<p>Ned Price will step down as the US State Department’s Spokesperson this month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a press release on Tuesday (local time). Indian-American Vedant Patel, who is the Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, will be the interim spokesperson.</p>

<p>However, Blinken said that Price will continue to serve at State Department, working directly for him.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Vedant Patel wrote on Twitter,&nbsp;"Always have been in awe of Ned Price. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the State Department&nbsp;and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far!"</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Always have been in awe of <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeptSpox?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StateDeptSpox</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nedprice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NedPrice</a>. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDept?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@StateDept</a> and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far!</p>
— Vedant Patel (@StateDeputySpox) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeputySpox/status/1633444093438185473?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 8, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-since-taking-charge-australia-pm-albanese-arrives-in-india-569957">In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India</a></p>

<p>Price took his position as spokesperson on 20 January 2021. Blinken lauded Price for the professional and sincere dispensation of his services. He said that after only a few days in the position, Price reinstated the State Department's daily press briefings and allowed reporters the ability to frequently ask tough questions on US policies.</p>

<p>Blinken also praised Price for his respect for journalists, his co-workers, and everyone else he encounters with over the more than 200 briefings he has conducted.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Ned has helped the U.S. government defend and promote press freedom around the globe and modeled the transparency and openness we advocate for in other countries. His contributions will benefit the department long after his service. Ned’s firm grasp of the policies underlying our messaging made him that much more effective in his role," the statement read, quoting Blinken.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-aurat-march-baton-charged-as-demonstrations-mark-womens-day-across-world-569967">Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world</a></p>

<p>On a personal level, Blinken said he has constantly "benefited from his counsel, as have so many members of the Department. Fortunately, I’ll be able to continue to do that, as Ned will continue to serve at State, working directly for me."</p>

<p>Watch | <a href="Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve">UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve</a></p>

<p>Blinken termed Ned Price as a face and voice of US foreign policy for all this time while he discharged his duties as State Department's spokesperson and added that he performed with "extraordinary professionalism and integrity."<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Ned Price will step down as the US State Department’s Spokesperson this month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a press release on Tuesday (local time).

Ned Price will step down as the US State Department’s Spokesperson this month, Secretary of State Antony Blinken said in a press release on Tuesday (local time). Indian-American Vedant Patel, who is the Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, will be the interim spokesperson. However, Blinken said that Price will continue to serve at State Department, working directly for him. Vedant Patel wrote on Twitter, "Always have been in awe of Ned Price. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the State Department and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far!" Always have been in awe of @StateDeptSpox @NedPrice. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the @StateDept and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far! — Vedant Patel (@StateDeputySpox) March 8, 2023 × Also Read | In a first since taking charge, Australia PM Albanese arrives in India Price took his position as spokesperson on 20 January 2021. Blinken lauded Price for the professional and sincere dispensation of his services. He said that after only a few days in the position, Price reinstated the State Department's daily press briefings and allowed reporters the ability to frequently ask tough questions on US policies. Blinken also praised Price for his respect for journalists, his co-workers, and everyone else he encounters with over the more than 200 briefings he has conducted. "Ned has helped the U.S. government defend and promote press freedom around the globe and modeled the transparency and openness we advocate for in other countries. His contributions will benefit the department long after his service. Ned’s firm grasp of the policies underlying our messaging made him that much more effective in his role," the statement read, quoting Blinken. Also Read | Pakistan Aurat March baton charged as demonstrations mark women's day across world On a personal level, Blinken said he has constantly "benefited from his counsel, as have so many members of the Department. Fortunately, I’ll be able to continue to do that, as Ned will continue to serve at State, working directly for me." Watch | UN Chief warns gender equality will take 300 years to achieve Blinken termed Ned Price as a face and voice of US foreign policy for all this time while he discharged his duties as State Department's spokesperson and added that he performed with "extraordinary professionalism and integrity." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Ned Price to step down as US State Department's spokesperson; Vedant Patel to be interim spokesperson

<p>US State Department's spokesperson Ned Price will soon vacate his position. According to the announcement made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian-American Vedant Patel, who is currently working as the deputy spokesperson, will take over the position of interim spokesperson.</p>

<p>Price, who has been applauded by Blinken for starting the daily press briefings of the department which were irregular during the Trump administration, has till now held over 200 press briefings while he was in the office, and has been appreciated for his respectful demeanour towards colleagues and journalists.</p>

<p>While the Biden administration has not yet announced a replacement for Price, Patel has been given the responsibility to take charge in the interim.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ned-price-to-step-down-as-us-state-departments-spokesperson-vedant-patel-to-be-interim-spokesperson-569989">Ned Price to step down as US State Department's spokesperson; Vedant Patel to be interim spokesperson</a></p>

<p><strong>Who is Vedant Patel?</strong></p>

<p>Indian-American Vedant Patel, aged 33, was born in Gujarat, India. He graduated from the University of California, Riverside, and has worked on different political campaigns and been assigned various roles in the White House.</p>

<p>Patel worked as US President Joe Biden's Assistant Press Secretary and spokesperson, where he sharpened his skills in managing media relations and communications strategy.</p>

<p>Before that, Patel was the Presidential Inaugural Committee's spokesperson, where he worked in crafting the incoming administration's messaging and image.</p>

<p>Patel also has experience of working on various political campaigns, including those of Congressman Mike Honda and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, where he served as Communications Director.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH | Ajay Banga will start a visit to EU, Asia, Africa</strong></p>

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<p>The experience he holds in shaping the public image of officials and political candidates has made him the Democratic Party's valuable asset.</p>

<p>Taking to Twitter after the announcement, Patel said, "Always have been in awe of Ned Price. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the State Department and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far!"&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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US State Department's spokesperson Ned Price will soon vacate his position. According to the announcement made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian-American Vedant Patel, who is currently working as the deputy spokesperson, will take over the position of interim spokesperson.

US State Department's spokesperson Ned Price will soon vacate his position. According to the announcement made by US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, Indian-American Vedant Patel, who is currently working as the deputy spokesperson, will take over the position of interim spokesperson. Price, who has been applauded by Blinken for starting the daily press briefings of the department which were irregular during the Trump administration, has till now held over 200 press briefings while he was in the office, and has been appreciated for his respectful demeanour towards colleagues and journalists. While the Biden administration has not yet announced a replacement for Price, Patel has been given the responsibility to take charge in the interim. ALSO READ | Ned Price to step down as US State Department's spokesperson; Vedant Patel to be interim spokesperson Who is Vedant Patel? Indian-American Vedant Patel, aged 33, was born in Gujarat, India. He graduated from the University of California, Riverside, and has worked on different political campaigns and been assigned various roles in the White House. Patel worked as US President Joe Biden's Assistant Press Secretary and spokesperson, where he sharpened his skills in managing media relations and communications strategy. Before that, Patel was the Presidential Inaugural Committee's spokesperson, where he worked in crafting the incoming administration's messaging and image. Patel also has experience of working on various political campaigns, including those of Congressman Mike Honda and Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal, where he served as Communications Director. WATCH | Ajay Banga will start a visit to EU, Asia, Africa The experience he holds in shaping the public image of officials and political candidates has made him the Democratic Party's valuable asset. Taking to Twitter after the announcement, Patel said, "Always have been in awe of Ned Price. In awe of his unflappability, his big heart, his deep understanding of foreign policy, his fierce loyalty to the State Department and his team. Thankful to have spent time in the foxhole with him, and so glad he’s not going far!" (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Who is Vedant Patel? Indian-American to take over as US State Dept spokesperson

<p>In recent violence in the West Bank city of Jericho on Monday, an Israeli was killed, who US State Department Ned Price claimed was also a US citizen. He told reporters, "we condemn the horrific killing of two Israeli brothers near Nablus and the killing today of an Israeli near Jericho, who we understand was also an American citizen."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">These developments underscore the imperative to immediately de-escalate tensions in words and deeds. The United States will continue to work with Israelis and Palestinians and our regional partners towards restoring calm.</p>
— Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) <a href="https://twitter.com/StateDeptSpox/status/1630019587025821698?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p>Price added said that one Palestinian man was killed and some 100 were injured in the attack by the Israeli settlers. The attack also damaged several homes and even other belongings such as cars.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Deadly violence grips West Bank again after gunman kills two Israelis</strong></p>

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<p>Though, he didn't identify the person. But called on Israel to take an action against the settlers behind the attack as well as those suspected in the deaths of the Israelis. "The US expects the Israeli government to ensure the accountability and legal prosecution of those reponsible for these attacks."</p>

<p>Price said that the US&nbsp;also condemns the wide-scale indiscriminate violence by settlers against Palestinian civilians following the killings. "These actions are completely unacceptable."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-israeli-troops-sent-to-west-bank-after-settler-riots-palestinians-claim-one-killed-amid-violence-566500"><strong>Also read |&nbsp;Hundreds of Israeli troops sent to West Bank after settler riots; Palestinians claim one killed amid violence</strong></a></p>

<p>"Accountability and justice should be pursued with equal rigour in all cases of extremist violence," he added.</p>

<p>The state department official appreciated the calls by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog for a halt to "vigilante violence."</p>

<p>The US Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides identified the person as a male. In a tweet, he wrote, "I can confirm that a US citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sadly, I can confirm that a U.S. citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family.</p>
— Ambassador Tom Nides (@USAmbIsrael) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIsrael/status/1630291985918578693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><em>(with inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In recent violence in the West Bank city of Jericho on Monday, an Israeli was killed, who US State Department Ned Price claimed was also a US citizen. He told reporters, "we condemn the horrific killing of two Israeli brothers near Nablus and the killing today of an Israeli near Jericho, who we understand was also an American citizen.

In recent violence in the West Bank city of Jericho on Monday, an Israeli was killed, who US State Department Ned Price claimed was also a US citizen. He told reporters, "we condemn the horrific killing of two Israeli brothers near Nablus and the killing today of an Israeli near Jericho, who we understand was also an American citizen." These developments underscore the imperative to immediately de-escalate tensions in words and deeds. The United States will continue to work with Israelis and Palestinians and our regional partners towards restoring calm. — Ned Price (@StateDeptSpox) February 27, 2023 × Price added said that one Palestinian man was killed and some 100 were injured in the attack by the Israeli settlers. The attack also damaged several homes and even other belongings such as cars. Watch | Deadly violence grips West Bank again after gunman kills two Israelis Though, he didn't identify the person. But called on Israel to take an action against the settlers behind the attack as well as those suspected in the deaths of the Israelis. "The US expects the Israeli government to ensure the accountability and legal prosecution of those reponsible for these attacks." Price said that the US also condemns the wide-scale indiscriminate violence by settlers against Palestinian civilians following the killings. "These actions are completely unacceptable." Also read | Hundreds of Israeli troops sent to West Bank after settler riots; Palestinians claim one killed amid violence "Accountability and justice should be pursued with equal rigour in all cases of extremist violence," he added. The state department official appreciated the calls by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog for a halt to "vigilante violence." The US Ambassador to Israel Tom Nides identified the person as a male. In a tweet, he wrote, "I can confirm that a US citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family." Sadly, I can confirm that a U.S. citizen was killed in one of the terror attacks in the West Bank tonight. I pray for his family. — Ambassador Tom Nides (@USAmbIsrael) February 27, 2023 × (with inputs from agencies)

US citizen killed in recent West Bank violence, says State Department

<p>The hostage-taking situation in Pakistan is now over and the nation's defence minister confirmed that all the suspected terrorists were killed. But before that, the United States announced that it was prepared to launch drone strikes against militants if Islamabad asked Washington to do so.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the Pakistan Army conducted an operation conducted to free all the hostages who were captured at a Counter-Terrorism Depart­ment (CTD) centre in Bannu last weekend. During the operation, two of the commandos were also killed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was asked by reporters to comment on terrorism and the hostage situation at a counterterrorism centre in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bannu city.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We have partnered with our Pakistani friends to take on – to help them take on this (terrorism) challenge. We stand ready to assist, whether with this unfolding situation (Bannu prison siege by TTP) or more broadly," he said addressing his daily news briefing on Monday in Washington.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Ned Price on Bilawal Bhutto's remarks against Indian PM Modi</strong></p>

<p>On being asked about the controversial remarks made by Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto which was aimed at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Price said that the US has relationships with both India and Pakistan and prefers productive discussion over a "war of words" in order to advance the welfare of the people of both the countries.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Price said, "We have a global strategic partnership with India. I have just spoken to the depth of our partnership with Pakistan. These relationships stand on their own; it is not zero-sum. We see the importance — the indispensability really — of maintaining valuable partnerships with both our Indian and our Pakistani friends. Each of these relationships is — we don't view them in relation to the other. Each of these relationships also happens to be multifaceted."&nbsp;</p>

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The hostage-taking situation in Pakistan is now over and the nation's defence minister confirmed that all the suspected terrorists were killed. But before that, the United States announced that it was prepared to launch drone strikes against militants if Islamabad asked Washington to do so.

The hostage-taking situation in Pakistan is now over and the nation's defence minister confirmed that all the suspected terrorists were killed. But before that, the United States announced that it was prepared to launch drone strikes against militants if Islamabad asked Washington to do so. Pakistani Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that the Pakistan Army conducted an operation conducted to free all the hostages who were captured at a Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) centre in Bannu last weekend. During the operation, two of the commandos were also killed. US State Department Spokesperson Ned Price was asked by reporters to comment on terrorism and the hostage situation at a counterterrorism centre in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Bannu city. "We have partnered with our Pakistani friends to take on – to help them take on this (terrorism) challenge. We stand ready to assist, whether with this unfolding situation (Bannu prison siege by TTP) or more broadly," he said addressing his daily news briefing on Monday in Washington. Ned Price on Bilawal Bhutto's remarks against Indian PM Modi On being asked about the controversial remarks made by Pakistan Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto which was aimed at Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Price said that the US has relationships with both India and Pakistan and prefers productive discussion over a "war of words" in order to advance the welfare of the people of both the countries. Price said, "We have a global strategic partnership with India. I have just spoken to the depth of our partnership with Pakistan. These relationships stand on their own; it is not zero-sum. We see the importance — the indispensability really — of maintaining valuable partnerships with both our Indian and our Pakistani friends. Each of these relationships is — we don't view them in relation to the other. Each of these relationships also happens to be multifaceted." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US 'ready to assist' Pakistan to tackle terrorism; comments on Bilawal Bhutto's remarks

"We have not provided Ukraine with weapons to use inside Russia, we have been very clear that it is our defensive supplies. The President said very clearly sometime ago that we are not enabling Ukraine to strike," said US' spokesperson Ned Price.

'We have not provided Ukraine with weapons to use inside Russia,' says US' spokesperson Ned Price

<p>The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases. These attacks are widely being perceived as having been carried out by Ukraine. Kyiv hasn't yet claimed responsibility.</p>

<p>"We are not enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders; we are not encouraging Ukraine to strike beyond its borders," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.</p>

<p>"Everything we are doing -- everything the world is doing to support Ukraine -- is in support of Ukraine's independence," he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Russia fires barrage of missile across Ukraine</strong></p>

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<p>Price stopped short of attributing drone attacks to Ukraine. Russia said three people were killed and two aircraft were damaged in the drone attacks on Monday. Three bases deep in Russian territory were attacked.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-to-implement-emergency-power-shutdowns-after-latest-russian-missile-strikes-540542">Ukraine to implement emergency power shutdowns after latest Russian missile strikes</a></strong></p>

<p>Experts believe Ukraine penetrated Russian airspace with simple Soviet-era drones and not any of the billions of dollars in military assistance given by Western powers since Moscow's February 24 invasion.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"We are providing Ukraine with what it needs to use on its sovereign territory -- on Ukrainian soil -- to take on Russian aggressors," Price said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Price also declined comment on a Wall Street Journal report that the United States has altered HIMARS sent to Ukraine -- a rocket system seen as a game-changer on the battlefield -- to prevent firing into Russia.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases.

The United States said on Tuesday (local time) that it was "not encouraging" Ukraine to carry out strikes inside Russia. The statement from US has come after several drone attacks on Russian airbases. These attacks are widely being perceived as having been carried out by Ukraine. Kyiv hasn't yet claimed responsibility. "We are not enabling Ukraine to strike beyond its borders; we are not encouraging Ukraine to strike beyond its borders," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. "Everything we are doing -- everything the world is doing to support Ukraine -- is in support of Ukraine's independence," he said. Watch | Russia fires barrage of missile across Ukraine × Price stopped short of attributing drone attacks to Ukraine. Russia said three people were killed and two aircraft were damaged in the drone attacks on Monday. Three bases deep in Russian territory were attacked. Also Read | Ukraine to implement emergency power shutdowns after latest Russian missile strikes Experts believe Ukraine penetrated Russian airspace with simple Soviet-era drones and not any of the billions of dollars in military assistance given by Western powers since Moscow's February 24 invasion. "We are providing Ukraine with what it needs to use on its sovereign territory -- on Ukrainian soil -- to take on Russian aggressors," Price said. Price also declined comment on a Wall Street Journal report that the United States has altered HIMARS sent to Ukraine -- a rocket system seen as a game-changer on the battlefield -- to prevent firing into Russia. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

'Not encouraging' Ukraine strikes into Russia, says US

White House has accused Iran of supporting Russia's war in Ukraine. The US' State Department spokesperson Ned Price, has claimed that Tehran is training Russian soldiers about using of Iran-made drones.

US: White House claims Iranian drones are failing

<p>Ned Price, the spokesman for the US State Department, has applauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for condemning controversial remarks about Prophet Muhammad made by spokeswoman Nupur Sharma.</p>

<p>While addressing a press conference, Price told reporters ''we were glad to see that the party publicly condemns those offensive comments.''</p>

<p>He added: "We regularly engage with the Indian government at senior levels on human rights concerns including freedom of religion or belief and we encourage India to promote respect for human rights."</p>

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<p>On May 26, Sharma had made some remarks about the youngest wife of the prophet of Islam during a debate televised nationally.</p>

<p>Her statements had received backlash from Islamic countries and as a result, she was suspended by BJP after she issued an apology.</p>

<p>Another spokesman, Naveen Kumar Jindal, met a similar fate after he made inflammatory tweets about the Prophet Muhammad, and was expelled over comments he made about Islam on social media.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kuwait-to-deport-expatriates-for-protesting-against-nupur-sharmas-remarks-on-prophet-muhammad-report-487722">Also read |&nbsp;Kuwait to deport expatriates for protesting against Nupur Sharma's remarks on Prophet Muhammad: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>The offensive tweets and comments did not in any way reflect the government's views, according to India's foreign ministry.</p>

<p>After the circulation of a letter warning of Islamist militant attacks, attributed to al Qaeda's branch in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), to avenge derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad, India tightened public security.</p>

<p>In the face of a rising threat from China, the United States since the late 1990s has sought to deepen ties with India, believing the world's two largest democracies have common interests.<br />
&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>Watch WION's live TV here:</strong></p>

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Ned Price, the spokesman for the US State Department, has applauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for condemning controversial remarks about Prophet Muhammad made by spokeswoman Nupur Sharma.

Ned Price, the spokesman for the US State Department, has applauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) for condemning controversial remarks about Prophet Muhammad made by spokeswoman Nupur Sharma. While addressing a press conference, Price told reporters ''we were glad to see that the party publicly condemns those offensive comments.'' He added: "We regularly engage with the Indian government at senior levels on human rights concerns including freedom of religion or belief and we encourage India to promote respect for human rights." × On May 26, Sharma had made some remarks about the youngest wife of the prophet of Islam during a debate televised nationally. Her statements had received backlash from Islamic countries and as a result, she was suspended by BJP after she issued an apology. Another spokesman, Naveen Kumar Jindal, met a similar fate after he made inflammatory tweets about the Prophet Muhammad, and was expelled over comments he made about Islam on social media. Also read | Kuwait to deport expatriates for protesting against Nupur Sharma's remarks on Prophet Muhammad: Report The offensive tweets and comments did not in any way reflect the government's views, according to India's foreign ministry. After the circulation of a letter warning of Islamist militant attacks, attributed to al Qaeda's branch in the Indian subcontinent (AQIS), to avenge derogatory remarks about the Prophet Muhammad, India tightened public security. In the face of a rising threat from China, the United States since the late 1990s has sought to deepen ties with India, believing the world's two largest democracies have common interests. (With inputs from agencies) Watch WION's live TV here:

US appreciates BJP's decision to condemn Nupur Sharma's controversial remarks about Prophet Muhammad

<p>In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion.</p>

<p>The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called on NATO and the United States to send aircraft or create a "no-fly zone" over the war-torn Western ally in order to protect his country from Russian airstrikes.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-russias-barbaric-attack-on-ukraine-childrens-hospital-460804">In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital</a></strong></p>

<p>Nevertheless, State Department spokesperson Ned Price has told reporters in Washington that Ukraine had found ground-based defence systems are more effective in fending off Russia's "formidable" air force.</p>

<p>"We will continue to provide our Ukrainian partners with the surface-to-air systems that they need to take on the threat that they face from Russian missiles, from Russian rockets, from artillery," he said.</p>

<p>Moreover, Price noted that Ukraine already has "several squadrons" of its own "fully mission-capable" aircraft and that the United States sending more to Ukraine could aggravate the conflict.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/4-falsehoods-russians-are-told-about-the-war-461088" hreflang="en">4 falsehoods Russians are told about the war</a></strong></p>

<p>"The intelligence community produced an assessment that the provision of planes in this manner... could be viewed by Moscow as escalatory," he told the news conference.</p>

<p>"It is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to bring this conflict to a close to save as many lives as we can, and to do everything we can to see to it that this conflict does not expand."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine?</strong></p>

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<p>The Polish government had expressed support for sending its Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Kyiv via Ramstein, Germany, with the suggestion that the United States provide F-16s to supplement the Polish air force.</p>

<p>However, on Wednesday, Lloyd Austin told Poland's defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak that Washington had no intention of getting involved in the plan.</p>

<p>While the US&nbsp;has strongly supported Ukraine, pushing for tough international sanctions and sending weapons and other aid, it has already denied enforcing a no-fly zone out of fear of being drawn into the conflict directly.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion.

In a statement on Thursday, the US State Department rejected proposals to send MiG fighter jets to Ukraine via an American base, saying that ground-based weapons would be more effective against Russian invasion. The Ukrainian president has repeatedly called on NATO and the United States to send aircraft or create a "no-fly zone" over the war-torn Western ally in order to protect his country from Russian airstrikes. Also read | In Pics- Russia's 'barbaric' attack on Ukraine children's hospital Nevertheless, State Department spokesperson Ned Price has told reporters in Washington that Ukraine had found ground-based defence systems are more effective in fending off Russia's "formidable" air force. "We will continue to provide our Ukrainian partners with the surface-to-air systems that they need to take on the threat that they face from Russian missiles, from Russian rockets, from artillery," he said. Moreover, Price noted that Ukraine already has "several squadrons" of its own "fully mission-capable" aircraft and that the United States sending more to Ukraine could aggravate the conflict. Also read | 4 falsehoods Russians are told about the war "The intelligence community produced an assessment that the provision of planes in this manner... could be viewed by Moscow as escalatory," he told the news conference. "It is incumbent upon us to do everything we can to bring this conflict to a close to save as many lives as we can, and to do everything we can to see to it that this conflict does not expand." Watch | Gravitas: Will Russia launch a chemical attack on Ukraine? The Polish government had expressed support for sending its Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Kyiv via Ramstein, Germany, with the suggestion that the United States provide F-16s to supplement the Polish air force. However, on Wednesday, Lloyd Austin told Poland's defence minister Mariusz Blaszczak that Washington had no intention of getting involved in the plan. While the US has strongly supported Ukraine, pushing for tough international sanctions and sending weapons and other aid, it has already denied enforcing a no-fly zone out of fear of being drawn into the conflict directly. (With inputs from agencies)

US says Ukraine needs surface-to-air missiles, not fighter jets, to fight 'formidable' Russian air force

<p>The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves.&nbsp;</p>

<p>When asked for a reply to Rahul Gandhi's comments in Parliament on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price responded that "I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not – would not endorse those remarks,".</p>

<p>According to the former Congress president and MP, the Modi government's foreign policy had brought China and Pakistan together.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Price also stated that the United States does not ask other countries to choose between America and China, and that the United States values its relationship with Pakistan.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-indias-created-one-for-rich-and-one-for-poor-gap-widening-congress-mp-rahul-gandhi-449982"><strong>Also read | Two Indias created, one for rich and one for poor; gap widening: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi</strong></a></p>

<p>"We’ve made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country in the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.And we think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that – "partnerships" may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has seeked to – has sought to have around the world," Ned Price added.</p>

<p>"Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it’s a relationship that we value across a number of fronts, " he said.</p>

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<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves.

The United States has stated that it does not agree with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi's claim that Prime Minister Narendra Modi's foreign policy has strengthened the Pakistan-China relationship, adding that the two countries should speak for themselves. When asked for a reply to Rahul Gandhi's comments in Parliament on Wednesday, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price responded that "I will leave it to the Pakistanis and the PRC to speak to their relationship. I certainly would not – would not endorse those remarks,". According to the former Congress president and MP, the Modi government's foreign policy had brought China and Pakistan together. Price also stated that the United States does not ask other countries to choose between America and China, and that the United States values its relationship with Pakistan. Also read | Two Indias created, one for rich and one for poor; gap widening: Congress MP Rahul Gandhi "We’ve made the point all along that it is not a requirement for any country in the world to choose between the United States and China. It is our intention to provide choices to countries when it comes to what the relationship with the United States looks like.And we think partnership with the United States conveys a series of advantages that countries typically would not find when it comes to the sorts of partnerships that – "partnerships" may be the wrong term; the sorts of relationships that the PRC has seeked to – has sought to have around the world," Ned Price added. "Pakistan is a strategic partner of the United States. We have an important relationship with the government in Islamabad, and it’s a relationship that we value across a number of fronts, " he said. × (With inputs from agencies)

'Won't endorse it': US on Rahul’s remark that China, Pakistan together due to India’s foreign policy

<p>Despite modest progress during negotiations in Vienna, the United States hopes to build on that this week, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Tuesday amid efforts to revive a 2015 agreement.</p>

<p>With that agreement, championed by former President Barack Obama, Iran was relieved from crippling sanctions in exchange for halting its nuclear programme. However, Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018, a year after he took office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-launches-research-cargos-into-space-amid-stalled-nuclear-talks-441140">Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks</a></strong></p>

<p>Iran has since stepped up its nuclear activities, amassing a stockpile of highly enriched uranium, violating many of the nuclear restrictions in the deal and going well beyond them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Tehran, however maintains that it has never pursued the development of nuclear weapons. Its atomic program has further escalated the stakes despite Iran's claims that it only pursues peaceful nuclear activities.</p>

<p>During the negotiations for the nuclear deal, the UN's nuclear watchdog revealed that Iran had begun enriching uranium up to 20 per cent purity at an underground facility at Fordo, a site that was not permitted to enrich uranium under the deal.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-condemns-irans-space-launch-amid-nuclear-deal-talks-calls-it-regrettable-441524">France condemns Iran's space launch amid nuclear deal talks, calls it 'regrettable'</a></strong></p>

<p>Under the latest round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington, Iranian diplomats are once again seeking to lift US sanctions again.</p>

<p>"There was some modest progress in the talks last week. We hope to build on that this week," Price told reporters.</p>

<p>“Sanctions relief and the steps that the United States would take… when it comes to sanctions together with the nuclear steps that Iran would need to take if we were to achieve a mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA – that’s really at the heart of the negotiations that are ongoing in Vienna right now."</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US, Russian officials coordinate in a bit to salvage 2015 Iran nuclear deal</strong></p>

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<p>Iran last week took a hard stance, suggesting that everything that had been discussed during previous diplomatic rounds could be renegotiated.</p>

<p>The Vienna talks last week marked the participation of Iran's new hard-line government for the first time in more than five months.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Despite modest progress during negotiations in Vienna, the United States hopes to build on that this week, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Tuesday amid efforts to revive a 2015 agreement.

Despite modest progress during negotiations in Vienna, the United States hopes to build on that this week, State Department spokesman Ned Price said on Tuesday amid efforts to revive a 2015 agreement. With that agreement, championed by former President Barack Obama, Iran was relieved from crippling sanctions in exchange for halting its nuclear programme. However, Donald Trump withdrew the United States from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in 2018, a year after he took office. Also read | Iran launches 'research cargos into space' amid stalled nuclear talks Iran has since stepped up its nuclear activities, amassing a stockpile of highly enriched uranium, violating many of the nuclear restrictions in the deal and going well beyond them. Tehran, however maintains that it has never pursued the development of nuclear weapons. Its atomic program has further escalated the stakes despite Iran's claims that it only pursues peaceful nuclear activities. During the negotiations for the nuclear deal, the UN's nuclear watchdog revealed that Iran had begun enriching uranium up to 20 per cent purity at an underground facility at Fordo, a site that was not permitted to enrich uranium under the deal. Also read | France condemns Iran's space launch amid nuclear deal talks, calls it 'regrettable' Under the latest round of negotiations between Tehran and Washington, Iranian diplomats are once again seeking to lift US sanctions again. "There was some modest progress in the talks last week. We hope to build on that this week," Price told reporters. “Sanctions relief and the steps that the United States would take… when it comes to sanctions together with the nuclear steps that Iran would need to take if we were to achieve a mutual return to compliance with the JCPOA – that’s really at the heart of the negotiations that are ongoing in Vienna right now." Watch: US, Russian officials coordinate in a bit to salvage 2015 Iran nuclear deal Iran last week took a hard stance, suggesting that everything that had been discussed during previous diplomatic rounds could be renegotiated. The Vienna talks last week marked the participation of Iran's new hard-line government for the first time in more than five months. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran nuclear talks: US hopeful of building on negotiations progress this week

<p>Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday.</p>

<p>"We will not participate in the Moscow talks. The Troika Plus has been an effective, constructive forum. We look forward to engaging in that forum going forward, but we’re not in a position to take part this week … It’s just logistically difficult for us to take part this week, " Price said.</p>

<p>Russia, China, the United States, and Pakistan comprise the Troika Plus configuration.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | South Asia Diary | The Taliban return to Bamiyan</strong></p>

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<p>On Friday, Russian Special Presidential Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov stated that the objective of the talks was to reach an agreement on a shared perspective on Afghanistan's changing situation.</p>

<p>The meeting is set to take place on October 19.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/malala-sends-letter-to-taliban-one-month-after-girls-school-ban-421804"><strong>Also read | Malala sends letter to Taliban one month after girls school ban</strong></a></p>

<p>The US has been pushing governments not to recognise the Taliban administration in the hopes of gaining influence on important issues, including women's and girls' rights.</p>

<p>Price declined to elaborate on the practical problems that prevented the US from participating.</p>

<p>The discussions come amid an increasing disagreement over the number of diplomats the US is permitted to accredit in Moscow, despite Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agreeing in June to pursue collaboration in other areas.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday.

Due to logistical issues, the United States will not attend the "Troika Plus" meeting in Moscow this week, according to State Department spokesperson Ned Price at a press conference on Monday. "We will not participate in the Moscow talks. The Troika Plus has been an effective, constructive forum. We look forward to engaging in that forum going forward, but we’re not in a position to take part this week … It’s just logistically difficult for us to take part this week, " Price said. Russia, China, the United States, and Pakistan comprise the Troika Plus configuration. Watch | South Asia Diary | The Taliban return to Bamiyan On Friday, Russian Special Presidential Representative for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov stated that the objective of the talks was to reach an agreement on a shared perspective on Afghanistan's changing situation. The meeting is set to take place on October 19. Also read | Malala sends letter to Taliban one month after girls school ban The US has been pushing governments not to recognise the Taliban administration in the hopes of gaining influence on important issues, including women's and girls' rights. Price declined to elaborate on the practical problems that prevented the US from participating. The discussions come amid an increasing disagreement over the number of diplomats the US is permitted to accredit in Moscow, despite Presidents Joe Biden and Vladimir Putin agreeing in June to pursue collaboration in other areas. (With inputs from agencies)

US will not attend Moscow talks on Afghanistan this week: Ned Price

<p>The United States has said&nbsp;China's rapid build-up of its nuclear forces was concerning and called on Beijing to engage with it "on practical measures to reduce the risks of destabilising arms races."</p>

<p>The Washington Post, citing a study of commercial satellite images by a California-based group, reported on Thursday that the&nbsp;silos&nbsp;were being built in a desert near the northwestern city of Yumen.</p>

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<p>The James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey said the 119 construction sites in Gansu province were similar to existing Chinese launch facilities for nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles.</p>

<p>The build-up had become more difficult for&nbsp;China&nbsp;to hide and it appeared it was deviating from decades of nuclear strategy based around minimal deterrence, State Department spokesperson Ned Price told a regular news briefing.</p>

<p>"I think what is fair to say is that these reports and other developments suggest that the PRC's (People's Republic of China) nuclear arsenal will grow more quickly, and to a higher level, than perhaps previously anticipated," he said.</p>

<p>"This buildup, it is concerning," Price said. "It raises questions about the PRC's intent.</p>

<p>"And for us it reinforces the importance of pursuing practical measures to reduce nuclear risks," he added.</p>

<p><strong>Also see|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/why-china-displayed-j-20-fighter-jets-at-unprecedented-scale-during-communist-partys-centenary-celebration-395137" hreflang="en">Why China displayed J-20 fighter jets at unprecedented scale during Communist Party's centenary celebration</a></strong></p>

<p>"Despite what appears to be PRC obfuscation, this rapid buildup has become more difficult to hide," Price said. "And it highlights how the PRC appears again to be deviating from decades of nuclear strategy based around minimum deterrence."</p>

<p>Price was also asked whether the United States had a reaction to bellicose remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping.</p>

<p>Xi, in a speech at centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), said "the Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us."</p>

<p>"Whoever wants to do so will face bloodshed in front of a Great Wall of steel built by more than 1.4 billion Chinese people," he said.</p>

<p>Price said the State Department had "taken note" of Xi's remarks "but we're not going to comment on the specifics."</p>

<p>"I think this administration over the course of several months has been very clear about our impressions of the CCP, in general, but I don't have a specific response for you on President Xi's remarks today," he said.</p>

<p>In a 2020 report to Congress, the Pentagon estimated&nbsp;China’s nuclear warhead stockpile in "the low 200s" and said it was projected to at least double in size as Beijing expands and modernises its forces. Analysts say the United States has around 3,800 warheads, and according to a State Department factsheet, 1,357 of those were deployed as of March 1.</p>

<p>Washington has repeatedly called on&nbsp;China&nbsp;to join it and Russia in a new arms control treaty and the US&nbsp;disarmament ambassador said in May that Beijing was resisting this despite a "dramatic" buildup in its arsenal.</p>

<p>Beijing says its arsenal is dwarfed by those of the United States and Russia and it is ready to conduct bilateral dialogues on strategic security "on the basis of equality and mutual respect."</p>

<p>Non-proliferation experts said this year&nbsp;China's push to develop fuel for a new generation of nuclear power reactors will produce large amounts of materials that could be diverted to making nuclear weapons.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The United States has said China's rapid build-up of its nuclear forces was concerning and called on Beijing to engage with it "on practical measures to reduce the risks of destabilising arms races.

The United States has said China's rapid build-up of its nuclear forces was concerning and called on Beijing to engage with it "on practical measures to reduce the risks of destabilising arms races." The Washington Post, citing a study of commercial satellite images by a California-based group, reported on Thursday that the silos were being built in a desert near the northwestern city of Yumen. The James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies in Monterey said the 119 construction sites in Gansu province were similar to existing Chinese launch facilities for nuclear-tipped ballistic missiles. The build-up had become more difficult for China to hide and it appeared it was deviating from decades of nuclear strategy based around minimal deterrence, State Department spokesperson Ned Price told a regular news briefing. "I think what is fair to say is that these reports and other developments suggest that the PRC's (People's Republic of China) nuclear arsenal will grow more quickly, and to a higher level, than perhaps previously anticipated," he said. "This buildup, it is concerning," Price said. "It raises questions about the PRC's intent. "And for us it reinforces the importance of pursuing practical measures to reduce nuclear risks," he added. Also see| Why China displayed J-20 fighter jets at unprecedented scale during Communist Party's centenary celebration "Despite what appears to be PRC obfuscation, this rapid buildup has become more difficult to hide," Price said. "And it highlights how the PRC appears again to be deviating from decades of nuclear strategy based around minimum deterrence." Price was also asked whether the United States had a reaction to bellicose remarks by Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi, in a speech at centenary celebrations for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), said "the Chinese people will never allow any foreign forces to bully, oppress, or enslave us." "Whoever wants to do so will face bloodshed in front of a Great Wall of steel built by more than 1.4 billion Chinese people," he said. Price said the State Department had "taken note" of Xi's remarks "but we're not going to comment on the specifics." "I think this administration over the course of several months has been very clear about our impressions of the CCP, in general, but I don't have a specific response for you on President Xi's remarks today," he said. In a 2020 report to Congress, the Pentagon estimated China’s nuclear warhead stockpile in "the low 200s" and said it was projected to at least double in size as Beijing expands and modernises its forces. Analysts say the United States has around 3,800 warheads, and according to a State Department factsheet, 1,357 of those were deployed as of March 1. Washington has repeatedly called on China to join it and Russia in a new arms control treaty and the US disarmament ambassador said in May that Beijing was resisting this despite a "dramatic" buildup in its arsenal. Beijing says its arsenal is dwarfed by those of the United States and Russia and it is ready to conduct bilateral dialogues on strategic security "on the basis of equality and mutual respect." Non-proliferation experts said this year China's push to develop fuel for a new generation of nuclear power reactors will produce large amounts of materials that could be diverted to making nuclear weapons. (With inputs from agencies)

US calls report of China building more than 100 nuclear missile silos 'concerning'

"This buildup is concerning. It raises questions about the PRC's intent. And for us, it reinforces the importance of pursuing practical measures to reduce nuclear risks," Ned Price said.

US calls China's nuclear arsenal build-up 'concerning'

<p>The Biden administration has applauded India for stepping up its climate change commitment including the partnership with the US to deploy 450 gigawatts of renewable power to meet the ambitious 2030 target for climate action and clean energy.</p>

<p>At the Leaders Summit on Climate on Thursday, the two countries launched a new high-level US-India Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership&nbsp;to create stronger bilateral cooperation on actions in the current decade to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.</p>

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<p>The partnership will proceed along two main tracks,&nbsp;the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership, co-chaired by Secretary of Energy Granholm, and the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue, co-chaired by Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, a joint statement said.</p>

<p>''India, in partnership with the United States, to deploy 450 gigawatts of renewable power. Why is that important? Because if we can do that,&nbsp;which is where our finance component of this is so critical,&nbsp;if we do that, India is on track to hold the 1.5 degrees centigrade,''&nbsp;White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference.</p>

<p>Describing the partnership as one of the core venues for the US-India collaboration, the joint statement said that its focus would be on driving urgent progress in this critical decade for climate action.</p>

<p>Both the United States and India have set ambitious 2030 targets for climate action and clean energy. In its new nationally determined contribution, the US has set an economy-wide target of reducing its net greenhouse gas emissions by 50-52 percent below 2005 levels in 2030.</p>

<p>While India, as part of its climate mitigation efforts, has set a target of installing 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030.</p>

<p>Through the partnership, the United States and India are firmly committed to working together in achieving their ambitious climate and clean energy targets and to strengthening bilateral collaboration across climate and clean energy, the statement said.</p>

<p>''India is formally stepping up its commitment to accelerate renewable energy deployment,''&nbsp;State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said.</p>

<p>The joint statement said the partnership will aim to mobilise finance and speed clean energy deployment, demonstrate and scale innovative clean technologies needed to decarbonise sectors including industry, transportation, power, and buildings, and build capacity to measure, manage, and adapt to the risks of climate-related impacts.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


The Biden administration has applauded India for stepping up its climate change commitment including the partnership with the US to deploy 450 gigawatts of renewable power to meet the ambitious 2030 target for climate action and clean energy.

The Biden administration has applauded India for stepping up its climate change commitment including the partnership with the US to deploy 450 gigawatts of renewable power to meet the ambitious 2030 target for climate action and clean energy. At the Leaders Summit on Climate on Thursday, the two countries launched a new high-level US-India Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership to create stronger bilateral cooperation on actions in the current decade to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. The partnership will proceed along two main tracks, the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership, co-chaired by Secretary of Energy Granholm, and the Climate Action and Finance Mobilisation Dialogue, co-chaired by Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry, a joint statement said. ''India, in partnership with the United States, to deploy 450 gigawatts of renewable power. Why is that important? Because if we can do that, which is where our finance component of this is so critical, if we do that, India is on track to hold the 1.5 degrees centigrade,'' White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki told reporters at her daily news conference. Describing the partnership as one of the core venues for the US-India collaboration, the joint statement said that its focus would be on driving urgent progress in this critical decade for climate action. Both the United States and India have set ambitious 2030 targets for climate action and clean energy. In its new nationally determined contribution, the US has set an economy-wide target of reducing its net greenhouse gas emissions by 50-52 percent below 2005 levels in 2030. While India, as part of its climate mitigation efforts, has set a target of installing 450 GW of renewable energy by 2030. Through the partnership, the United States and India are firmly committed to working together in achieving their ambitious climate and clean energy targets and to strengthening bilateral collaboration across climate and clean energy, the statement said. ''India is formally stepping up its commitment to accelerate renewable energy deployment,'' State Department Spokesperson Ned Price said. The joint statement said the partnership will aim to mobilise finance and speed clean energy deployment, demonstrate and scale innovative clean technologies needed to decarbonise sectors including industry, transportation, power, and buildings, and build capacity to measure, manage, and adapt to the risks of climate-related impacts. (With inputs from agencies)

Biden administration applauds India for stepping up its climate change commitment

<p>The United States is prepared to remove sanctions on Iran to resume compliance with the Iran nuclear deal, including those that are inconsistent with the 2015 pact, the US&nbsp;State Department said on Wednesday, without providing details.</p>

<p>"We are prepared to take the steps necessary to return to compliance with the JCPOA, including by lifting sanctions that are inconsistent with the JCPOA," State Department spokesman&nbsp;Ned&nbsp;Price&nbsp;told reporters. He was referring to the pact formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).</p>

<p>Diplomats from major powers and the European Union met separately on Wednesday with Iran and the United States to discuss what sanctions Washington might remove and what nuclear curbs Tehran might observe in an effort to bring both back into compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, a US&nbsp;official said.</p>

<p>Longtime foes the United States and Iran have said they do not expect quick breakthroughs in the talks that began in Vienna on Tuesday, with European and other diplomats as intermediaries because Tehran rejects face-to-face talks for now.</p>

<p>Former US&nbsp;President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 deal, which lifted economic sanctions on Iran in return for curbs to its nuclear program, and he reimposed US&nbsp;sanctions, prompting Iran to violate the accord's atomic limitations.</p>

<p>The deal's remaining parties. Iran, Britain, China, France, Germany, and Russia,&nbsp;agreed on Tuesday to form two expert-level groups whose job is to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet.</p>

<p>Diplomats said the working groups, which are chaired by the European Union and exclude the United States, met on Wednesday. A US&nbsp;official said on condition of anonymity that the US&nbsp;delegation in Vienna had been briefed on the discussions.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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The United States is prepared to remove sanctions on Iran to resume compliance with the Iran nuclear deal, including those that are inconsistent with the 2015 pact, the US State Department said on Wednesday, without providing details.

The United States is prepared to remove sanctions on Iran to resume compliance with the Iran nuclear deal, including those that are inconsistent with the 2015 pact, the US State Department said on Wednesday, without providing details. "We are prepared to take the steps necessary to return to compliance with the JCPOA, including by lifting sanctions that are inconsistent with the JCPOA," State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters. He was referring to the pact formally called the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Diplomats from major powers and the European Union met separately on Wednesday with Iran and the United States to discuss what sanctions Washington might remove and what nuclear curbs Tehran might observe in an effort to bring both back into compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal, a US official said. Longtime foes the United States and Iran have said they do not expect quick breakthroughs in the talks that began in Vienna on Tuesday, with European and other diplomats as intermediaries because Tehran rejects face-to-face talks for now. Former US President Donald Trump withdrew from the 2015 deal, which lifted economic sanctions on Iran in return for curbs to its nuclear program, and he reimposed US sanctions, prompting Iran to violate the accord's atomic limitations. The deal's remaining parties. Iran, Britain, China, France, Germany, and Russia, agreed on Tuesday to form two expert-level groups whose job is to marry lists of sanctions that the United States could lift with nuclear obligations Iran should meet. Diplomats said the working groups, which are chaired by the European Union and exclude the United States, met on Wednesday. A US official said on condition of anonymity that the US delegation in Vienna had been briefed on the discussions. (With inputs from agencies)

US prepared to lift sanctions on Iran to resume compliance with nuclear deal

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