The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims.&nbsp;

Addressing a conference on religion on Saturday, Alvi said, "When you see that laws are being changed in favour of a majority to isolate a minority, that is a dangerous precedent."&nbsp;

Specifically referring to the legislation drafted after the beheading of a French teacher by an Islamist radical over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, Alvi said, "When you insult the Prophet, you insult all Muslims.&nbsp;

"I urge the political leadership of France not to entrench these attitudes into laws... You have to bring people together -- not to stamp a religion in a certain manner and create disharmony among the people or create bias."&nbsp;

Pakistan was one of several Muslim countries that saw angry anti-French protests in October over President Emmanuel Macron's defence of the right to show cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.&nbsp;

The country with the second-largest number of Muslims in the world after Indonesia does not have an ambassador in France.&nbsp;

The French foreign ministry said late on Monday it had called in Pakistan's charge d'affaires to mark "our surprise and our disapproval (over Alvi's remarks), given that the bill contains no discriminatory element."&nbsp;

"It is guided by the basic principles of freedom of religion and conscience, makes no distinction between the different religions and applies therefore equally to all faiths," the ministry said.&nbsp;

"Pakistan must understand this and adopt a constructive attitude for our bilateral relations," it added.&nbsp;

The bill adopted by the lower house of the French parliament last week is dubbed the 'anti-separatism' bill in reference to Macron's claim that Islamists are closing themselves off from French society by refusing to embrace secularism, gender equality and other French values.&nbsp;

The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims.

The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims. Addressing a conference on religion on Saturday, Alvi said, "When you see that laws are being changed in favour of a majority to isolate a minority, that is a dangerous precedent." Specifically referring to the legislation drafted after the beheading of a French teacher by an Islamist radical over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, Alvi said, "When you insult the Prophet, you insult all Muslims. "I urge the political leadership of France not to entrench these attitudes into laws... You have to bring people together -- not to stamp a religion in a certain manner and create disharmony among the people or create bias." Pakistan was one of several Muslim countries that saw angry anti-French protests in October over President Emmanuel Macron's defence of the right to show cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. The country with the second-largest number of Muslims in the world after Indonesia does not have an ambassador in France. The French foreign ministry said late on Monday it had called in Pakistan's charge d'affaires to mark "our surprise and our disapproval (over Alvi's remarks), given that the bill contains no discriminatory element." "It is guided by the basic principles of freedom of religion and conscience, makes no distinction between the different religions and applies therefore equally to all faiths," the ministry said. "Pakistan must understand this and adopt a constructive attitude for our bilateral relations," it added. The bill adopted by the lower house of the French parliament last week is dubbed the 'anti-separatism' bill in reference to Macron's claim that Islamists are closing themselves off from French society by refusing to embrace secularism, gender equality and other French values.

Paris raps Pak envoy over President Alvi remarks on French Muslims

From a liberal icon to a leader, who doesn't fit a particular political definition, French President Emmanuel Macron has come a long way. His recent policies have gained him an equal amount of followers and haters. &nbsp;

His brand of politics has broken shackles of the classic left-right division but this brand is going to face a serious challenge in the days to come. France is going to polls and centrist Macron is up against a far-right rival, who promises to do everything the French President does, just two times better. &nbsp;

Where does this leave Macron? What can he do to stay in power?&nbsp;

He is the youngest French leader since Napoleon. He was the blue-eyed boy of liberal politicians in 2017. A former banker, who was going to reboot the French economy and society. Some also said he was France's answer to US President Barack Obama but four years later, the analogy seems wrong as Macron is no Obama. Actually, he has refused to be trapped by political definitions. He's tackling climate change, fighting Islamic extremism and more. &nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-emmanuel-macrons-brand-of-politics-364137/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In reality, Macron has thrown the traditional rule book of politics out of the window. So far, all has gone according to plan but 2021 poses a peculiar challenge to his brand of politics as it is an election year. &nbsp;

France will go to polls in 14 months from now and centrist Macron's main challenger is Marine Le Pen, the 52-year-old leader of the far-right National Rally. She is currently polling neck to neck with Emmanuel Macron. The most recent poll shows Macron might get 24 per cent of the votes in the first round, while Le Pen could secure more than 26 per cent.&nbsp;

The French Finance Minister says Le Pen could very well win the next presidential polls. This possibility can be explained by Le Pen's brand of politics. If Macron wants to align Islam with French values, Le Pen is not afraid to blame Muslims for all of France's ills. &nbsp;

If Macron wants to keep foreign influence on Muslims under check, Le Pen wants France to put an end to its multi-culturalism. The challenge is significant.&nbsp;

The race is unpredictable as there's a raging pandemic in France, growing resentment against Islam, the return of a political debate on immigration and a highly polarised electorate. &nbsp;

Macron's recent policies have been game-changing but they may have also cost him some of his traditional left-leaning support base. Macron is on politically tricky terrain and he will have to get the balance right and the anti-extremism bill will be his toughest political test.&nbsp;

From a liberal icon to a leader, who doesn't fit a particular political definition, French President Emmanuel Macron has come a long way. His recent policies have gained him an equal amount of followers and haters.

From a liberal icon to a leader, who doesn't fit a particular political definition, French President Emmanuel Macron has come a long way. His recent policies have gained him an equal amount of followers and haters. His brand of politics has broken shackles of the classic left-right division but this brand is going to face a serious challenge in the days to come. France is going to polls and centrist Macron is up against a far-right rival, who promises to do everything the French President does, just two times better. Where does this leave Macron? What can he do to stay in power? He is the youngest French leader since Napoleon. He was the blue-eyed boy of liberal politicians in 2017. A former banker, who was going to reboot the French economy and society. Some also said he was France's answer to US President Barack Obama but four years later, the analogy seems wrong as Macron is no Obama. Actually, he has refused to be trapped by political definitions. He's tackling climate change, fighting Islamic extremism and more. In reality, Macron has thrown the traditional rule book of politics out of the window. So far, all has gone according to plan but 2021 poses a peculiar challenge to his brand of politics as it is an election year. France will go to polls in 14 months from now and centrist Macron's main challenger is Marine Le Pen, the 52-year-old leader of the far-right National Rally. She is currently polling neck to neck with Emmanuel Macron. The most recent poll shows Macron might get 24 per cent of the votes in the first round, while Le Pen could secure more than 26 per cent. The French Finance Minister says Le Pen could very well win the next presidential polls. This possibility can be explained by Le Pen's brand of politics. If Macron wants to align Islam with French values, Le Pen is not afraid to blame Muslims for all of France's ills. If Macron wants to keep foreign influence on Muslims under check, Le Pen wants France to put an end to its multi-culturalism. The challenge is significant. The race is unpredictable as there's a raging pandemic in France, growing resentment against Islam, the return of a political debate on immigration and a highly polarised electorate. Macron's recent policies have been game-changing but they may have also cost him some of his traditional left-leaning support base. Macron is on politically tricky terrain and he will have to get the balance right and the anti-extremism bill will be his toughest political test.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who has changed the DNA of French politics

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country.

Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers.

These festivals are celebrated in different forms throughout India, but they all are associated with the joy and gaiety related to harvesting new crops, Kovind said.

He said people celebrate these festivals with a sacred bath, special offerings, charity and rituals.

"Farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. These festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of our farmers," the president was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan.

"May these festivals strengthen the bond of love, affection and harmony in our society and increase prosperity and happiness in the country," he said.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Tuesday said farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. Extending greetings to fellow citizens on the eve of Lohri, which is on Wednesday, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Poush Parva, on January 14, he said these festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of the farmers. These festivals are celebrated in different forms throughout India, but they all are associated with the joy and gaiety related to harvesting new crops, Kovind said. He said people celebrate these festivals with a sacred bath, special offerings, charity and rituals. "Farming and farmers have contributed immensely to the progress and development of the country. These festivals are an opportunity for the countrymen to honour the relentless hard work of our farmers," the president was quoted as saying in a statement issued by the Rashtrapati Bhavan. "May these festivals strengthen the bond of love, affection and harmony in our society and increase prosperity and happiness in the country," he said.

Farming, farmers contributed immensely to development of country: President Ram Nath Kovind

The outgoing US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>&nbsp;once again snapped at a journalist when he was asked question about his defeat in the recently-conducted&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/us-election">US elections</a>.

When the Reuters White House correspondent Jeff Mason repeatedly asked Trump if he would be willing to concede his defeat against the&nbsp;President-elect&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>, Trump lost his cool yet again and reacted with "Don't ever talk to me that way".

Similar to many of the past incidents during his four years of Presidency, this time, too, Trump decided to ignore a reporter asking 'tough' questions and said, "I'm the president of the United States. Don't ever talk to the president that way."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-court-denies-trumps-pennsylvania-election-challenge-345967" hreflang="en">US court denies Trump's Pennsylvania election challenge</a>

After having to demand more 'respect', he continued to explain how he has not lost the elections and it was only due to alleged rigged elections and voter fraud that led to Biden's historic win.

This press conference was the first one since his defeat in the elections, where Trump allowed the media to ask questions. However, he did not guarantee an answer (with calmness) to every reporter — much like his previous pressers.&nbsp;

The Thanksgiving press conference is one where the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/the-white-house">White House</a>&nbsp;invites reporters to observe, and sometimes also interact/ask questions from the US President.&nbsp;

For the first time, he was also trolled for his choice of table. Trump was photographed sitting at a small table which is usually used only to be photographed with other leaders or guests present at the White House while the president signs important documents. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-and-his-tiny-desk-diaperdon-trends-on-twitter-345984">Twitter was quick to react with several memes about Trump and his 'little table'.</a>

Trump's snap comment is not limited to the reporters, it seems. He also took a snap decision of demanding a vote recount in Wisconsin which backfired at him as the vote re-count ended with Joe Biden gaining a lead with a much larger margin than the original count. However, the Trump campaign may fire another legal challenge over the state count.

The outgoing US President Donald Trump once again snapped at a journalist when he was asked question about his defeat in the recently-conducted US elections. When the Reuters White House correspondent Jeff Mason repeatedly asked Trump if he would be willing to concede his defeat against the President-elect Joe Biden, Trump lost his cool yet again and reacted with "Don't ever talk to me that way".

The outgoing US President Donald Trump once again snapped at a journalist when he was asked question about his defeat in the recently-conducted US elections. When the Reuters White House correspondent Jeff Mason repeatedly asked Trump if he would be willing to concede his defeat against the President-elect Joe Biden, Trump lost his cool yet again and reacted with "Don't ever talk to me that way". Similar to many of the past incidents during his four years of Presidency, this time, too, Trump decided to ignore a reporter asking 'tough' questions and said, "I'm the president of the United States. Don't ever talk to the president that way." Also read| US court denies Trump's Pennsylvania election challenge After having to demand more 'respect', he continued to explain how he has not lost the elections and it was only due to alleged rigged elections and voter fraud that led to Biden's historic win. This press conference was the first one since his defeat in the elections, where Trump allowed the media to ask questions. However, he did not guarantee an answer (with calmness) to every reporter — much like his previous pressers. The Thanksgiving press conference is one where the White House invites reporters to observe, and sometimes also interact/ask questions from the US President. For the first time, he was also trolled for his choice of table. Trump was photographed sitting at a small table which is usually used only to be photographed with other leaders or guests present at the White House while the president signs important documents. Twitter was quick to react with several memes about Trump and his 'little table'. Trump's snap comment is not limited to the reporters, it seems. He also took a snap decision of demanding a vote recount in Wisconsin which backfired at him as the vote re-count ended with Joe Biden gaining a lead with a much larger margin than the original count. However, the Trump campaign may fire another legal challenge over the state count.

'Don't ever talk to the president that way': Donald Trump snaps at reporter

Italy's top-tier football league Serie A chief Paolo Dal Pino on Tuesday has tested positive for coronavirus. Gabriele Gravina, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, has gone into isolation too, as per both organisations' statement.

Italy's top-tier football league Serie A chief Paolo Dal Pino on Tuesday has tested positive for coronavirus. Gabriele Gravina, Italian Football Federation (FIGC) president, has gone into isolation too, as per both organisations' statement. "President Paolo Dal Pino tested positive for COVID-19 following a swab carried out yesterday (Monday)," the Italian top-flight said in a statement. "Asymptomatic and in isolation at home, he will follow the procedures set out in the health protocol." As a result of 58-year-old Dal Pino's positive, the FIGC said Gravina, 67, "for prudential purposes, in the absence of symptoms" had also decided to self-isolate. Earlier, defending champions Juventus informed that the entire squad has gone into isolation after two staff members tested positive for COVID-19. Turin giants confirmed those returning positive tests were "neither players nor members of the technical or medical staff". (Inputs from AFP)

Serie A: League president Dal Pino positive for virus, Gravina in isolation

Pranab Mukherjee was perhaps one of the most well-read politicians in Indian politics. His memory was elephantine and his ability to recall fact and figures was legendary. He was erudite and commanded immediate attention. He did not tolerate fools nor wasted his time on inane conversations. He was a first-time politician and rose through Congress ranks because of his grit and determination. He may have been limited by his language and lack of mass appeal but Pranab Mukherjee adequately made it up by his intellect and knowledge.

He was shot tempered but would resume his composure quickly. My first brush with the veteran leader&nbsp;was in 2001 when my editor sent me to interview Pranab Mukherjee on the working on the standing committees of the Parliament. I worked in a national weekly and I knew that my editor wanted me to focus on the trips which the member of Parliament took in India and abroad.

The focus was to be on educational trips becoming fun trips for the MPs. Congress was in the Opposition, so the appointment came easy, but the meeting did not last long. After hearing my half- baked questions, Pranab Mukherjee promptly handed me a fat book. If I recollect it properly, it was not less than 300 pages. He gently asked me to read the book and then come back to him. I had a deadline of 48 hours and in no way, I could finish the book, make notes with questions and go back to Pranab Mukherjee for an interview.

I told my Editor that, Pranab da has given me an impossible task but it availed no sympathy. The only consolation was that I was accompanied by my editor the next day with the book to finish the interview. I returned the book and profusely thanked him and promised myself not to ever visit him again lest I get burdened with another book reading session.

Later I understood the importance of the interaction. He made the interview an education for me. He could have disposed of me by three quotes but chose to draw me deep into the subject which politicians rarely do these days.

Though I had many opportunities to interact with him which were mostly in a group during Parliament session. Even then, an uneducated question was met with scorn. Perhaps he was the only politician whose, off the record briefings were an education in itself.

Pranab Mukherjee served in various capacities in the government. He would be known for many things. He would be known for the man who could no become the Prime Minister despite being senior because Congress could not throw the yoke of the dynasty. He was marginalized by Rajiv Gandhi and ultimately had to leave the Congress.

Pranab made a quiet re-entry into the Congress later when PV Narsimha Rao was the Prime Minister. Even during UPA, he remained a perpetual number 2. The fact is that Congress needed him, but Gandhi’s never trusted him. Pranab Mukherjee knew it. It is for this reason he opted to become the President. Despite the reluctance of the Gandhi’s Pranab Mukherjee did not give in. It was in this transition that he shined the most.

His becoming the President of the Republic marked the return of a Political President which in past decades became a house for loyalists. APJ Kalam was the exception.

He would also be known for things which are not in the public domain but would make a difference in the long run.

He revamped the President House.&nbsp;

Pranab Mukherjee restored the hall where first India’s Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru took the oath. I had the opportunity to see the refurnished hall. A museum was created during his tenure which was thrown open for public. The Presidential Estate was revamped, and the credit goes to him.

In end, Pranab would be known as the marking the return of the Political President who dared to speak his mind and rose above the partisan interest. He met politicians of shades and ideologies. He did not discriminate. He could not become the Prime Minister, but he did definitely shine bright as the President of the Indian Republic.

Pranab Mukherjee was perhaps one of the most well-read politicians in Indian politics. His memory was elephantine and his ability to recall fact and figures was legendary.

Pranab Mukherjee was perhaps one of the most well-read politicians in Indian politics. His memory was elephantine and his ability to recall fact and figures was legendary. He was erudite and commanded immediate attention. He did not tolerate fools nor wasted his time on inane conversations. He was a first-time politician and rose through Congress ranks because of his grit and determination. He may have been limited by his language and lack of mass appeal but Pranab Mukherjee adequately made it up by his intellect and knowledge. He was shot tempered but would resume his composure quickly. My first brush with the veteran leader was in 2001 when my editor sent me to interview Pranab Mukherjee on the working on the standing committees of the Parliament. I worked in a national weekly and I knew that my editor wanted me to focus on the trips which the member of Parliament took in India and abroad. The focus was to be on educational trips becoming fun trips for the MPs. Congress was in the Opposition, so the appointment came easy, but the meeting did not last long. After hearing my half- baked questions, Pranab Mukherjee promptly handed me a fat book. If I recollect it properly, it was not less than 300 pages. He gently asked me to read the book and then come back to him. I had a deadline of 48 hours and in no way, I could finish the book, make notes with questions and go back to Pranab Mukherjee for an interview. I told my Editor that, Pranab da has given me an impossible task but it availed no sympathy. The only consolation was that I was accompanied by my editor the next day with the book to finish the interview. I returned the book and profusely thanked him and promised myself not to ever visit him again lest I get burdened with another book reading session. Later I understood the importance of the interaction. He made the interview an education for me. He could have disposed of me by three quotes but chose to draw me deep into the subject which politicians rarely do these days. Though I had many opportunities to interact with him which were mostly in a group during Parliament session. Even then, an uneducated question was met with scorn. Perhaps he was the only politician whose, off the record briefings were an education in itself. Pranab Mukherjee served in various capacities in the government. He would be known for many things. He would be known for the man who could no become the Prime Minister despite being senior because Congress could not throw the yoke of the dynasty. He was marginalized by Rajiv Gandhi and ultimately had to leave the Congress. Pranab made a quiet re-entry into the Congress later when PV Narsimha Rao was the Prime Minister. Even during UPA, he remained a perpetual number 2. The fact is that Congress needed him, but Gandhi’s never trusted him. Pranab Mukherjee knew it. It is for this reason he opted to become the President. Despite the reluctance of the Gandhi’s Pranab Mukherjee did not give in. It was in this transition that he shined the most. His becoming the President of the Republic marked the return of a Political President which in past decades became a house for loyalists. APJ Kalam was the exception. He would also be known for things which are not in the public domain but would make a difference in the long run. He revamped the President House. Pranab Mukherjee restored the hall where first India’s Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru took the oath. I had the opportunity to see the refurnished hall. A museum was created during his tenure which was thrown open for public. The Presidential Estate was revamped, and the credit goes to him. In end, Pranab would be known as the marking the return of the Political President who dared to speak his mind and rose above the partisan interest. He met politicians of shades and ideologies. He did not discriminate. He could not become the Prime Minister, but he did definitely shine bright as the President of the Indian Republic.

Pranab Mukherjee: Rise of the political President

Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections.

The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party. It also blunts the charge of the gang of 23 of Congress being unresponsive to certain organizational issues.

This turn become important for the fact that Ahmed Patel was in fore front of defending Rahul and Sonia Gandhi in Congress Working Committee.

For Ahmad Patel to support this position means that all fences are mended with the Gandhi’s and once again he has emerged as the main trouble shooter for the Gandhi’s.

This will be preceded by the formation of a four-member committee which will assist interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi for next 6 months.

This decision succeeds the Congress Working Committee meeting where split was open between the Gandhi’s and the gang of 23.

When spoke to couple of signatories and all of them were of the issue that CWC failed to discuss the substantial nature of the letter. One of them candidly said that Congress cannot be run like a private fiefdom.

Nonetheless, CWC witnessed consolidation for the Gandhi family. One has to wait and see how member committee will be made and whether detractors would be accommodated in it.

Ahmed Patel in the CWC had pulled up Congress leader Anand Sharma on the letter controversy.

Though old timers like Mukul Wasnik also spoke their mind. They said that if the letter is objectionable and if there is anything anti-Gandhi, then action can be taken against them.

The divide in the Congress is hard reality. The only link between the old and new remains Ahmed Patel.

Only thing one will have to wait and see is as to how the difference between the Gang of 23 and Gandhi’s play out in future with AP in the middle.

WION knows that AP advised the leaders not to shoot of the letter and speak to Mrs. Gandhi in person on organizational issues.

Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections. The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party.

Speaking to WION, senior Congress leader Ahmed Patel said that there will be election to the post of the Congress President and anyone can fight the elections. The statement set the ball for ending the question of non-Gandhi leading the Congress Party. It also blunts the charge of the gang of 23 of Congress being unresponsive to certain organizational issues. This turn become important for the fact that Ahmed Patel was in fore front of defending Rahul and Sonia Gandhi in Congress Working Committee. For Ahmad Patel to support this position means that all fences are mended with the Gandhi’s and once again he has emerged as the main trouble shooter for the Gandhi’s. This will be preceded by the formation of a four-member committee which will assist interim Congress president Sonia Gandhi for next 6 months. This decision succeeds the Congress Working Committee meeting where split was open between the Gandhi’s and the gang of 23. When spoke to couple of signatories and all of them were of the issue that CWC failed to discuss the substantial nature of the letter. One of them candidly said that Congress cannot be run like a private fiefdom. Nonetheless, CWC witnessed consolidation for the Gandhi family. One has to wait and see how member committee will be made and whether detractors would be accommodated in it. Ahmed Patel in the CWC had pulled up Congress leader Anand Sharma on the letter controversy. Though old timers like Mukul Wasnik also spoke their mind. They said that if the letter is objectionable and if there is anything anti-Gandhi, then action can be taken against them. The divide in the Congress is hard reality. The only link between the old and new remains Ahmed Patel. Only thing one will have to wait and see is as to how the difference between the Gang of 23 and Gandhi’s play out in future with AP in the middle. WION knows that AP advised the leaders not to shoot of the letter and speak to Mrs. Gandhi in person on organizational issues.

Congress to hold elections for the post of president: Ahmed Patel

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Sunday said that she does not want to carry out the responsibilities of party chief anymore.

Reports citing top party sources claimed that Sonia responded to the letter written to her by over 100 party colleagues, seeking an overhaul of the Congress organization. In her response, she reportedly said they should "get together and elect a new party chief".

Sonia Gandhi was appointed for a one-year interim period in August last year. The decision on her exit from the party's topmost position would reportedly be finalised at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting scheduled tomorrow.

Earlier, ahead of the Congress Working Committee meeting on Monday, different voices have emerged within the party with one section comprising sitting MPs and former ministers demanding collective leadership, while another group has sought the return of Rahul Gandhi to the helm.

While two dozen Congress leaders including some ex-ministers have written to party president Sonia Gandhi for an overhaul of the organizational structure and changes to the leadership, some leaders close to Rahul have also written to the CWC pressing for the Gandhi scion's return as chief.

The letter by former ministers and some MPs was believed to have been written a few weeks ago and sets the stage for a stormy CWC meeting where issues flagged by dissenters are expected to be discussed and debated.

These leaders have called for bringing changes in the organization by effecting reforms through decentralisation of power and empowerment of state units besides setting up of the Central Parliamentary Board, a body that existed in the party in the 1970s but was later wound up.

The letter in question has also stressed collective decision-making with the Gandhi family as its "integral part."

They have also called for the appointment of a full-time leadership which is active and which can be easily contacted by workers and leaders.

(With inputs from PTI)

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Sunday said that she does not want to carry out the responsibilities of party chief anymore. Reports citing top party sources claimed that Sonia responded to the letter written to her by over 100 party colleagues, seeking an overhaul of the Congress organization.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi on Sunday said that she does not want to carry out the responsibilities of party chief anymore. Reports citing top party sources claimed that Sonia responded to the letter written to her by over 100 party colleagues, seeking an overhaul of the Congress organization. In her response, she reportedly said they should "get together and elect a new party chief". Sonia Gandhi was appointed for a one-year interim period in August last year. The decision on her exit from the party's topmost position would reportedly be finalised at the Congress Working Committee (CWC) meeting scheduled tomorrow. Earlier, ahead of the Congress Working Committee meeting on Monday, different voices have emerged within the party with one section comprising sitting MPs and former ministers demanding collective leadership, while another group has sought the return of Rahul Gandhi to the helm. While two dozen Congress leaders including some ex-ministers have written to party president Sonia Gandhi for an overhaul of the organizational structure and changes to the leadership, some leaders close to Rahul have also written to the CWC pressing for the Gandhi scion's return as chief. The letter by former ministers and some MPs was believed to have been written a few weeks ago and sets the stage for a stormy CWC meeting where issues flagged by dissenters are expected to be discussed and debated. These leaders have called for bringing changes in the organization by effecting reforms through decentralisation of power and empowerment of state units besides setting up of the Central Parliamentary Board, a body that existed in the party in the 1970s but was later wound up. The letter in question has also stressed collective decision-making with the Gandhi family as its "integral part." They have also called for the appointment of a full-time leadership which is active and which can be easily contacted by workers and leaders. (With inputs from PTI)

Sonia Gandhi to quit Congress President post, final decision at CWC meeting tomorrow: Reports

A planned White House summit between Belgrade and Pristina fell apart Thursday after Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti cancelled his trip to Washington, following the lead of President Hashim Thaci who scrapped the visit to face war crimes charges.

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Thaci pulled out of the trip Wednesday after special prosecutors in the Hague announced a slew of charges against the president for his role in Kosovo's 1998-99 war with Serbia, accusing him and other allies of involvement in nearly 100 murders.

That left Prime Minister Hoti to meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on his own at the White House talks set for June 27.

But writing on Facebook Thursday, Hoti said he too would need to cancel.

"I have to return to Pristina to deal with the situation," he said, referring to the charges filed against Thaci and others.

The indictment still needs approval from a pre-trial judge but prosecutors said they decided to make the accusations public because Thaci had made "repeated attempts" to obstruct the court's work.

The EU-backed tribunal was established in 2015 to investigate crimes committed by independence-seeking ethnic Albanian guerrillas during and after the war with Serbia.

Twenty years later, tensions still linger between the neighbours, with Serbia refusing to accept the independence Kosovo declared in 2008.

The talks in Washington, organised by US envoy Richard Grenell, were supposed to bring the two sides together for the first time in months. President Donald Trump had not been expected to personally attend the talks.

A planned White House summit between Belgrade and Pristina fell apart Thursday after Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti cancelled his trip to Washington, following the lead of President Hashim Thaci who scrapped the visit to face war crimes charges.

A planned White House summit between Belgrade and Pristina fell apart Thursday after Prime Minister Avdullah Hoti cancelled his trip to Washington, following the lead of President Hashim Thaci who scrapped the visit to face war crimes charges. Also read: Newborn Mexican triplets test COVID-19 positive, parents do not Thaci pulled out of the trip Wednesday after special prosecutors in the Hague announced a slew of charges against the president for his role in Kosovo's 1998-99 war with Serbia, accusing him and other allies of involvement in nearly 100 murders. That left Prime Minister Hoti to meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on his own at the White House talks set for June 27. But writing on Facebook Thursday, Hoti said he too would need to cancel. "I have to return to Pristina to deal with the situation," he said, referring to the charges filed against Thaci and others. The indictment still needs approval from a pre-trial judge but prosecutors said they decided to make the accusations public because Thaci had made "repeated attempts" to obstruct the court's work. The EU-backed tribunal was established in 2015 to investigate crimes committed by independence-seeking ethnic Albanian guerrillas during and after the war with Serbia. Twenty years later, tensions still linger between the neighbours, with Serbia refusing to accept the independence Kosovo declared in 2008. The talks in Washington, organised by US envoy Richard Grenell, were supposed to bring the two sides together for the first time in months. President Donald Trump had not been expected to personally attend the talks.

Kosovo PM cancels US trip after president faces war crimes indictment

Millions of Americans received a stimulus check from the federal government recently. With that, they also received a one-page letter from President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

“Your Economic Impact Payment Has Arrived,” says the letter’s boldface heading. The letter starts with "My Fellow American".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/184-countries-going-through-hell-trump-blames-china-for-coronavirus-spread-295459">Also read: '184 countries going through hell': Trump blames China for coronavirus spread</a>

“Our great country is experiencing an unprecedented public health and economic challenge as a result of the global coronavirus pandemic,” the letter says. “Our top priority is your health and safety. As we wage total war on this invisible enemy, we are also working around the clock to protect hardworking Americans like you from the consequences of the economic shutdown. We are fully committed to ensuring that you and your family have the support you need to get through this time.”

The letter was signed as "Donald J. Trump" at the bottom of the page in bold, one-inch-high characters. The letter was printed on the white House stationery.

The stimulus payments are a part of a recover package worth&nbsp;$2.2 trillion that was been approved by Congress and signed into law by Donald Trump on March 27.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-gives-go-head-to-malaysias-hydroxychloroquine-request-295300">Also Read:&nbsp;India gives go head to Malaysia's hydroxychloroquine request</a>

According to the economic recover law, a written notice has to be sent via mail to the last known address of any taxpayer who received one of these checks, within 15 days of the money being distributed. The letter should state details such as&nbsp;payment method, the amount of the payment and an IRS phone number to report any failure to receive such a payment.

Nina Olson, executive director of the Center for Taxpayer Rights,&nbsp;told a media organization, "This will harm the IRS and its ability to appear nonpolitical and nonpartisan. If I were there, I would be strongly advocating against this.”

Trump has received a lot of criticism for this move.&nbsp;Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the President&nbsp;“unfortunately appears to see the pandemic as just another opportunity to promote his own political interests.”

Millions of Americans received a stimulus check from the federal government recently. With that, they also received a one-page letter from President Donald Trump.

Millions of Americans received a stimulus check from the federal government recently. With that, they also received a one-page letter from President Donald Trump. “Your Economic Impact Payment Has Arrived,” says the letter’s boldface heading. The letter starts with "My Fellow American". Also read: '184 countries going through hell': Trump blames China for coronavirus spread “Our great country is experiencing an unprecedented public health and economic challenge as a result of the global coronavirus pandemic,” the letter says. “Our top priority is your health and safety. As we wage total war on this invisible enemy, we are also working around the clock to protect hardworking Americans like you from the consequences of the economic shutdown. We are fully committed to ensuring that you and your family have the support you need to get through this time.” The letter was signed as "Donald J. Trump" at the bottom of the page in bold, one-inch-high characters. The letter was printed on the white House stationery. The stimulus payments are a part of a recover package worth $2.2 trillion that was been approved by Congress and signed into law by Donald Trump on March 27. Also Read: India gives go head to Malaysia's hydroxychloroquine request According to the economic recover law, a written notice has to be sent via mail to the last known address of any taxpayer who received one of these checks, within 15 days of the money being distributed. The letter should state details such as payment method, the amount of the payment and an IRS phone number to report any failure to receive such a payment. Nina Olson, executive director of the Center for Taxpayer Rights, told a media organization, "This will harm the IRS and its ability to appear nonpolitical and nonpartisan. If I were there, I would be strongly advocating against this.” Trump has received a lot of criticism for this move. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said the President “unfortunately appears to see the pandemic as just another opportunity to promote his own political interests.”

"My Fellow American": Trump sends a letter to millions of Americans

Inside Air Force One - America's most famous plane used by US Presidents

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament.

"The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law. It has fulfilled wishes of our founding fathers including Mahatma Gandhi," he said.

He also said that debate and discussion on any issue strengthen democracy while violence during protests weaken it.

In a reference to abrogation of Article 370, Kovind said there is happiness among people of India that people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have got rights on par with the rest of the country. 
&nbsp; 
The President said Parliament has created a record in the first seven months of the new government headed by Narendra Modi by enacting several landmark legislations. 
&nbsp; 
"My government is taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade and this century as India's century," he said.&nbsp;

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Friday called the Citizenship Amendment Act a historic law during his address to a joint sitting of both houses of Parliament. "The Citizenship Amendment Act is a historic law. It has fulfilled wishes of our founding fathers including Mahatma Gandhi," he said. He also said that debate and discussion on any issue strengthen democracy while violence during protests weaken it. In a reference to abrogation of Article 370, Kovind said there is happiness among people of India that people in Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have got rights on par with the rest of the country. The President said Parliament has created a record in the first seven months of the new government headed by Narendra Modi by enacting several landmark legislations. "My government is taking strong steps for making this decade as India's decade and this century as India's century," he said.

President Ramnath Kovid hails Citizenship Amendment Act, calls it a  'historic law'

Taiwan “urgently” needs to pass a planned anti-infiltration law to face threats from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-rumours-and-cyber-armies-taiwan-fights-election-fake-news-268872">China to penetrate</a> the island, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Friday, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-aircraft-carrier-sails-through-taiwan-strait-again-270359">denouncing China’s opposition</a> to it as illogical and hypocritical.&nbsp;

The legislation is part of a years-long effort to combat what many in Taiwan see as Chinese efforts to influence politics and the democratic process, through illicit funding of politicians and the media and other underhand methods.

China claims Taiwan as its territory, to be brought under Beijing’s control by force if necessary. Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China, its official name.

Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has begun a renewed push for the legislation, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections on Jan. 11. The bill is due for debate in parliament again on Tuesday, when it may pass into law.

In a televised policy address - on which formal debate is set for Sunday - Tsai said the bill was about a threat from China that is not as easy to see as the likes of the Chinese aircraft carrier which sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday.

“I think that certainly there is an urgency in Taiwan society for the anti-infiltration law,” Tsai said. “I hope that we can as soon as possible examine it.”

Taiwan’s main opposition party, the Kuomintang, which favours close ties with China, has condemned the proposed legislation as a “political tool” of Tsai and her DPP to gain votes while trying to paint them as Chinese Communist Party agents.

They also say the bill will only criminalize normal exchanges with China, something Tsai and the DPP have denied.

China’s policy-making Taiwan Affairs Office reiterated its opposition to the bill this week too, saying the DPP was trying to “blatantly reverse over” democracy and increase enmity.

Tsai said it was totally hypocritical of an autocratic China that lacks democracy, human rights or freedom of speech to use the language of democracy to criticize the bill.

“China has no democracy and yet it is criticizing Taiwan for reversing over democracy,” she said. “China has no democratic elections and interferes in Taiwan’s democratic elections the whole day long. This is an absurd and laughable position.”

China has denied seeking to interfere in Taiwan’s elections.

Tsai’s main opponent, the Kuomintang’s Han Kuo-yu, did not directly mention the bill, but again slammed senior DPP politicians for previous visits they have made to China. Han went to China earlier this year and met senior officials.

“Your exchanges are just exchanges, but our contacts are selling out Taiwan?” Han said, holding up a picture of DPP officials meeting with Chinese counterparts.

Taiwan “urgently” needs to pass a planned anti-infiltration law to face threats from China to penetrate the island, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Friday, denouncing China’s opposition to it as illogical and hypocritical.

Taiwan “urgently” needs to pass a planned anti-infiltration law to face threats from China to penetrate the island, President Tsai Ing-wen said on Friday, denouncing China’s opposition to it as illogical and hypocritical. The legislation is part of a years-long effort to combat what many in Taiwan see as Chinese efforts to influence politics and the democratic process, through illicit funding of politicians and the media and other underhand methods. China claims Taiwan as its territory, to be brought under Beijing’s control by force if necessary. Taiwan says it is an independent country called the Republic of China, its official name. Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) has begun a renewed push for the legislation, ahead of presidential and parliamentary elections on Jan. 11. The bill is due for debate in parliament again on Tuesday, when it may pass into law. In a televised policy address - on which formal debate is set for Sunday - Tsai said the bill was about a threat from China that is not as easy to see as the likes of the Chinese aircraft carrier which sailed through the Taiwan Strait on Thursday. “I think that certainly there is an urgency in Taiwan society for the anti-infiltration law,” Tsai said. “I hope that we can as soon as possible examine it.” Taiwan’s main opposition party, the Kuomintang, which favours close ties with China, has condemned the proposed legislation as a “political tool” of Tsai and her DPP to gain votes while trying to paint them as Chinese Communist Party agents. They also say the bill will only criminalize normal exchanges with China, something Tsai and the DPP have denied. China’s policy-making Taiwan Affairs Office reiterated its opposition to the bill this week too, saying the DPP was trying to “blatantly reverse over” democracy and increase enmity. Tsai said it was totally hypocritical of an autocratic China that lacks democracy, human rights or freedom of speech to use the language of democracy to criticize the bill. “China has no democracy and yet it is criticizing Taiwan for reversing over democracy,” she said. “China has no democratic elections and interferes in Taiwan’s democratic elections the whole day long. This is an absurd and laughable position.” China has denied seeking to interfere in Taiwan’s elections. Tsai’s main opponent, the Kuomintang’s Han Kuo-yu, did not directly mention the bill, but again slammed senior DPP politicians for previous visits they have made to China. Han went to China earlier this year and met senior officials. “Your exchanges are just exchanges, but our contacts are selling out Taiwan?” Han said, holding up a picture of DPP officials meeting with Chinese counterparts.

Taiwan has 'urgent' need for infiltration law in face of China: President Tsai Ing-wen

Democrat trailblazer Kamala Harris and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrat-report-makes-forceful-impeachment-case-against-trump-266049">US President Donald Trump</a> on Tuesday traded Twitter jabs after she dropped&nbsp;out of the 2020 presidential race.

President Donald Trump sarcastically expressed sympathy on Twitter for the California Democrat saying, "Too bad. We will miss you Kamala!"&nbsp;

The president was responding to a tweet posted by his former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, who mocked Harris' decision to withdraw her bid for the top post.

But Kamala Harris tweeted a quick response to Trump: "Don't worry, Mr. President, I'll see you at your trial."

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Don’t worry, Mr. President. I’ll see you at your trial. <a href="https://t.co/iiS17NY4Ry">https://t.co/iiS17NY4Ry</a>
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris/status/1202008446083698689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Kamala was referring to the impeachment enquiry initiated against him for his dealings with Ukraine.

Earlier, in a video message on Twitter, Harris has said that she was finding it difficult to manage her campaign due to paucity of financial resources and vowed to continue her fight for the future of the country by defeating Trump.

The Democrat's withdrawal from the 2020 race marked the end of her bid for the top post that saw her poll numbers plummeting and fundraising performances drying up.

Watch: Donald Trump impeachment hearings set for December 4

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Harris, who officially announced her candidacy for the US president in January this year, was seen as a front-runner for the top post even before beginning her campaign with a massive public gathering in her hometown Oakland in California.

However, she struggled to convert the early enthusiasm into a proper and sustained movement for the presidency and was criticised for her inability to articulate a vision on issues like healthcare, The Hill reported.

Harris' polling charts soared when she took on former Vice President Joe Biden in the first Democratic presidential debate in June. Since then, her campaign failed to gain traction and her polling numbers continued to sink.

In the last debate, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-harris-go-on-the-attack-in-us-democratic-debate-239808">Harris confronted with Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard</a>, another Democratic presidential hopeful.

The Democrat Senator from California was the first African-American woman to announce a run for the White House in 2020.

(With inputs from ANI)

Democrat trailblazer Kamala Harris and US President Donald Trump on Tuesday traded Twitter jabs after she dropped out of the 2020 presidential race. President Donald Trump sarcastically expressed sympathy on Twitter for the California Democrat saying, "Too bad.

Democrat trailblazer Kamala Harris and US President Donald Trump on Tuesday traded Twitter jabs after she dropped out of the 2020 presidential race. President Donald Trump sarcastically expressed sympathy on Twitter for the California Democrat saying, "Too bad. We will miss you Kamala!" The president was responding to a tweet posted by his former campaign manager Corey Lewandowski, who mocked Harris' decision to withdraw her bid for the top post. But Kamala Harris tweeted a quick response to Trump: "Don't worry, Mr. President, I'll see you at your trial." Don’t worry, Mr. President. I’ll see you at your trial. https://t.co/iiS17NY4Ry — Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) December 3, 2019 × Kamala was referring to the impeachment enquiry initiated against him for his dealings with Ukraine. Earlier, in a video message on Twitter, Harris has said that she was finding it difficult to manage her campaign due to paucity of financial resources and vowed to continue her fight for the future of the country by defeating Trump. The Democrat's withdrawal from the 2020 race marked the end of her bid for the top post that saw her poll numbers plummeting and fundraising performances drying up. Watch: Donald Trump impeachment hearings set for December 4 Harris, who officially announced her candidacy for the US president in January this year, was seen as a front-runner for the top post even before beginning her campaign with a massive public gathering in her hometown Oakland in California. However, she struggled to convert the early enthusiasm into a proper and sustained movement for the presidency and was criticised for her inability to articulate a vision on issues like healthcare, The Hill reported. Harris' polling charts soared when she took on former Vice President Joe Biden in the first Democratic presidential debate in June. Since then, her campaign failed to gain traction and her polling numbers continued to sink. In the last debate, Harris confronted with Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, another Democratic presidential hopeful. The Democrat Senator from California was the first African-American woman to announce a run for the White House in 2020. (With inputs from ANI)

Don't worry, Mr President, I'll see you at your trial: Kamala Harris hits back at Donald Trump

The newly elected President of Sri Lanka Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday arrived in India on his maiden foreign trip after becoming the island nation's president earlier this month.

Rajapaksa is on a three-day visit during which he will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen strategic bilateral ties.

A ceremonial reception will be held in Rashtrapati Bhawan in his honour on Friday.&nbsp;

Sri Lankan President will hold talks with Modi and also call on President Ram Nath Kovind.

The MEA had said that the Indian government is ready to work very closely with the new government in Sri Lanka and expressed hope that it will fulfil the aspirations of the Tamil community living in the island nation.

"India is ready to closely work with the newly formed government in Sri Lanka and deepening our age-old relationship with the country. Our relationship with Sri Lanka or any other country is not dependent on a third country. It is entirely independent of any other factor," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a weekly briefing on November 21.

Last week, Jaishankar had made a brief visit to Colombo where he met Rajapaksa and announced that the latter accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India on November 29.

70-year-old Rajapaksa had defeated United National Party (UNP) candidate Sajith Premadasa by more than 13 lakh votes in the recently-concluded presidential elections in Sri Lanka. He is the second member of the Rajapaksa family to become the president.

His older brother Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is currently the island nation's prime minister, had served as president from 2005 to 2015.

(With inputs from ANI)

The newly elected President of Sri Lanka Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday arrived in India on his maiden foreign trip after becoming the island nation's president earlier this month.

The newly elected President of Sri Lanka Gotabaya Rajapaksa on Thursday arrived in India on his maiden foreign trip after becoming the island nation's president earlier this month. Rajapaksa is on a three-day visit during which he will hold talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to deepen strategic bilateral ties. A ceremonial reception will be held in Rashtrapati Bhawan in his honour on Friday. Sri Lankan President will hold talks with Modi and also call on President Ram Nath Kovind. The MEA had said that the Indian government is ready to work very closely with the new government in Sri Lanka and expressed hope that it will fulfil the aspirations of the Tamil community living in the island nation. "India is ready to closely work with the newly formed government in Sri Lanka and deepening our age-old relationship with the country. Our relationship with Sri Lanka or any other country is not dependent on a third country. It is entirely independent of any other factor," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a weekly briefing on November 21. Last week, Jaishankar had made a brief visit to Colombo where he met Rajapaksa and announced that the latter accepted Prime Minister Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India on November 29. 70-year-old Rajapaksa had defeated United National Party (UNP) candidate Sajith Premadasa by more than 13 lakh votes in the recently-concluded presidential elections in Sri Lanka. He is the second member of the Rajapaksa family to become the president. His older brother Mahinda Rajapaksa, who is currently the island nation's prime minister, had served as president from 2005 to 2015. (With inputs from ANI)

Sri Lanka President Gotabaya Rajapaksa arrives in India

Devendra Fadnavis has resigned as the Maharashtra chief minister, a day before the current state assembly term ends. He has been asked to continue as the caretaker chief minister.

After nearly a fortnight's impasse over the formation of a new government in India's third-largest state Maharashtra. The BJP and the Shiv Sena haven't progressed further on staking claim to form a new government.&nbsp;

This may lead the state towards the President's rule if none of the parties is unable to elect a leader as chief minister before the assembly is dissolved on November 9.

The BJP and the Shiv Sena have won the state election together as an alliance, but, the post-election political manoeuvering by the Shiv Sena has plunged Maharashtra into uncertainty.

Fighting for the chief minister's job, the Shiv Sena wants a policy of rotation, but the BJP doesn't.

People gave the BJP and Shiv Sena alliance a clear majority of 161 seats in the 288-member house.&nbsp;

The other alliance, of the NCP-Congress, got only 98 seats.

The role of The Governor of Maharashtra &nbsp;Bhagat Singh Koshyari has become crucial.

He has asked Devendra Fadnavis to continue as caretaker cm for fifteen days.

The governor also has the options to invite the largest single party, or an alliance to form the government.

The Shiv Sena has been accusing the BJP of deliberately pushing Maharashtra towards president’s rule.

The Shiv Sena has said that it has the numbers through alternative options to form the government in Maharashtra.

Devendra Fadnavis has resigned as the Maharashtra chief minister, a day before the current state assembly term ends. He has been asked to continue as the caretaker chief minister.

Devendra Fadnavis has resigned as the Maharashtra chief minister, a day before the current state assembly term ends. He has been asked to continue as the caretaker chief minister. After nearly a fortnight's impasse over the formation of a new government in India's third-largest state Maharashtra. The BJP and the Shiv Sena haven't progressed further on staking claim to form a new government. This may lead the state towards the President's rule if none of the parties is unable to elect a leader as chief minister before the assembly is dissolved on November 9. The BJP and the Shiv Sena have won the state election together as an alliance, but, the post-election political manoeuvering by the Shiv Sena has plunged Maharashtra into uncertainty. Fighting for the chief minister's job, the Shiv Sena wants a policy of rotation, but the BJP doesn't. People gave the BJP and Shiv Sena alliance a clear majority of 161 seats in the 288-member house. The other alliance, of the NCP-Congress, got only 98 seats. The role of The Governor of Maharashtra Bhagat Singh Koshyari has become crucial. He has asked Devendra Fadnavis to continue as caretaker cm for fifteen days. The governor also has the options to invite the largest single party, or an alliance to form the government. The Shiv Sena has been accusing the BJP of deliberately pushing Maharashtra towards president’s rule. The Shiv Sena has said that it has the numbers through alternative options to form the government in Maharashtra.

Maharashtra government formation: Situation hints towards President's rule

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a five-day visit to the Philippines on Thursday, followed by a visit to Japan from October 21 to 23 for the Enthronement Ceremony of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito. Naruhito acceded to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1 2019, beginning the Reiwa era after the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito.

Kovind's visit to the Philippines coincides with the 70th anniversary of ties between both the countries and New Delhi's thrust to the Act East Policy and growing engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members. Counter-terror will be the focus during the visit, as the island nation is facing the threat of Islamic State.

Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "we are looking to work together in areas like combating urban terrorism as well as working with them in areas like the exchange of information".

India has a working group with the country on counterterrorism that last met in 2017 and had given $500,000 to Marawi city after terrorist linked to Islamic State had tried to take over the city. Prime Minister Modi went to the Philippines in 2017, followed by the visit of President Duterte to India in 2018.

The president will also pay homage to José Rizal, a Filipino nationalist who was executed by the Spanish colonial government after the Philippine Revolution. He will also unveil a sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi and will interact with the beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot prosthetic in the Philippines.

On October 21, the president will visit Japan for the Enthronement Ceremony of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito.

"His participation in the ceremony relating to the Enthronement of emperor signifies the very high importance that we attach to Japan and it is a country with which we have a very special strategic and global partnership", Vijay Thakur Singh said.

To highlight the Buddhist link between India and Japan, the president will gift a sapling from the sacred Bodhi Tree in Gaya to the emperor. Additionally, he will visit the Meiji Shrine dedicated to the Japanese Emperor Meiji and his wife, responsible for the transition of Japan to an industrialised world power in the late 1800s. He will then visit Kakegawa city, which will soon host an event to highlight Indian culture.

The last presidential visit from India to Japan took place in 1990 when former President Venkataraman participated in the Enthronement Ceremony of former Japanese Emperor Akihito.

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a five-day visit to the Philippines on Thursday, followed by a visit to Japan from October 21 to 23 for the Enthronement Ceremony of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito.

President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on a five-day visit to the Philippines on Thursday, followed by a visit to Japan from October 21 to 23 for the Enthronement Ceremony of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito. Naruhito acceded to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1 2019, beginning the Reiwa era after the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito. Kovind's visit to the Philippines coincides with the 70th anniversary of ties between both the countries and New Delhi's thrust to the Act East Policy and growing engagement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members. Counter-terror will be the focus during the visit, as the island nation is facing the threat of Islamic State. Vijay Thakur Singh, Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "we are looking to work together in areas like combating urban terrorism as well as working with them in areas like the exchange of information". India has a working group with the country on counterterrorism that last met in 2017 and had given $500,000 to Marawi city after terrorist linked to Islamic State had tried to take over the city. Prime Minister Modi went to the Philippines in 2017, followed by the visit of President Duterte to India in 2018. The president will also pay homage to José Rizal, a Filipino nationalist who was executed by the Spanish colonial government after the Philippine Revolution. He will also unveil a sculpture of Mahatma Gandhi and will interact with the beneficiaries of the Jaipur Foot prosthetic in the Philippines. On October 21, the president will visit Japan for the Enthronement Ceremony of the Emperor of Japan, Naruhito. "His participation in the ceremony relating to the Enthronement of emperor signifies the very high importance that we attach to Japan and it is a country with which we have a very special strategic and global partnership", Vijay Thakur Singh said. To highlight the Buddhist link between India and Japan, the president will gift a sapling from the sacred Bodhi Tree in Gaya to the emperor. Additionally, he will visit the Meiji Shrine dedicated to the Japanese Emperor Meiji and his wife, responsible for the transition of Japan to an industrialised world power in the late 1800s. He will then visit Kakegawa city, which will soon host an event to highlight Indian culture. The last presidential visit from India to Japan took place in 1990 when former President Venkataraman participated in the Enthronement Ceremony of former Japanese Emperor Akihito.

President to visit Philippines and Japan, will also represent India at Enthronement Ceremony of new Japanese Emperor

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he asked the United States National Security Adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-calls-us-national-security-advisor-john-bolton-human-defect-221893">John Bolton</a> to resign after he "disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions."

“I informed John Bolton last night that his services are no longer needed at the White House. I disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions, as did others in the Administration, and therefore I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning,” Trump said on Twitter.

"....I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning. I thank John very much for his service. I will be naming a new National Security Advisor next week," US President tweeted.

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....I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning. I thank John very much for his service. I will be naming a new National Security Advisor next week.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1171452881729228802?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Bolton denied being fired and said he had resigned.

The news — coming days after Trump caused uproar by revealing he was canceling secret talks with Afghanistan's Taliban — stunned Washington.

Bolton is a veteran and controversial figure closely linked to the invasion of Iraq and other aggressive foreign policy decisions. He had been seen as one of the main driving forces in the White House's muscular approach to Iran, Venezuela and other trouble spots. 
As often in the Trump presidency, the abrupt reshuffle appeared to contain an element of chaos.

Trump's tweeted announcement came shortly after the White House press office had said Bolton would shortly be giving a press conference on terrorism issues alongside Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. 
Bolton himself disputed Trump's version of events, apparently saying that the president had not fired him in person, as he claimed, late Monday.

"I offered to resign last night and President Trump said, "Let's talk about it tomorrow," Bolton tweeted.

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I offered to resign last night and President Trump said, "Let's talk about it tomorrow."
— John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) <a href="https://twitter.com/AmbJohnBolton/status/1171455806069305346?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Trump said he would name a new National Security Advisor next week.

(With inputs from AFP)

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he asked the United States National Security Adviser John Bolton to resign after he "disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions.

President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he asked the United States National Security Adviser John Bolton to resign after he "disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions." “I informed John Bolton last night that his services are no longer needed at the White House. I disagreed strongly with many of his suggestions, as did others in the Administration, and therefore I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning,” Trump said on Twitter. "....I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning. I thank John very much for his service. I will be naming a new National Security Advisor next week," US President tweeted. ....I asked John for his resignation, which was given to me this morning. I thank John very much for his service. I will be naming a new National Security Advisor next week. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 10, 2019 × Bolton denied being fired and said he had resigned. The news — coming days after Trump caused uproar by revealing he was canceling secret talks with Afghanistan's Taliban — stunned Washington. Bolton is a veteran and controversial figure closely linked to the invasion of Iraq and other aggressive foreign policy decisions. He had been seen as one of the main driving forces in the White House's muscular approach to Iran, Venezuela and other trouble spots. As often in the Trump presidency, the abrupt reshuffle appeared to contain an element of chaos. Trump's tweeted announcement came shortly after the White House press office had said Bolton would shortly be giving a press conference on terrorism issues alongside Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Bolton himself disputed Trump's version of events, apparently saying that the president had not fired him in person, as he claimed, late Monday. "I offered to resign last night and President Trump said, "Let's talk about it tomorrow," Bolton tweeted. I offered to resign last night and President Trump said, "Let's talk about it tomorrow." — John Bolton (@AmbJohnBolton) September 10, 2019 × Trump said he would name a new National Security Advisor next week. (With inputs from AFP)

I asked NSA John Bolton to resign, tweets US President Donald Trump

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday extended their greetings to the citizens of the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakri Eid.

"Eid Mubarak to all fellow citizens, especially to our Muslim brothers &amp; sisters in India and abroad. Idu'I Zuha symbolizes love, fraternity and service to humanity. Let us commit ourselves to these universal values that represent our composite culture," President tweeted. In his message, the Prime Minister said he hopes that Eid promotes the spirit of peace and happiness in society.

"My best wishes on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. I hope it furthers the spirit of peace and happiness in our society. Eid Mubarak!" he tweeted.&nbsp;

Naidu said that the festival inspires feelings of brotherhood, compassion and unity.

"I extend my warm greetings to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of 'Id-ul-Zuha' The festival is an ode to the virtues of devotion, faith and sacrifice and inspires feelings of brotherhood, compassion and unity," he tweeted.

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Delhi: People offer namaz at Jama Masjid on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EidAlAdha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EidAlAdha</a> today. <a href="https://t.co/XkMMLss3Se">pic.twitter.com/XkMMLss3Se</a>
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"May the noble ideals of Id-ul-Zuha enrich our lives with peace and harmony and bring prosperity to our country," he said in another tweet.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also tweeted saying that the festival strengthens peace and harmony in the society.

"Greetings and my good wishes on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. May this day further strengthens and deepens the bonds of peace and harmony in our society," he tweeted.

Taking to Twitter, the Congress party too wished people.

"Eid Mubarak to all our brothers &amp; sisters. May this auspicious occasion bring you peace, prosperity &amp; happiness," he tweeted.

The holy festival of sacrifice, which falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah as per the Islamic lunar calendar will be celebrated on Monday.

Bakra Eid or Bakrid is marked by sacrificing an animal that is close to them to prove their devotion and love for Allah. Post the sacrifice, devotes distribute the offering to family, friends, neighbours and especially to the poor and the needy.

People buy goats or sheep a day prior for sacrifice, on the day commemorating Ibrahim (Abraham) who was to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday extended their greetings to the citizens of the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakri Eid.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu on Monday extended their greetings to the citizens of the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, also known as Bakri Eid. "Eid Mubarak to all fellow citizens, especially to our Muslim brothers & sisters in India and abroad. Idu'I Zuha symbolizes love, fraternity and service to humanity. Let us commit ourselves to these universal values that represent our composite culture," President tweeted. In his message, the Prime Minister said he hopes that Eid promotes the spirit of peace and happiness in society. "My best wishes on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. I hope it furthers the spirit of peace and happiness in our society. Eid Mubarak!" he tweeted. Naidu said that the festival inspires feelings of brotherhood, compassion and unity. "I extend my warm greetings to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of 'Id-ul-Zuha' The festival is an ode to the virtues of devotion, faith and sacrifice and inspires feelings of brotherhood, compassion and unity," he tweeted. Delhi: People offer namaz at Jama Masjid on #EidAlAdha today. pic.twitter.com/XkMMLss3Se — ANI (@ANI) August 12, 2019 × "May the noble ideals of Id-ul-Zuha enrich our lives with peace and harmony and bring prosperity to our country," he said in another tweet. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also tweeted saying that the festival strengthens peace and harmony in the society. "Greetings and my good wishes on the occasion of Eid al-Adha. May this day further strengthens and deepens the bonds of peace and harmony in our society," he tweeted. Taking to Twitter, the Congress party too wished people. "Eid Mubarak to all our brothers & sisters. May this auspicious occasion bring you peace, prosperity & happiness," he tweeted. The holy festival of sacrifice, which falls on the 10th day of Dhu al-Hijjah as per the Islamic lunar calendar will be celebrated on Monday. Bakra Eid or Bakrid is marked by sacrificing an animal that is close to them to prove their devotion and love for Allah. Post the sacrifice, devotes distribute the offering to family, friends, neighbours and especially to the poor and the needy. People buy goats or sheep a day prior for sacrifice, on the day commemorating Ibrahim (Abraham) who was to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God's command.

President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi extend greetings to nation on Eid al-Adha 

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics.

The country's main political parties have already chosen their nominees, so the primary election, known locally as the PASO, serves as the first concrete measure of voter sentiment after a slew of opinion polls showed a narrow margin between<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/argentine-president-macri-has-slim-lead-for-re-election-in-early-poll-235126"> President Mauricio Macri</a> and main challenger Alberto Fernandez.

Business-friendly Macri is hoping some recent glimmers of economic revival are enough to encourage voters to stick with him despite the current recession and biting inflation. Argentina's country risk fell 20 basis points on Friday and the local Merval index rose 7 per cent.

For voters, sticking with him would mean seeing through painful cuts in public spending as part of the $57 billion standby agreement he negotiated with the International Monetary Fund last year.

Peronist candidate Fernandez, who has firebrand former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner as his running mate, has promised access to free medicines for retirees and better wages for workers while hammering Macri for the uptick in poverty and unemployment as the country grapples with the recession and 55 per cent inflation.

"I don't think that in the face of another Macri triumph, things will improve. On the contrary, they will get worse," said Pablo Vazquez, 48, adding that he is worried about losing his job and has noticed more homeless people on the streets.

Investors, though, see Fernandez and Kirchner as a riskier prospect than sticking with free-markets advocate Macri.

As recent polls show the pair with a narrow lead, markets are bracing for the Fernandez ticket to come out ahead of Macri in Sunday's primary, said Credit Suisse analyst Casey Reckman.

The severity of market reaction could depend on the margin of victory between Fernandez and Macri, and whether or not the winner netted enough votes to indicate a potential win in the first round of the presidential election in October, Reckman said.

To win the presidency outright in October, a candidate needs at least 45 per cent of the vote or 40 per cent and a difference of 10 percentage points over the second-place runner. If there's no clear winner, voters will return for a run-off on Nov. 24.

A widened gap between Fernandez and Macri on Sunday could spook markets, prompting a new wave of volatility that sends the peso spiralling, further dimming Macri's chances of re-election.

"It's a question of whether Macri can continue to build support. The backdrop for his momentum has been the absence of financial volatility, the decline in inflation, improving confidence and some signs of economic recovery. This event could influence sentiment around that question," Reckman said.

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics.

Argentines have their first chance on Sunday to head to the ballot boxes in a high-stakes presidential race in which they must choose between staying the course of painful austerity measures or a return to interventionist economics. The country's main political parties have already chosen their nominees, so the primary election, known locally as the PASO, serves as the first concrete measure of voter sentiment after a slew of opinion polls showed a narrow margin between President Mauricio Macri and main challenger Alberto Fernandez. Business-friendly Macri is hoping some recent glimmers of economic revival are enough to encourage voters to stick with him despite the current recession and biting inflation. Argentina's country risk fell 20 basis points on Friday and the local Merval index rose 7 per cent. For voters, sticking with him would mean seeing through painful cuts in public spending as part of the $57 billion standby agreement he negotiated with the International Monetary Fund last year. Peronist candidate Fernandez, who has firebrand former President Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner as his running mate, has promised access to free medicines for retirees and better wages for workers while hammering Macri for the uptick in poverty and unemployment as the country grapples with the recession and 55 per cent inflation. "I don't think that in the face of another Macri triumph, things will improve. On the contrary, they will get worse," said Pablo Vazquez, 48, adding that he is worried about losing his job and has noticed more homeless people on the streets. Investors, though, see Fernandez and Kirchner as a riskier prospect than sticking with free-markets advocate Macri. As recent polls show the pair with a narrow lead, markets are bracing for the Fernandez ticket to come out ahead of Macri in Sunday's primary, said Credit Suisse analyst Casey Reckman. The severity of market reaction could depend on the margin of victory between Fernandez and Macri, and whether or not the winner netted enough votes to indicate a potential win in the first round of the presidential election in October, Reckman said. To win the presidency outright in October, a candidate needs at least 45 per cent of the vote or 40 per cent and a difference of 10 percentage points over the second-place runner. If there's no clear winner, voters will return for a run-off on Nov. 24. A widened gap between Fernandez and Macri on Sunday could spook markets, prompting a new wave of volatility that sends the peso spiralling, further dimming Macri's chances of re-election. "It's a question of whether Macri can continue to build support. The backdrop for his momentum has been the absence of financial volatility, the decline in inflation, improving confidence and some signs of economic recovery. This event could influence sentiment around that question," Reckman said.

Argentines head to polls for primary in first Macri, Fernandez showdown

The decisive mandate to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amit-shah-pm-modis-right-hand-man-is-indias-new-home-minister-223085">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> is a call of the people for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/cabinet-20-most-ministers-retain-earlier-ministries-check-complete-list-223154">new India </a>where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday.

Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-20-rajnath-singh-is-defence-minister-amit-shah-home-nirmala-sitharaman-gets-finace-223084">Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance</a>

"This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said.

It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home

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Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/modi-20-prominent-faces-of-the-58-member-ministerial-team-222972">In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team</a>

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Kovind said aspirations run high in our people.

"They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said.

Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said.

Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone.

"As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said.

Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said.

"This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said.

Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar.

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet.

The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday.

Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said.

The decisive mandate to Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a call of the people for a new India where there is progress for all and the country transforms itself as an engine of global growth, President Ram Nath Kovind said. He was addressing a banquet in honour of the heads and representatives of foreign governments attending the swearing-in-ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Thursday. Kovind said the verdict is an affirmation of Modi's visionary leadership to build a New India, not in a distant future, but here and now. Also read: Modi 2.0: Rajnath Singh is Defence Minister, Amit Shah Home; Nirmala Sitharaman gets Finance "This mandate is a call from our people for an India where there is progress for all and no one is left behind; an India that is on course to eliminating extreme poverty in the coming decade, and to realising the potential in every girl-child; an India that is at work to harness new-age technology and the limitless energy of its youth," he said. It calls for an India that wishes to connect deeper with its rich cultural past even as it draws the contours of its promising future, and an India that is fast transforming itself as an engine of global growth and a centre of global power-relations, the president said. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfil these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Watch- Modi 2.0 cabinet portfolios announced: Nirmala gets Finance, Amit Shah takes Home × Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. In pics: Prominent faces of the 58-member ministerial team "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet. Kovind said aspirations run high in our people. "They constantly yearn for a better life for themselves and their children. There is no let-up in their demand for good governance, equal opportunities and efficient and equitable delivery of public goods and services," the president said. Modi leads a government that will continue to work selflessly and tirelessly to fulfill these aspirations and enable a life of dignity and respect to our citizens, he said. Kovind said India's dreams are not for it alone. "As we work for our progress, we remain deeply conscious of the support we draw from our close friends and our close neighbours. From the warm waters of the Indian Ocean to the earnest embrace of the Bay of Bengal and further to the shared cultural affinities and economic opportunities of Central Asia, our people embody similar hopes and aspirations," he said. Over the centuries, India has been the centre-piece of a great trading system that has run from the heartland of Central Asia right to the Indian Ocean, the president said. "This is our legacy, and this is also our future. For all our people and for the global community, we must work together to foster peace and prosperity in our region and beyond. Our countries remain stakeholders in each other's progress and wellbeing," Kovind said. Dignitaries attended the banquet include Bangladesh's President Mohammad Abdul Hamid, Sri Lanka's President Maithripala Sirisena, Sooronbai Zheenbekov, the President of Kyrgyz Republic and U Win Myint, the President of Myanmar. Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, K P Sharma Oli, the Prime Minister of Nepal; Lotay Tshering, the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Bhutan and Grisada Boonrach, special envoy of the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand also attended the banquet. The highest ever number of 8,000 guests, including VVIPs, attended the swearing-in ceremony of the prime minister and his Council of Ministers Thursday. Rashtrapati Bhavan kitchen's speciality 'Dal Raisina' was served to foreign delegates in the banquet.

Strong mandate is a call from our people for new India: President Ram Nath Kovind

Pete Buttigieg, the gay, liberal mayor of a small American city in the conservative bastion of Indiana, officially launched his <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-senator-bernie-sanders-announces-2020-presidential-bid-198358&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiZvJDzptHhAhXlheYKHeEqDyUQFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw04piq_bjx7N7P_ZxrBFKPL">presidential bid </a>Sunday, joining a crowded field of Democrats vying for their party's nomination in 2020.

The 37-year-old Rhodes scholar and Afghanistan war veteran is the two-term mayor of his hometown of South Bend -- a left-leaning bubble in America's so-called "Rust Belt" region, where the decline of industries such as steel and automobile manufacturing has hurt local economies.

Voters in states such as Michigan and Wisconsin helped hand Republican US President Donald Trump his victory in the 2016 election.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/far-out-from-2020-a-deep-democratic-bench-takes-shape-196543">Buttigieg</a>, who is credited with helping turn South Bend around, has couched himself as a can-do reformer who can speak to voters across the political spectrum. The message has helped catapult him from relative obscurity to becoming one of the leading Democrats in the crowded presidential race.&nbsp;

"My name is Pete Buttigieg. They call me 'Mayor Pete.' I'm a proud son of South Bend, Indiana, and I am running for president of the United States!" he told a jubilant crowd of supporters at a former assembly plant turned high-tech hub in South Bend.

"That's why I am here, to tell a different story than 'Make America Great Again'" he added, referring to Trump's campaign slogan. "This time it's not just about winning an election. It's about winning an era."

The official launch -- in which Buttigieg touched upon a number of liberal talking points such as racial justice, voting rights and health care reform, as well as his faith and marriage to Chasten Buttigieg -- is expected to give his surprisingly strong campaign an additional boost.&nbsp;

Campaign staffers said they have been caught by surprise by the speed with which the mayor has generated nationwide political support, and are still staffing up the campaign. Buttigieg had no speechwriter to help him prepare his remarks.&nbsp;

'New generation'

So many people showed up for the launch event that a large crowd was left outside in the rain to watch on a large video screen. Buttigieg braved the elements and thanked the crowd moments before making his official announcement indoors.&nbsp;

"He represents a new generation of Democratic leadership. We love his vision," said Jenn Watts, 35, while her three-year-old daughter sat on her shoulders.&nbsp;

They were in the cavernous event space in the former plant of defunct automaker Studebaker waiting more than two hours to see Buttigieg speak.&nbsp;

"As a young mom with a young daughter, he represents what I want my daughter to see in leadership in this country," Watts added.&nbsp;

In the three months since he declared an exploratory committee to test a presidential run, Buttigieg has raised $7 million, more than most other candidates, and jumped to third place in the latest polls of voters in Iowa and New Hampshire -- the earliest states to vote in next year's primary elections.

The popular mayor who speaks eight languages and plays classical piano has been the focus of countless news stories and profiles.

The fascination has been in no small part due to his background: he would be the youngest, first openly gay, first millennial and first mayor to become president.&nbsp;

But Buttigieg must still overcome the perception that his youth and thin resume as mayor of a town of just 100,000 leaves him lacking the experience necessary for the presidency. &nbsp;

"I recognize the audacity of doing this as a Midwestern millennial mayor," Buttigieg said. "But the moment we live in compels us to act."

Drew Corbin, a 24-year-old college student clutching four campaign T-shirts he had purchased for friends and wearing a campaign cap, said he still had not fully committed to the candidate.&nbsp;

"There's a lot of candidates. I don't want to make up my mind so soon, almost a year before the primaries," Corbin said. "But he's definitely my favorite right now."

'Destined for national politics'&nbsp;

Buttigieg's launch at Studebaker called to mind the plant's closure in 1963 that was still reverberating in the city in 2011 when he was elected mayor.&nbsp;

He set out to tear down decaying, abandoned homes and restore the blighted Studebaker complex to make it suitable for new high-tech companies.

In an unlikely feat, the city has reversed decades of population decline and attracted new businesses and development, with the mayor's popularity growing in the process.

"His appeal, for many people in South Bend, is his ability to look forward and to focus on better days ahead," South Bend-based political science professor Elizabeth Bennion of Indiana University told AFP.

"Once people looked at his resume and heard him speak, many started talking about the fact that he was destined for national politics."

Pete Buttigieg, the gay, liberal mayor of a small American city in the conservative bastion of Indiana, officially launched his presidential bid Sunday, joining a crowded field of Democrats vying for their party's nomination in 2020.

Pete Buttigieg, the gay, liberal mayor of a small American city in the conservative bastion of Indiana, officially launched his presidential bid Sunday, joining a crowded field of Democrats vying for their party's nomination in 2020. The 37-year-old Rhodes scholar and Afghanistan war veteran is the two-term mayor of his hometown of South Bend -- a left-leaning bubble in America's so-called "Rust Belt" region, where the decline of industries such as steel and automobile manufacturing has hurt local economies. Voters in states such as Michigan and Wisconsin helped hand Republican US President Donald Trump his victory in the 2016 election. Buttigieg, who is credited with helping turn South Bend around, has couched himself as a can-do reformer who can speak to voters across the political spectrum. The message has helped catapult him from relative obscurity to becoming one of the leading Democrats in the crowded presidential race. "My name is Pete Buttigieg. They call me 'Mayor Pete.' I'm a proud son of South Bend, Indiana, and I am running for president of the United States!" he told a jubilant crowd of supporters at a former assembly plant turned high-tech hub in South Bend. "That's why I am here, to tell a different story than 'Make America Great Again'" he added, referring to Trump's campaign slogan. "This time it's not just about winning an election. It's about winning an era." The official launch -- in which Buttigieg touched upon a number of liberal talking points such as racial justice, voting rights and health care reform, as well as his faith and marriage to Chasten Buttigieg -- is expected to give his surprisingly strong campaign an additional boost. Campaign staffers said they have been caught by surprise by the speed with which the mayor has generated nationwide political support, and are still staffing up the campaign. Buttigieg had no speechwriter to help him prepare his remarks. 'New generation' So many people showed up for the launch event that a large crowd was left outside in the rain to watch on a large video screen. Buttigieg braved the elements and thanked the crowd moments before making his official announcement indoors. "He represents a new generation of Democratic leadership. We love his vision," said Jenn Watts, 35, while her three-year-old daughter sat on her shoulders. They were in the cavernous event space in the former plant of defunct automaker Studebaker waiting more than two hours to see Buttigieg speak. "As a young mom with a young daughter, he represents what I want my daughter to see in leadership in this country," Watts added. In the three months since he declared an exploratory committee to test a presidential run, Buttigieg has raised $7 million, more than most other candidates, and jumped to third place in the latest polls of voters in Iowa and New Hampshire -- the earliest states to vote in next year's primary elections. The popular mayor who speaks eight languages and plays classical piano has been the focus of countless news stories and profiles. The fascination has been in no small part due to his background: he would be the youngest, first openly gay, first millennial and first mayor to become president. But Buttigieg must still overcome the perception that his youth and thin resume as mayor of a town of just 100,000 leaves him lacking the experience necessary for the presidency. "I recognize the audacity of doing this as a Midwestern millennial mayor," Buttigieg said. "But the moment we live in compels us to act." Drew Corbin, a 24-year-old college student clutching four campaign T-shirts he had purchased for friends and wearing a campaign cap, said he still had not fully committed to the candidate. "There's a lot of candidates. I don't want to make up my mind so soon, almost a year before the primaries," Corbin said. "But he's definitely my favorite right now." 'Destined for national politics' Buttigieg's launch at Studebaker called to mind the plant's closure in 1963 that was still reverberating in the city in 2011 when he was elected mayor. He set out to tear down decaying, abandoned homes and restore the blighted Studebaker complex to make it suitable for new high-tech companies. In an unlikely feat, the city has reversed decades of population decline and attracted new businesses and development, with the mayor's popularity growing in the process. "His appeal, for many people in South Bend, is his ability to look forward and to focus on better days ahead," South Bend-based political science professor Elizabeth Bennion of Indiana University told AFP. "Once people looked at his resume and heard him speak, many started talking about the fact that he was destined for national politics."

Gay mayor from 'Rust Belt' America launches presidential bid

Namvar Singh, writer, poet, critic and one of contemporary Hindi literature's tallest figures, has died after a month-long illness, his family said on Wednesday. He was 92.

Singh died on Tuesday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. 
He had not been keeping well for more than a month and was on the ventilator for three weeks, his daughter Sameeksha said.

"He died at 11.51 on Tuesday night," she said.

The last rites will be performed at 4 pm on Wednesday at the Lodhi Road crematorium, she added.

Singh gave Hindi literary criticism a new direction with his books such as "Chhayavaad", "Itihas Aur Alochana", "Kahaani Nayi Kahaani", "Kavita Ke Naye Pratimaan", "Dusri Parampara Ki Khoj".

The author's death, which marks the end of an era, led to scores of people sending in their condolences.

President Ram Nath Kovind said Singh's death was a huge loss to not only Hindi literature but also other languages in India.

"Deeply saddened by the demise of the great critic, Namvar Singh, who established a new paradigm in Hindi literature and criticism... My condolences to the grieving family and the world of Hindi literature," Kovind tweeted in Hindi.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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हिंदी साहित्य में नए प्रतिमान स्थापित करने वाले शीर्षस्थ समालोचक डॉ नामवर सिंह के निधन से गहरा दुःख हुआ। उनका जाना केवल हिंदी ही नहीं अपितु सभी भारतीय भाषाओँ के साहित्य के लिए एक बहुत बड़ा आघात है। शोकाकुल परिवार व सम्पूर्ण हिंदी जगत के प्रति मेरी संवेदनाएं — राष्ट्रपति कोविन्द
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1098116865463771136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Condoling his death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a towering figure of Hindi literature who gave it new direction through his literary criticism.

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हिन्दी साहित्य के शिखर पुरुष नामवर सिंह जी के निधन से गहरा दुख हुआ है। उन्होंने आलोचना के माध्यम से हिन्दी साहित्य को एक नई दिशा दी। ‘दूसरी परंपरा की खोज’ करने वाले नामवर जी का जाना साहित्य जगत के लिए अपूरणीय क्षति है। ईश्वर दिवंगत आत्मा को शांति दे और परिजनों को संबल प्रदान करे।
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1098090090251710464?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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According to Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Indian languages had lost a powerful voice with the death of Singh.

"He spent his life in creating a tolerant and democratic society. Restoring dialogue in India will be the real tribute to him," Gandhi said.

Born on July 28, 1926, in Varanasi's village Jiyanpur (now in Chandauli), Singh completed his MA and PhD in Hindi literature from the Banaras Hindu University.

He also worked as a professor in his alma mater BHU as well as Jodhpur University and the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).

Singh served as the editor of two Hindi magazines, Janyug and Alochana.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, "Namvar Singhji's death is a personal loss for me. Despite ideological differences, he knew how to respect people. His death is a huge loss for Hindi literature and our society. My condolences to his family."

"Dr Namvar Singh had a special place in Hindi literature. His work and contribution will continue to influence the upcoming generations. My tribute" said CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury.

Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also sent his condolences.

"Eminent critic of Hindi literature, Namvar Singhji is no longer with us. A humble tribute to the man who gave new direction and stature to criticism in Hindi literature."

Paying tributes to the author, Rajkamal Prakashan, which published his books, said his demise was like "the disappearance of the sun from the galaxy of Hindi literature".

"He was the biggest name in Indian literature and gave a new direction to Hindi literary criticism and a new meaning to the tradition of 'vaad-vivaad aur samvaad'. He was like a father figure for me. This is a big loss for us," Ashok Maheshwari of the publishing house said in a statement.

Namvar Singh, writer, poet, critic and one of contemporary Hindi literature's tallest figures, has died after a month-long illness, his family said on Wednesday.

Namvar Singh, writer, poet, critic and one of contemporary Hindi literature's tallest figures, has died after a month-long illness, his family said on Wednesday. He was 92. Singh died on Tuesday night at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences. He had not been keeping well for more than a month and was on the ventilator for three weeks, his daughter Sameeksha said. "He died at 11.51 on Tuesday night," she said. The last rites will be performed at 4 pm on Wednesday at the Lodhi Road crematorium, she added. Singh gave Hindi literary criticism a new direction with his books such as "Chhayavaad", "Itihas Aur Alochana", "Kahaani Nayi Kahaani", "Kavita Ke Naye Pratimaan", "Dusri Parampara Ki Khoj". The author's death, which marks the end of an era, led to scores of people sending in their condolences. President Ram Nath Kovind said Singh's death was a huge loss to not only Hindi literature but also other languages in India. "Deeply saddened by the demise of the great critic, Namvar Singh, who established a new paradigm in Hindi literature and criticism... My condolences to the grieving family and the world of Hindi literature," Kovind tweeted in Hindi. हिंदी साहित्य में नए प्रतिमान स्थापित करने वाले शीर्षस्थ समालोचक डॉ नामवर सिंह के निधन से गहरा दुःख हुआ। उनका जाना केवल हिंदी ही नहीं अपितु सभी भारतीय भाषाओँ के साहित्य के लिए एक बहुत बड़ा आघात है। शोकाकुल परिवार व सम्पूर्ण हिंदी जगत के प्रति मेरी संवेदनाएं — राष्ट्रपति कोविन्द — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) February 20, 2019 × Condoling his death, Prime Minister Narendra Modi described him as a towering figure of Hindi literature who gave it new direction through his literary criticism. हिन्दी साहित्य के शिखर पुरुष नामवर सिंह जी के निधन से गहरा दुख हुआ है। उन्होंने आलोचना के माध्यम से हिन्दी साहित्य को एक नई दिशा दी। ‘दूसरी परंपरा की खोज’ करने वाले नामवर जी का जाना साहित्य जगत के लिए अपूरणीय क्षति है। ईश्वर दिवंगत आत्मा को शांति दे और परिजनों को संबल प्रदान करे। — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 20, 2019 × According to Congress president Rahul Gandhi, Indian languages had lost a powerful voice with the death of Singh. "He spent his life in creating a tolerant and democratic society. Restoring dialogue in India will be the real tribute to him," Gandhi said. Born on July 28, 1926, in Varanasi's village Jiyanpur (now in Chandauli), Singh completed his MA and PhD in Hindi literature from the Banaras Hindu University. He also worked as a professor in his alma mater BHU as well as Jodhpur University and the Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). Singh served as the editor of two Hindi magazines, Janyug and Alochana. Home Minister Rajnath Singh wrote, "Namvar Singhji's death is a personal loss for me. Despite ideological differences, he knew how to respect people. His death is a huge loss for Hindi literature and our society. My condolences to his family." "Dr Namvar Singh had a special place in Hindi literature. His work and contribution will continue to influence the upcoming generations. My tribute" said CPI(M) leader Sitaram Yechury. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal also sent his condolences. "Eminent critic of Hindi literature, Namvar Singhji is no longer with us. A humble tribute to the man who gave new direction and stature to criticism in Hindi literature." Paying tributes to the author, Rajkamal Prakashan, which published his books, said his demise was like "the disappearance of the sun from the galaxy of Hindi literature". "He was the biggest name in Indian literature and gave a new direction to Hindi literary criticism and a new meaning to the tradition of 'vaad-vivaad aur samvaad'. He was like a father figure for me. This is a big loss for us," Ashok Maheshwari of the publishing house said in a statement.

Hindi author and literary critic Namvar Singh dies at 92, President and PM pay tribute

Protests against Donald Trump across US on Presidents Day

Some taxpayers are getting a bitter surprise this year as their usual annual tax refunds have shrunk — or turned into tax bills — even though President Donald Trump loudly promised the largest tax cut "in American history."

And with <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-democrats-question-irs-audits-of-trump-taxes-195908">tax season underway</a>, thousands of unhappy taxpayers have been venting their displeasure on Twitter, using hashtags like #GOPTaxscam, and some threatened not to vote for Trump again.

"Lowest refund I have ever had and I am 50 yrs old. No wall and now this tax reform sucks too!!" a woman going by "Speziale-Matheny" wrote from the crucial political swing state of Florida.

"Starting to doubt Trump. I voted for him and trusted him too."

During the year, American wage earners see a portion of each paycheck withheld as income tax, and many then receive a refund the following year if they have overpaid the federal government. That cash boost is eagerly awaited each year — and used to help pay off debt or make large purchases.

But the 2017 tax overhaul — which Republicans promoted as a boon to the middle class — meant many workers paid less in taxes during the year reducing the amount withheld, a change which may have gone unnoticed.

And the reform also cut some popular deductions, sometimes resulting in thinner refunds or even unexpected tax bills.

Early data from the US Internal Revenue Service show that refunds so far this year are 8.4 per cent lower than 2018 payouts on average, falling to $1,865 from $2,035.

However, many millions of more taxpayers will be filing tax returns by the annual April 15 deadline, meaning this figure could change.

Mark Mazur, assistant treasury secretary for tax policy under former President Barack Obama, told AFP the negative reaction was "understandable."

"People focused on the amount of the refund but that's not the same as their tax liability, the amount of tax they pay for the year," he said.

Because of lower withholding during the year, some taxpayers have in effect already seen the benefit of the tax cut in their higher paychecks, said Mazur, who is vice president at the Urban Institute.

About five per cent of taxpayers — 7.5 million people — will, in fact, see a tax increase, while about 80 per cent should pay less, he said.

'Angry, disappointed and betrayed'&nbsp;

The IRS on Wednesday said taxpayers who suddenly found they owe taxes could pay their bill in installments and apply for a waiver of penalties normally imposed for failing to pay by the deadline.

"The IRS understands there were many changes that affected people last year, and the new penalty waiver will help taxpayers who inadvertently had too little tax withheld," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in a statement.

A key change of the 2017 tax reform is that it limited federal deductions for certain state and local taxes, such as real estate taxes.&nbsp;

As a result, many homeowners in states with higher property taxes will owe more to the federal government.

Neil Frankel, a New York accountant, told AFP people were feeling "angry, disappointed and betrayed."

"I sympathize with them. The new tax law's withholding tables were incorrect and misleading. A complete shenanigan," he added.

"Since my clients are mostly professionals, I don't really hear any screaming," he said. "However, I do hear long diatribes on hatred for the US government."

Last year, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin invited taxpayers to use an online calculator to estimate their tax payments and determine if they should modify their withholding amount.

This week the Treasury Department said media reports on the lower refunds were "misleading."

"Refunds are consistent with 2017 levels and down slightly from 2018 based on a small, initial sample from only a few days of data," the department said on Twitter.

But, Mazur said, perception is key. When the administration of former President George W Bush cut taxes in 2001, it mailed out checks directly.

"Taxpayers remembered that they got that check," he said.

Under Obama, however, a tax cut showed up as smaller withholdings and fatter checks during each pay cycle.

"Most Americans when they were surveyed didn't think they got a tax cut from Obama," he said.

Some taxpayers are getting a bitter surprise this year as their usual annual tax refunds have shrunk — or turned into tax bills — even though President Donald Trump loudly promised the largest tax cut "in American history.

Some taxpayers are getting a bitter surprise this year as their usual annual tax refunds have shrunk — or turned into tax bills — even though President Donald Trump loudly promised the largest tax cut "in American history." And with tax season underway, thousands of unhappy taxpayers have been venting their displeasure on Twitter, using hashtags like #GOPTaxscam, and some threatened not to vote for Trump again. "Lowest refund I have ever had and I am 50 yrs old. No wall and now this tax reform sucks too!!" a woman going by "Speziale-Matheny" wrote from the crucial political swing state of Florida. "Starting to doubt Trump. I voted for him and trusted him too." During the year, American wage earners see a portion of each paycheck withheld as income tax, and many then receive a refund the following year if they have overpaid the federal government. That cash boost is eagerly awaited each year — and used to help pay off debt or make large purchases. But the 2017 tax overhaul — which Republicans promoted as a boon to the middle class — meant many workers paid less in taxes during the year reducing the amount withheld, a change which may have gone unnoticed. And the reform also cut some popular deductions, sometimes resulting in thinner refunds or even unexpected tax bills. Early data from the US Internal Revenue Service show that refunds so far this year are 8.4 per cent lower than 2018 payouts on average, falling to $1,865 from $2,035. However, many millions of more taxpayers will be filing tax returns by the annual April 15 deadline, meaning this figure could change. Mark Mazur, assistant treasury secretary for tax policy under former President Barack Obama, told AFP the negative reaction was "understandable." "People focused on the amount of the refund but that's not the same as their tax liability, the amount of tax they pay for the year," he said. Because of lower withholding during the year, some taxpayers have in effect already seen the benefit of the tax cut in their higher paychecks, said Mazur, who is vice president at the Urban Institute. About five per cent of taxpayers — 7.5 million people — will, in fact, see a tax increase, while about 80 per cent should pay less, he said. 'Angry, disappointed and betrayed' The IRS on Wednesday said taxpayers who suddenly found they owe taxes could pay their bill in installments and apply for a waiver of penalties normally imposed for failing to pay by the deadline. "The IRS understands there were many changes that affected people last year, and the new penalty waiver will help taxpayers who inadvertently had too little tax withheld," IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig said in a statement. A key change of the 2017 tax reform is that it limited federal deductions for certain state and local taxes, such as real estate taxes. As a result, many homeowners in states with higher property taxes will owe more to the federal government. Neil Frankel, a New York accountant, told AFP people were feeling "angry, disappointed and betrayed." "I sympathize with them. The new tax law's withholding tables were incorrect and misleading. A complete shenanigan," he added. "Since my clients are mostly professionals, I don't really hear any screaming," he said. "However, I do hear long diatribes on hatred for the US government." Last year, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin invited taxpayers to use an online calculator to estimate their tax payments and determine if they should modify their withholding amount. This week the Treasury Department said media reports on the lower refunds were "misleading." "Refunds are consistent with 2017 levels and down slightly from 2018 based on a small, initial sample from only a few days of data," the department said on Twitter. But, Mazur said, perception is key. When the administration of former President George W Bush cut taxes in 2001, it mailed out checks directly. "Taxpayers remembered that they got that check," he said. Under Obama, however, a tax cut showed up as smaller withholdings and fatter checks during each pay cycle. "Most Americans when they were surveyed didn't think they got a tax cut from Obama," he said.

US taxpayers face bitter surprise after Trump's tax cuts

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-bashir-fights-for-survival-as-protests-spread-193195">Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir</a>, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists.

Bashir's remarks appeared to be part of a new strategy to soften the government's stance toward the protests after the Defence Minister and Prime Minister made similar remarks in recent days.

"Most of the protesters are young and there are factors that drove them to take to the streets, including inflation, which led to higher prices - and the limited job opportunities that don't match the number of graduates," Bashir told journalists invited to the presidential palace for a "discussion of recent events".&nbsp;

The remarks are a dramatic contrast to Bashir's previous demand for the "rats to go back to their holes".

Bashir warned against destabilising the Sudanese state, however, saying "you can look at what happened in Libya," which has been in a state of turmoil since a 2011 civil war led to the overthrow of longstanding ruler Muammar Gaddafi.&nbsp;

The protests, which started on December 19, were triggered by price increases, limits on cash withdrawals and other economic hardships but have since shifted focus to Bashir's 30-year rule.

Police officers have used teargas and occasionally live bullets to disperse the demonstrations. Human rights activists say at least 45 have been killed. The government puts the death toll at 30, including two security personnel. Political activists, civil society members and journalists have been detained.&nbsp;

Bashir said all journalists who have been jailed in connection with the protests would be released. Activists estimate the number of journalists in prison at 16.

He also said young people's anger was fuelled by the "wrong implementation" of Sudan's public order laws. The morality laws have been criticized by human rights organizations for restricting the freedom of women by, for example, making it a crime for a woman to wear trousers.

Defence Minister Awad Mohamed Ahmed Ibn Auf said on Monday young people caught up in the protests had "reasonable ambition". On Saturday, Prime Minister Moataz Moussa described calls for better living conditions as "legitimate".&nbsp;

Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court over charges of masterminding genocide in the Darfur region, which he denies. He has been lobbying to be removed from a list of countries that Washington considers state sponsors of terrorism.

The listing has blocked the investment and financial aid that Sudan was hoping for when the United States lifted sanctions in 2017, economists say.

Sudan has been rapidly expanding its money supply in an attempt to finance its budget deficit, causing spiralling inflation and a steep decline in the value of its currency.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists.

Sudan's President Omar al-Bashir, facing near-daily demonstrations against his government, took a newly conciliatory tone with the protesters on Wednesday, saying they are mostly young with poor prospects, and pledging to release detained journalists. Bashir's remarks appeared to be part of a new strategy to soften the government's stance toward the protests after the Defence Minister and Prime Minister made similar remarks in recent days. "Most of the protesters are young and there are factors that drove them to take to the streets, including inflation, which led to higher prices - and the limited job opportunities that don't match the number of graduates," Bashir told journalists invited to the presidential palace for a "discussion of recent events". The remarks are a dramatic contrast to Bashir's previous demand for the "rats to go back to their holes". Bashir warned against destabilising the Sudanese state, however, saying "you can look at what happened in Libya," which has been in a state of turmoil since a 2011 civil war led to the overthrow of longstanding ruler Muammar Gaddafi. The protests, which started on December 19, were triggered by price increases, limits on cash withdrawals and other economic hardships but have since shifted focus to Bashir's 30-year rule. Police officers have used teargas and occasionally live bullets to disperse the demonstrations. Human rights activists say at least 45 have been killed. The government puts the death toll at 30, including two security personnel. Political activists, civil society members and journalists have been detained. Bashir said all journalists who have been jailed in connection with the protests would be released. Activists estimate the number of journalists in prison at 16. He also said young people's anger was fuelled by the "wrong implementation" of Sudan's public order laws. The morality laws have been criticized by human rights organizations for restricting the freedom of women by, for example, making it a crime for a woman to wear trousers. Defence Minister Awad Mohamed Ahmed Ibn Auf said on Monday young people caught up in the protests had "reasonable ambition". On Saturday, Prime Minister Moataz Moussa described calls for better living conditions as "legitimate". Bashir is wanted by the International Criminal Court over charges of masterminding genocide in the Darfur region, which he denies. He has been lobbying to be removed from a list of countries that Washington considers state sponsors of terrorism. The listing has blocked the investment and financial aid that Sudan was hoping for when the United States lifted sanctions in 2017, economists say. Sudan has been rapidly expanding its money supply in an attempt to finance its budget deficit, causing spiralling inflation and a steep decline in the value of its currency.

Sudan's President Bashir softens tone, says reporters to be released

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudans-bashir-fights-for-survival-as-protests-spread-193195">Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir</a> on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule.

On Sunday, he travelled across North Kordofan, addressing hundreds of people in three separate televised rallies, including a night-time event in the state capital of Al-Obeid.

In the morning he addressed hundreds of villagers in the day's first rally, promising to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan".

The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre (210 miles) highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum.

"Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels as crowds of villagers clapped and whistled to Sudanese tunes.

"Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth."

Hours later Bashir addressed a second rally where he called on the country's young men and women to help develop the country.

"The youth, for whom we have built universities, have to be ready to continue with the mission of building a new Sudan," he said in a village where hundreds had gathered.

The statement came after Prime Minister Moutaz Mousa Abdallah on Saturday called the protest movement a "respectable youth movement" and said its voice should be heeded.

As darkness fell, Bashir, dressed in traditional robe and turban, spoke to hundreds of cheering supporters, including students, at an open-air stadium in Al-Obeid where authorities have renovated an existing hospital.

"Patients often go to England, India or Jordan for surgeries, but now we can do them at Al-Obeid," he said as crowds cheered and loyalists set off fireworks.

Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship.

Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed.

Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night.

Late on Sunday, a group of protesters chanted "revolution, revolution," in a neighbourhood of Omdurman, witnesses said.

Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections.

The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages. The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule. On Sunday, he travelled across North Kordofan, addressing hundreds of people in three separate televised rallies, including a night-time event in the state capital of Al-Obeid. In the morning he addressed hundreds of villagers in the day's first rally, promising to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan". The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre (210 miles) highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum. "Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels as crowds of villagers clapped and whistled to Sudanese tunes. "Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth." Hours later Bashir addressed a second rally where he called on the country's young men and women to help develop the country. "The youth, for whom we have built universities, have to be ready to continue with the mission of building a new Sudan," he said in a village where hundreds had gathered. The statement came after Prime Minister Moutaz Mousa Abdallah on Saturday called the protest movement a "respectable youth movement" and said its voice should be heeded. As darkness fell, Bashir, dressed in traditional robe and turban, spoke to hundreds of cheering supporters, including students, at an open-air stadium in Al-Obeid where authorities have renovated an existing hospital. "Patients often go to England, India or Jordan for surgeries, but now we can do them at Al-Obeid," he said as crowds cheered and loyalists set off fireworks. Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship. Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed. Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night. Late on Sunday, a group of protesters chanted "revolution, revolution," in a neighbourhood of Omdurman, witnesses said. Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections. The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudan's Bashir vows rural development as new protests loom

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lanka-court-dismisses-plea-to-check-sirisenas-mental-health-188880">Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena</a> on Monday said he is opposed to forming a national government only to expand the Cabinet of ministers, indicating that his rift with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was far from over.

Prime Minister Wickremesinghe-led government on Friday sought the consent of the Speaker of Sri Lanka's Parliament to form a 'national government', a move seen as a step to get a majority in the 225-member House.

Addressing the nation at the 71st National Independence Day celebrations, Sirisena said the proposed national government is simply an attempt to increase the number of Cabinet ministers and provide privileges to the ministers at the people's expense. Calling the move unethical, the president said the people's wish is to limit the Cabinet to 25 ministers. 
&nbsp; 
"I have seen media reports of an attempt to form a national government. I stand opposed to the move as this would be an exercise only to expand the cabinet of ministers and attain more privileges," Sirisena said referring to the move by Wickremesinghe.

Wickremesinghe was sacked by President Maithripala Sirisena in October last year and strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed the prime minister. The President also removed the members of his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) from the national unity government.

The UNP, with 106 seats, had joined hands with the Sirisena's SLFP in 2015 to form a unity government.

Sirisena was forced to reappoint Wickremesinghe as the prime minister after Rajapaksa failed to prove his majority twice in Parliament.

Since his reappointment in December last, the Wickremesinghe-led government has been functioning without the required majority of 113 in the 225-member House.

Sirisena's move to dissolve Parliament to hold a snap parliamentary poll on January 5 was turned down by the Supreme Court.

Wickremesinghe plans to set up a national government by entering into a pact with the solitary member from the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress while roping in the members from Sirisena's Freedom Party.&nbsp;

The year 2019 is a crucial year for Sri Lanka as the next presidential election is scheduled to be held between November this year and early January 2020.&nbsp;

Wickremesinghe's party has already announced that they would not back the president again due to the ongoing rift between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa cannot contest again as he had been twice president before. The former President's new Sri Lanka People's Party is less inclined to back Sirisena.&nbsp;

The Rajapaksa-led opposition has been demanding to hold of fresh elections ahead of its schedule in August 2020.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
During the address, Sirisena also warned that international forces were working against Sri Lanka in this election year. He said international reactionary forces have arrived in the country in various disguises.&nbsp;

He also lamented that even after 71 years of independence the main national question regarding the Tamil minority still remains unresolved. Interestingly only last week that Sirisena publicly opposed the ongoing attempts to form a new Constitution aimed at addressing the issues of the Tamil community.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Monday said he is opposed to forming a national government only to expand the Cabinet of ministers, indicating that his rift with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was far from over.

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena on Monday said he is opposed to forming a national government only to expand the Cabinet of ministers, indicating that his rift with Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe was far from over. Prime Minister Wickremesinghe-led government on Friday sought the consent of the Speaker of Sri Lanka's Parliament to form a 'national government', a move seen as a step to get a majority in the 225-member House. Addressing the nation at the 71st National Independence Day celebrations, Sirisena said the proposed national government is simply an attempt to increase the number of Cabinet ministers and provide privileges to the ministers at the people's expense. Calling the move unethical, the president said the people's wish is to limit the Cabinet to 25 ministers. "I have seen media reports of an attempt to form a national government. I stand opposed to the move as this would be an exercise only to expand the cabinet of ministers and attain more privileges," Sirisena said referring to the move by Wickremesinghe. Wickremesinghe was sacked by President Maithripala Sirisena in October last year and strongman Mahinda Rajapaksa was appointed the prime minister. The President also removed the members of his Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) from the national unity government. The UNP, with 106 seats, had joined hands with the Sirisena's SLFP in 2015 to form a unity government. Sirisena was forced to reappoint Wickremesinghe as the prime minister after Rajapaksa failed to prove his majority twice in Parliament. Since his reappointment in December last, the Wickremesinghe-led government has been functioning without the required majority of 113 in the 225-member House. Sirisena's move to dissolve Parliament to hold a snap parliamentary poll on January 5 was turned down by the Supreme Court. Wickremesinghe plans to set up a national government by entering into a pact with the solitary member from the Sri Lanka Muslim Congress while roping in the members from Sirisena's Freedom Party. The year 2019 is a crucial year for Sri Lanka as the next presidential election is scheduled to be held between November this year and early January 2020. Wickremesinghe's party has already announced that they would not back the president again due to the ongoing rift between Sirisena and Wickremesinghe. Rajapaksa cannot contest again as he had been twice president before. The former President's new Sri Lanka People's Party is less inclined to back Sirisena. The Rajapaksa-led opposition has been demanding to hold of fresh elections ahead of its schedule in August 2020. During the address, Sirisena also warned that international forces were working against Sri Lanka in this election year. He said international reactionary forces have arrived in the country in various disguises. He also lamented that even after 71 years of independence the main national question regarding the Tamil minority still remains unresolved. Interestingly only last week that Sirisena publicly opposed the ongoing attempts to form a new Constitution aimed at addressing the issues of the Tamil community.

Sri Lanka President Sirisena says opposed to forming national government

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-president-bashir-extends-ceasefire-in-two-war-zones-193707">Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir</a> on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages.

The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule.&nbsp;

Addressing hundreds of villagers in North Kordofan state at a televised event he promised to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan" and open a new hospital in the region.&nbsp;

The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum.

"Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels.&nbsp;

"Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth."

Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship.

Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed.

Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night.&nbsp;

Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections.

The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir on Sunday pledged to bolster rural development, as he seeks to face down anti-government demonstrations that have rocked cities and villages. The veteran leader has been on a charm offensive with rallies across the country in a bid to head off weeks of protests seen as the biggest threat to his 30-year rule. Addressing hundreds of villagers in North Kordofan state at a televised event he promised to bring clean drinking water to rural areas "across Sudan" and open a new hospital in the region. The speech came after he inaugurated a new 340-kilometre highway linking North Kordofan to Omdurman, the twin city of Khartoum. "Building such a road in present economic conditions is not an easy thing to achieve," said Bashir, after being escorted to the stage by dozens of men on camels. "Along this road, we will bring electricity to boost the region's growth." Demonstrations erupted in Sudan in December after a government decision to triple the price of bread unleashed frustrations at years of deteriorating living conditions and growing hardship. Officials say 30 people have died in protest-related violence, while rights group Human Rights Watch says at least 51 have been killed. Bashir's attempts to rally support have so far failed to halt the wave of discontent, with the group leading the demonstrations calling for fresh protests over the next few days starting Sunday night. Bashir and other senior Sudanese officials have repeatedly said that the government can be changed only through elections. The leader, who came to power in an Islamist-backed coup in 1989, is considering running for a third elected presidential term in polls due next year.

Sudan president Bashir vows rural development as new protests loom

Three days after proclaiming himself Venezuela's head of state, Juan Guaido wrote to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asking for help in tackling the country's urgent humanitarian crisis.

But Venezuela's seat at the 193-member world body is held by <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/maduro-vs-guaido-who-is-backing-whom-193331">President Nicolas Maduro</a>'s government and Guterres is unable to ramp up a humanitarian response in Venezuela without Maduro's approval or UN Security Council authorization.

"The United Nations are ready to increase their activities in Venezuela in the areas of humanitarian assistance and development," Guterres told Guaido in a letter dated January 29 and seen by Reuters on Wednesday. "For that, the United Nations need, however, the consent and cooperation of the Government."

The exchange illustrates how a US-led campaign for international recognition of Guaido over Maduro has left the UN and other international organizations caught in the middle of global division over the issue.

Most Latin American countries, Canada and European nations have recognised Guaido or are on the verge of doing so. But these rapid endorsements have triggered angry responses from Russia, China and a few left-leaning Latin American states, and wariness from some African and Caribbean nations.

Guterres noted that in his relations with UN member states he respects "the decisions of the intergovernmental bodies, particularly the General Assembly and the Security Council."

The General Assembly allows each UN nation one vote, while the five permanent members of the Security Council, charged with maintaining international peace, include Russia and China.

The international split is also hampering swift decisions at other multilateral groups like the Washington-headquartered International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, whose recognition of the Guaido government could eventually help get sorely-needed loans to Venezuela.

Maduro's government has denied that there is a humanitarian crisis in the country, blaming economic problems on sanctions. Venezuela is struggling with hunger, preventable diseases and hyperinflation forecast at 10 million per cent in 2019.

UN VOTE?

The quickest way for a country or countries to try and deprive Maduro's government of Venezuela's UN seat would be to present a draft resolution to the General Assembly for a vote. However, diplomats said that such a move could not currently garner the majority support needed to be successful.

"We do think there will be appropriate resolutions when the time is right and we'll certainly support those. They won't come just from us, they'll come from other nations who care deeply about the Venezuelan people as well," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the UN on Saturday.

Maduro was sworn in on January 10 for a second term in office after elections last year that was widely dubbed illegitimate, while Guaido took the helm of the elected National Assembly earlier this month and on January 23 proclaimed himself the country's rightful leader.

A heated Security Council meeting on Saturday revealed the bitter divide over the crisis.

When asked about the possibility of a showdown over Venezuela's UN seat, Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Maduro's government was legitimate and there was no need to challenge its credentials.

The UN has previously had to address competing claims for representation at the world body.

In September 2011, the General Assembly approved a Libyan request to accredit envoys of the country's interim government as Tripoli's sole representatives at the world body, effectively recognising the National Transitional Council. The move came after the United States, Russia, China and European nations had all recognised that council.

STRAW POLL

So far, Guaido has named envoys to Washington and the Organization of the American States regional bloc. If he decided to name a UN envoy, such a request would traditionally be sent to Guterres and then considered by a nine-member credentials committee, which includes the United States, Russia and China.

The IMF and World Bank could eventually test support for Guaido through a straw poll of member countries that make up their respective executive boards, according to several bank and fund officials. The United States is the largest and most influential member country in both organizations.

Latin America's largest lender, the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), could be the first financial institution to put the issue before its board - even as soon as next week, according to some officials. Several board officials, however, cautioned that the membership was divided and there was no consensus on how to proceed.

Still, recognition by global lenders of Guaido will not automatically unlock multilateral funding any time soon, officials said. Venezuela is $212 million in arrears to the IADB and was censured by the IMF last year for failing to provide economic data to the fund.

"It is not obvious what the UN is going to do, much less what the IMF would do," said James Boughton, the IMF's former historian, now at the Center for International Governance Innovation.

"It would be up to a member country to request the acknowledgement of a new government, in this case, it would come from the US," said Boughton.

When that happens, "then it is just a question of a simple majority decision by the executive board," citing IMF rules.

Three days after proclaiming himself Venezuela's head of state, Juan Guaido wrote to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asking for help in tackling the country's urgent humanitarian crisis.

Three days after proclaiming himself Venezuela's head of state, Juan Guaido wrote to the United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres asking for help in tackling the country's urgent humanitarian crisis. But Venezuela's seat at the 193-member world body is held by President Nicolas Maduro's government and Guterres is unable to ramp up a humanitarian response in Venezuela without Maduro's approval or UN Security Council authorization. "The United Nations are ready to increase their activities in Venezuela in the areas of humanitarian assistance and development," Guterres told Guaido in a letter dated January 29 and seen by Reuters on Wednesday. "For that, the United Nations need, however, the consent and cooperation of the Government." The exchange illustrates how a US-led campaign for international recognition of Guaido over Maduro has left the UN and other international organizations caught in the middle of global division over the issue. Most Latin American countries, Canada and European nations have recognised Guaido or are on the verge of doing so. But these rapid endorsements have triggered angry responses from Russia, China and a few left-leaning Latin American states, and wariness from some African and Caribbean nations. Guterres noted that in his relations with UN member states he respects "the decisions of the intergovernmental bodies, particularly the General Assembly and the Security Council." The General Assembly allows each UN nation one vote, while the five permanent members of the Security Council, charged with maintaining international peace, include Russia and China. The international split is also hampering swift decisions at other multilateral groups like the Washington-headquartered International Monetary Fund and the World Bank, whose recognition of the Guaido government could eventually help get sorely-needed loans to Venezuela. Maduro's government has denied that there is a humanitarian crisis in the country, blaming economic problems on sanctions. Venezuela is struggling with hunger, preventable diseases and hyperinflation forecast at 10 million per cent in 2019. UN VOTE? The quickest way for a country or countries to try and deprive Maduro's government of Venezuela's UN seat would be to present a draft resolution to the General Assembly for a vote. However, diplomats said that such a move could not currently garner the majority support needed to be successful. "We do think there will be appropriate resolutions when the time is right and we'll certainly support those. They won't come just from us, they'll come from other nations who care deeply about the Venezuelan people as well," US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters at the UN on Saturday. Maduro was sworn in on January 10 for a second term in office after elections last year that was widely dubbed illegitimate, while Guaido took the helm of the elected National Assembly earlier this month and on January 23 proclaimed himself the country's rightful leader. A heated Security Council meeting on Saturday revealed the bitter divide over the crisis. When asked about the possibility of a showdown over Venezuela's UN seat, Russian UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Maduro's government was legitimate and there was no need to challenge its credentials. The UN has previously had to address competing claims for representation at the world body. In September 2011, the General Assembly approved a Libyan request to accredit envoys of the country's interim government as Tripoli's sole representatives at the world body, effectively recognising the National Transitional Council. The move came after the United States, Russia, China and European nations had all recognised that council. STRAW POLL So far, Guaido has named envoys to Washington and the Organization of the American States regional bloc. If he decided to name a UN envoy, such a request would traditionally be sent to Guterres and then considered by a nine-member credentials committee, which includes the United States, Russia and China. The IMF and World Bank could eventually test support for Guaido through a straw poll of member countries that make up their respective executive boards, according to several bank and fund officials. The United States is the largest and most influential member country in both organizations. Latin America's largest lender, the Inter-American Development Bank (IADB), could be the first financial institution to put the issue before its board - even as soon as next week, according to some officials. Several board officials, however, cautioned that the membership was divided and there was no consensus on how to proceed. Still, recognition by global lenders of Guaido will not automatically unlock multilateral funding any time soon, officials said. Venezuela is $212 million in arrears to the IADB and was censured by the IMF last year for failing to provide economic data to the fund. "It is not obvious what the UN is going to do, much less what the IMF would do," said James Boughton, the IMF's former historian, now at the Center for International Governance Innovation. "It would be up to a member country to request the acknowledgement of a new government, in this case, it would come from the US," said Boughton. When that happens, "then it is just a question of a simple majority decision by the executive board," citing IMF rules.

Who represents Venezuela? UN, international lenders stuck in limbo

Venezuela has been receiving massive attention from the international community since National Assembly <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-opposition-leader-juan-guaido-rules-out-crisis-talks-says-maduro-can-not-be-trusted-192823">chief Juan Guaido</a> declared himself acting interim president of Venezuela.

With socialist President Nicolas Maduro hanging on to power, these are their respective key supports, inside and outside the OPEC member:

Maduro

Military: The Venezuela armed forces are considered the backbone of the government, and on Thursday senior military officers reaffirmed support for Maduro, claiming that there was an effective "coup" underway.

Of 32 cabinet ministers, nine are from the military and run portfolios such as Defense, Interior, Agriculture and the intelligence service, as well as state oil giant PDVSA, which contributes 96 per cent of the country's income.

They also control a television station, a bank and a vehicle assembly plant, among other companies.

But their support has come under some threat. The military attache of Venezuela in Washington, Colonel Jose Luis Silva, announced Saturday that he no longer recognises Maduro as the legitimate president, and urged his "military brothers" to back Guaido.

International creditors and allies: China, Venezuela's biggest creditor with some $20 billion dollars owed, said Thursday it opposed "external interference" after the United States and some allies recognised Guaido as interim leader.

Venezuela's number two creditor, Russia, also backs it militarily: in December it sent two bombers and some 100 officers to Caracas for joint exercises. President Vladimir Putin called Maduro to express his "support."

Countries such as Turkey, Cuba, Bolivia, Uruguay and Mexico — as well as Iran and North Korea — continue to recognise the 56-year-old Maduro.

Justice: Venezuela's Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) supports the Maduro regime. Court justices were chosen by the pro-government National Assembly in December 2015, just days before the opposition took control of the legislature.

Since 2016 the top court has declared the opposition-controlled legislature in contempt and voided all of its actions. The court on Thursday reiterated its support for Maduro regime.

Venezuela's top prosecutor, Attorney General Tarek William Saab, also is a Maduro loyalist.

National Constituent Assembly: Maduro convened the staunchly pro-government assembly after four months of opposition protests that left about 125 dead in 2017. It has absolute powers and serves as the de facto legislature. the opposition says it was created illegally.

Electoral Authority: The National Electoral Council (CNE), in charge of running elections, is chaired by the openly pro-government Tibisay Lucena. Under her management, several opposition parties have been disqualified, and on Thursday it issued a statement endorsing Maduro.

Rulings by pro-government judges and the CNE thwarted opposition efforts to hold a referendum to revoke Maduro's presidency in 2016, a vote allowed under the constitution.

Opposition parties refused to participate in the last elections, including the May 2018 presidential vote in which Maduro was reelected, saying there were no guarantees of impartiality. They say Maduro was elected through fraud.

Guaido

International support: The United States, along with several Latin America and European Union countries, refused to recognise Maduro's reelection.

When Guaido proclaimed himself acting interim president US President Donald Trump quickly recognised him. Other countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Argentina and Australia, quickly followed. On Sunday Israel said it would recognise Guaido as president.

Six European countries — Spain, France, Germany, Britain, Portugal, the Netherlands — on Saturday demanded that either Venezuela call elections within eight days or they would recognise Guaido as interim leader.

Some European countries such as Greece still support Maduro.

The head of the Washington-based Organization of American States, &nbsp;Uruguayan Luis Almagro, also gave his support to Guaido.

National Assembly: The opposition-controlled National Assembly was elected in 2015 when a coalition of opposition parties handed the leftist regime its biggest electoral defeat ever.

After taking office on January 5, Guaido, 35, began to press for a "transitional government" and new elections, calling on the military to break with the government in exchange for an amnesty.

Justice in exile: A Venezuelan Supreme Court in exile, with members appointed by the National Assembly, on Wednesday welcomed Guaido's "will" to take over as acting leader pending new elections. 
&nbsp;

Venezuela has been receiving massive attention from the international community since National Assembly chief Juan Guaido declared himself acting interim president of Venezuela.

Venezuela has been receiving massive attention from the international community since National Assembly chief Juan Guaido declared himself acting interim president of Venezuela. With socialist President Nicolas Maduro hanging on to power, these are their respective key supports, inside and outside the OPEC member: Maduro Military: The Venezuela armed forces are considered the backbone of the government, and on Thursday senior military officers reaffirmed support for Maduro, claiming that there was an effective "coup" underway. Of 32 cabinet ministers, nine are from the military and run portfolios such as Defense, Interior, Agriculture and the intelligence service, as well as state oil giant PDVSA, which contributes 96 per cent of the country's income. They also control a television station, a bank and a vehicle assembly plant, among other companies. But their support has come under some threat. The military attache of Venezuela in Washington, Colonel Jose Luis Silva, announced Saturday that he no longer recognises Maduro as the legitimate president, and urged his "military brothers" to back Guaido. International creditors and allies: China, Venezuela's biggest creditor with some $20 billion dollars owed, said Thursday it opposed "external interference" after the United States and some allies recognised Guaido as interim leader. Venezuela's number two creditor, Russia, also backs it militarily: in December it sent two bombers and some 100 officers to Caracas for joint exercises. President Vladimir Putin called Maduro to express his "support." Countries such as Turkey, Cuba, Bolivia, Uruguay and Mexico — as well as Iran and North Korea — continue to recognise the 56-year-old Maduro. Justice: Venezuela's Supreme Court of Justice (TSJ) supports the Maduro regime. Court justices were chosen by the pro-government National Assembly in December 2015, just days before the opposition took control of the legislature. Since 2016 the top court has declared the opposition-controlled legislature in contempt and voided all of its actions. The court on Thursday reiterated its support for Maduro regime. Venezuela's top prosecutor, Attorney General Tarek William Saab, also is a Maduro loyalist. National Constituent Assembly: Maduro convened the staunchly pro-government assembly after four months of opposition protests that left about 125 dead in 2017. It has absolute powers and serves as the de facto legislature. the opposition says it was created illegally. Electoral Authority: The National Electoral Council (CNE), in charge of running elections, is chaired by the openly pro-government Tibisay Lucena. Under her management, several opposition parties have been disqualified, and on Thursday it issued a statement endorsing Maduro. Rulings by pro-government judges and the CNE thwarted opposition efforts to hold a referendum to revoke Maduro's presidency in 2016, a vote allowed under the constitution. Opposition parties refused to participate in the last elections, including the May 2018 presidential vote in which Maduro was reelected, saying there were no guarantees of impartiality. They say Maduro was elected through fraud. Guaido International support: The United States, along with several Latin America and European Union countries, refused to recognise Maduro's reelection. When Guaido proclaimed himself acting interim president US President Donald Trump quickly recognised him. Other countries, including Brazil, Colombia, Argentina and Australia, quickly followed. On Sunday Israel said it would recognise Guaido as president. Six European countries — Spain, France, Germany, Britain, Portugal, the Netherlands — on Saturday demanded that either Venezuela call elections within eight days or they would recognise Guaido as interim leader. Some European countries such as Greece still support Maduro. The head of the Washington-based Organization of American States, Uruguayan Luis Almagro, also gave his support to Guaido. National Assembly: The opposition-controlled National Assembly was elected in 2015 when a coalition of opposition parties handed the leftist regime its biggest electoral defeat ever. After taking office on January 5, Guaido, 35, began to press for a "transitional government" and new elections, calling on the military to break with the government in exchange for an amnesty. Justice in exile: A Venezuelan Supreme Court in exile, with members appointed by the National Assembly, on Wednesday welcomed Guaido's "will" to take over as acting leader pending new elections.

Maduro vs Guaido: Who is backing whom?

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