Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry.

In June, the United States ended its preferential trade treatment for India, removing it from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed duty-free entry for up to $5.6 billion worth of its annual exports to the United States.

The elimination of GSP brought higher retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi on 28 US products including almonds, apples and walnuts.

In the letter addressed to United State Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and dated September 17, the members of Congress said, "Just as US industries are harmed by lack of fair and reciprocal access to India's market, American companies and workers also are harmed by new tariffs due to the GSP termination."

A lot of American jobs depend on the trade between India and the United States, the US lawmakers said in the letter seen by Reuters.

The letter comes days ahead of a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

After the Trump administration’s decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the GSP, US and Indian trade negotiators met in July. But they failed to make any major progress on the issue of tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides.

The two sides had resumed trade talks after Trump and Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June and agreed to seek to deepen the two countries’ relationship.

Other than seeking the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on agricultural products like almonds and apples, Washington has also expressed its concerns over India’s tightening of regulations that have undermined major US e-commerce companies like Walmart’s Flipkart and Amazon.

India is by far the largest buyer of US almonds, paying $543 million for more than half of US almond exports in 2018, according to US Department of Agriculture. It is the second-largest buyer of US apples, taking $156 million worth in 2018.

On September 22, Trump, who has repeatedly called out India for its high tariffs, will travel to Houston, Texas, to participate in an event with Modi and to "discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship."

Modi will visit Houston to participate in an event called "Howdy Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures," at the NRG Stadium which is expected to draw tens of thousands of people.

Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry.

Forty-four members of the US Congress have urged President Donald Trump's trade representative to restore trade concessions to India, saying the withdrawal of the privilege had led to retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi which were hurting US industry. In June, the United States ended its preferential trade treatment for India, removing it from the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) programme that allowed duty-free entry for up to $5.6 billion worth of its annual exports to the United States. The elimination of GSP brought higher retaliatory tariffs from New Delhi on 28 US products including almonds, apples and walnuts. In the letter addressed to United State Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and dated September 17, the members of Congress said, "Just as US industries are harmed by lack of fair and reciprocal access to India's market, American companies and workers also are harmed by new tariffs due to the GSP termination." A lot of American jobs depend on the trade between India and the United States, the US lawmakers said in the letter seen by Reuters. The letter comes days ahead of a meeting between Trump and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. After the Trump administration’s decision to remove trade privileges from Indian products under the GSP, US and Indian trade negotiators met in July. But they failed to make any major progress on the issue of tariffs and other protectionist measures imposed by both sides. The two sides had resumed trade talks after Trump and Modi met on the sidelines of the G20 summit in June and agreed to seek to deepen the two countries’ relationship. Other than seeking the rollback of Indian tariffs imposed on agricultural products like almonds and apples, Washington has also expressed its concerns over India’s tightening of regulations that have undermined major US e-commerce companies like Walmart’s Flipkart and Amazon. India is by far the largest buyer of US almonds, paying $543 million for more than half of US almond exports in 2018, according to US Department of Agriculture. It is the second-largest buyer of US apples, taking $156 million worth in 2018. On September 22, Trump, who has repeatedly called out India for its high tariffs, will travel to Houston, Texas, to participate in an event with Modi and to "discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship." Modi will visit Houston to participate in an event called "Howdy Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures," at the NRG Stadium which is expected to draw tens of thousands of people.

US lawmakers urge Trump administration to restore India's trade privileges

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia would produce missiles that were banned under the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-tests-medium-range-cruise-missile-after-exiting-inf-treaty-244247">nuclear pact with the US</a> which ended last month.

"We have already said publicly that we will not deploy - after the Americans have tested such a missile - we will not deploy it, we will surely produce the missiles of the same kind in the regions where the US missiles of such kind - the land-based missiles - will not appear."

Last month the US had tested a medium-range <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-set-to-deploy-new-weapons-as-cold-war-era-inf-treaty-ends-239966">ground-launched cruise missile</a>, just weeks after walking out the pact. The test occurred even as Russian President Putin urged the United States to begin new arms talks after the collapse of a Cold War nuclear pact between the two world powers.

Russia has blamed the Trump administration for unilaterally ending the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty signed in 1987 between the then US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. &nbsp;

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), Putin while replying to a question said: "In case they are deployed in Japan and South Korea, we understand it will be done under a pretext of neutralising the threat from North Korea. But it also creates certain major problems for us because most likely these missile systems would cover a significant part of Russian territory including at the Far East."

"The fact that Pentagon chiefs said that the US plan to deploy them in Japan and South Korea does not make us happy, it is regrettable and causes some concern," the Russian president added.

However, Japanese President Shinzo Abe who was present at the forum denied the US had given any indication to deploy the missiles.

"I would like to make it clear that the US, of course, hasn't talked about deploying such missiles and there is no plan to do so," the Japanese president said.

Washington and NATO had accused Russia of developing the new 9M729 missile which they said violates the treaty, but Russia shot back saying that its range was&nbsp;short of 500 kilometres.

Putin had said earlier that if the US deploys new missiles, it "will be forced to begin the full-scale development of similar missiles". 
&nbsp;

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia would produce missiles that were banned under the nuclear pact with the US which ended last month. "We have already said publicly that we will not deploy - after the Americans have tested such a missile - we will not deploy it, we will surely produce the missiles of the same kind in the regions where the US missiles of such kind - the land-based missiles - will not appear.

President Vladimir Putin said on Thursday that Russia would produce missiles that were banned under the nuclear pact with the US which ended last month. "We have already said publicly that we will not deploy - after the Americans have tested such a missile - we will not deploy it, we will surely produce the missiles of the same kind in the regions where the US missiles of such kind - the land-based missiles - will not appear." Last month the US had tested a medium-range ground-launched cruise missile, just weeks after walking out the pact. The test occurred even as Russian President Putin urged the United States to begin new arms talks after the collapse of a Cold War nuclear pact between the two world powers. Russia has blamed the Trump administration for unilaterally ending the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty signed in 1987 between the then US President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev. Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF), Putin while replying to a question said: "In case they are deployed in Japan and South Korea, we understand it will be done under a pretext of neutralising the threat from North Korea. But it also creates certain major problems for us because most likely these missile systems would cover a significant part of Russian territory including at the Far East." "The fact that Pentagon chiefs said that the US plan to deploy them in Japan and South Korea does not make us happy, it is regrettable and causes some concern," the Russian president added. However, Japanese President Shinzo Abe who was present at the forum denied the US had given any indication to deploy the missiles. "I would like to make it clear that the US, of course, hasn't talked about deploying such missiles and there is no plan to do so," the Japanese president said. Washington and NATO had accused Russia of developing the new 9M729 missile which they said violates the treaty, but Russia shot back saying that its range was short of 500 kilometres. Putin had said earlier that if the US deploys new missiles, it "will be forced to begin the full-scale development of similar missiles".

Will produce same missiles as US cruise test but won't deploy: Putin

The hijab debate has further polarized Iranians at a time when the country is buckling under unprecedented US sanctions imposed since the Trump administration pulled out of a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers last year. It's unclear to what extent the government can enforce hijab compliance amid an economic malaise, including a currency collapse and rising housing prices. Watch this video to know more.

In sanctions-hit Iran, women debate wearing hijab in public

The hijab debate has further polarized Iranians at a time when the country is buckling under unprecedented U.S. sanctions imposed since the Donald Trump administration pulled out of a 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and world powers last year.Watch full video to know more.

Iranian women forced to wear hijab

Trump administration sanctions 3 Hezbollah officials

U.S.Sanctions 3 Hezbollah officials

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-offers-full-support-to-us-ambassador-trump-lashes-out-at-theresa-may-after-leak-of-damning-cables-234128">US President Donald Trump</a> discussed the standoff over Iran's nuclear program with his French counterpart <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-president-emmanuel-macrons-advisor-heads-to-iran-to-calm-nuclear-tensions-234122">Emmanuel Macron</a> on Monday, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/i-held-up-my-end-of-the-bargain-dont-want-to-go-to-the-white-house-rapinoe-after-winning-womens-world-cup-234154">White House</a> said.

The two leaders 'discussed ongoing efforts to ensure that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-strongly-urges-iran-to-stop-nuclear-enrichment-234076">Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon</a> and to end Iran's destabilizing behaviour in the Middle East,'&nbsp;the White House said in a statement.

Iran on Monday breached a uranium enrichment cap set by a 2015 nuclear deal that the Trump administration abandoned last year.

Washington has imposed punishing sanctions on Tehran, and tensions between the two sides have risen further amid Iran's downing of an American drone and attacks on tanker ships the US has blamed on the Islamic republic.

Iran -- which also passed a 300-kilogram limit on enriched uranium reserves this month -- says it is not violating the deal, citing terms of the agreement allowing one side to temporarily abandon some commitments if it deems the other side is not respecting its part of the accord.

US President Donald Trump discussed the standoff over Iran's nuclear program with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Monday, the White House said. The two leaders 'discussed ongoing efforts to ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon and to end Iran's destabilizing behaviour in the Middle East,' the White House said in a statement.

US President Donald Trump discussed the standoff over Iran's nuclear program with his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron on Monday, the White House said. The two leaders 'discussed ongoing efforts to ensure that Iran does not obtain a nuclear weapon and to end Iran's destabilizing behaviour in the Middle East,' the White House said in a statement. Iran on Monday breached a uranium enrichment cap set by a 2015 nuclear deal that the Trump administration abandoned last year. Washington has imposed punishing sanctions on Tehran, and tensions between the two sides have risen further amid Iran's downing of an American drone and attacks on tanker ships the US has blamed on the Islamic republic. Iran -- which also passed a 300-kilogram limit on enriched uranium reserves this month -- says it is not violating the deal, citing terms of the agreement allowing one side to temporarily abandon some commitments if it deems the other side is not respecting its part of the accord.

US President Donald Trump has discussed Iran nuclear standoff with Macron: White House

After clinching a historic fourth World Cup soccer title, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-spat-with-soccer-star-rapinoe-trump-may-invite-us-womens-world-cup-winning-team-to-white-house-233888">US soccer star&nbsp;Megan Rapinoe</a> waded into the confrontation with Trump declaring that she won't be visiting the White House even as President Trump congratulated the winning team on Monday.

"I held up my end of the bargain for sure. We did it all, we won it all," Rapinoe said, adding, "I think everybody is with me. We don't want to go to the White House."

"So I figured that's why the invitation hasn't come, may be sent by mail and it's just sort of slowly to get here. But I doubt it. But I think we will at some point be going to Washington," she told reporters after arriving in the US.

Rapinoe was engulfed in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-us-womens-soccer-star-rapinoe-not-to-disrespect-country-230684">controversy with President Trump </a>after she declared that even if the US won the World Cup she won't be going to the White House to meet the US president. Trump shot back on Twitter saying she shouldn't "disrespect the country, White House or the flag".

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Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1147946170293071872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In the same series of tweets, Trump had announced he was inviting the US women's team to the White House and had added: "I am a big fan."

Rapinoe had said: "I'm not going to the fucking White House," the US co-captain exclaimed in the clip on Eight by Eight, a football magazine. "No. I'm not going to the White House."

On asked by reporters that Senator Chuck Schumer had invited her to Capitol Hill, Rapinoe added enthusiastically: "That's great. I love that. Interesting to see what McConnell (US&nbsp;Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell) does. Thank you, Chuck Schumer, for inviting us out. We are very happy to accept your invitation to come."

However, on Trump and the White House visit, Rapinoe appeared to stick to her guns. The World Cup star was backed by her teammate Alex Morgan who said she didn't believe in a lot of things that President Trump had put in place.

"There's a lot of things that President Trump, you know, has put in place that I don't stand for," Morgan said while holding the World Cup trophy.&nbsp;

"I don't feel necessarily welcome there(at the White House) and so I don't believe that I will be individually attending. I think, you know, in the past we've all decided as a team so we'll have to see that in the future," she added.

After clinching a historic fourth World Cup soccer title, US soccer star Megan Rapinoe waded into the confrontation with Trump declaring that she won't be visiting the White House even as President Trump congratulated the winning team on Monday.

After clinching a historic fourth World Cup soccer title, US soccer star Megan Rapinoe waded into the confrontation with Trump declaring that she won't be visiting the White House even as President Trump congratulated the winning team on Monday. "I held up my end of the bargain for sure. We did it all, we won it all," Rapinoe said, adding, "I think everybody is with me. We don't want to go to the White House." "So I figured that's why the invitation hasn't come, may be sent by mail and it's just sort of slowly to get here. But I doubt it. But I think we will at some point be going to Washington," she told reporters after arriving in the US. Rapinoe was engulfed in a controversy with President Trump after she declared that even if the US won the World Cup she won't be going to the White House to meet the US president. Trump shot back on Twitter saying she shouldn't "disrespect the country, White House or the flag". Congratulations to the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team on winning the World Cup! Great and exciting play. America is proud of you all! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 7, 2019 × In the same series of tweets, Trump had announced he was inviting the US women's team to the White House and had added: "I am a big fan." Rapinoe had said: "I'm not going to the fucking White House," the US co-captain exclaimed in the clip on Eight by Eight, a football magazine. "No. I'm not going to the White House." On asked by reporters that Senator Chuck Schumer had invited her to Capitol Hill, Rapinoe added enthusiastically: "That's great. I love that. Interesting to see what McConnell (US Senate majority leader Mitch McConnell) does. Thank you, Chuck Schumer, for inviting us out. We are very happy to accept your invitation to come." However, on Trump and the White House visit, Rapinoe appeared to stick to her guns. The World Cup star was backed by her teammate Alex Morgan who said she didn't believe in a lot of things that President Trump had put in place. "There's a lot of things that President Trump, you know, has put in place that I don't stand for," Morgan said while holding the World Cup trophy. "I don't feel necessarily welcome there(at the White House) and so I don't believe that I will be individually attending. I think, you know, in the past we've all decided as a team so we'll have to see that in the future," she added.

I held up my end of the bargain, don't want to go to the White House: Rapinoe after winning women's World Cup

Britain's trade minister said on Monday he would apologise to<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-back-at-britains-ambassador-in-us-says-not-served-the-uk-well-233860"> US President Donald Trump's</a> daughter Ivanka for a leak of confidential memos in which the UK ambassador describes the US administration as "dysfunctional" and "inept".

The memos from Kim Darroch, the UK's ambassador to Washington, were leaked to a Sunday newspaper, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-top-envoy-in-us-says-trump-executive-inept-report-233737">annoying Trump</a> and triggering demands on the British side to find out who had disclosed them.

Trade minister Liam Fox, who is on a visit to Washington, told BBC radio he would apologise to the president's daughter Ivanka, who he is due to meet during his trip.

"I will be apologising for the fact that either our civil service or elements of our political class have not lived up to the expectations that either we have or the United States has about their behaviour, which in this particular case has lapsed in a most extraordinary and unacceptable way," he said.

"Malicious leaks of this nature are unprofessional, unethical and unpatriotic and can actually lead to a damage to that relationship which can therefore affect our wider security interest."

The revelations come at a time when Britain is hoping to strike a major trade deal with its closest ally after it leaves the European Union, an exit currently scheduled for October 31.

Trump told reporters, of Darroch: "We are not big fans of that man and he has not served the UK well, so I can understand and I can say things about him but I won't bother."

In memos to his government dating from 2017 to the present, Darroch said reports of in-fighting in the White House were "mostly true" and last month described confusion within the administration over Trump's decision to call off a military strike on Iran.

"We don't really believe this administration is going to become substantially more normal; less dysfunctional; less unpredictable; less faction riven; less diplomatically clumsy and inept," Darroch wrote in one memo, according to the Mail on Sunday.

Fox echoed a statement from Britain's Foreign Office that the views Darroch had expressed were not those of the British government itself. Former defence minister Michael Fallon said Darroch's term as ambassador was due to come to an end soon.

"All ambassadors are asked to report all the time honestly about the different strengths and weaknesses of the governments they are posted to," he told BBC radio. "It's obviously damaging to any relationship when this sort of stuff gets published."

Nigel Farage, leader of Britain's Brexit Party and long a thorn in the side of British governments, said figures such as Darroch would be "not be around" if ex-foreign minister Boris Johnson, one of two candidates seeking to replace Theresa May as prime minister, was chosen by Conservative Party members.

However, despite being close to Trump, Farage ruled himself out of becoming Britain's next ambassador in Washington.

"I don't think I'm the right man for that job," he told BBC radio.

Britain's trade minister said on Monday he would apologise to US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka for a leak of confidential memos in which the UK ambassador describes the US administration as "dysfunctional" and "inept".

Britain's trade minister said on Monday he would apologise to US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka for a leak of confidential memos in which the UK ambassador describes the US administration as "dysfunctional" and "inept". The memos from Kim Darroch, the UK's ambassador to Washington, were leaked to a Sunday newspaper, annoying Trump and triggering demands on the British side to find out who had disclosed them. Trade minister Liam Fox, who is on a visit to Washington, told BBC radio he would apologise to the president's daughter Ivanka, who he is due to meet during his trip. "I will be apologising for the fact that either our civil service or elements of our political class have not lived up to the expectations that either we have or the United States has about their behaviour, which in this particular case has lapsed in a most extraordinary and unacceptable way," he said. "Malicious leaks of this nature are unprofessional, unethical and unpatriotic and can actually lead to a damage to that relationship which can therefore affect our wider security interest." The revelations come at a time when Britain is hoping to strike a major trade deal with its closest ally after it leaves the European Union, an exit currently scheduled for October 31. Trump told reporters, of Darroch: "We are not big fans of that man and he has not served the UK well, so I can understand and I can say things about him but I won't bother." In memos to his government dating from 2017 to the present, Darroch said reports of in-fighting in the White House were "mostly true" and last month described confusion within the administration over Trump's decision to call off a military strike on Iran. "We don't really believe this administration is going to become substantially more normal; less dysfunctional; less unpredictable; less faction riven; less diplomatically clumsy and inept," Darroch wrote in one memo, according to the Mail on Sunday. Fox echoed a statement from Britain's Foreign Office that the views Darroch had expressed were not those of the British government itself. Former defence minister Michael Fallon said Darroch's term as ambassador was due to come to an end soon. "All ambassadors are asked to report all the time honestly about the different strengths and weaknesses of the governments they are posted to," he told BBC radio. "It's obviously damaging to any relationship when this sort of stuff gets published." Nigel Farage, leader of Britain's Brexit Party and long a thorn in the side of British governments, said figures such as Darroch would be "not be around" if ex-foreign minister Boris Johnson, one of two candidates seeking to replace Theresa May as prime minister, was chosen by Conservative Party members. However, despite being close to Trump, Farage ruled himself out of becoming Britain's next ambassador in Washington. "I don't think I'm the right man for that job," he told BBC radio.

'Dysfunctional' & 'inept': Britain's trade minister Liam Fox to apologise to Ivanka over leaked memo

UK envoy said that Trump administration is inept & insecure. He needs simple, blunt arguments. He also said that he could still attack Iran. Watch this video to know more.

UK envoy to U.S calls Trump incompetent

Iran will no longer require Chinese visitors to obtain visas, state media reported Sunday, as the sanctions-hit country attempts to boost tourism in the face of an economic crisis.

"The cabinet has agreed to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals entering the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-judges-progress-made-at-nuclear-meeting-but-still-not-enough-231350">Islamic Republic of Iran</a>," state news agency IRNA said.

Tourism board chief Ali Asghar Mounesan told IRNA that "We aim to host two million Chinese tourists per year using our country's numerous attractions."

He said the sector is "unsanctionable" and could help offset the economic hardships caused by tough sanctions Washington reinstated after withdrawing from a multilateral nuclear deal last year.

The sanctions have particularly targeted Iran's vital oil exports and international financial transactions, and were a major factor in the country's ongoing recession.

According to IRNA, some 52,000 Chinese tourists visited Iran during the 12 months to March.

In another bid to boost tourist arrivals, Iran recently announced it would no longer stamp visitors' passports, allowing them to bypass a US entry ban on travellers who have visited the Islamic Republic.

China is one of the remaining partners in the nuclear deal and has rejected the Trump administration's policy of seeking to cut Iranian oil exports to zero.

Tehran has threatened to abandon some of its commitments under the nuclear deal unless the remaining partners -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- help it circumvent US sanctions, especially on oil sales.

Iran will no longer require Chinese visitors to obtain visas, state media reported Sunday, as the sanctions-hit country attempts to boost tourism in the face of an economic crisis.

Iran will no longer require Chinese visitors to obtain visas, state media reported Sunday, as the sanctions-hit country attempts to boost tourism in the face of an economic crisis. "The cabinet has agreed to waive visa requirements for Chinese nationals entering the Islamic Republic of Iran," state news agency IRNA said. Tourism board chief Ali Asghar Mounesan told IRNA that "We aim to host two million Chinese tourists per year using our country's numerous attractions." He said the sector is "unsanctionable" and could help offset the economic hardships caused by tough sanctions Washington reinstated after withdrawing from a multilateral nuclear deal last year. The sanctions have particularly targeted Iran's vital oil exports and international financial transactions, and were a major factor in the country's ongoing recession. According to IRNA, some 52,000 Chinese tourists visited Iran during the 12 months to March. In another bid to boost tourist arrivals, Iran recently announced it would no longer stamp visitors' passports, allowing them to bypass a US entry ban on travellers who have visited the Islamic Republic. China is one of the remaining partners in the nuclear deal and has rejected the Trump administration's policy of seeking to cut Iranian oil exports to zero. Tehran has threatened to abandon some of its commitments under the nuclear deal unless the remaining partners -- Britain, China, France, Germany and Russia -- help it circumvent US sanctions, especially on oil sales.

Iran announces visa waiver for Chinese tourists

Tehran has reacted sharply to the Donald Trump administration's decision to impose fresh sanctions against top Iranian leaders, including its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and has called said it means a 'permanent closure' of diplomacy.

Iran hits back after fresh US sanctions, calls it 'permanent closure' of diplomacy

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-has-no-plans-to-cap-h-1b-work-visa-program-state-department-229065">US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department</a>

The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-hard-to-believe-iranian-shooting-down-of-us-drone-was-intentional-229050">Trump says hard to believe Iranian shooting down of US drone was intentional</a>

US President Donald Trump played down Iran's downing of a US military surveillance drone on Thursday, saying he suspected it was shot by mistake and "it would have made a big difference" to him had the remotely controlled aircraft been piloted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/yoga-for-heart-care-this-years-theme-pm-modi-in-ranchi-229057">Yoga for 'heart care' this year's theme: PM Modi in Ranchi</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices.

Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-kim-say-boosting-china-north-korea-ties-good-for-regional-peace-report-229051">Xi, Kim say boosting China-North Korea ties good for regional peace: Report</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed that amid "serious and complicated" international affairs strengthening bilateral ties was good for both countries and regional peace, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ahead-of-india-visit-pompeo-makes-congratulatory-call-to-jaishankar-229056">Ahead of India visit, Pompeo makes congratulatory call to Jaishankar&nbsp;</a>

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday.

US has no plans to cap H-1B work visa programme: State Department The Trump administration has no plans to cap H-1B work visas for nations that force foreign companies to store data locally, the State Department said on Thursday. Trump says hard to believe Iranian shooting down of US drone was intentional US President Donald Trump played down Iran's downing of a US military surveillance drone on Thursday, saying he suspected it was shot by mistake and "it would have made a big difference" to him had the remotely controlled aircraft been piloted. Yoga for 'heart care' this year's theme: PM Modi in Ranchi Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday said that ''yoga for heart care'' will be the theme for this year and that world is accepting yoga practices. Modi addressed around 30,000 people at Prabhat Tara ground in Ranchi on the occasion of International Day of Yoga. Xi, Kim say boosting China-North Korea ties good for regional peace: Report North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Chinese President Xi Jinping agreed that amid "serious and complicated" international affairs strengthening bilateral ties was good for both countries and regional peace, North Korean state media KCNA said on Friday. Ahead of India visit, Pompeo makes congratulatory call to Jaishankar US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo Thursday spoke with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and underscored the Trump administration's strong commitment to work closely with India to advance the bilateral strategic partnership, a top official has said.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The United States national security advisor has said a third summit between President Donald Trump and North Korean Leader Kim Jong-Un could be possible soon. Watch full video to know more.

US national security advisor: 3rd Trump-Kim summit possible

The&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;administration&nbsp;is suspending&nbsp;educational, legal and recreational&nbsp;programs&nbsp;for&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;children&nbsp;in its custody, saying an influx of children crossing the border without a parent or legal guardian was putting a "tremendous strain" on the resources of the agency tasked with housing them.

The agency that houses&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;children&nbsp;- the Office of Refugee Resettlement &nbsp;- asked Congress for an additional $2.88 billion to increase shelter capacity, HHS spokeswoman Evelyn Stauffer said on Wednesday. ORR is part of the Department of Health and Human Services.

ORR has instructed providers in its network to begin scaling back or stop providing services "that are not directly necessary for the protection of life and safety," Stauffer said.

On May 30, HHS official Mark Boss sent an email to providers in ORR's network of shelters informing them costs budgeted for&nbsp;educational&nbsp;and recreational activities, including staff associated with those&nbsp;programs, were "unallowable costs" for any federal funds received after May 22.

The email, which was seen by Reuters, was first reported by Reveal at the Centre for Investigative Reporting.

Border agents apprehended 11,507 unaccompanied&nbsp;children&nbsp;on the southwest border in May, an 80% increase from a year earlier, according to government data released on Wednesday.&nbsp;

ORR's system of shelters is currently running at 96% capacity, according to an HHS official who declined to be named because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the program.

The provision of recreational and&nbsp;educational&nbsp;activities, such as English language lessons and sports, are required by a long-standing legal settlement, known as the Flores settlement, that lays out conditions under which&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;children&nbsp;can be kept.

"If this&nbsp;administration&nbsp;goes forward with denying education, recreation and other&nbsp;unspecified 'non-essential services' they would be in flagrant violation of the&nbsp;Flores&nbsp;settlement and will face immediate legal action," said Neha Desai, Director for Immigration at the National Centre for Youth Law in Oakland and a Flores co-counsel.

The&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;administration&nbsp;has repeatedly called on Congress to enact regulations that would override the settlement. It is also working on regulations on the length of time and conditions in which&nbsp;children&nbsp;can be detained.

Congresswoman Rosa DeLaura from Connecticut, who chairs the House committee negotiating with ORR on supplemental funding, said in a statement that the&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;administration could not be given a blank check "when time and again it has failed to show it has these&nbsp;children's' best interests at heart."

Last week, the&nbsp;US&nbsp;Citizenship and Immigration Services&nbsp;placed limits on special legal protections for some&nbsp;migrant&nbsp;children&nbsp;who turn 18 or reunite with a parent or guardian before they file their asylum application.

In a policy memo to all asylum officers dated May 31, USCIS official John Lafferty also empowered officials to request additional documents if they suspect an applicant is over 18 years old when they file their asylum application.

The Trump administration is suspending educational, legal and recreational programs for migrant children in its custody, saying an influx of children crossing the border without a parent or legal guardian was putting a "tremendous strain" on the resources of the agency tasked with housing them.

The Trump administration is suspending educational, legal and recreational programs for migrant children in its custody, saying an influx of children crossing the border without a parent or legal guardian was putting a "tremendous strain" on the resources of the agency tasked with housing them. The agency that houses migrant children - the Office of Refugee Resettlement - asked Congress for an additional $2.88 billion to increase shelter capacity, HHS spokeswoman Evelyn Stauffer said on Wednesday. ORR is part of the Department of Health and Human Services. ORR has instructed providers in its network to begin scaling back or stop providing services "that are not directly necessary for the protection of life and safety," Stauffer said. On May 30, HHS official Mark Boss sent an email to providers in ORR's network of shelters informing them costs budgeted for educational and recreational activities, including staff associated with those programs, were "unallowable costs" for any federal funds received after May 22. The email, which was seen by Reuters, was first reported by Reveal at the Centre for Investigative Reporting. Border agents apprehended 11,507 unaccompanied children on the southwest border in May, an 80% increase from a year earlier, according to government data released on Wednesday. ORR's system of shelters is currently running at 96% capacity, according to an HHS official who declined to be named because they were not authorized to speak publicly about the program. The provision of recreational and educational activities, such as English language lessons and sports, are required by a long-standing legal settlement, known as the Flores settlement, that lays out conditions under which migrant children can be kept. "If this administration goes forward with denying education, recreation and other unspecified 'non-essential services' they would be in flagrant violation of the Flores settlement and will face immediate legal action," said Neha Desai, Director for Immigration at the National Centre for Youth Law in Oakland and a Flores co-counsel. The Trump administration has repeatedly called on Congress to enact regulations that would override the settlement. It is also working on regulations on the length of time and conditions in which children can be detained. Congresswoman Rosa DeLaura from Connecticut, who chairs the House committee negotiating with ORR on supplemental funding, said in a statement that the Trump administration could not be given a blank check "when time and again it has failed to show it has these children's' best interests at heart." Last week, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services placed limits on special legal protections for some migrant children who turn 18 or reunite with a parent or guardian before they file their asylum application. In a policy memo to all asylum officers dated May 31, USCIS official John Lafferty also empowered officials to request additional documents if they suspect an applicant is over 18 years old when they file their asylum application.

Trump administration suspends US educational programs for migrant children

The Trump Administration Has Removed Trade Benefits To India, Kicking Off Another Trade Dispute. What Does It Mean? Palki Sharma Upadhyay Explains.

Gravitas: US Withdraws Trade Incentives To India

The Trump administration banned group educational travel to Cuba on Tuesday, cutting off one of the main avenues for Americans to visit the Caribbean island.

In a move to punish what it called Cuba's "destabilizing role" in the region, the US Treasury also banned the US export of boats and private airplanes to the country.

The end to group educational travel would likely deal a heavy blow to American tourism on the island, which took off after former president Barack Obama moved to ease the half-century embargo against the communist government in 2014.

"Cuba continues to play a destabilizing role in the Western hemisphere, providing a communist foothold in the region and propping up US adversaries in places like Venezuela and Nicaragua by fomenting instability, undermining the rule of law, and suppressing democratic processes," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

"This administration has made a strategic decision to reverse the loosening of sanctions and other restrictions on the Cuban regime. These actions will help to keep US dollars out of the hands of Cuban military, intelligence, and security services."

The Treasury move banned "group people-to-people educational travel," a structure that allowed travel agencies to organize regular American tourists into "educational groups" who, on their visit to Cuba, would spend a certain amount of time in exchanges with Cubans.

After he came into office in January 2017 promising to reverse Obama's thaw with Cuba, President Donald Trump banned individual visits and in a series of moves limited commercial interactions with the country.

Washington blames Cuba for propping up the besieged Venezuelan regime of President Nicolas Maduro.

The Trump administration banned group educational travel to Cuba on Tuesday, cutting off one of the main avenues for Americans to visit the Caribbean island. In a move to punish what it called Cuba's "destabilizing role" in the region, the US Treasury also banned the US export of boats and private airplanes to the country.

The Trump administration banned group educational travel to Cuba on Tuesday, cutting off one of the main avenues for Americans to visit the Caribbean island. In a move to punish what it called Cuba's "destabilizing role" in the region, the US Treasury also banned the US export of boats and private airplanes to the country. The end to group educational travel would likely deal a heavy blow to American tourism on the island, which took off after former president Barack Obama moved to ease the half-century embargo against the communist government in 2014. "Cuba continues to play a destabilizing role in the Western hemisphere, providing a communist foothold in the region and propping up US adversaries in places like Venezuela and Nicaragua by fomenting instability, undermining the rule of law, and suppressing democratic processes," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. "This administration has made a strategic decision to reverse the loosening of sanctions and other restrictions on the Cuban regime. These actions will help to keep US dollars out of the hands of Cuban military, intelligence, and security services." The Treasury move banned "group people-to-people educational travel," a structure that allowed travel agencies to organize regular American tourists into "educational groups" who, on their visit to Cuba, would spend a certain amount of time in exchanges with Cubans. After he came into office in January 2017 promising to reverse Obama's thaw with Cuba, President Donald Trump banned individual visits and in a series of moves limited commercial interactions with the country. Washington blames Cuba for propping up the besieged Venezuelan regime of President Nicolas Maduro.

US tightens Cuba sanctions, ends group travel

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/time-magazine-does-an-about-face-from-divider-in-chief-to-modi-has-united-india-222490">Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India'</a>

Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-to-stay-on-fatfs-grey-list-official-to-wion-222508">Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION</a>

Pakistan is certain to stay on the grey list in the next meet of Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an official from FATF member countries told WION on Wednesday.

FATF which looks into money laundering and terrorism financing will meet from June 16 to 21 in Orlando, Florida.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-mountaineer-ravindra-kumar-speaks-to-wion-explains-why-everest-has-turned-into-death-zone-222486">Indian mountaineer Ravindra Kumar speaks to WION, explains why Everest has turned into 'death zone'</a>

With reports of over 10 people killed recently while trying to scale the world highest peak, Mount Everest, global interest mounts around the ambitious expedition, the traffic on the peak and why has it turned into a 'death zone'.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-to-work-closely-with-great-ally-india-state-department-spokesperson-222484">US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson</a>

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mamata-banerjee-wont-attend-modis-swearing-in-says-bjp-using-occasion-to-scare-political-points-222479">Mamata Banerjee won't attend Modi's swearing-in, says BJP using occasion to score political points</a>

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India' Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done.

Time magazine does an about-face: From 'Divider in Chief' to 'Modi has united India' Weeks after Time magazine featured Narendra Modi on the cover of its international edition with a controversial headline, it has now run an article that says no prime minister has united India in decades the way he has done. Pakistan to stay on FATF's grey list: Official to WION Pakistan is certain to stay on the grey list in the next meet of Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an official from FATF member countries told WION on Wednesday. FATF which looks into money laundering and terrorism financing will meet from June 16 to 21 in Orlando, Florida. Indian mountaineer Ravindra Kumar speaks to WION, explains why Everest has turned into 'death zone' With reports of over 10 people killed recently while trying to scale the world highest peak, Mount Everest, global interest mounts around the ambitious expedition, the traffic on the peak and why has it turned into a 'death zone'. US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday. Mamata Banerjee won't attend Modi's swearing-in, says BJP using occasion to score political points West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not going to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Trinamool Congress (TMC) chief announced her decision in a tweet on Wednesday, accusing the BJP of making false claims about political violence in Bengal.

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/in-5-hour-long-meeting-pm-modi-and-amit-shah-discuss-new-cabinet-222396">Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term</a> on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus also said that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was looking forward having a "robust discussion" with his Indian counterpart on a wide range of issues.

The Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Pompeo, congratulated Prime Minister Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party on the spectacular electoral victory in the Lok Sabha elections.&nbsp;

"We, of course, will work closely with Modi, as we have many times," Ortagus told reporters in response to a question during an off-camera news conference on Tuesday.

"We're confident in the fairness and integrity of the elections, and I think that Secretary Pompeo will have a very robust discussion on a range of issues. India is a great ally and partner of the United States," Ortagus said.

Her comment came amid a report that Pompeo may visit New Delhi next month on his way to Osaka, Japan for the G20 summit to be attended by Prime Minister Modi, US President Donald Trump and other leaders.

Watch:&nbsp;'Modi united India like no PM in decades'

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/time-modi-united-india-like-no-pm-in-decades-222483/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, US lawmakers and senior government officials continue to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on his electoral victory.

According to a compilation made by the Indian Embassy here, more than 50 Congressmen, Senators and the senior government officials have sent congratulatory messages to Modi.

"India continues to have amazing potential and is a strong US partner.&nbsp;Congratulations to Narendra Modi on your success with the elections and the direction you are taking India. We look forward to seeing our partnership continue to strengthen," tweeted Indian-American politician Nikki Haley.

"Congratulations to Modi 'on being re-elected' as Prime Minister of India, said Congressman Al Green.

"I wish peace and prosperity for India and its neighbours and look forward to seeing you at India House in my congressional district in Houston, Texas, USA," he said.

In the first back-to-back majority for a single party in over three decades, the Modi-led BJP won 303 out of the total 542 Lok Sabha seats.&nbsp;

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday.

India is a "great ally" and "partner" of the US and the Trump administration will work closely with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his second term on a range of issues, a senior State Department official said Tuesday. State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus also said that Secretary of State Mike Pompeo was looking forward having a "robust discussion" with his Indian counterpart on a wide range of issues. The Trump administration, including President Donald Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and Pompeo, congratulated Prime Minister Modi and his Bharatiya Janata Party on the spectacular electoral victory in the Lok Sabha elections. "We, of course, will work closely with Modi, as we have many times," Ortagus told reporters in response to a question during an off-camera news conference on Tuesday. "We're confident in the fairness and integrity of the elections, and I think that Secretary Pompeo will have a very robust discussion on a range of issues. India is a great ally and partner of the United States," Ortagus said. Her comment came amid a report that Pompeo may visit New Delhi next month on his way to Osaka, Japan for the G20 summit to be attended by Prime Minister Modi, US President Donald Trump and other leaders. Watch: 'Modi united India like no PM in decades' Meanwhile, US lawmakers and senior government officials continue to congratulate Prime Minister Modi on his electoral victory. According to a compilation made by the Indian Embassy here, more than 50 Congressmen, Senators and the senior government officials have sent congratulatory messages to Modi. "India continues to have amazing potential and is a strong US partner. Congratulations to Narendra Modi on your success with the elections and the direction you are taking India. We look forward to seeing our partnership continue to strengthen," tweeted Indian-American politician Nikki Haley. "Congratulations to Modi 'on being re-elected' as Prime Minister of India, said Congressman Al Green. "I wish peace and prosperity for India and its neighbours and look forward to seeing you at India House in my congressional district in Houston, Texas, USA," he said. In the first back-to-back majority for a single party in over three decades, the Modi-led BJP won 303 out of the total 542 Lok Sabha seats.

US to work closely with 'great ally' India: State Department spokesperson

The<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-warns-us-china-trade-war-will-jeopardize-2019-global-growth-221117"> trade war between Beijing and Washington </a>has stoked concern in financial markets that China might opt to weaponise its holdings of more than $1.1 trillion worth of US&nbsp;Treasuries in retaliation for the tariffs the Trump administration has imposed on Chinese imports.

Often referred to as the "nuclear option," choosing to dump so large a pool of assets would likely destabilise world financial markets, drive interest rates higher and push tensions between the world's two largest economies into uncharted territory.

China has been slimming its Treasury securities portfolio for some time, but most analysts see an aggressive reduction of its holdings as a remote possibility at most. There is no evidence Beijing is seriously looking to flood markets with its US&nbsp;bonds.

Here are some key points about China's Treasuries portfolio:

How much US debt does Chins own?

About a decade ago, China overtook Japan as the largest foreign holder of US&nbsp;government debt.

Its holdings stood at more than $1.12 trillion at the end of March, according to US&nbsp;Treasury Department data. Japan is a close second with nearly $1.08 trillion.

China's holdings peaked in late 2013 at nearly $1.32 trillion and have come down by about 15% since then. In March they were the lowest in about two years.

Its share of the Treasury market has fallen even faster, due to the steady issuance of US&nbsp;debt required to finance the growing federal budget deficit.

The world's second-biggest economy owns about 7% of the $16.18 trillion of US&nbsp;public debt outstanding, its lowest share in 14 years, and down from a peak of 14% in 2011. Still, its slice of the pie is exceeded only by the US&nbsp;Federal Reserve, which owns $2.15 trillion of Treasuries, or 13.5% of the market.

Treasury issuance is expected to keep accelerating following a massive tax cut enacted in December 2017, so China's share of the market will likely drop even further.

Why does China own so much US debt?

As a net exporter to the United States and the rest of the world, China has the world's largest stash of foreign-exchange reserves at more than $3 trillion. Much of that is denominated in US dollars accumulated through its persistent trade surplus with the United States since the early 1990s.

A natural place for China to park a lot of those greenbacks is the US&nbsp;Treasury market, which is by far the largest and most liquid pool of safe assets in the world.

Also, since the financial crisis of 2007-2009, US&nbsp;Treasuries have consistently yielded more than bonds issued by other large developed economies such as Japan and Germany, which has been another lure.

What is the risk to the United States if China sells?

Most analysts agree that large-scale selling by Beijing would disrupt the Treasury market and other markets.

An abrupt shift in the balance of supply and demand could drive down Treasury prices, and drive up their yields, which move in the opposite direction to prices. That would cause a spike in borrowing costs for the US government.

Also, because Treasury yields are a benchmark for US&nbsp;consumer and business credit, interest rates on everything from corporate bonds to homeowners' mortgages would rise, likely slowing the economy.

Such a jarring move would also erode global investors' confidence in the US&nbsp;dollar as the world's top reserve currency.

What is the risk to China if IT dumbs treasures?

Most analysts argue China has not opted to sell Uncle Sam's IOUs because a nosedive in US&nbsp;bond prices also would bring down the value of China's remaining Treasury holdings.

Also, China's currency, the yuan, is not fully free floating. Beijing uses its Treasury holdings as a key tool to stabilise the yuan within a targeted range, against the dollar in particular.

Some critics have alleged China uses Treasuries and its other currency reserves to hold down the yuan, making its exports more attractive. At the same time, allowing the currency to cheapen too many risks other problems, such as foreign capital flight.

Any sharp depreciation in the greenback might force Beijing to defend the yuan, which may mean shedding more of its Treasuries stake. Back in 2016, China's Treasuries holdings fell sharply by some $200 billion from May to November of that year as the yuan depreciated on worries about the Chinese economy.

Lastly, any knock-on effect in the US&nbsp;economy would also be felt in China because the United States is the destination for nearly a fifth of Chinese exports.

The trade war between Beijing and Washington has stoked concern in financial markets that China might opt to weaponise its holdings of more than $1.1 trillion worth of US Treasuries in retaliation for the tariffs the Trump administration has imposed on Chinese imports.

The trade war between Beijing and Washington has stoked concern in financial markets that China might opt to weaponise its holdings of more than $1.1 trillion worth of US Treasuries in retaliation for the tariffs the Trump administration has imposed on Chinese imports. Often referred to as the "nuclear option," choosing to dump so large a pool of assets would likely destabilise world financial markets, drive interest rates higher and push tensions between the world's two largest economies into uncharted territory. China has been slimming its Treasury securities portfolio for some time, but most analysts see an aggressive reduction of its holdings as a remote possibility at most. There is no evidence Beijing is seriously looking to flood markets with its US bonds. Here are some key points about China's Treasuries portfolio: How much US debt does Chins own? About a decade ago, China overtook Japan as the largest foreign holder of US government debt. Its holdings stood at more than $1.12 trillion at the end of March, according to US Treasury Department data. Japan is a close second with nearly $1.08 trillion. China's holdings peaked in late 2013 at nearly $1.32 trillion and have come down by about 15% since then. In March they were the lowest in about two years. Its share of the Treasury market has fallen even faster, due to the steady issuance of US debt required to finance the growing federal budget deficit. The world's second-biggest economy owns about 7% of the $16.18 trillion of US public debt outstanding, its lowest share in 14 years, and down from a peak of 14% in 2011. Still, its slice of the pie is exceeded only by the US Federal Reserve, which owns $2.15 trillion of Treasuries, or 13.5% of the market. Treasury issuance is expected to keep accelerating following a massive tax cut enacted in December 2017, so China's share of the market will likely drop even further. Why does China own so much US debt? As a net exporter to the United States and the rest of the world, China has the world's largest stash of foreign-exchange reserves at more than $3 trillion. Much of that is denominated in US dollars accumulated through its persistent trade surplus with the United States since the early 1990s. A natural place for China to park a lot of those greenbacks is the US Treasury market, which is by far the largest and most liquid pool of safe assets in the world. Also, since the financial crisis of 2007-2009, US Treasuries have consistently yielded more than bonds issued by other large developed economies such as Japan and Germany, which has been another lure. What is the risk to the United States if China sells? Most analysts agree that large-scale selling by Beijing would disrupt the Treasury market and other markets. An abrupt shift in the balance of supply and demand could drive down Treasury prices, and drive up their yields, which move in the opposite direction to prices. That would cause a spike in borrowing costs for the US government. Also, because Treasury yields are a benchmark for US consumer and business credit, interest rates on everything from corporate bonds to homeowners' mortgages would rise, likely slowing the economy. Such a jarring move would also erode global investors' confidence in the US dollar as the world's top reserve currency. What is the risk to China if IT dumbs treasures? Most analysts argue China has not opted to sell Uncle Sam's IOUs because a nosedive in US bond prices also would bring down the value of China's remaining Treasury holdings. Also, China's currency, the yuan, is not fully free floating. Beijing uses its Treasury holdings as a key tool to stabilise the yuan within a targeted range, against the dollar in particular. Some critics have alleged China uses Treasuries and its other currency reserves to hold down the yuan, making its exports more attractive. At the same time, allowing the currency to cheapen too many risks other problems, such as foreign capital flight. Any sharp depreciation in the greenback might force Beijing to defend the yuan, which may mean shedding more of its Treasuries stake. Back in 2016, China's Treasuries holdings fell sharply by some $200 billion from May to November of that year as the yuan depreciated on worries about the Chinese economy. Lastly, any knock-on effect in the US economy would also be felt in China because the United States is the destination for nearly a fifth of Chinese exports.

Will China dump US bonds as a trade weapon? Not so fast

Special US Representative on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-representative-zalmay-khalizad-briefs-sushma-swaraj-on-afghan-peace-initiatives-216496">Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad h</a>as done an amazing job by bringing the parties to the peace table, the Trump Administration said as the envoy briefed lawmakers in the US capitol on the progress in the peace process.

"I think that the ambassador has done an amazing job at bringing the parties to the table that many in the US government probably thought would never be able to get to the table," State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus told reporters here Wednesday.

"He's making slow and steady progress in these talks," Ortagus said soon after Khalilzad briefed Congressmen.

"I know he completed another round recently. While he has an incredibly tough job, I think that he is doing something that is important to the president, the secretary and the American people: to try to get a peaceful solution in Afghanistan," she said in response to a question.

The Congressional hearing titled "The Reconciliation Process in Afghanistan" by Khalilzad was classified.&nbsp;

During the briefing, Senator Bob Menendez said the peace process must incorporate the views of the different ethnicities and political factions across the country.The US must insist on an intra-Afghan dialogue and actively participate in helping to shape the terms of those negotiations, he said.

"After being such an enormous factor in the course of Afghanistan over the past 18 years, it is neither fair nor realistic to expect Afghan political leaders to settle these differences without us at the intra-Afghan table and without the leverage afforded by US troops," he said.

Referring to the recent remarks by Khalilzad about securing counter-terrorism guarantees, Menendez said this was perhaps the most critical component of a very complex peace deal.

Special US Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has done an amazing job by bringing the parties to the peace table, the Trump Administration said as the envoy briefed lawmakers in the US capitol on the progress in the peace process.

Special US Representative on Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has done an amazing job by bringing the parties to the peace table, the Trump Administration said as the envoy briefed lawmakers in the US capitol on the progress in the peace process. "I think that the ambassador has done an amazing job at bringing the parties to the table that many in the US government probably thought would never be able to get to the table," State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus told reporters here Wednesday. "He's making slow and steady progress in these talks," Ortagus said soon after Khalilzad briefed Congressmen. "I know he completed another round recently. While he has an incredibly tough job, I think that he is doing something that is important to the president, the secretary and the American people: to try to get a peaceful solution in Afghanistan," she said in response to a question. The Congressional hearing titled "The Reconciliation Process in Afghanistan" by Khalilzad was classified. During the briefing, Senator Bob Menendez said the peace process must incorporate the views of the different ethnicities and political factions across the country.The US must insist on an intra-Afghan dialogue and actively participate in helping to shape the terms of those negotiations, he said. "After being such an enormous factor in the course of Afghanistan over the past 18 years, it is neither fair nor realistic to expect Afghan political leaders to settle these differences without us at the intra-Afghan table and without the leverage afforded by US troops," he said. Referring to the recent remarks by Khalilzad about securing counter-terrorism guarantees, Menendez said this was perhaps the most critical component of a very complex peace deal.

Khalilzad did amazing job in Afghanistan by bringing parties to peace table: US

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tells-ex-white-house-counsel-mcgahn-not-to-appear-before-congress-220528">US&nbsp;President Donald&nbsp;Trump's</a>&nbsp;administration&nbsp;plans to&nbsp;use&nbsp;a loophole and rising tensions with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to sell bombs to Saudi Arabia, even though Congress blocked such sales for months over concerns about civilian deaths in the war in Yemen, Senator&nbsp;Chris Murphy said on Wednesday.

"I am hearing that&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;may&nbsp;use&nbsp;an obscure loophole in the Arms Control Act and notice a major new sale of&nbsp;bombs&nbsp;to Saudi Arabia (the ones they drop in Yemen) in a way that would prevent Congress from objecting. Could happen this week," the Democratic senator warned on Twitter.

Congressional aides said there are provisions of the Arms Control Act, which sets rules for international arms transactions, that would allow a president to approve a sale&nbsp;without&nbsp;congressional review in case of a national emergency.

In this case, they said the Republican president would cite rising tensions with&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;as a reason to provide more military equipment to Saudi Arabia, which he sees as an important US&nbsp;partner in the region.&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;has touted arms sales to the&nbsp;Saudis&nbsp;as a way to generate US jobs.

Trump&nbsp;previously declared an influx of immigrants a national emergency to bypass Congress and get $6 billion to build his wall along the Mexican border. Both Democrats and his fellow Republicans voted to block the move, forcing&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;to issue the first veto of his presidency.

It was not immediately clear what equipment would be sold to Saudi Arabia or when any sale might go ahead.

However, any such plan would run into resistance in Congress, from&nbsp;Trump's fellow Republicans as well as Democrats like Murphy, even in the Senate, where Republicans have a slim majority.

A handful of Republicans recently voted with Democrats in a failed effort to override&nbsp;Trump's veto of a resolution that would have ended US support for the Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen's devastating civil war.

Many lawmakers from both parties have also expressed anger over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey.

Senator&nbsp;Lindsey Graham, one of&nbsp;Trump's closest congressional allies, told CNN he would oppose the&nbsp;administration&nbsp;if it decided to go around Congress, citing Khashoggi's killing.

"We are not going to have business as usual until that issue is dealt with," Graham said.

The State Department declined to comment. The White House&nbsp;did not respond to a request for comment.

The top Republicans and Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations and House&nbsp;of Representatives Foreign Affairs committees, who review major international weapons deals, have been approving sales of defensive military equipment to Saudi Arabia.

But they have been putting "holds" - or blocking - the sale of offensive weapons like&nbsp;bombs, anti-tank missiles, small-diameter rockets and large mortars.

Senator&nbsp;Bob Menendez, the ranking Foreign Relations Democrat, has been blocking the sale of Raytheon Co's precision-guided munitions (PGMs) to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for about a year over concerns about the war in Yemen.

US President Donald Trump's administration plans to use a loophole and rising tensions with Iran to sell bombs to Saudi Arabia, even though Congress blocked such sales for months over concerns about civilian deaths in the war in Yemen, Senator Chris Murphy said on Wednesday.

US President Donald Trump's administration plans to use a loophole and rising tensions with Iran to sell bombs to Saudi Arabia, even though Congress blocked such sales for months over concerns about civilian deaths in the war in Yemen, Senator Chris Murphy said on Wednesday. "I am hearing that Trump may use an obscure loophole in the Arms Control Act and notice a major new sale of bombs to Saudi Arabia (the ones they drop in Yemen) in a way that would prevent Congress from objecting. Could happen this week," the Democratic senator warned on Twitter. Congressional aides said there are provisions of the Arms Control Act, which sets rules for international arms transactions, that would allow a president to approve a sale without congressional review in case of a national emergency. In this case, they said the Republican president would cite rising tensions with Iran as a reason to provide more military equipment to Saudi Arabia, which he sees as an important US partner in the region. Trump has touted arms sales to the Saudis as a way to generate US jobs. Trump previously declared an influx of immigrants a national emergency to bypass Congress and get $6 billion to build his wall along the Mexican border. Both Democrats and his fellow Republicans voted to block the move, forcing Trump to issue the first veto of his presidency. It was not immediately clear what equipment would be sold to Saudi Arabia or when any sale might go ahead. However, any such plan would run into resistance in Congress, from Trump's fellow Republicans as well as Democrats like Murphy, even in the Senate, where Republicans have a slim majority. A handful of Republicans recently voted with Democrats in a failed effort to override Trump's veto of a resolution that would have ended US support for the Saudi-led military coalition in Yemen's devastating civil war. Many lawmakers from both parties have also expressed anger over the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. Senator Lindsey Graham, one of Trump's closest congressional allies, told CNN he would oppose the administration if it decided to go around Congress, citing Khashoggi's killing. "We are not going to have business as usual until that issue is dealt with," Graham said. The State Department declined to comment. The White House did not respond to a request for comment. The top Republicans and Democrats on the Senate Foreign Relations and House of Representatives Foreign Affairs committees, who review major international weapons deals, have been approving sales of defensive military equipment to Saudi Arabia. But they have been putting "holds" - or blocking - the sale of offensive weapons like bombs, anti-tank missiles, small-diameter rockets and large mortars. Senator Bob Menendez, the ranking Foreign Relations Democrat, has been blocking the sale of Raytheon Co's precision-guided munitions (PGMs) to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for about a year over concerns about the war in Yemen.

Trump administration may use Iran threat to sell bombs to Saudis without Congress' approval: Senator

The Trump administration hits Huawei with severe sanctions, The Commerce Department said it was adding Huawei Technologies Co Ltd and 70 affiliates to its “Entity List.” Watch this video to know more.

Huawei can no longer buy U.S. parts

The US&nbsp;military said on Tuesday that B-52&nbsp;bombers&nbsp;will be&nbsp;part&nbsp;of additional&nbsp;forces&nbsp;being&nbsp;sent&nbsp;to the Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;there.

White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East.

Captain Bill Urban, a spokesman for US&nbsp;Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52&nbsp;bombers.

The US&nbsp;officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1&nbsp;bombers&nbsp;were there as recently as last month. The B-52&nbsp;is a long-range, nuclear-capable bomber.

The military also confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had already been scheduled to go to the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East, but that its movement was "expedited" due to heightened tension with&nbsp;Iran. Iran's top security body dismissed the U.S. plan to send&nbsp;forces&nbsp;to the region as "psychological warfare."

Announcing details of the force on Tuesday, the US&nbsp;military did not provide specific details of intelligence it may have about an&nbsp;Iranian threat.

US Central Command, which is responsible for US&nbsp;military operations in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East&nbsp;and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following "recent and clear indications" that&nbsp;Iranian and proxy&nbsp;forces&nbsp;were making preparations to possibly attack U.S.&nbsp;forces&nbsp;in the region, Urban said.

He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the US&nbsp;military was not able to discuss. The military has said the threat to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;was on land and at sea but declined to provide further details.

"US&nbsp;Central Command continues to track the number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility," Urban said. US&nbsp;officials have told Reuters that the intelligence was based on specific and "credible" threats to US&nbsp;forces&nbsp;in Iraq, Syria and the broader region.

One US&nbsp;official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said there were indications that&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the&nbsp;Middle&nbsp;East. The United States has previously accused&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;of providing&nbsp;parts of such missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen fighting a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. It is unclear how this intelligence was different.

The US military said on Tuesday that B-52 bombers will be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to US forces there.

The US military said on Tuesday that B-52 bombers will be part of additional forces being sent to the Middle East to counter what the Trump administration says are "clear indications" of threats from Iran to US forces there. White House national security adviser John Bolton said on Sunday that the United States was deploying a carrier strike group and a bomber task force to the Middle East. Captain Bill Urban, a spokesman for US Central Command, said that the bomber task force would consist of B-52 bombers. The US officials, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said four B-52s would be deployed, though that number could change. The United States has regularly maintained a bomber presence in the region, and B-1 bombers were there as recently as last month. The B-52 is a long-range, nuclear-capable bomber. The military also confirmed that the Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group had already been scheduled to go to the Middle East, but that its movement was "expedited" due to heightened tension with Iran. Iran's top security body dismissed the U.S. plan to send forces to the region as "psychological warfare." Announcing details of the force on Tuesday, the US military did not provide specific details of intelligence it may have about an Iranian threat. US Central Command, which is responsible for US military operations in the Middle East and Afghanistan, requested additional forces following "recent and clear indications" that Iranian and proxy forces were making preparations to possibly attack U.S. forces in the region, Urban said. He said the credibility of those threats was based on sources and methods through which the information was obtained, something the US military was not able to discuss. The military has said the threat to US forces was on land and at sea but declined to provide further details. "US Central Command continues to track the number of credible threat streams emanating from the regime in Iran throughout the CENTCOM area of responsibility," Urban said. US officials have told Reuters that the intelligence was based on specific and "credible" threats to US forces in Iraq, Syria and the broader region. One US official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said there were indications that Iran appeared to be moving short-range ballistic missiles on boats in the Middle East. The United States has previously accused Iran of providing parts of such missiles to Houthi rebels in Yemen fighting a Saudi-led coalition backed by the United States. It is unclear how this intelligence was different.

B-52 bombers to be part of US forces sent to Middle East over Iran concerns

US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

Worldwide military spending also rose by 2.6 per cent to $1.8 trillion overall last year, SIPRI calculated.

It was the second year running the global figure has risen, bringing military spending to its highest level since 1988.

"The increase in US spending was driven by the implementation from 2017 of new arms procurement programmes under the Trump administration," said Aude Fleurant, director of &nbsp;SIPRI's Arms and Military Expenditure (AMEX) programme.

The US figure alone of $649 billion was as much as the next eight highest military budgets.

But Chinese, as well as US spending, helped push the overall spending figures for the year higher, said the report.

China's spending has risen 83 per cent since 2009, bringing it up to the second place, ahead of Saudi Arabia, India -- which is modernising its armed forces -- and France.

China has spent 1.9 per cent of its gross domestic output (GDP) on military spending since 2013.

Russia meanwhile dropped out of the top five spenders, with its military budget declining since 2016, said the report.

Western countries' economic sanctions against Russia, in place since 2014 because of its conflict with Ukraine, have hit the country's military budget.

In Ukraine itself meanwhile, military spending rose 21 per cent on the previous year to $4.8 billion, SIPRI calculated.

US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI).

US military spending has risen for the first time in seven years, reflecting Trump administration policy, according to a new report released Monday by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). Worldwide military spending also rose by 2.6 per cent to $1.8 trillion overall last year, SIPRI calculated. It was the second year running the global figure has risen, bringing military spending to its highest level since 1988. "The increase in US spending was driven by the implementation from 2017 of new arms procurement programmes under the Trump administration," said Aude Fleurant, director of SIPRI's Arms and Military Expenditure (AMEX) programme. The US figure alone of $649 billion was as much as the next eight highest military budgets. But Chinese, as well as US spending, helped push the overall spending figures for the year higher, said the report. China's spending has risen 83 per cent since 2009, bringing it up to the second place, ahead of Saudi Arabia, India -- which is modernising its armed forces -- and France. China has spent 1.9 per cent of its gross domestic output (GDP) on military spending since 2013. Russia meanwhile dropped out of the top five spenders, with its military budget declining since 2016, said the report. Western countries' economic sanctions against Russia, in place since 2014 because of its conflict with Ukraine, have hit the country's military budget. In Ukraine itself meanwhile, military spending rose 21 per cent on the previous year to $4.8 billion, SIPRI calculated.

US military spending up for first time in seven years: SIPRI

Christian Mejia thought he had a shot at getting out of immigration detention in rural Louisiana after he'd found a lawyer to help him seek asylum.

Then he was quarantined.

In early January, a mumps outbreak at the privately-run Pine Prairie US&nbsp;Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Processing Center put Mejia and hundreds of other detainees on lockdown. "When there is just one person who is sick, everybody pays," Mejia, 19, said in a phone interview from the Pine Prairie centre describing weeks without visits and access to the library and dining hall.

His attorney wasn't allowed in, but his immigration court case continued anyway - over a video conference line. On February 12, the judge ordered Mejia deported back to Honduras.

The number of people amassed in immigration detention under the Trump administration has reached record highs, raising concerns among migrant advocates about disease outbreaks and resulting quarantines that limit access to legal services.

As of March 6, more than 50,000 migrants were in detention, according to ICE data.

Internal emails reviewed by Reuters reveal the complications of managing outbreaks like the one at Pine Prairie, since immigrant detainees often are transferred around the country and infected people don't necessarily show symptoms of viral diseases even when they are contagious.

ICE health officials have been notified of 236 confirmed or probable cases of mumps among detainees in 51 facilities in the past 12 months, compared to no cases detected between January 2016 and February 2018. Last year, 423 detainees were determined to have influenza and 461 to have chicken pox. All three diseases are largely preventable by vaccine.

As of March 7, a total of 2,287 detainees were quarantined around the country, an ICE official who spoke on condition of anonymity told Reuters.

Ten Democratic members of Congress sent a letter on February 28 to ICE acting director Ronald Vitiello seeking more information about viral diseases at immigration detention centres in Colorado, Arizona and Texas. Lawmakers did not mention the Pine Prairie outbreak.

Pablo Paez, a spokesman for The GEO Group, the private prison operator that runs Pine Prairie under government contract, said its medical professionals follow standards set by ICE and health authorities. He said medical care provided to detainees allows the company "to detect, treat and follow appropriate medical protocols to manage an infectious outbreak."

Unprecedented numbers

The first cases at Pine Prairie were detected in January in four migrants who had been recently transferred from the Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility in Mississippi, according to internal emails.

Tallahatchie, run by private detention company CoreCivic, has had five confirmed cases of mumps and 18 cases of chicken pox since January, according to company spokeswoman Amanda Gilchrist. She said no one who was diagnosed was transferred out of the facility while the disease was active.

Tallahatchie houses hundreds of migrants recently apprehended along the US- Mexico border, ICE officials said.

On Tuesday, US&nbsp;Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan told reporters that changing demographics on the southwest border, with more immigrants from Central America travelling long distances, overwhelmed border officials and raised health concerns.

"We are seeing migrants arrive with illnesses and medical conditions in unprecedented numbers," McAleenan said at a press conference.

However, vaccination rates in the countries of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras are above 90 per cent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ICE detainees come from countries all over the world, with varying degrees of vaccination coverage.

'High profile removal'

At Pine Prairie, staff members were at times at odds with the warden about how to manage the mumps outbreak, internal emails show. The warden decided not to quarantine 40 new arrivals from Tallahatchie in February despite concerns raised by the medical staff, one email showed.

The warden, Indalecio Ramos, who referred questions about the outbreak to ICE and The GEO Group, argued that quarantining the transfers would keep them from attending their court hearings, the facility's health service administrator wrote in a February 7 email.

In a Feb&nbsp;21 email, ICE requested that medical staff members at Pine Prairie clear a detainee quarantined for chicken pox and mumps for travel, calling him a "high profile removal scheduled for deporting." In an email to staff later that day, warden Ramos wrote that medical staff had wanted to exclude the detainee from transfer but "ICE wants him to travel out of the country anyway ... Please ensure he leaves."

The ICE spokesman said that travel is restricted for people who are known to be contagious but those exposed to diseases who are asymptomatic can travel.

Since January, the 1,094-bed Pine Prairie facility has had 18 detainees with confirmed or probable cases of mumps compared to no cases in 2018, according to ICE. As of mid-February, 288 people were under quarantine at Pine Prairie. Mejia said his quarantine ended on February 25.

Detention centres in other states also have seen a rise in outbreaks.

There have been 186 mumps cases in immigration detention facilities in Texas since October, the largest outbreak in centres there in recent years, said Lara Anton, the press officer for the Texas Department of State Health Services.

In Colorado, at the Aurora Contract Detention Facility near Denver, run by The GEO Group, 357 people have been quarantined following eight confirmed and five suspected cases of mumps detected since February, as well as six cases of chickenpox diagnosed since the beginning of January, said Dr Bernadette Albanese from the Tri-County Health Department in Colorado.

Civil rights attorney Danielle Jefferis said court hearings for quarantined immigrants at Aurora were largely cancelled.

At Pine Prairie on February 12, Mejia said he felt confused and hopeless during his video hearing, with no attorney by his side.

After Mejia's lawyers complained, attorneys were allowed to visit quarantined detainees on February 13 - one day too late for Mejia.

While he is appealing his case, his lawyers say he could be deported at any time.

Christian Mejia thought he had a shot at getting out of immigration detention in rural Louisiana after he'd found a lawyer to help him seek asylum. Then he was quarantined.

Christian Mejia thought he had a shot at getting out of immigration detention in rural Louisiana after he'd found a lawyer to help him seek asylum. Then he was quarantined. In early January, a mumps outbreak at the privately-run Pine Prairie US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Processing Center put Mejia and hundreds of other detainees on lockdown. "When there is just one person who is sick, everybody pays," Mejia, 19, said in a phone interview from the Pine Prairie centre describing weeks without visits and access to the library and dining hall. His attorney wasn't allowed in, but his immigration court case continued anyway - over a video conference line. On February 12, the judge ordered Mejia deported back to Honduras. The number of people amassed in immigration detention under the Trump administration has reached record highs, raising concerns among migrant advocates about disease outbreaks and resulting quarantines that limit access to legal services. As of March 6, more than 50,000 migrants were in detention, according to ICE data. Internal emails reviewed by Reuters reveal the complications of managing outbreaks like the one at Pine Prairie, since immigrant detainees often are transferred around the country and infected people don't necessarily show symptoms of viral diseases even when they are contagious. ICE health officials have been notified of 236 confirmed or probable cases of mumps among detainees in 51 facilities in the past 12 months, compared to no cases detected between January 2016 and February 2018. Last year, 423 detainees were determined to have influenza and 461 to have chicken pox. All three diseases are largely preventable by vaccine. As of March 7, a total of 2,287 detainees were quarantined around the country, an ICE official who spoke on condition of anonymity told Reuters. Ten Democratic members of Congress sent a letter on February 28 to ICE acting director Ronald Vitiello seeking more information about viral diseases at immigration detention centres in Colorado, Arizona and Texas. Lawmakers did not mention the Pine Prairie outbreak. Pablo Paez, a spokesman for The GEO Group, the private prison operator that runs Pine Prairie under government contract, said its medical professionals follow standards set by ICE and health authorities. He said medical care provided to detainees allows the company "to detect, treat and follow appropriate medical protocols to manage an infectious outbreak." Unprecedented numbers The first cases at Pine Prairie were detected in January in four migrants who had been recently transferred from the Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility in Mississippi, according to internal emails. Tallahatchie, run by private detention company CoreCivic, has had five confirmed cases of mumps and 18 cases of chicken pox since January, according to company spokeswoman Amanda Gilchrist. She said no one who was diagnosed was transferred out of the facility while the disease was active. Tallahatchie houses hundreds of migrants recently apprehended along the US- Mexico border, ICE officials said. On Tuesday, US Customs and Border Protection Commissioner Kevin McAleenan told reporters that changing demographics on the southwest border, with more immigrants from Central America travelling long distances, overwhelmed border officials and raised health concerns. "We are seeing migrants arrive with illnesses and medical conditions in unprecedented numbers," McAleenan said at a press conference. However, vaccination rates in the countries of El Salvador, Guatemala and Honduras are above 90 per cent, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. ICE detainees come from countries all over the world, with varying degrees of vaccination coverage. 'High profile removal' At Pine Prairie, staff members were at times at odds with the warden about how to manage the mumps outbreak, internal emails show. The warden decided not to quarantine 40 new arrivals from Tallahatchie in February despite concerns raised by the medical staff, one email showed. The warden, Indalecio Ramos, who referred questions about the outbreak to ICE and The GEO Group, argued that quarantining the transfers would keep them from attending their court hearings, the facility's health service administrator wrote in a February 7 email. In a Feb 21 email, ICE requested that medical staff members at Pine Prairie clear a detainee quarantined for chicken pox and mumps for travel, calling him a "high profile removal scheduled for deporting." In an email to staff later that day, warden Ramos wrote that medical staff had wanted to exclude the detainee from transfer but "ICE wants him to travel out of the country anyway ... Please ensure he leaves." The ICE spokesman said that travel is restricted for people who are known to be contagious but those exposed to diseases who are asymptomatic can travel. Since January, the 1,094-bed Pine Prairie facility has had 18 detainees with confirmed or probable cases of mumps compared to no cases in 2018, according to ICE. As of mid-February, 288 people were under quarantine at Pine Prairie. Mejia said his quarantine ended on February 25. Detention centres in other states also have seen a rise in outbreaks. There have been 186 mumps cases in immigration detention facilities in Texas since October, the largest outbreak in centres there in recent years, said Lara Anton, the press officer for the Texas Department of State Health Services. In Colorado, at the Aurora Contract Detention Facility near Denver, run by The GEO Group, 357 people have been quarantined following eight confirmed and five suspected cases of mumps detected since February, as well as six cases of chickenpox diagnosed since the beginning of January, said Dr Bernadette Albanese from the Tri-County Health Department in Colorado. Civil rights attorney Danielle Jefferis said court hearings for quarantined immigrants at Aurora were largely cancelled. At Pine Prairie on February 12, Mejia said he felt confused and hopeless during his video hearing, with no attorney by his side. After Mejia's lawyers complained, attorneys were allowed to visit quarantined detainees on February 13 - one day too late for Mejia. While he is appealing his case, his lawyers say he could be deported at any time.

More than 2,000 migrants quarantined in US detention centers due to disease outbreaks

In a blow to the Trump administration's U-Mexico border strategy, a federal court judge in California has expanded the number of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-unable-to-reunite-young-migrant-children-with-families-150639">migrant families separated at the border</a> that the government may be required to reunite.

San Diego-based US District Court Judge Dana Sabraw late on Friday issued a preliminary ruling that would potentially expand by thousands the number of migrants included in a class-action lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union.

Sabraw already ordered the Trump administration last year to reunite more than 2,800 migrant children who were separated from their parents at the US-Mexico border under the administration's "zero tolerance" policy.

But he will allow more separated families to join the class-action lawsuit after a report released in January by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Inspector General, which identified potentially thousands more families that had been separated as early as July 1, 2017. The administration's "zero tolerance" policy did not take effect until May 2018.

"The hallmark of a civilized society is measured by how it treats its people and those within its borders," Sabraw said in his ruling.

Sabraw said that report was "a significant development in this case" and its contents "are undisputed."

The Justice Department did not immediately respond to calls for comment.

The administration of US President Donald Trump implemented the zero-tolerance policy to criminally prosecute and jail all illegal border crossers - even those traveling with their children - which led to a wave of separations last year.

The policy sparked outrage when it became public, and the backlash led Trump to sign an executive order reversing course on June 20, 2018.

The IG report said prior to the officially announced zero-tolerance policy, the government began ramping up separations in 2017 for other reasons related to a child’s safety and well-being, including separating parents with criminal records or lack of proper documents.

A Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman said in January after the IG report came out that the practice of separating apprehended minors from adults to protect the interests of the children has been standard practice “for more than a decade.”

The report also said more than 100 minors, including more than two dozen under age 5, were separated after the President’s executive order.

“The court made clear that potentially thousands of children’s lives are at stake and that the Trump administration cannot simply ignore the devastation it has caused,” Lee Gelernt, ACLU lead attorney in the class-action family separation lawsuit, said on Friday.

In a blow to the Trump administration's U-Mexico border strategy, a federal court judge in California has expanded the number of migrant families separated at the border that the government may be required to reunite.

In a blow to the Trump administration's U-Mexico border strategy, a federal court judge in California has expanded the number of migrant families separated at the border that the government may be required to reunite. San Diego-based US District Court Judge Dana Sabraw late on Friday issued a preliminary ruling that would potentially expand by thousands the number of migrants included in a class-action lawsuit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union. Sabraw already ordered the Trump administration last year to reunite more than 2,800 migrant children who were separated from their parents at the US-Mexico border under the administration's "zero tolerance" policy. But he will allow more separated families to join the class-action lawsuit after a report released in January by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Inspector General, which identified potentially thousands more families that had been separated as early as July 1, 2017. The administration's "zero tolerance" policy did not take effect until May 2018. "The hallmark of a civilized society is measured by how it treats its people and those within its borders," Sabraw said in his ruling. Sabraw said that report was "a significant development in this case" and its contents "are undisputed." The Justice Department did not immediately respond to calls for comment. The administration of US President Donald Trump implemented the zero-tolerance policy to criminally prosecute and jail all illegal border crossers - even those traveling with their children - which led to a wave of separations last year. The policy sparked outrage when it became public, and the backlash led Trump to sign an executive order reversing course on June 20, 2018. The IG report said prior to the officially announced zero-tolerance policy, the government began ramping up separations in 2017 for other reasons related to a child’s safety and well-being, including separating parents with criminal records or lack of proper documents. A Department of Homeland Security spokeswoman said in January after the IG report came out that the practice of separating apprehended minors from adults to protect the interests of the children has been standard practice “for more than a decade.” The report also said more than 100 minors, including more than two dozen under age 5, were separated after the President’s executive order. “The court made clear that potentially thousands of children’s lives are at stake and that the Trump administration cannot simply ignore the devastation it has caused,” Lee Gelernt, ACLU lead attorney in the class-action family separation lawsuit, said on Friday.

US judge may force Trump administration to reunite more families separated at Mexico border

The US State Department refused more than 37,000 visa applications in 2018 due to the Trump administration's travel ban, up from less than 1,000 the previous year when the ban had not fully taken effect, according to agency data released on Tuesday.

The United States denies nearly 4 million visa applications a year for a variety of reasons, including for practising polygamy, abducting children or simply not qualifying for the visa in question. The data released Tuesday was the first comprehensive look at the human impact of Republican President Donald Trump's ban, imposed shortly after he took office and initially blocked by federal courts.

The ban has especially affected people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, countries where the number of visas issued slid 80 per cent in 2018 from 2016, the last year without a travel ban.

Trump's initial January 2017 executive order banning entry to the United States by citizens of several Muslim-majority countries launched a fierce fight in federal courts over whether the policy amounts to an unlawful "Muslim ban" or is a legal exercise of presidential power.

The administration revised the policy following court challenges, and the Supreme Court allowed it to largely go into effect in December 2017 while legal challenges continued. In June 2018, the high court upheld the new version of the ban.

As a result, most people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen have not been able to enter the United States for well over a year. Venezuela and North Korea also were targeted in the current policy, but those restrictions were not challenged in court.

The figures released on Tuesday show the government denied 15,384 applications for immigrant visas - given to those who want to live permanently in the United States - due to the "2017 Executive Order on Immigration." A State Department spokeswoman confirmed that term referred to the travel ban policy.

In addition, 21,645 applications for non-immigrant visas - given to people coming for short-term visits for business, tourism or other reasons - were denied due to the ban.

Approximately 2,200 visa applications overcame denials based on the travel ban last year, but it was unclear how many of those applications were initially made last year or earlier.

The data did not include how many visa applications were made by citizens from countries affected by the travel ban.

Every month, the State Department releases the numbers of visas issued to citizens of all countries, including those under the travel ban, but it does not publish equivalent monthly information on the number of visa applications or denials by country.

Other, previously released data from the State Department shows that the number of US visas issued to citizens of the countries under the travel ban has dropped drastically as a result of its implementation.

In the fiscal year from October 1, 2017, through September 30, 2018, citizens of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen - the five countries consistently on the travel ban list throughout its different iterations - received approximately 14,600 US visas. That is down 80 per cent from approximately 72,000 visas issued for citizens of those countries in the 2016 fiscal year when no such ban was in place.

The denials have affected people like Rasha Jarhum, a Yemeni human rights defender who applied for a US visitor visa in October to attend events on women's rights.

The US consular officer "refused to even take my passport to process anything," Jarhum said. The officer handed her a piece of paper citing the executive order as the reason for her visa denial, a picture of which Jarhum posted on Twitter.

Ahmad Shariftabrizi, a US citizen and oncologist in New York, is considering leaving the United States if his wife, an Iranian citizen, is unable to receive a visa to join him.

The couple, who wed in 2017, applied for her visa that year, and she was denied in December 2018, he said in a phone interview. The US government is now reviewing whether she is eligible for a waiver to the ban, which has been rarely granted.

The uncertainty and distance is extracting a huge emotional toll on the couple.

"The separation from my wife is making both of us break down psychologically," he said. "It's extremely difficult."

The US State Department refused more than 37,000 visa applications in 2018 due to the Trump administration's travel ban, up from less than 1,000 the previous year when the ban had not fully taken effect, according to agency data released on Tuesday.

The US State Department refused more than 37,000 visa applications in 2018 due to the Trump administration's travel ban, up from less than 1,000 the previous year when the ban had not fully taken effect, according to agency data released on Tuesday. The United States denies nearly 4 million visa applications a year for a variety of reasons, including for practising polygamy, abducting children or simply not qualifying for the visa in question. The data released Tuesday was the first comprehensive look at the human impact of Republican President Donald Trump's ban, imposed shortly after he took office and initially blocked by federal courts. The ban has especially affected people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen, countries where the number of visas issued slid 80 per cent in 2018 from 2016, the last year without a travel ban. Trump's initial January 2017 executive order banning entry to the United States by citizens of several Muslim-majority countries launched a fierce fight in federal courts over whether the policy amounts to an unlawful "Muslim ban" or is a legal exercise of presidential power. The administration revised the policy following court challenges, and the Supreme Court allowed it to largely go into effect in December 2017 while legal challenges continued. In June 2018, the high court upheld the new version of the ban. As a result, most people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen have not been able to enter the United States for well over a year. Venezuela and North Korea also were targeted in the current policy, but those restrictions were not challenged in court. The figures released on Tuesday show the government denied 15,384 applications for immigrant visas - given to those who want to live permanently in the United States - due to the "2017 Executive Order on Immigration." A State Department spokeswoman confirmed that term referred to the travel ban policy. In addition, 21,645 applications for non-immigrant visas - given to people coming for short-term visits for business, tourism or other reasons - were denied due to the ban. Approximately 2,200 visa applications overcame denials based on the travel ban last year, but it was unclear how many of those applications were initially made last year or earlier. The data did not include how many visa applications were made by citizens from countries affected by the travel ban. Every month, the State Department releases the numbers of visas issued to citizens of all countries, including those under the travel ban, but it does not publish equivalent monthly information on the number of visa applications or denials by country. Other, previously released data from the State Department shows that the number of US visas issued to citizens of the countries under the travel ban has dropped drastically as a result of its implementation. In the fiscal year from October 1, 2017, through September 30, 2018, citizens of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen - the five countries consistently on the travel ban list throughout its different iterations - received approximately 14,600 US visas. That is down 80 per cent from approximately 72,000 visas issued for citizens of those countries in the 2016 fiscal year when no such ban was in place. The denials have affected people like Rasha Jarhum, a Yemeni human rights defender who applied for a US visitor visa in October to attend events on women's rights. The US consular officer "refused to even take my passport to process anything," Jarhum said. The officer handed her a piece of paper citing the executive order as the reason for her visa denial, a picture of which Jarhum posted on Twitter. Ahmad Shariftabrizi, a US citizen and oncologist in New York, is considering leaving the United States if his wife, an Iranian citizen, is unable to receive a visa to join him. The couple, who wed in 2017, applied for her visa that year, and she was denied in December 2018, he said in a phone interview. The US government is now reviewing whether she is eligible for a waiver to the ban, which has been rarely granted. The uncertainty and distance is extracting a huge emotional toll on the couple. "The separation from my wife is making both of us break down psychologically," he said. "It's extremely difficult."

US denied tens of thousands more visas in 2018 due to travel ban: Data

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-january-trade-data-beats-forecasts-but-likely-due-to-seasonal-factors-197297">China's trade </a>surplus with the US narrowed in January even as its American imports continued to plunge, official data released on Thursday showed, as officials from the world's top two economies sat down for crucial trade talks in Beijing.&nbsp;

China's exports across the Pacific fell more than 2 per cent in January from a year earlier, data from the customs administration showed, after shrinking in December.&nbsp;

Still, China's trade surplus with the US for the month stood at $27.3 billion. Last year it hit a record $323.3 billion.

It is a major source of anger within the Trump administration, which imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of Chinese goods last year and has threatened more to come.

Officials from the world's top two economies are holding negotiations in Beijing on Thursday and Friday in a bid to resolve their thorny trade dispute.&nbsp;

Trump in December postponed plans to sharply hike tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports until March 1 to allow more time for negotiations. This week he indicated he was open to extending the trade truce depending on progress in Beijing.

"Based on the positive signals from the US-China trade negotiations, further tariff hikes will likely be suspended," noted Louis Kuijs of Oxford Economics, adding he expected continued pressure on exports due to a global slowdown and the existing US tariffs.

China's exports to the world - all countries including the US - unexpectedly rose 9.1 per cent in January from a year earlier, turning a corner after exports fell in December.

"One possible explanation for January's upbeat export data could be some re-arrangement of regional supply chains on the back of the ongoing China-US trade dispute," said Betty Wang, an economist at ANZ bank.

Exports to Europe and ASEAN countries surged, she wrote in the research note.&nbsp;

China's imports, however, continued to fall in January, down 1.5 per cent from a year earlier, though at a slower pace than a 10.2 per cent decline forecast by Bloomberg News.

"The import slowdown in recent months obviously in part reflects the slowdown in China's domestic economy," said Kuijs.

A slew of bad economic data has added to concerns about China's economy, which grew at its slowest pace in almost three decades last year.

Analysts cautioned that it is difficult to compare trends at the start of each year due to the Chinese New Year holiday, which came in early February this year and can affect business activity.

"The broad trend in shipments still appears to be pointing down," said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics.&nbsp;

"The downbeat outlook for global growth means that this year is likely to be challenging for Chinese exporters, even if the ongoing US-China trade negotiations culminate in a deal," Evans-Pritchard wrote in a research note.

China's trade surplus with the US narrowed in January even as its American imports continued to plunge, official data released on Thursday showed, as officials from the world's top two economies sat down for crucial trade talks in Beijing.

China's trade surplus with the US narrowed in January even as its American imports continued to plunge, official data released on Thursday showed, as officials from the world's top two economies sat down for crucial trade talks in Beijing. China's exports across the Pacific fell more than 2 per cent in January from a year earlier, data from the customs administration showed, after shrinking in December. Still, China's trade surplus with the US for the month stood at $27.3 billion. Last year it hit a record $323.3 billion. It is a major source of anger within the Trump administration, which imposed tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars worth of Chinese goods last year and has threatened more to come. Officials from the world's top two economies are holding negotiations in Beijing on Thursday and Friday in a bid to resolve their thorny trade dispute. Trump in December postponed plans to sharply hike tariffs on $200 billion of Chinese imports until March 1 to allow more time for negotiations. This week he indicated he was open to extending the trade truce depending on progress in Beijing. "Based on the positive signals from the US-China trade negotiations, further tariff hikes will likely be suspended," noted Louis Kuijs of Oxford Economics, adding he expected continued pressure on exports due to a global slowdown and the existing US tariffs. China's exports to the world - all countries including the US - unexpectedly rose 9.1 per cent in January from a year earlier, turning a corner after exports fell in December. "One possible explanation for January's upbeat export data could be some re-arrangement of regional supply chains on the back of the ongoing China-US trade dispute," said Betty Wang, an economist at ANZ bank. Exports to Europe and ASEAN countries surged, she wrote in the research note. China's imports, however, continued to fall in January, down 1.5 per cent from a year earlier, though at a slower pace than a 10.2 per cent decline forecast by Bloomberg News. "The import slowdown in recent months obviously in part reflects the slowdown in China's domestic economy," said Kuijs. A slew of bad economic data has added to concerns about China's economy, which grew at its slowest pace in almost three decades last year. Analysts cautioned that it is difficult to compare trends at the start of each year due to the Chinese New Year holiday, which came in early February this year and can affect business activity. "The broad trend in shipments still appears to be pointing down," said Julian Evans-Pritchard of Capital Economics. "The downbeat outlook for global growth means that this year is likely to be challenging for Chinese exporters, even if the ongoing US-China trade negotiations culminate in a deal," Evans-Pritchard wrote in a research note.

China's trade surplus with US narrows in January

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-executive-time-after-schedule-leak-196484">Trump administration</a> threatened on Monday to veto an effort in the US Congress to end US military support for the Saudi Arabia-led coalition in the war in Yemen, continuing a stand-off with lawmakers over policy toward the kingdom.

Democrats and Republicans re-introduced the war powers resolution two weeks ago as a way to send a strong message to Riyadh both about the humanitarian disaster in Yemen and condemn the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The administration said the resolution was inappropriate because US forces had provided aircraft refuelling and other support in the Yemen conflict, not combat troops. It also said the measure would harm relationships in the region and hurt the US ability to prevent the spread of violent extremism.

The White House has angered many members of Congress, including some of President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans, by failing to provide a report by a Friday deadline on the murder of Khashoggi last year at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. Khashoggi was a US resident and columnist for the Washington Post.

"It's hard to feel any affection or some obligation to a regime that does that kind of stuff," Democratic Representative Ed Perlmutter said at a House of Representatives hearing on the resolution on Monday.

The Saudis, who Trump considers an important regional partner, are leading a coalition battling Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The war has killed tens of thousands and left millions on the brink of starvation.

The United States has supported the Saudi-led air campaign with mid-air refuelling support, intelligence and targeting assistance.

Democrats view the war powers resolution as a way to assert Congress' constitutional right to authorize the use of military force in foreign conflicts. Republican opponents of the measure, echoing Trump, argue that support for the Saudis constitutes a security agreement, not the use of force.

The Republican-controlled US Senate passed the war powers resolution in December, the first time such a resolution had passed even one house of Congress. But Republicans, who then controlled the House, did not allow a vote in the lower chamber.

After sweeping election victories, Democrats now have a House majority. They intend to take up the resolution this week.

However, the resolution would struggle to garner the two-thirds majorities needed in both the House and Senate to overcome a Trump veto. Republicans still hold a slim majority in the Senate.

The Trump administration threatened on Monday to veto an effort in the US Congress to end US military support for the Saudi Arabia-led coalition in the war in Yemen, continuing a stand-off with lawmakers over policy toward the kingdom.

The Trump administration threatened on Monday to veto an effort in the US Congress to end US military support for the Saudi Arabia-led coalition in the war in Yemen, continuing a stand-off with lawmakers over policy toward the kingdom. Democrats and Republicans re-introduced the war powers resolution two weeks ago as a way to send a strong message to Riyadh both about the humanitarian disaster in Yemen and condemn the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The administration said the resolution was inappropriate because US forces had provided aircraft refuelling and other support in the Yemen conflict, not combat troops. It also said the measure would harm relationships in the region and hurt the US ability to prevent the spread of violent extremism. The White House has angered many members of Congress, including some of President Donald Trump's fellow Republicans, by failing to provide a report by a Friday deadline on the murder of Khashoggi last year at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. Khashoggi was a US resident and columnist for the Washington Post. "It's hard to feel any affection or some obligation to a regime that does that kind of stuff," Democratic Representative Ed Perlmutter said at a House of Representatives hearing on the resolution on Monday. The Saudis, who Trump considers an important regional partner, are leading a coalition battling Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen. The war has killed tens of thousands and left millions on the brink of starvation. The United States has supported the Saudi-led air campaign with mid-air refuelling support, intelligence and targeting assistance. Democrats view the war powers resolution as a way to assert Congress' constitutional right to authorize the use of military force in foreign conflicts. Republican opponents of the measure, echoing Trump, argue that support for the Saudis constitutes a security agreement, not the use of force. The Republican-controlled US Senate passed the war powers resolution in December, the first time such a resolution had passed even one house of Congress. But Republicans, who then controlled the House, did not allow a vote in the lower chamber. After sweeping election victories, Democrats now have a House majority. They intend to take up the resolution this week. However, the resolution would struggle to garner the two-thirds majorities needed in both the House and Senate to overcome a Trump veto. Republicans still hold a slim majority in the Senate.

Trump objects to measure ending US support for Saudis in Yemen war

India is engaged with US authorities for the extradition of US-based individuals for their role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.&nbsp;

A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited the US on 13-15 December 2018 for discussion with the US authorities.&nbsp;

The information was given by Minister of state in the ministry of external affairs General Vijay Kumar Singh in the parliament who said, "The United States has expressed its commitment towards working with its international partners to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the 26/11/2008 Mumbai attack.".

Remember during the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on 6 September 2018, both sides called on Pakistan to bring to justice expeditiously the perpetrators of the Mumbai, Pathankot, Uri, and other cross-border terrorist attacks.

American citizen and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative David Headley who conspired in plotting the 26/11 terror attacks is currently lodged in a US jail.&nbsp;

He had scouted targets for the attacks in Mumbai for LeT and visited the city 5 times between 2007-2008.&nbsp;

In 2013 he was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison. In 2010, US had given NIA access to Headley.&nbsp;

His co-accused Tahawwur Rana was acquitted of plotting the 26/11 terror attacks but the court said that he did provide material support to LeT.

India is engaged with US authorities for the extradition of US-based individuals for their role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited the US on 13-15 December 2018 for discussion with the US authorities.

India is engaged with US authorities for the extradition of US-based individuals for their role in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. A team from the National Investigation Agency (NIA) visited the US on 13-15 December 2018 for discussion with the US authorities. The information was given by Minister of state in the ministry of external affairs General Vijay Kumar Singh in the parliament who said, "The United States has expressed its commitment towards working with its international partners to identify and bring to justice those responsible for the 26/11/2008 Mumbai attack.". Remember during the India-US 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue on 6 September 2018, both sides called on Pakistan to bring to justice expeditiously the perpetrators of the Mumbai, Pathankot, Uri, and other cross-border terrorist attacks. American citizen and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operative David Headley who conspired in plotting the 26/11 terror attacks is currently lodged in a US jail. He had scouted targets for the attacks in Mumbai for LeT and visited the city 5 times between 2007-2008. In 2013 he was sentenced to 35 years in federal prison. In 2010, US had given NIA access to Headley. His co-accused Tahawwur Rana was acquitted of plotting the 26/11 terror attacks but the court said that he did provide material support to LeT.

26/11 terror attacks: India engaging with Trump administration for extradition of US-based individuals

Defense Secretary <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-mattis-could-be-leaving-as-us-defense-chief-171451">Jim Mattis</a> resigned on Thursday, a day after President<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/fears-for-russia-probe-as-trump-fires-jeff-sessions-176156"> Donald Trump</a> stunned the US establishment by ordering a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-islamic-state-defeated-us-will-pull-all-forces-out-of-syira-185369">troop withdrawal from Syria</a>.

In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

"My views on treating allies with respect and also being clear-eyed about both malign actors and strategic competitors are strongly held and informed by over four decades' immersion in these issues," Mattis wrote.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/shake-up-in-trump-administration-big-white-house-dismissals-and-resignations-of-2018-176266">Shake-up in Trump administration, Big White House dismissals and resignations of 2018</a>

"Because you have the right to have a Secretary of Defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, I believe it is right for me to step down from my position."

Moments before the Pentagon released Mattis's letter, Trump tweeted that his defense secretary would be "retiring with distinction, at the end of February."

"General Mattis was a great help to me in getting allies and other countries to pay their share of military obligations. A new Secretary of Defense will be named shortly. I greatly thank Jim for his service!" Trump tweeted.

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General Jim Mattis will be retiring, with distinction, at the end of February, after having served my Administration as Secretary of Defense for the past two years. During Jim’s tenure, tremendous progress has been made, especially with respect to the purchase of new fighting....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1075878792168685568?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 20, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Trump's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/factbox-trump-administration-departures-resignations-and-firings-182640">administration has been marked by a steady haemorrhage of cabinet members and top advisors</a>, and Mattis, whom Trump once affectionately referred to as one of "my generals", was long rumoured to have <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/in-series-of-high-profile-departures-us-interior-secretary-zinke-to-leave-trump-administration-184375">lost influence with the president</a>.&nbsp;

But news of his departure, which he broke to stunned Pentagon staff earlier in the afternoon after meeting with Trump at the White House, still came as a shock to Washington.

"This is scary," Democratic Senator Mark Warner said.&nbsp;

"Secretary Mattis has been an island of stability amidst the chaos of the Trump administration."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/newly-emboldened-democrats-want-healthcare-protected-and-trump-impeached-poll-176262">Newly emboldened Democrats want healthcare protected and Trump impeached</a>

Republican Senator Marco Rubio said Mattis's resignation letter "makes it abundantly clear that we are headed towards a series of grave policy errors which will endanger our nation, damage our alliances (and) empower our adversaries."

And Senator Susan Collins, another Republican, said Mattis's resignation "is a real loss for our nation, our troops, and this administration."

Trump's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-defends-pullout-from-syria-says-time-for-others-to-finally-fight-185539">decision to pull the 2,000 or so US troops out of Syria</a> was a stunning rebuke to Mattis, who had warned that an early withdrawal from Syria would be a "strategic blunder."

Experts say IS has not been defeated. The group still holds pockets of land in east Syria and thousands of jihadists are thought to remain.

Earlier Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump was considering a drawdown of US forces in Afghanistan -- the exact opposite of what Mattis had pushed for.

Trump and Mattis have previously clashed on any number of other issues -- including the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump pulled out of in May while Mattis defended parts of it.

The Pentagon chief was also against the creation of a separate new branch of the US military called Space Force, but Trump ordered it anyway.

Meanwhile, the biggest deployment Mattis has ordered so far was one to the US border with Mexico, a mission with only vague military utility and one that critics have assailed as a political stunt by Trump.

Mattis's fate has been the subject of intense speculation for months but reached fever pitch in September, when veteran journalist Bob Woodward published a book giving an inside glimpse into a chaotic White House.

He said Mattis had questioned Trump's judgment, likening his understanding to that of a 10- or 11-year-old child.

Mattis, a buttoned-up former Marine Corps general, was loath to discuss politics or his relationship with Trump, and the president was widely reported to bristle at unfavourable comparisons to Mattis, who had broad bipartisan support.

The Pentagon chief would regularly stop by reporters' desks or speak outside the building, but he never gave any inkling of if or when he might step down.

It was not immediately clear who might replace Mattis.&nbsp;

Senator Tom Cotton, a staunch Trump ally and former Army officer, is often mentioned as a possible candidate.&nbsp;

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on Thursday, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria. In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia.

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis resigned on Thursday, a day after President Donald Trump stunned the US establishment by ordering a troop withdrawal from Syria. In a letter to Trump, the 68-year-old Pentagon chief said his political outlook, which cherishes traditional alliances, could no longer be reconciled with that of the president, who has poured scorn on longstanding partnerships and repeatedly sought closer ties with Russia. "My views on treating allies with respect and also being clear-eyed about both malign actors and strategic competitors are strongly held and informed by over four decades' immersion in these issues," Mattis wrote. Also read: Shake-up in Trump administration, Big White House dismissals and resignations of 2018 "Because you have the right to have a Secretary of Defense whose views are better aligned with yours on these and other subjects, I believe it is right for me to step down from my position." Moments before the Pentagon released Mattis's letter, Trump tweeted that his defense secretary would be "retiring with distinction, at the end of February." "General Mattis was a great help to me in getting allies and other countries to pay their share of military obligations. A new Secretary of Defense will be named shortly. I greatly thank Jim for his service!" Trump tweeted. General Jim Mattis will be retiring, with distinction, at the end of February, after having served my Administration as Secretary of Defense for the past two years. During Jim’s tenure, tremendous progress has been made, especially with respect to the purchase of new fighting.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 20, 2018 × Trump's administration has been marked by a steady haemorrhage of cabinet members and top advisors, and Mattis, whom Trump once affectionately referred to as one of "my generals", was long rumoured to have lost influence with the president. But news of his departure, which he broke to stunned Pentagon staff earlier in the afternoon after meeting with Trump at the White House, still came as a shock to Washington. "This is scary," Democratic Senator Mark Warner said. "Secretary Mattis has been an island of stability amidst the chaos of the Trump administration." Also read: Newly emboldened Democrats want healthcare protected and Trump impeached Republican Senator Marco Rubio said Mattis's resignation letter "makes it abundantly clear that we are headed towards a series of grave policy errors which will endanger our nation, damage our alliances (and) empower our adversaries." And Senator Susan Collins, another Republican, said Mattis's resignation "is a real loss for our nation, our troops, and this administration." Trump's decision to pull the 2,000 or so US troops out of Syria was a stunning rebuke to Mattis, who had warned that an early withdrawal from Syria would be a "strategic blunder." Experts say IS has not been defeated. The group still holds pockets of land in east Syria and thousands of jihadists are thought to remain. Earlier Thursday, the Wall Street Journal reported that Trump was considering a drawdown of US forces in Afghanistan -- the exact opposite of what Mattis had pushed for. Trump and Mattis have previously clashed on any number of other issues -- including the Iran nuclear deal, which Trump pulled out of in May while Mattis defended parts of it. The Pentagon chief was also against the creation of a separate new branch of the US military called Space Force, but Trump ordered it anyway. Meanwhile, the biggest deployment Mattis has ordered so far was one to the US border with Mexico, a mission with only vague military utility and one that critics have assailed as a political stunt by Trump. Mattis's fate has been the subject of intense speculation for months but reached fever pitch in September, when veteran journalist Bob Woodward published a book giving an inside glimpse into a chaotic White House. He said Mattis had questioned Trump's judgment, likening his understanding to that of a 10- or 11-year-old child. Mattis, a buttoned-up former Marine Corps general, was loath to discuss politics or his relationship with Trump, and the president was widely reported to bristle at unfavourable comparisons to Mattis, who had broad bipartisan support. The Pentagon chief would regularly stop by reporters' desks or speak outside the building, but he never gave any inkling of if or when he might step down. It was not immediately clear who might replace Mattis. Senator Tom Cotton, a staunch Trump ally and former Army officer, is often mentioned as a possible candidate.

US defense secretary Jim Mattis quits; cites differences with Trump

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