes in countries. America likes to project itself as the promoter of democracy, Sudan fits the bill. Its Islamic dictator, Omar al Bashir, was ousted last year. Now, civilians and military leaders have a power-sharing agreement. In 2022, Sudan will hold its first democratic elections in nearly three decades. Also read: Pompeo addresses RNC for Trump from Jerusalem, sparks criticism The next two years will decide how Sudan will shape up. China and Russia may step in and, encourage authoritarian rule. But, if America moves first Sudan can give an opening in an already fragile neighbourhood. Reason number two: Sanctions For Sudan's democracy to succeed ----- it needs a strong economy. But, Sudan has lived under the US Sanctions for nearly three decades. These sanctions were imposed to stop Bashir from supporting terrorists like Osama bin Laden. Sudan remains on America's list of states that sponsor terrorism. So it cannot turn to international lenders. To remove Sudan from the list US is asking for compensation worth 300 million dollars. For American victims of Al Qaeda attacks on two US embassies in Africa. Sudan had earlier agreed to compensate families of USS Cole bombing. But, the latest request has angered the cash-strapped Sudanese govt. The Trump administration finds itself in a fix ----- as this compensation matter is a legal issue. Reason number three: West Asia Mike Pompeo is jet-setting in the Arab world. From Israel, he came to Sudan and, proceeded to Bahrain, Libya and Oman. He intends to urge Arab states to become friends with Israel ----- like the United Arab Emirates. America thinks such alliances will rattle Iran and, bring stability to the Middle-East. But, Israel is a sensitive issue in Sudan. Under Bashir, Sudan was among the hardline Muslim foes of Israel. The hate for Israel is still strong among the masses. The trouble in the region doesn't end here. Sudan conflicts with Ethiopia and Egypt over the river Nile. America's attempt to mediate has failed and has played a part in handicapping Sudan. Now, it wants to rectify the wrongs of the past. But, diplomacy involves giving and take.

Mike Pompeo's Sudan visit: Why is America seeking deeper ties with African nation?

For two decades, U.S. punished the Sudan for helping Osama Bin Laden. But, things have changed. Democracy has toppled dictatorship. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo visit to Khartoum says it all. Palki Sharma Upadhyay explains how U.S. views the Sudan as a key state in the Arab World.

Gravitas: What Is America Doing In The Sudan?

Melania Trump called for an end to violence and looting “being done in the name of justice," as protests continue to erupted nationwide following the death of African-American George Floyd.

'I urge people to stop violence in the name of justice', says Melania Trump at RNC

While Trump speaks from Washington, D.C., Secretary of State Mike Pompeo speaks from the other side of the world. Pompeo is on a trip to the Middle East but will take time out to speak from Jerusalem.

RNC Day 2: Mike Pompeo speaks from Jerusalem, FLOTUS from White House' Rose Garden

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law.

Speaking in a recorded video from a Jerusalem rooftop during an official trip, Pompeo, a Trump appointee widely believed to harbor presidential aspirations, said the president had exposed the "predatory aggression" of the Chinese Communist Party, while defeating Islamic State militants and lowering the threat from North Korea.

Even before he spoke, critics pounced, saying Pompeo had broken with decades of protocol in using his appointed office for partisan purposes.

The chairman of a Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee announced on Tuesday an investigation into whether Pompeo's appearance broke federal law and regulations.

"The Trump administration and Secretary Pompeo have shown a gross disregard not only of basic ethics, but also a blatant willingness to violate federal law for political gain," Joaquin Castro, head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's oversight subcommittee, said in a statement.

In a letter to Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, Castro said Pompeo's appearance was "highly unusual and likely unprecedented," and "may also be illegal."

A State Department official told a pool reporter traveling with Pompeo that the secretary was appearing in his personal capacity and no State Department personnel or resources were involved.

John Bellinger, the top State Department lawyer under former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, said the agency had long barred senior political appointees from partisan activity, including attending party conventions, even if they might be permitted under the 1939 Hatch Act limiting the political activities of federal employees.

Pompeo's address also appeared to violate his own instructions restating the department's prohibition on political activities - which applies to official and private time - sent to personnel in a July 24 cable reviewed on Monday by Reuters. [nL1N2FQ206]

In his letter to Biegun, Castro wrote that it was "readily apparent" from documents in his panel's possession that Pompeo's appearance may violate the Hatch Act, federal regulations implementing that law and federal rules.

He asked that Biegun answer a series of questions by no later than Sept. 1 and arrange a briefing for lawmakers by the same date.

In his remarks to the Republican convention, Pompeo described what he called Trump's foreign policy successes, including the president's decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and holding talks with North Korean leadership.

"The primary constitutional function of the national government is ensuring that your family – and mine – are safe and enjoy the freedom to live, to work, to learn and to worship as they choose," Pompeo said. 
&nbsp;

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo praised President Donald Trump's foreign policy record in a Republican National Convention speech on Tuesday that Democrats criticized as a breach of protocol and perhaps the law. Speaking in a recorded video from a Jerusalem rooftop during an official trip, Pompeo, a Trump appointee widely believed to harbor presidential aspirations, said the president had exposed the "predatory aggression" of the Chinese Communist Party, while defeating Islamic State militants and lowering the threat from North Korea. Even before he spoke, critics pounced, saying Pompeo had broken with decades of protocol in using his appointed office for partisan purposes. The chairman of a Democratic-led U.S. House of Representatives subcommittee announced on Tuesday an investigation into whether Pompeo's appearance broke federal law and regulations. "The Trump administration and Secretary Pompeo have shown a gross disregard not only of basic ethics, but also a blatant willingness to violate federal law for political gain," Joaquin Castro, head of the House Foreign Affairs Committee's oversight subcommittee, said in a statement. In a letter to Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun, Castro said Pompeo's appearance was "highly unusual and likely unprecedented," and "may also be illegal." A State Department official told a pool reporter traveling with Pompeo that the secretary was appearing in his personal capacity and no State Department personnel or resources were involved. John Bellinger, the top State Department lawyer under former Republican Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, said the agency had long barred senior political appointees from partisan activity, including attending party conventions, even if they might be permitted under the 1939 Hatch Act limiting the political activities of federal employees. Pompeo's address also appeared to violate his own instructions restating the department's prohibition on political activities - which applies to official and private time - sent to personnel in a July 24 cable reviewed on Monday by Reuters. [nL1N2FQ206] In his letter to Biegun, Castro wrote that it was "readily apparent" from documents in his panel's possession that Pompeo's appearance may violate the Hatch Act, federal regulations implementing that law and federal rules. He asked that Biegun answer a series of questions by no later than Sept. 1 and arrange a briefing for lawmakers by the same date. In his remarks to the Republican convention, Pompeo described what he called Trump's foreign policy successes, including the president's decision to move the U.S. Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem and holding talks with North Korean leadership. "The primary constitutional function of the national government is ensuring that your family – and mine – are safe and enjoy the freedom to live, to work, to learn and to worship as they choose," Pompeo said.

Pompeo addresses RNC for Trump from Jerusalem, sparks criticism

After German doctors declared that Russian Opposition leader Alexei Navalny was poisoned, Kremlin today dismissed accusations of Putin's involvement.

Kremlin dismisses Navalny poisoning; US calls for 'full and transparent investigation'

Israel is gearing up for its first commercial flight between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi. The flight, which is expected to happen next week, is further affirmation of Israel’s stance and support of the recent Israel–UAE normalization agreement

UAE becomes third Arab nation to forge ties with Israel

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will speak to the Republican National Convention this week. Despite having told U.S. diplomats that presidential and political appointees may not take part in any such political activity.

Republican National Convention: Mike Pompeo to address the event this week violating his own orders

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu have delivered joint remarks after their meeting in Jerusalem.

Mike Pompeo, Benjamin Netanyahu hail Israel-UAE deal

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday said he is hopeful other Arab countries would join the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish diplomatic relations with Israel as he began his trip to the Middle East on Monday.

"I am hopeful that we will see other Arab nations join in this," Pompeo said, reported news agency Associated Press, as he addressed a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-kushner-to-travel-to-mideast-as-us-pushes-for-arab-israel-peace-322463">Pompeo, Kushner to travel to Mideast as US pushes for Arab-Israel peace</a>

"The opportunity for them to work alongside, to recognise the state of Israel and to work alongside them will not only increase Middle East stability, but it will improve the lives for the people of their own countries as well."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-sale-of-f-35s-to-uae-threatens-israel-peace-agreement-322003">Why sale of F-35s to UAE threatens Israel peace agreement</a>

This is Pompeo's first visit to the region post the historic August 13 peace agreement between Israel and UAE, &nbsp;brokered by the US.&nbsp;

The deal established diplomatic ties between Israel and the UAE and has asked Israel to freeze its plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank demanded by the Palestinians.&nbsp;

The US secretary of state will also meet Netanyahu's former rival and current Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi.

After Israel, Pompeo will visit Sudan, the UAE and Bahrain, where he will push Washington's agenda of establishing ties with Israel.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday said he is hopeful other Arab countries would join the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish diplomatic relations with Israel as he began his trip to the Middle East on Monday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Monday said he is hopeful other Arab countries would join the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to establish diplomatic relations with Israel as he began his trip to the Middle East on Monday. "I am hopeful that we will see other Arab nations join in this," Pompeo said, reported news agency Associated Press, as he addressed a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. Also read | Pompeo, Kushner to travel to Mideast as US pushes for Arab-Israel peace "The opportunity for them to work alongside, to recognise the state of Israel and to work alongside them will not only increase Middle East stability, but it will improve the lives for the people of their own countries as well." Also read | Why sale of F-35s to UAE threatens Israel peace agreement This is Pompeo's first visit to the region post the historic August 13 peace agreement between Israel and UAE, brokered by the US. The deal established diplomatic ties between Israel and the UAE and has asked Israel to freeze its plans to annex parts of the occupied West Bank demanded by the Palestinians. The US secretary of state will also meet Netanyahu's former rival and current Defence Minister Benny Gantz and Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi. After Israel, Pompeo will visit Sudan, the UAE and Bahrain, where he will push Washington's agenda of establishing ties with Israel.

Mike Pompeo kicks off Middle East visit, hopeful Arab nations will establish ties with Israel

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and President Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner plan to make separate, multiple-nation visits to the region in the coming days.

Pompeo is expected to depart on Sunday for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Sudan, according to the diplomats.

Kushner plans to leave later in the week for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, the diplomats said.

Neither trip is expected to result in announcements of immediate breakthrough, although both are aimed at finalising at least one, and potentially more, normalisation deals with Israel in the near future.

Pompeo also plans to meet in Qatar with members of the Talban to discuss intra-Afghan peace talks that are key to the withdrawal of remaining US Forces in Afghanistan.

Israel and the United Arab Emirates announced on August 13 they would establish full diplomatic relations, in a US-brokered deal that required Israel to halt its contentious plan to annex occupied West Bank land sought by the Palestinians.

The historic agreement delivered a key foreign policy victory to Trump as he seeks reelection in November.

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations.

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and President Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner plan to make separate, multiple-nation visits to the region in the coming days. Pompeo is expected to depart on Sunday for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Sudan, according to the diplomats. Kushner plans to leave later in the week for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, the diplomats said. Neither trip is expected to result in announcements of immediate breakthrough, although both are aimed at finalising at least one, and potentially more, normalisation deals with Israel in the near future. Pompeo also plans to meet in Qatar with members of the Talban to discuss intra-Afghan peace talks that are key to the withdrawal of remaining US Forces in Afghanistan. Israel and the United Arab Emirates announced on August 13 they would establish full diplomatic relations, in a US-brokered deal that required Israel to halt its contentious plan to annex occupied West Bank land sought by the Palestinians. The historic agreement delivered a key foreign policy victory to Trump as he seeks reelection in November.

Pompeo, Kushner to travel to Mideast as US pushes for Arab-Israel peace

Sudan's government officials said on Sunday that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit the African country in coming days. Also read: Trump's sister calls him 'cruel' in audio recorded by niece, says report Since overthrowing its former leader Omar al-Bashir in April 2019, Sudan has been trying to improve its ties with the United States.

Sudan's government officials said on Sunday that US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit the African country in coming days. Also read: Trump's sister calls him 'cruel' in audio recorded by niece, says report Since overthrowing its former leader Omar al-Bashir in April 2019, Sudan has been trying to improve its ties with the United States. However, the African country still seeks removal from a list of countries the US considers as state sponsors of terrorism. Mike Pompeo is due to visit Israel and the United Arab Emirates on Monday and Tuesday following a peace accord between the two countries this month to forge full relations. Also read: 'America loves India': Trump campaign releases commercial for Indian-Americans The Sudanese official who chose to stay anonymous refused to give details of Pompeo's visit. Sudan's transitional military-civilian ruling council and the government of technocrats have kept ending terrorism listing as its top priority. Sudan has been listed since 1993 that makes the country, struggling with a deep economic crisis, technically ineligible for debt relief and financing from international lenders. According to a senior government source, significant progress was expected on the issue in the coming weeks. In February, the head of Sudan's ruling council met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu but cast doubt on any rapid normalisation of ties. Sudan sacked its foreign ministry spokesman this week after he called the UAE's decision to become the third Arab country to normalise relations with Israel "a brave and bold step". (Inputs from Reuters)

Mike Pompeo to visit Sudan in coming days: Sudanese government officials

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Israel on Monday and the United Arab Emirates a day later to discuss the countries’ normalisation deal

Jared Kushner, Mike Pompeo to visit Middle-East after Israel-UAE deal

The United States of America has officially asked the UNSC to reimpose sanctions, including an arms embargo on Iran. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo submitted a letter to the UNSC president arguing that Iran had violated the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement.

US-Iran tensions: Mike Pompeo writes to UNSC president to reimpose sanctions on Iran

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day.

"We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said.

The prime pinister also paid tribute to the armed forces and soldiers who&nbsp;died fighting for the nation.

Leaders from across the world posted congratulatory messages on the social media, wishing India on its 74th Independence Day.

First in the list was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He said Washington and New Delhi share close bond of friendship and democratic traditions.

"On behalf of the government of the United States of America and the American people, I extend greetings and best wishes to the people of India on your Independence Day," Pompeo said in his India Independence Day greetings message on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-secy-of-state-greets-india-on-independence-day-says-its-americas-friend-320634">Read |&nbsp;US Secy of State greets India on Independence Day, says it's America's friend</a>

Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison took to Twitter to wish his Indian counterpart and people of India on their 74th Independence Day.

He wrote, "Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!"

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Warm wishes to <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!
— Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottMorrisonMP/status/1294497163582439424?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Russia President Vladimir Putin said the success achieved by India in economic, social and other spheres is widely acknowledged.

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The Congratulatory Message of the President of the Russian Federation on the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaIndependenceDay</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59">https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59</a> <a href="https://t.co/MjgO6Fvk77">pic.twitter.com/MjgO6Fvk77</a>
— Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1294509958843621382?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Wiedong also tweeted. He said, "Congratulations to the Indian government &amp; people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China &amp; #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership."

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Congratulations to the Indian government &amp; people on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2020</a>. Wish <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/China?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#China</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a>, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership.
— Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/China_Amb_India/status/1294518990883049472?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has managed to invite the wrath of Indians by claiming Lord Rama was born in his country, was among the first ones to pour in best wishes for India.

He tweeted, "Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. &nbsp;Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India."

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Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India.
— K P Sharma Oli (@kpsharmaoli) <a href="https://twitter.com/kpsharmaoli/status/1294457891005575169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Former deputy prime minister of Nepal Kamal Thapa also wished India.

"Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India," he wrote.

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Congratulations to Hon. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India.
— Kamal Thapa (@KTnepal) <a href="https://twitter.com/KTnepal/status/1294450720934998016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said, "I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi &amp; the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom &amp; independence of our nations. People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best !"

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I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> &amp; the people of India on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/74thIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#74thIndependenceDay</a>. 
 
In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom &amp; independence of our nations 
 
People of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LKA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LKA</a> joins me in wishing you the very best ! <a href="https://t.co/ojsDOU7sCg">pic.twitter.com/ojsDOU7sCg</a>
— Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) <a href="https://twitter.com/GotabayaR/status/1294517053030891523?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Tandi Dorji,&nbsp;Minister for Foreign Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan, also tweeted.

He said, "I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength."

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I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyIndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyIndependenceDay</a>. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength.
— ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/FMBhutan/status/1294466033604890627?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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US Ambassador to India Ken Juster also congratulated India.

"On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDost," he wrote.

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On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a>! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndiaDosti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndiaDosti</a> <a href="https://t.co/tnwBTLzEZI">pic.twitter.com/tnwBTLzEZI</a>
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1294476408417386496?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Chargé d'Affaires for&nbsp;Afghanistan in India, Tahir Qadiry tweeted, "Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid &amp; very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick &amp; thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक"

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Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a>. India has been a vital, veracious, solid &amp; very significant ally of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> through thick &amp; thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक 🇦🇫|🇮🇳 <a href="https://t.co/plsfLvnd0j">pic.twitter.com/plsfLvnd0j</a>
— Tahir Qadiry طاهر قادرى (@tahirqadiry) <a href="https://twitter.com/tahirqadiry/status/1294479893812527104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Dr Ron Malka, Ambassador of Israel to India, posted, "From all of us in @Israel Flag of Israel &amp; @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 Flag of India Jai Hind!"

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From all of us in <a href="https://twitter.com/Israel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Israel</a> 🇮🇱 &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelinIndia</a>, I wish India a very <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HappyIndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HappyIndependenceDay2020</a> 🇮🇳 Jai Hind! 🙏 <a href="https://t.co/uQjAwv0gkL">pic.twitter.com/uQjAwv0gkL</a>
— Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrRonMalka/status/1294492264643743744?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Barry O’Farrell, Australia's High Commissioner to India, tweeted, "Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020"

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Happy Independence Day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/15August2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#15August2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/z42O8sVWo3">pic.twitter.com/z42O8sVWo3</a>
— Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AusHCIndia/status/1294481821623697409?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Israel President Reuven Rivlin also congratulated India.

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Congratulatory message from the President of the State of Israel HE <a href="https://twitter.com/PresidentRuvi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PresidentRuvi</a> on India's 74th Independence Day. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AatmaNirbharBharat?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AatmaNirbharBharat</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDayIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDayIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@rashtrapatibhvn</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIB_India?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIB_India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelMFA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelMFA</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IsraelinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IsraelinIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/CjSH14ABmc">pic.twitter.com/CjSH14ABmc</a>
— India in Israel (@indemtel) <a href="https://twitter.com/indemtel/status/1294506110121136128?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia also wished India and its citizens.

"Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar &amp; colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow &amp; @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia" it wrote.

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🤝🇷🇺🇮🇳Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> &amp; colleagues at <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianDiplomacy</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/IndEmbMoscow?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndEmbMoscow</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/cgivladivostok?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@cgivladivostok</a> on Independence Day! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndependenceDay2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndependenceDay2020</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Russia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Russia</a> <a href="https://t.co/14iq9VTr14">pic.twitter.com/14iq9VTr14</a>
— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) <a href="https://twitter.com/mfa_russia/status/1294532507011026949?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday paid tribute to corona warriors -- those at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus pandemic -- as he delivered his seventh consecutive address to the nation on India's 74th Independence Day. "We are passing through strange times. Today, I don't see children here at the Red Fort because of the pandemic we are facing. On behalf of the entire nation, I want to thank the efforts of all corona-warriors. All those healthcare workers, doctors and nurses, who have worked tirelessly to serve the nation," he said. The prime pinister also paid tribute to the armed forces and soldiers who died fighting for the nation. Leaders from across the world posted congratulatory messages on the social media, wishing India on its 74th Independence Day. First in the list was US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. He said Washington and New Delhi share close bond of friendship and democratic traditions. "On behalf of the government of the United States of America and the American people, I extend greetings and best wishes to the people of India on your Independence Day," Pompeo said in his India Independence Day greetings message on Friday. Read | US Secy of State greets India on Independence Day, says it's America's friend Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison took to Twitter to wish his Indian counterpart and people of India on their 74th Independence Day. He wrote, "Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day!" Warm wishes to @narendramodi and the people of India on their Independence Day. The deep friendship and partnership between Australia and India is founded on bharosa (trust), samman (respect) and shared values. Happy Independence Day! — Scott Morrison (@ScottMorrisonMP) August 15, 2020 × Russia President Vladimir Putin said the success achieved by India in economic, social and other spheres is widely acknowledged. The Congratulatory Message of the President of the Russian Federation on the occasion of #IndiaIndependenceDay ➡️ https://t.co/2Iv0MiqT59 pic.twitter.com/MjgO6Fvk77 — Russia in India (@RusEmbIndia) August 15, 2020 × Chinese Ambassador to India Sun Wiedong also tweeted. He said, "Congratulations to the Indian government & people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China & #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership." Congratulations to the Indian government & people on #IndependenceDay2020. Wish #China & #India, two great nations with ancient civilization prosper together in peace and develop with closer partnership. — Sun Weidong (@China_Amb_India) August 15, 2020 × Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, who has managed to invite the wrath of Indians by claiming Lord Rama was born in his country, was among the first ones to pour in best wishes for India. He tweeted, "Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India." Congratulations and greetings to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi ji, the Government and people of India on the happy occasion of the 74th Independence Day. Best wishes for more progress and prosperity of the people of India. — K P Sharma Oli (@kpsharmaoli) August 15, 2020 × Former deputy prime minister of Nepal Kamal Thapa also wished India. "Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India," he wrote. Congratulations to Hon. @narendramodi n all Indian friends on the happy occasion of 74th Independence Day of India. — Kamal Thapa (@KTnepal) August 15, 2020 × Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa said, "I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi & the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom & independence of our nations. People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best !" I extend my warmest congratulations to PM Shri @narendramodi & the people of India on #74thIndependenceDay. In these challenging times, it is even more important to cherish the freedom & independence of our nations People of #LKA joins me in wishing you the very best ! pic.twitter.com/ojsDOU7sCg — Gotabaya Rajapaksa (@GotabayaR) August 15, 2020 × Tandi Dorji, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Royal Government of Bhutan, also tweeted. He said, "I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength." I take this privilege to wish every Indians, a very #HappyIndependenceDay. I pray for your great country to grow from strength to strength. — ForeignMinisterBhutan (@FMBhutan) August 15, 2020 × US Ambassador to India Ken Juster also congratulated India. "On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDost," he wrote. On behalf of the U.S. Mission, we wish everyone in India a healthy and happy #IndependenceDay! #USIndiaDosti pic.twitter.com/tnwBTLzEZI — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) August 15, 2020 × Chargé d'Affaires for Afghanistan in India, Tahir Qadiry tweeted, "Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid & very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick & thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक" Sending the great Indian nation the best of salutations for the 74th #IndependenceDayIndia. India has been a vital, veracious, solid & very significant ally of #Afghanistan through thick & thin. We’ll strive to further strengthen our everlasting bilateral ties. आजादी मुबारक 🇦🇫|🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/plsfLvnd0j — Tahir Qadiry طاهر قادرى (@tahirqadiry) August 15, 2020 × Dr Ron Malka, Ambassador of Israel to India, posted, "From all of us in @Israel Flag of Israel & @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 Flag of India Jai Hind!" From all of us in @Israel 🇮🇱 & @IsraelinIndia, I wish India a very #HappyIndependenceDay2020 🇮🇳 Jai Hind! 🙏 pic.twitter.com/uQjAwv0gkL — Ron Malka 🇮🇱 (@DrRonMalka) August 15, 2020 × Barry O’Farrell, Australia's High Commissioner to India, tweeted, "Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020" Happy Independence Day! #IndependenceDayIndia #15August2020 pic.twitter.com/z42O8sVWo3 — Barry O’Farrell AO (@AusHCIndia) August 15, 2020 × Israel President Reuven Rivlin also congratulated India. Congratulatory message from the President of the State of Israel HE @PresidentRuvi on India's 74th Independence Day. #AatmaNirbharBharat #IndependenceDayIndia @rashtrapatibhvn @PMOIndia @MEAIndia @IndianDiplomacy @PIB_India @IsraelMFA @IsraelinIndia pic.twitter.com/CjSH14ABmc — India in Israel (@indemtel) August 15, 2020 × Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia also wished India and its citizens. "Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar & colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow & @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia" it wrote. 🤝🇷🇺🇮🇳Our sincere congratulations to the people of India, @narendramodi, @PMOIndia, @DrSJaishankar & colleagues at @IndianDiplomacy, @IndEmbMoscow & @cgivladivostok on Independence Day! #IndependenceDay #IndependenceDay2020 #India #Russia pic.twitter.com/14iq9VTr14 — MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) August 15, 2020 × The Independence Day function, this year, is relatively muted in terms of participation of people in view of the coronavirus pandemic.

World leaders, diplomats wish India on its 74th Independence Day

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that his country will do&nbsp;everything in its power to extend the international arms embargo on Iran under discussion at the United Nations.

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The Trump Administration remains committed to bringing home all U.S. citizens held hostage or wrongfully detained overseas. Austin Tice’s release and return home are long, long overdue. We will do our utmost to achieve that goal.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1294255012932136960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The U.N. Security Council has started voting on a US&nbsp;bid to renew the embargo, expiring in mid-October. Veto-powers Russia and China are opposed, and results are due within hours.

Visiting Austria as part of a tour of central Europe, Pompeo said Iran must also provide full and immediate cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) nuclear watchdog, whose head he met in Vienna.

"It makes no sense to permit the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism to purchase and sell weapons systems," Pompeo told a news conference. "I mean, that's just nuts."

Iran denies promoting terrorism.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-ships-or-cargoes-have-been-seized-by-us-says-iranian-official-320486" hreflang="en">No ships or cargoes have been seized by US, says Iranian official</a>

Pompeo said Washington would "do everything that we can within our diplomatic toolset to ensure that arms embargo doesn't expire".

"The voting will be in the next handful of hours and we are hoping that we will be successful. When we see the results, we will make the decision about how to move forward.

"We have been unambiguous about the fact we have no intention of allowing this arms embargo to expire. None whatsoever."

The embargo is set to end mid-October under Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which US&nbsp;President Donald Trump's administration quit in 2018.

IAEA head Rafael Grossi, whose agency is policing Iran's nuclear deal with major powers, told reporters after meeting Pompeo that talks with Tehran on full access to all sites continued.

"We have requested Iran to grant access. That hasn't happened yet. We are working on that," he said.

"Our objective is to get access to continue the verification work which is essential for the international community."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that his country will do everything in its power to extend the international arms embargo on Iran under discussion at the United Nations.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday that his country will do everything in its power to extend the international arms embargo on Iran under discussion at the United Nations. The Trump Administration remains committed to bringing home all U.S. citizens held hostage or wrongfully detained overseas. Austin Tice’s release and return home are long, long overdue. We will do our utmost to achieve that goal. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) August 14, 2020 × The U.N. Security Council has started voting on a US bid to renew the embargo, expiring in mid-October. Veto-powers Russia and China are opposed, and results are due within hours. Visiting Austria as part of a tour of central Europe, Pompeo said Iran must also provide full and immediate cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) nuclear watchdog, whose head he met in Vienna. "It makes no sense to permit the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism to purchase and sell weapons systems," Pompeo told a news conference. "I mean, that's just nuts." Iran denies promoting terrorism. Also read: No ships or cargoes have been seized by US, says Iranian official Pompeo said Washington would "do everything that we can within our diplomatic toolset to ensure that arms embargo doesn't expire". "The voting will be in the next handful of hours and we are hoping that we will be successful. When we see the results, we will make the decision about how to move forward. "We have been unambiguous about the fact we have no intention of allowing this arms embargo to expire. None whatsoever." The embargo is set to end mid-October under Tehran's 2015 nuclear deal with world powers, which US President Donald Trump's administration quit in 2018. IAEA head Rafael Grossi, whose agency is policing Iran's nuclear deal with major powers, told reporters after meeting Pompeo that talks with Tehran on full access to all sites continued. "We have requested Iran to grant access. That hasn't happened yet. We are working on that," he said. "Our objective is to get access to continue the verification work which is essential for the international community."

US will do 'everything in its power' to extend Iran arms embargo, says Pompeo

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo is in the Czech Republic and he has lashed out at China's Communist Party as well as the TikTok's platforms misuse. Watch report.

Pompeo in Czech Republic: Raises concern over Chinese tech, Slams Communist Party

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has warned Russia and said that Russia would pay an enormous price if they were offering bounties to kill US soldiers.

Pompeo warns Russia against bounties on US soldiers

The US State Department has issued a report saying the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo did not break any rules by conducting an arms sales with Saudi Arabia.

A final report was issued on Monday by the US State Department. The report was concluded by the State Department's&nbsp;Acting Inspector General&nbsp;Diana Shaw.

The report investigated Pompeo's actions of declaring a "national emergency" to justify a $8 billion in military sales to the Gulf Arab states, especially Saudi Arabia, despite congressional objections.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pompeo-urges-key-afghan-gathering-to-free-taliban-prisoners-318770">Also read:&nbsp;Pompeo urges key Afghan gathering to free Taliban prisoners</a>

The Inspector General, who has followed several others in this position, has declared that there was no wrong-doing in Pompeo's decision — a decision the Trump administration wanted to hear.

Earlier in May,&nbsp;then-Inspector General Steve Linick was abruptly fired by US President Donald Trump while he was investigating Pompeo.

Linick was&nbsp;was succeeded by Stephen Akard, who resigned from his post last week after recusing himself from the arms sales investigation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-to-discuss-us-iran-arms-embargo-push-next-week-318982">Also read:&nbsp;UN to discuss US Iran arms embargo push next week</a>

The investigation then fell on&nbsp;&nbsp;Diana Shaw, who was Stephen's Akard's Deputy, and is now serving as the Acting Inspector General.

Linick and Akard are not the only ones who have had to leave their post mid-term. The frequent change in the position of Inspector general has raised concerns for the Democrats, and even some of the Republican colleagues of the President.

Representative Eliot Engel, the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee said he is worried that the report was discussed internally before being released publically.

"The people briefing the press were the subjects of the IG’s probe, not the report’s authors. This obvious pre-spin of the findings reeks of an attempt to distract and mislead," Engel said.

While Pompeo has been declared non-guilty, the focus now is on the investigation of Linick's abrupt termination from his role as an IG.

The US State Department has issued a report saying the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo did not break any rules by conducting an arms sales with Saudi Arabia. A final report was issued on Monday by the US State Department.

The US State Department has issued a report saying the Secretary of State Mike Pompeo did not break any rules by conducting an arms sales with Saudi Arabia. A final report was issued on Monday by the US State Department. The report was concluded by the State Department's Acting Inspector General Diana Shaw. The report investigated Pompeo's actions of declaring a "national emergency" to justify a $8 billion in military sales to the Gulf Arab states, especially Saudi Arabia, despite congressional objections. Also read: Pompeo urges key Afghan gathering to free Taliban prisoners The Inspector General, who has followed several others in this position, has declared that there was no wrong-doing in Pompeo's decision — a decision the Trump administration wanted to hear. Earlier in May, then-Inspector General Steve Linick was abruptly fired by US President Donald Trump while he was investigating Pompeo. Linick was was succeeded by Stephen Akard, who resigned from his post last week after recusing himself from the arms sales investigation. Also read: UN to discuss US Iran arms embargo push next week The investigation then fell on Diana Shaw, who was Stephen's Akard's Deputy, and is now serving as the Acting Inspector General. Linick and Akard are not the only ones who have had to leave their post mid-term. The frequent change in the position of Inspector general has raised concerns for the Democrats, and even some of the Republican colleagues of the President. Representative Eliot Engel, the Democratic chairman of the House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee said he is worried that the report was discussed internally before being released publically. "The people briefing the press were the subjects of the IG’s probe, not the report’s authors. This obvious pre-spin of the findings reeks of an attempt to distract and mislead," Engel said. While Pompeo has been declared non-guilty, the focus now is on the investigation of Linick's abrupt termination from his role as an IG.

Pompeo did not break law by selling arms to Saudi, concludes US IG

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday.

"Secretary Pompeo and Minister Qureshi discussed a range of issues, including the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process and the importance of efforts to support regional stability," said Cale Brown, State Department's Principal Deputy Spokesperson.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-forced-to-pay-back-saudi-usd-1-billion-319037">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan forced to pay back Saudi USD 1 billion</a>

Pompeo's telephonic talks with Qureshi came a day after the Secretary of State spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a range of issues.

The two leaders spoke over phone on Thursday and reiterated the strength of the India-US relationship to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe, Brown said on Thursday.

During the phone call, Jaishankar and Pompeo discussed the ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation on the issues of international concern, including efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, support the peace process in Afghanistan, and address the recent destabilising actions in the region, Brown said in a readout of the telephonic conversation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistans-failed-judicial-system-fails-14-year-old-christian-girl-318946">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan's failed judicial system fails 14-year-old Christian girl</a>

In Islamabad, the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement that Qureshi and Pompeo discussed bilateral relations, and developments in the region with a view to promoting peace, prosperity and stability. 
Qureshi said he discussed the Kashmir issue with Pompeo.

Reviewing the recent developments in Afghanistan, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's steadfast commitment to supporting all efforts for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement.

He stressed that the Afghan peace process should be pursued in all earnest. Noting the holding of Loya Jirga, he expressed the hope that a conducive environment would be created for the earliest convening of the intra-Afghan negotiations.

Stressing the importance of the Pakistan-US Relationship, the Foreign Minister stated that the leadership of both countries was committed to further strengthen it. He added that Pakistan would be a partner for peace with the US. 
Exchanging notes on the COVID-19 pandemic, Foreign Minister thanked Secretary Pompeo for the US support and assistance.

The talks between Pompeo and Qureshi also come after Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad travelled to Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan in June as part of his sustained effort to bring peace in the war-torn country.

The Taliban has kept up violence against Afghan government forces.

An agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February in Doha drew up plans for withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the insurgent group.

As part of the Doha deal, the US has committed to withdraw its 12,000 troops within 14 months. Troops have since been reduced by over a quarter, according to a recent report on Afghanistan published by the Congressional Research Service.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo spoke with Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi over phone and the two leaders discussed the Afghan peace process and regional stability, his spokesperson said on Friday. "Secretary Pompeo and Minister Qureshi discussed a range of issues, including the importance of US-Pakistan cooperation on the Afghan peace process and the importance of efforts to support regional stability," said Cale Brown, State Department's Principal Deputy Spokesperson. Also read: Pakistan forced to pay back Saudi USD 1 billion Pompeo's telephonic talks with Qureshi came a day after the Secretary of State spoke to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a range of issues. The two leaders spoke over phone on Thursday and reiterated the strength of the India-US relationship to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific region and around the globe, Brown said on Thursday. During the phone call, Jaishankar and Pompeo discussed the ongoing bilateral and multilateral cooperation on the issues of international concern, including efforts to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, support the peace process in Afghanistan, and address the recent destabilising actions in the region, Brown said in a readout of the telephonic conversation. Also read: Pakistan's failed judicial system fails 14-year-old Christian girl In Islamabad, the Pakistan Foreign Office said in a statement that Qureshi and Pompeo discussed bilateral relations, and developments in the region with a view to promoting peace, prosperity and stability. Qureshi said he discussed the Kashmir issue with Pompeo. Reviewing the recent developments in Afghanistan, Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's steadfast commitment to supporting all efforts for an inclusive and comprehensive political settlement. He stressed that the Afghan peace process should be pursued in all earnest. Noting the holding of Loya Jirga, he expressed the hope that a conducive environment would be created for the earliest convening of the intra-Afghan negotiations. Stressing the importance of the Pakistan-US Relationship, the Foreign Minister stated that the leadership of both countries was committed to further strengthen it. He added that Pakistan would be a partner for peace with the US. Exchanging notes on the COVID-19 pandemic, Foreign Minister thanked Secretary Pompeo for the US support and assistance. The talks between Pompeo and Qureshi also come after Special US Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad travelled to Qatar, Pakistan and Uzbekistan in June as part of his sustained effort to bring peace in the war-torn country. The Taliban has kept up violence against Afghan government forces. An agreement signed between the US and the Taliban in February in Doha drew up plans for withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan in exchange for security guarantees from the insurgent group. As part of the Doha deal, the US has committed to withdraw its 12,000 troops within 14 months. Troops have since been reduced by over a quarter, according to a recent report on Afghanistan published by the Congressional Research Service.

Pompeo speaks with Pak foreign minister on Afghanistan and regional stability

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call&nbsp;to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than&nbsp;850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally.

The two leaders discussed about the combined and coordinated efforts by India and the US. Mike Pompeo focused on the importance of close cooperation between the US, India and their mutual allies to overcome this global crisis, according to Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson of the US State Department.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> about the importance of the U.S.-India partnership to advance international peace and prosperity. We look forward to the Quadrilateral consultation and the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial.<a href="https://t.co/KMIBwklu83">https://t.co/KMIBwklu83</a>
— Cale Brown (@StateDeputySPOX) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeputySPOX/status/1291440598491320327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pompeo also added that&nbsp;US' unwavering commitment to work with India to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, the spokesperson said in a readout of the call.

This was the second call between the two leaders since the start of the pandemic.

Before the call, the US President Donald Trump extended the social distancing guidelines further and urged people to exercise caution as he believes the next 30 days will be very crucial for Americans with respect to the novel coronavirus.

(With inputs from PTI)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than 850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo got on a phone call to discuss about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic that has affected more than 850,000 people and claimed over 42,000 lives globally. The two leaders discussed about the combined and coordinated efforts by India and the US. Mike Pompeo focused on the importance of close cooperation between the US, India and their mutual allies to overcome this global crisis, according to Morgan Ortagus, spokesperson of the US State Department. .@SecPompeo spoke with Indian Minister of External Affairs @DrSJaishankar about the importance of the U.S.-India partnership to advance international peace and prosperity. We look forward to the Quadrilateral consultation and the U.S.-India 2+2 Ministerial.https://t.co/KMIBwklu83 — Cale Brown (@StateDeputySPOX) August 6, 2020 × Pompeo also added that US' unwavering commitment to work with India to advance peace, prosperity and security in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe, the spokesperson said in a readout of the call. This was the second call between the two leaders since the start of the pandemic. Before the call, the US President Donald Trump extended the social distancing guidelines further and urged people to exercise caution as he believes the next 30 days will be very crucial for Americans with respect to the novel coronavirus. (With inputs from PTI)

S Jaishankar and Mike Pompeo discuss COVID-19 approach over phone

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged prominent Afghans holding a major meeting Friday to free Taliban prisoners, promising help if the war-torn nation moves forward on peace efforts.

"We acknowledge that the release of these prisoners is unpopular," Pompeo said in a statement.

"But this difficult action will lead to an important result long sought by Afghans and Afghanistan's friends: reduction of violence and direct talks resulting in a peace agreement and an end to the war."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-foreign-minister-says-pakistani-terror-groups-have-symbiotic-relations-with-al-qaeda-is-318709">Also read|&nbsp;Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS</a>

In a statement unthinkable after the September 11, 2001 attacks triggered the US invasion, the top US diplomat told Afghan leaders that the Taliban were committed to reducing violence after talks start.

"The United States intends to hold the Taliban to these commitments," Pompeo said.

The Taliban are demanding the release of 400 prisoners -- many accused of serious offenses, with more than 150 on death row -- as a condition to start peace talks with the internationally recognized government in Kabul.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-10-taliban-terrorists-killed-as-clashes-resume-post-eid-ceasefire-318642">Also read|&nbsp;Afghanistan: 10 Taliban terrorists killed as clashes resume post Eid ceasefire</a>

President Ashraf Ghani deferred the decision on whether to release these inmates to a loya jirga -- a traditional Afghan meeting of tribal elders and other stakeholders.

President Donald Trump's administration is eager to wind down America's longest war and showcase a foreign policy success ahead of November elections.

The United States on February 29 signed a deal with the Taliban under which all US troops would leave by mid-2021.

Pompeo vowed that the United States would maintain support for Afghanistan.

"We are ready to support a peace settlement, including by extending US development programs to previously underserved areas," Pompeo said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged prominent Afghans holding a major meeting Friday to free Taliban prisoners, promising help if the war-torn nation moves forward on peace efforts.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged prominent Afghans holding a major meeting Friday to free Taliban prisoners, promising help if the war-torn nation moves forward on peace efforts. "We acknowledge that the release of these prisoners is unpopular," Pompeo said in a statement. "But this difficult action will lead to an important result long sought by Afghans and Afghanistan's friends: reduction of violence and direct talks resulting in a peace agreement and an end to the war." Also read| Afghan foreign minister says Pakistani terror groups have symbiotic relations with Al Qaeda, IS In a statement unthinkable after the September 11, 2001 attacks triggered the US invasion, the top US diplomat told Afghan leaders that the Taliban were committed to reducing violence after talks start. "The United States intends to hold the Taliban to these commitments," Pompeo said. The Taliban are demanding the release of 400 prisoners -- many accused of serious offenses, with more than 150 on death row -- as a condition to start peace talks with the internationally recognized government in Kabul. Also read| Afghanistan: 10 Taliban terrorists killed as clashes resume post Eid ceasefire President Ashraf Ghani deferred the decision on whether to release these inmates to a loya jirga -- a traditional Afghan meeting of tribal elders and other stakeholders. President Donald Trump's administration is eager to wind down America's longest war and showcase a foreign policy success ahead of November elections. The United States on February 29 signed a deal with the Taliban under which all US troops would leave by mid-2021. Pompeo vowed that the United States would maintain support for Afghanistan. "We are ready to support a peace settlement, including by extending US development programs to previously underserved areas," Pompeo said.

Pompeo urges key Afghan gathering to free Taliban prisoners

China targetted US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo over comments on Chinese tech giants and the Communist Party of China. Chinese state councilor Wang Yi rejected what he described as 'American interventionism' in China. Watch report.

China: US waging a diplomatic war, Chinese apps significant threat to US data

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday offered a $10 million reward aimed at preventing foreign interference in the November presidential election.

The reward implies that the members of President Donald Trump's administration are taking election meddling seriously. The State Department has been accusing Russia of waging an increasingly sophisticated disinformation campaign.

The United States "is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of any person who, acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, interferes with US elections by engaging in certain criminal cyber activities," Pompeo told reporters.

US intelligence concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to support Trump, especially through manipulation of social media, although it did not find that his campaign colluded with Moscow.

Trump has been outraged by the "Russia hoax" and in February removed the director of national intelligence over a briefing to lawmakers that found that Russia appeared to want Trump to win a new term on November 3.

Last month four top Democratic lawmakers with access to intelligence said they were "gravely concerned" about a new "foreign interference campaign," but their joint statement was notably not signed by members of Trump's Republican Party.

Trump at a 2018 joint press conference appeared to accept Russian President Vladimir Putin's denials of meddling. Trump's former national security advisor, John Bolton, in an explosive memoir wrote that the mogul believed that any talk of interference discredited his victory.

The State Department's Global Engagement Centre, which is in charge of studying and countering foreign propaganda, warned in a report on Wednesday that Russia has invested "massively" in disinformation efforts on the internet.

The report, which did not focus specifically on election meddling, said that Russia has relied on proxy voices to amplify messages that boost propaganda goals such as stirring up opposition to the United States.

On Twitter, material of the Strategic Culture Foundation and six similar sites was tweeted or retweeted 173,000 times from April through June, the study said.

Britain, not Russia, appeared to be the top source of Twitter activity involving the suspicious material, it said.

Russia has denied allegations of election meddling as well as charges led by Britain that Moscow is hacking coronavirus vaccine research.

Pompeo, for his part, has promoted a theory discounted by mainstream scientists that the new coronavirus came out of a Chinese laboratory.

(with inputs from agencies)

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday offered a $10 million reward aimed at preventing foreign interference in the November presidential election. The reward implies that the members of President Donald Trump's administration are taking election meddling seriously.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Wednesday offered a $10 million reward aimed at preventing foreign interference in the November presidential election. The reward implies that the members of President Donald Trump's administration are taking election meddling seriously. The State Department has been accusing Russia of waging an increasingly sophisticated disinformation campaign. The United States "is offering a reward of up to $10 million for information leading to the identification or location of any person who, acting at the direction or under the control of a foreign government, interferes with US elections by engaging in certain criminal cyber activities," Pompeo told reporters. US intelligence concluded that Russia interfered in the 2016 election to support Trump, especially through manipulation of social media, although it did not find that his campaign colluded with Moscow. Trump has been outraged by the "Russia hoax" and in February removed the director of national intelligence over a briefing to lawmakers that found that Russia appeared to want Trump to win a new term on November 3. Last month four top Democratic lawmakers with access to intelligence said they were "gravely concerned" about a new "foreign interference campaign," but their joint statement was notably not signed by members of Trump's Republican Party. Trump at a 2018 joint press conference appeared to accept Russian President Vladimir Putin's denials of meddling. Trump's former national security advisor, John Bolton, in an explosive memoir wrote that the mogul believed that any talk of interference discredited his victory. The State Department's Global Engagement Centre, which is in charge of studying and countering foreign propaganda, warned in a report on Wednesday that Russia has invested "massively" in disinformation efforts on the internet. The report, which did not focus specifically on election meddling, said that Russia has relied on proxy voices to amplify messages that boost propaganda goals such as stirring up opposition to the United States. On Twitter, material of the Strategic Culture Foundation and six similar sites was tweeted or retweeted 173,000 times from April through June, the study said. Britain, not Russia, appeared to be the top source of Twitter activity involving the suspicious material, it said. Russia has denied allegations of election meddling as well as charges led by Britain that Moscow is hacking coronavirus vaccine research. Pompeo, for his part, has promoted a theory discounted by mainstream scientists that the new coronavirus came out of a Chinese laboratory. (with inputs from agencies)

US offers $10 million reward against election interference

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Taliban deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar discussed the start of the intra-Afghan talks and the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, local news reported citing the group`s spokesman Suhail Shaheen.

In the discussion held via video call, the two leaders called the release of the remaining Taliban prisoners important, Shaheen was quoted as saying while adding that the US secretary of state also welcomed the Eid ceasefire.The United States had welcomed the Taliban`s declaration of a three-day ceasefire for Eid ul-Adha, acting US Ambassador to Kabul Ross Wilson had said in a tweet on Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-least-24-dead-in-mass-jailbreak-in-afghanistan-scores-of-prisoners-flee-317759">Also read:&nbsp;At least 24 dead in mass jailbreak in Afghanistan, scores of prisoners flee</a>

"I welcome the announcements of an Eid ceasefire: Afghans deserve to celebrate the holiday in peace. I look forward to both sides fulfilling their commitments and moving quickly to intra-Afghan negotiations," Wilson posted on Twitter.

The Taliban have committed to reducing violence as part of a peace agreement negotiated by the US in Doha on February 29. In addition to the mutual release of prisoners, the agreement was expected to launch intra-Afghan talks and pave the way for ending the almost two-decade-long confrontation between Kabul and the Taliban.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-ceasefire-holds-for-third-day-as-hundreds-of-taliban-prisoners-freed-317656">Also read:&nbsp;Afghan ceasefire holds for third day as hundreds of Taliban prisoners freed</a>

US and the NATO have started pulling out forces from Afghanistan following Washington`s peace deal with the Taliban. The second round of talks between the Taliban and the Afghanistan political leadership is yet to begin.

On Sunday, the Islamic State group ISIS claimed responsibility for an over 20-hour long attack on a prison in eastern Afghanistan`s Jalalabad that left at least 29 people dead and facilitated the escape of several hundred of their captured members.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Taliban deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar discussed the start of the intra-Afghan talks and the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, local news reported citing the group`s spokesman Suhail Shaheen.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Taliban deputy leader Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar discussed the start of the intra-Afghan talks and the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, local news reported citing the group`s spokesman Suhail Shaheen. In the discussion held via video call, the two leaders called the release of the remaining Taliban prisoners important, Shaheen was quoted as saying while adding that the US secretary of state also welcomed the Eid ceasefire.The United States had welcomed the Taliban`s declaration of a three-day ceasefire for Eid ul-Adha, acting US Ambassador to Kabul Ross Wilson had said in a tweet on Tuesday. Also read: At least 24 dead in mass jailbreak in Afghanistan, scores of prisoners flee "I welcome the announcements of an Eid ceasefire: Afghans deserve to celebrate the holiday in peace. I look forward to both sides fulfilling their commitments and moving quickly to intra-Afghan negotiations," Wilson posted on Twitter. The Taliban have committed to reducing violence as part of a peace agreement negotiated by the US in Doha on February 29. In addition to the mutual release of prisoners, the agreement was expected to launch intra-Afghan talks and pave the way for ending the almost two-decade-long confrontation between Kabul and the Taliban. Also read: Afghan ceasefire holds for third day as hundreds of Taliban prisoners freed US and the NATO have started pulling out forces from Afghanistan following Washington`s peace deal with the Taliban. The second round of talks between the Taliban and the Afghanistan political leadership is yet to begin. On Sunday, the Islamic State group ISIS claimed responsibility for an over 20-hour long attack on a prison in eastern Afghanistan`s Jalalabad that left at least 29 people dead and facilitated the escape of several hundred of their captured members.

Mike Pompeo, Taliban deputy chief discuss intra-Afghan talks over video-call

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday has said that President Donald Trump will take action "in coming days" against Chinese software companies that are feeding data directly to the Beijing government.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-military-ends-search-for-7-missing-marines-and-sailor-says-presumed-dead-317688" hreflang="en">US military ends search for 7 missing Marines and sailor, says presumed dead</a>

"President Trump has said 'enough' and we're going to fix it and so he will take action in the coming days with respect to a broad array of national security risks that are presented by software connected to the Chinese Communist Party," Pompeo said on Fox News Channel's "Sunday Morning Futures."

US President Donald Trump has said TikTok would be banned in the country, and that he would he would sign an executive order as soon as Saturday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/renomination-of-trump-to-be-held-in-private-gop-convention-closed-to-press-317573" hreflang="en">Renomination of Trump to be held in private, GOP convention closed to press</a>

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said: "As far as TikTok is concerned, we're banning them from the United States."

Since the past few months, Tiktok has come under fire in the country after the US officials have said that app poses as a national risk because of the personal data. They have accused the application to feed its data with its current Chinese parent company, Beijing-based software firm ByteDance.&nbsp;

"They're true privacy issues for the American people and for a long time, a long time the United States just said 'well goodness if we're having fun with it, or if a company can make money off of it, we're going to permit that to happen,'" Pompeo said.

Reports have also claimed that Microsoft is in talks to acquire the famous video-sharing app.

However, no confirmation has been provided by Microsoft or TikTok.

Trump's announcement followed frantic negotiations on Friday between the White House, ByteDance and potential buyers of TikTok, including Microsoft Corp. They failed to produce a deal that would result in the Chinese company shedding the app's US operations, according to people familiar with the matter. The talks are expected to continue in the coming days.

Meanwhile, TikTok has refused to comment on the reports being circulated. "We are confident in the long-term success of TikTok. Hundreds of millions of people come to TikTok for entertainment and connection, including our community of creators and artists who are building livelihoods from the platform," TikTok told AFP.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said that TikTok must either be sold or blocked in the US due to national security concerns.&nbsp;

"I will say publicly that the entire committee agrees that TikTok cannot stay in the current format because it risks sending back information on 100 million Americans," Mnuchin said Sunday on ABC.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday has said that President Donald Trump will take action "in coming days" against Chinese software companies that are feeding data directly to the Beijing government.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Sunday has said that President Donald Trump will take action "in coming days" against Chinese software companies that are feeding data directly to the Beijing government. Also read: US military ends search for 7 missing Marines and sailor, says presumed dead "President Trump has said 'enough' and we're going to fix it and so he will take action in the coming days with respect to a broad array of national security risks that are presented by software connected to the Chinese Communist Party," Pompeo said on Fox News Channel's "Sunday Morning Futures." US President Donald Trump has said TikTok would be banned in the country, and that he would he would sign an executive order as soon as Saturday. Also read: Renomination of Trump to be held in private, GOP convention closed to press Speaking to reporters on Air Force One, Trump said: "As far as TikTok is concerned, we're banning them from the United States." Since the past few months, Tiktok has come under fire in the country after the US officials have said that app poses as a national risk because of the personal data. They have accused the application to feed its data with its current Chinese parent company, Beijing-based software firm ByteDance. "They're true privacy issues for the American people and for a long time, a long time the United States just said 'well goodness if we're having fun with it, or if a company can make money off of it, we're going to permit that to happen,'" Pompeo said. Reports have also claimed that Microsoft is in talks to acquire the famous video-sharing app. However, no confirmation has been provided by Microsoft or TikTok. Trump's announcement followed frantic negotiations on Friday between the White House, ByteDance and potential buyers of TikTok, including Microsoft Corp. They failed to produce a deal that would result in the Chinese company shedding the app's US operations, according to people familiar with the matter. The talks are expected to continue in the coming days. Meanwhile, TikTok has refused to comment on the reports being circulated. "We are confident in the long-term success of TikTok. Hundreds of millions of people come to TikTok for entertainment and connection, including our community of creators and artists who are building livelihoods from the platform," TikTok told AFP. Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin has said that TikTok must either be sold or blocked in the US due to national security concerns. "I will say publicly that the entire committee agrees that TikTok cannot stay in the current format because it risks sending back information on 100 million Americans," Mnuchin said Sunday on ABC.

President Trump to act on Chinese software companies 'in coming days': Mike Pompeo

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday extended his support to Ecuador which accused China of violating the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states.

"It is time for China to stop its unsustainable fishing practices, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation of the oceans. We stand with Ecuador and call on Beijing to stop engaging in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing," Pompeo tweeted.

According to a press statement released by the US Department of State, "The People`s Republic of China subsidises the world`s largest commercial fishing fleet, which routinely violates the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states, fishes without permission, and overfishes licensing agreements."

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It is time for China to stop its unsustainable fishing practices, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation of the oceans. We stand with Ecuador and call on Beijing to stop engaging in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
— Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1289896501234110464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"The Ecuadorian government has done just that in raising the alarm about the hundreds of PRC-flagged vessels fishing near Ecuador`s important Galapagos marine reserve and harvesting endangered sharks for their fins, along with many other protected species."

"We firmly support Ecuador`s efforts to ensure PRC-flagged vessels do not engage in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and stand with States whose economies and natural resources are threatened by PRC-flagged vessels` disregard for the rule of law and responsible fishing practices," Pompeo added.

Urging the international community to stand together against China, the US Secretary of State said, "Given this unfortunate record of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation, it is more important than ever that the international community stands together for the rule of law and insists on better environmental stewardship from Beijing."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday extended his support to Ecuador which accused China of violating the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states.

US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo on Sunday extended his support to Ecuador which accused China of violating the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states. "It is time for China to stop its unsustainable fishing practices, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation of the oceans. We stand with Ecuador and call on Beijing to stop engaging in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing," Pompeo tweeted. According to a press statement released by the US Department of State, "The People`s Republic of China subsidises the world`s largest commercial fishing fleet, which routinely violates the sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states, fishes without permission, and overfishes licensing agreements." It is time for China to stop its unsustainable fishing practices, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation of the oceans. We stand with Ecuador and call on Beijing to stop engaging in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. — Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) August 2, 2020 × "The Ecuadorian government has done just that in raising the alarm about the hundreds of PRC-flagged vessels fishing near Ecuador`s important Galapagos marine reserve and harvesting endangered sharks for their fins, along with many other protected species." "We firmly support Ecuador`s efforts to ensure PRC-flagged vessels do not engage in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing and stand with States whose economies and natural resources are threatened by PRC-flagged vessels` disregard for the rule of law and responsible fishing practices," Pompeo added. Urging the international community to stand together against China, the US Secretary of State said, "Given this unfortunate record of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, rule-breaking, and willful environmental degradation, it is more important than ever that the international community stands together for the rule of law and insists on better environmental stewardship from Beijing."

Pompeo slams China for violating 'sovereign rights and jurisdiction of coastal states'

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution.

Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iran-missiles-land-near-uae-airbase-where-indian-rafale-jets-are-on-overnight-halt-reports-316627">Also read|&nbsp;Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports</a>

"In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said.

The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran.

"We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee.

The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-as-diplomacy-fails-friends-of-jailed-scholar-in-iran-begin-public-campaign-317020">Also read|&nbsp;Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign&nbsp;</a>

Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution.

Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution.

France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program.

The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement.

After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence.

The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export.

Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday gave his clearest indication yet that the United States would seek to force UN sanctions on Iran if an arms embargo lapses. Russia and China, two of the Permanent Five nations that enjoy veto power on the Security Council, want the UN embargo on selling conventional weapons to Iran to end on October 18 as laid out under a 2015 resolution. Pompeo told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United States would introduce a resolution to extend the embargo "in the near future" which "we hope will be met with approval from other members of the P5." Also read| Iran missiles land near UAE airbase where Indian Rafale jets are on overnight halt: Reports "In the event it's not, we're going to take the action necessary to ensure that this arms embargo does not expire," he said. The United States has previously said it has the authority to "snap back" UN economic sanctions that were lifted as part of a nuclear deal with Iran. "We have the capacity to execute snapback and we're going to use it in a way that protects and defends America," Pompeo told the committee. The 2015 resolution had blessed a denuclearization deal with Iran negotiated by former president Barack Obama from which President Donald Trump pulled out in 2018. Also read| Australia: As diplomacy 'fails', friends of jailed scholar in Iran begin public campaign Trump has since repeatedly denounced the accord, but Pompeo argues that the United States remains a "participant" in the accord -- with the right to snap back UN sanctions for violations -- as it was listed in the 2015 resolution. Even US allies are skeptical about the legal argument and warn that such a move could damage the Security Council as an institution. France and Britain, the other nations in the P5, support extending the arms embargo but say the greater priority is maintaining a diplomatic solution to stop Iran's nuclear program. The embargo issue could come to a head days before the US presidential election. Trump's rival Joe Biden backs the Iran agreement. After leaving the accord, Trump unilaterally imposed US sanctions aimed at strangling Iran's economy and reducing its regional influence. The Trump administration has demanded that all nations stop buying Iran's oil, its biggest export. Pompeo on Thursday announced a further expansion of sanctions enforcement, saying the United States would punish anyone who transfers 22 specific metals including forms of aluminium and steel that could be used in Iran's weapons programs.

Pompeo warns of UN sanctions if Iran arms ban ends

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called Thursday on "free nations" to triumph over the threat of what he said was a "new tyranny" from China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dead-britons-pompeo-slams-world-health-organization-says-chief-tedros-bought-by-china-315441">'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China</a>

"Today China is increasingly authoritarian at home, and more aggressive in its hostility to freedom everywhere else," Pompeo said in a California speech that laid a stark view of Washington's rivalry with Beijing.

"If the free world doesn't change Communist China, Communist China will change us," he said at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda, California. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-fresh-wave-of-crackdown-in-china-wuhan-coronavirus-291423">Also watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: A fresh wave of crackdown in China</a> 
 
In strident language that recalled the US Cold War with the Soviet Union, Pompeo said Beijing had taken selfish advantage of US and Western generosity as it implemented reforms and joined the global economy in the past four decades.

He strongly criticized previous US administrations for being too complacent with China and US companies for being too compliant with whatever Beijing demands of them.

And he said Beijing had broken international commitments on Hong Kong's autonomy, on the South China Sea and on stopping state-backed intellectual property threats. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-us-has-deployed-its-2-billion-worth-b-2-spirit-bombers-in-south-china-sea-315392">Have a look:&nbsp;Why US has deployed its $2 billion worth B-2 Spirit bombers in South China Sea</a>

"There can be no return to past practices just because they're comfortable, or convenient," he said.

"We can no longer ignore the fundamental political and ideological differences between our countries, just as the CCP has never ignored them," he said, referring to the Chinese Communist Party.

Pompeo said that Washington had ordered China to close its consulate in Houston, Texas this week because it had become a center for espionage and operations to illegally obtain US companies' trade secrets.

"This week we closed down China's consulate in Houston because it was a hub of spying and IP theft," he said.

"China ripped off our prized intellectual property and trade secrets costing millions of jobs across America."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called Thursday on "free nations" to triumph over the threat of what he said was a "new tyranny" from China. Also read: 'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China "Today China is increasingly authoritarian at home, and more aggressive in its hostility to freedom everywhere else," Pompeo said in a California speech that laid a stark view of Washington's rivalry with Beijing.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo called Thursday on "free nations" to triumph over the threat of what he said was a "new tyranny" from China. Also read: 'Dead Britons': Pompeo slams WHO; says chief Tedros 'bought' by China "Today China is increasingly authoritarian at home, and more aggressive in its hostility to freedom everywhere else," Pompeo said in a California speech that laid a stark view of Washington's rivalry with Beijing. "If the free world doesn't change Communist China, Communist China will change us," he said at the Richard Nixon Presidential Library in Yorba Linda, California. Also watch: Gravitas: A fresh wave of crackdown in China In strident language that recalled the US Cold War with the Soviet Union, Pompeo said Beijing had taken selfish advantage of US and Western generosity as it implemented reforms and joined the global economy in the past four decades. He strongly criticized previous US administrations for being too complacent with China and US companies for being too compliant with whatever Beijing demands of them. And he said Beijing had broken international commitments on Hong Kong's autonomy, on the South China Sea and on stopping state-backed intellectual property threats. Have a look: Why US has deployed its $2 billion worth B-2 Spirit bombers in South China Sea "There can be no return to past practices just because they're comfortable, or convenient," he said. "We can no longer ignore the fundamental political and ideological differences between our countries, just as the CCP has never ignored them," he said, referring to the Chinese Communist Party. Pompeo said that Washington had ordered China to close its consulate in Houston, Texas this week because it had become a center for espionage and operations to illegally obtain US companies' trade secrets. "This week we closed down China's consulate in Houston because it was a hub of spying and IP theft," he said. "China ripped off our prized intellectual property and trade secrets costing millions of jobs across America."

Mike Pompeo calls for ‘free world’ to triumph over China's ‘new tyranny’

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