In a shocker, rapper Kanye West in an interview with an entertainment website called African-American slavery that lasted for 400 years a matter of "choice".

As he spoke about the US President Donald Trump and the US rapper&nbsp;community’s love for him, Kanye also said, "When you hear about slavery for 400 years ... for 400 years? That sounds like a choice.”

He quickly added, "We're mentally imprisoned” before moving on to another topic.

As he wrapped up the interview, Kanye was interjected by a black member of staff at the company, Van Lathan. He said, "You're entitled to believe whatever you want, but there is fact and real-world, real-life consequence behind everything that you just said. We have to deal with the marginalisation that has come from the 400 years of slavery that you said for our people was a choice.”

Van added, "I'm appalled, and brother I am unbelievably hurt by the fact that you have morphed into something to me that isn't real."

Twitterati also took to their pages to condemn his remarks with some even suggesting him to refer to history books. This is the second time in less than a week’s span when Kanye has been <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/kanye-west-breaks-his-twitter-silence-calls-donald-trump-his-brother-132873">trolled</a> on social media. He was trolled last week for releasing a new song defending his <a href="http://www.wionews.com/videos/kanye-west-supports-trump-in-a-series-of-tweets-receives-backlash-133421">support for Trump</a>, who according to Kanye is "fighting for the people".

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This is Kanye West saying "400yrs of slavery was a choice" is so insulting. ? <a href="https://t.co/ySqZxldVAK">pic.twitter.com/ySqZxldVAK</a>
— Mwes M Drew™ (@_mwes) <a href="https://twitter.com/_mwes/status/991623387087765504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Man, this Kanye West shit makes me sad as a former history teacher. Nothing is worse for the world than dumb people who think they are smart cause other dumb people agree with them. Especially when it comes to ignoring or revising the most horrific parts of humanity's past.
— Jesse Cox: at Monster Prom (@JesseCox) <a href="https://twitter.com/JesseCox/status/991607346701926400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 2, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As the issue gathered steam on social media, Kanye took to Twitter to clear his stand and wrote: “The reason why I brought up the 400 years point is because we can't be mentally imprisoned for another 400 years. We need free thought now. Even the statement was an example of free thought &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It was just an idea.”

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the reason why I brought up the 400 years point is because we can't be mentally imprisoned for another 400 years. We need free thought now. Even the statement was an example of free thought It was just an idea
— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) <a href="https://twitter.com/kanyewest/status/991466506725744642?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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In a series of tweets, he defended his stance and wrote about the real meaning of his statement. He added: “to make myself clear. Of course I know that slaves did not get shackled and put on a boat by free will.”

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to make myself clear. Of course I know that slaves did not get shackled and put on a boat by free will
— KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) <a href="https://twitter.com/kanyewest/status/991459400018624512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 1, 2018</a></blockquote>
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As per history, black people were forced to leave their homes in Africa and were brought to the US during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries to be sold as slaves.

In an interview with a leading entertainment news site, the rapper said that African-American slavery was their own creation and that 'we're mentally imprisoned'.

In a shocker, rapper Kanye West in an interview with an entertainment website called African-American slavery that lasted for 400 years a matter of "choice". As he spoke about the US President Donald Trump and the US rapper community’s love for him, Kanye also said, "When you hear about slavery for 400 years ... for 400 years? That sounds like a choice.” He quickly added, "We're mentally imprisoned” before moving on to another topic. As he wrapped up the interview, Kanye was interjected by a black member of staff at the company, Van Lathan. He said, "You're entitled to believe whatever you want, but there is fact and real-world, real-life consequence behind everything that you just said. We have to deal with the marginalisation that has come from the 400 years of slavery that you said for our people was a choice.” Van added, "I'm appalled, and brother I am unbelievably hurt by the fact that you have morphed into something to me that isn't real." Twitterati also took to their pages to condemn his remarks with some even suggesting him to refer to history books. This is the second time in less than a week’s span when Kanye has been trolled on social media. He was trolled last week for releasing a new song defending his support for Trump, who according to Kanye is "fighting for the people". This is Kanye West saying "400yrs of slavery was a choice" is so insulting. ? pic.twitter.com/ySqZxldVAK — Mwes M Drew™ (@_mwes) May 2, 2018 × Man, this Kanye West shit makes me sad as a former history teacher. Nothing is worse for the world than dumb people who think they are smart cause other dumb people agree with them. Especially when it comes to ignoring or revising the most horrific parts of humanity's past. — Jesse Cox: at Monster Prom (@JesseCox) May 2, 2018 × As the issue gathered steam on social media, Kanye took to Twitter to clear his stand and wrote: “The reason why I brought up the 400 years point is because we can't be mentally imprisoned for another 400 years. We need free thought now. Even the statement was an example of free thought It was just an idea.” the reason why I brought up the 400 years point is because we can't be mentally imprisoned for another 400 years. We need free thought now. Even the statement was an example of free thought It was just an idea — KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) May 1, 2018 × In a series of tweets, he defended his stance and wrote about the real meaning of his statement. He added: “to make myself clear. Of course I know that slaves did not get shackled and put on a boat by free will.” to make myself clear. Of course I know that slaves did not get shackled and put on a boat by free will — KANYE WEST (@kanyewest) May 1, 2018 × As per history, black people were forced to leave their homes in Africa and were brought to the US during the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries to be sold as slaves.

Kanye West says 400 years of slavery was 'a choice'

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nuclear-accord-trump-hints-at-real-agreement-with-iran-133873">Nuclear accord: Trump hints at 'real agreement' with Iran</a>

Amid speculation US president will pull out of the Iran nuclear deal, Trump said doing so will send the right message ahead of talks with North Korea. "I think it sends the right message," Trump told reporters on whether it would send a wrong message to Kim's regime as the two nations get ready for summit talks.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-postpones-steel-tariff-decision-for-canada-eu-mexico-133863">Trump postpones steel tariff decision for Canada, EU, Mexico</a>

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump has postponed a decision on imposing steel and aluminium tariffs on Canada, the European Union and Mexico until June 1, and has reached an agreement in principle with Argentina, Australia and Brazil, a source familiar with the decision said on Monday.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dominican-republic-establishes-ties-with-china-to-break-relations-with-taiwan-133869">Dominican</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/dominican-republic-establishes-ties-with-china-to-break-relations-with-taiwan-133869"> Republic establishes ties with China, to break relations with Taiwan</a>

Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said today that the Dominican Republic has signed an agreement to establish diplomatic ties with the Communist state.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-envoys-meet-with-myanmar-leader-over-refugee-crisis-133870">UN envoys meet with Myanmar leader over </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-envoys-meet-with-myanmar-leader-over-refugee-crisis-133870">refugee</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/un-envoys-meet-with-myanmar-leader-over-refugee-crisis-133870"> crisis</a>

Myanmar's government leader Aung San Suu Kyi met with United Nations Security Council envoys on Monday over the plight of nearly 700,000 mainly Rohingya Muslims who fled to Bangladesh amid a military crackdown, pledging to investigate any credible accusations of abuse, said diplomats who attended the meeting.

<a href="Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures US to scrap deal">Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures </a><a href="Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures US to scrap deal">US</a><a href="Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures US to scrap deal"> to scrap </a><a href="Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures US to scrap deal">deal</a>

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday stepped up pressure on the United States to pull out of a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, presenting what he called evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme in a prime-time address on Israeli TV.

Nuclear accord: Trump hints at 'real agreement' with Iran Amid speculation US president will pull out of the Iran nuclear deal, Trump said doing so will send the right message ahead of talks with North Korea. "I think it sends the right message," Trump told reporters on whether it would send a wrong message to Kim's regime as the two nations get ready for summit talks. Trump postpones steel tariff decision for Canada, EU, Mexico US President Donald Trump has postponed a decision on imposing steel and aluminium tariffs on Canada, the European Union and Mexico until June 1, and has reached an agreement in principle with Argentina, Australia and Brazil, a source familiar with the decision said on Monday. Dominican Republic establishes ties with China, to break relations with Taiwan Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi said today that the Dominican Republic has signed an agreement to establish diplomatic ties with the Communist state. UN envoys meet with Myanmar leader over refugee crisis Myanmar's government leader Aung San Suu Kyi met with United Nations Security Council envoys on Monday over the plight of nearly 700,000 mainly Rohingya Muslims who fled to Bangladesh amid a military crackdown, pledging to investigate any credible accusations of abuse, said diplomats who attended the meeting. Netanyahu says Iran lied on nuclear arms, pressures US to scrap deal Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Monday stepped up pressure on the United States to pull out of a 2015 nuclear deal with Iran, presenting what he called evidence of a secret Iranian nuclear weapons programme in a prime-time address on Israeli TV.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Trump administration will have a "frank discussion" with the Chinese leadership on a series of trade issues, according to US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin who is leading a high-powered trade delegation to Beijing later this week.

"We're looking to have a very frank discussion on trade, on the issues of the trade imbalance. President (Donald) Trump has been very clear for the last year that he's very focused on the trade deficit and we're looking to correct that," Mnuchin told Fox News in an interview today.

Mnuchin would be accompanied by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. Trump's top advisers on trade and economic policies Larry Kudlow and Peter Navarro would also be part of the US delegation, the White House said.

In the last one month, Trump has taken a series of measures to address the challenge of massive $500 billion trade deficit with China. Prominent among them being increasing import duties on steel and aluminium and proposing to do the same with several hundred other Chinese items.

China too has responded by retaliatory actions. Trump has said that such a huge trade deficit with China is not acceptable to his administration.

"We are definitely going to be talking to them about intellectual property rights, about forged technology, forged joined ventures, those are all important issues that are on our list," Mnuchin said, adding that he is cautiously optimistic about the meetings.

Ahead of the US trade delegation visit to China, the Alliance for American Manufacturing said that bilateral meetings with Chinese government officials present an opportunity to affect meaningful change in the United States' lopsided trade relationship with that country, but "results-oriented," enforceable commitments must be their goal.

"Withdrawing the threat of tariffs without achieving meaningful results would be tantamount to waving the white flag of trade surrender signalling to China and other trade cheats that there will be no consequences for predatory trade behaviours," its president Scott N Paul, wrote in a letter addressed to Mnuchin, Navarro, Lighthizer, and Kudlow.

"If a negotiated solution with specific disciplines and automatic enforcement provisions can be agreed to, then, and only then, should we look at lifting tariffs. Otherwise, as I believe you know, we would be abandoning the best leverage we've had in years," he said.

Paul alleged that China is not holding up its end of the bargain, at the World Trade Organization or via its bilateral relationships and kicking the can further down the road is simply not a smart trade policy strategy.

"The past 20 years of seemingly endless dialogue with China show that polite requests to curtail state-driven industrial overcapacity or to refrain from forced technology transfers and joint ownership partnerships in exchange for market access do not yield meaningful results," he said.

In the letter, the alliance strongly urged against any rush to make trade concessions to China in exchange for promises of reforms.

"Any deal with China must be comprehensive, binding, enforceable, and backed by strong penalties if Beijing fails to live up to its words as has repeatedly been the case under previous administrations of both political parties," Paul said.

Trump has said that huge trade deficit with China is not acceptable to his administration.

The Trump administration will have a "frank discussion" with the Chinese leadership on a series of trade issues, according to US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin who is leading a high-powered trade delegation to Beijing later this week. "We're looking to have a very frank discussion on trade, on the issues of the trade imbalance. President (Donald) Trump has been very clear for the last year that he's very focused on the trade deficit and we're looking to correct that," Mnuchin told Fox News in an interview today. Mnuchin would be accompanied by Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. Trump's top advisers on trade and economic policies Larry Kudlow and Peter Navarro would also be part of the US delegation, the White House said. In the last one month, Trump has taken a series of measures to address the challenge of massive $500 billion trade deficit with China. Prominent among them being increasing import duties on steel and aluminium and proposing to do the same with several hundred other Chinese items. China too has responded by retaliatory actions. Trump has said that such a huge trade deficit with China is not acceptable to his administration. "We are definitely going to be talking to them about intellectual property rights, about forged technology, forged joined ventures, those are all important issues that are on our list," Mnuchin said, adding that he is cautiously optimistic about the meetings. Ahead of the US trade delegation visit to China, the Alliance for American Manufacturing said that bilateral meetings with Chinese government officials present an opportunity to affect meaningful change in the United States' lopsided trade relationship with that country, but "results-oriented," enforceable commitments must be their goal. "Withdrawing the threat of tariffs without achieving meaningful results would be tantamount to waving the white flag of trade surrender signalling to China and other trade cheats that there will be no consequences for predatory trade behaviours," its president Scott N Paul, wrote in a letter addressed to Mnuchin, Navarro, Lighthizer, and Kudlow. "If a negotiated solution with specific disciplines and automatic enforcement provisions can be agreed to, then, and only then, should we look at lifting tariffs. Otherwise, as I believe you know, we would be abandoning the best leverage we've had in years," he said. Paul alleged that China is not holding up its end of the bargain, at the World Trade Organization or via its bilateral relationships and kicking the can further down the road is simply not a smart trade policy strategy. "The past 20 years of seemingly endless dialogue with China show that polite requests to curtail state-driven industrial overcapacity or to refrain from forced technology transfers and joint ownership partnerships in exchange for market access do not yield meaningful results," he said. In the letter, the alliance strongly urged against any rush to make trade concessions to China in exchange for promises of reforms. "Any deal with China must be comprehensive, binding, enforceable, and backed by strong penalties if Beijing fails to live up to its words as has repeatedly been the case under previous administrations of both political parties," Paul said.

Looking to have frank discussion on trade with China: US

John Kelly, White House Chief of Staff, has denied calling US President Donald Trump an "idiot". Kelly denied the reports doing the rounds describing them as "total BS".

Kelly noted that he spends time with Trump more than anyone else and that they both enjoy an "incredibly candid and strong relationship".&nbsp;

"He always knows where I stand and he and I both know this story is total BS," Kelly stated.

In a statement, Kelly noted his commitment toward the President, his agenda, and the United States. He further added that the reports were just another "pathetic attempt" to distract the administration's "many successes".

A report from a leading American media house stated that Kelly had previously called Trump 'an idiot' multiple times to "underscore his point, according to four officials who say they've witnessed the comments."

Meanwhile, Donald Trump took to Twitter and reacted to the whole episode saying that, "The Fake News is going crazy making up false stories and using only unnamed sources (who don’t exist)".

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The Fake News is going crazy making up false stories and using only unnamed sources (who don’t exist). They are totally unhinged, and the great success of this Administration is making them do and say things that even they can’t believe they are saying. Truly bad people!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/991087278515769345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The White House is running very smoothly despite phony Witch Hunts etc. There is great Energy and unending Stamina, both necessary to get things done. We are accomplishing the unthinkable and setting positive records while doing so! Fake News is going “bonkers!”
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/991090373417152515?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Stephanie Ruhle, one of the journalists who worked on the story retorted, "As one of the people who worked on the story, I can tell you, it is WELL sourced".

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Dear John Kelly- 
As one of the people who worked on the story, I can tell you, it is WELL sourced. 
As for “smearing” the President, those on your team recount stories of you (not us) undermining his credibility. <a href="https://t.co/oTHDyj1Fif">https://t.co/oTHDyj1Fif</a>
— Stephanie Ruhle (@SRuhle) <a href="https://twitter.com/SRuhle/status/991062243331723266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was reported to have called Trump a "moron" previously.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

In a statement, Kelly noted his commitment toward the President, his agenda, and the United States

John Kelly, White House Chief of Staff, has denied calling US President Donald Trump an "idiot". Kelly denied the reports doing the rounds describing them as "total BS". Kelly noted that he spends time with Trump more than anyone else and that they both enjoy an "incredibly candid and strong relationship". "He always knows where I stand and he and I both know this story is total BS," Kelly stated. In a statement, Kelly noted his commitment toward the President, his agenda, and the United States. He further added that the reports were just another "pathetic attempt" to distract the administration's "many successes". A report from a leading American media house stated that Kelly had previously called Trump 'an idiot' multiple times to "underscore his point, according to four officials who say they've witnessed the comments." Meanwhile, Donald Trump took to Twitter and reacted to the whole episode saying that, "The Fake News is going crazy making up false stories and using only unnamed sources (who don’t exist)". The Fake News is going crazy making up false stories and using only unnamed sources (who don’t exist). They are totally unhinged, and the great success of this Administration is making them do and say things that even they can’t believe they are saying. Truly bad people! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 30, 2018 × The White House is running very smoothly despite phony Witch Hunts etc. There is great Energy and unending Stamina, both necessary to get things done. We are accomplishing the unthinkable and setting positive records while doing so! Fake News is going “bonkers!” — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 30, 2018 × Stephanie Ruhle, one of the journalists who worked on the story retorted, "As one of the people who worked on the story, I can tell you, it is WELL sourced". Dear John Kelly- As one of the people who worked on the story, I can tell you, it is WELL sourced. As for “smearing” the President, those on your team recount stories of you (not us) undermining his credibility. https://t.co/oTHDyj1Fif — Stephanie Ruhle (@SRuhle) April 30, 2018 × Former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson was reported to have called Trump a "moron" previously. (With inputs from agencies)

'Total BS,' John Kelly on reports he called Trump 'idiot'

Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal.&nbsp;

Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Benjamin Netanyahu's speech was a "repetition" of past accusations, which the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already disproven.

Reports say that Netanyahu's comments were made in a bid to influence Trump's upcoming decision about the nuclear deal, but Tehran is ready for any scenario by Trump.&nbsp;

Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Bahram Ghasemi, also criticises Netanyahu's "propaganda", adding that he did not have anything to offer except lies.&nbsp;

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Netanyahu informed US&nbsp;President Donald Trump about evidence of a past secret Iranian nuclear arms programme in March, a senior Israeli official said, a move apparently aimed at killing an international deal with Tehran that both leaders oppose.

Trump agreed Israel would publish the information before May 12, the date by which he is due to decide whether the United States should quit the nuclear deal with Iran, an arch foe of both countries, the Israeli official said.

Netanyahu, on Monday, said that he has evidence that the Iran officials have been lying about the secret nuclear weapons program and that they have an "automative archive" at an unknown compound.&nbsp;

Intelligence experts and diplomats said Netanyahu's presentation, in a prime-time television presentation, did not seem to have a "smoking gun" showing a violation by Iran but it could strengthen the hand of advisers to US President Donald Trump who want to scrap the nuclear agreement.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the information showed that Iran's leaders lied to their people about a nuclear weapons program known as "Project Amad". But Pompeo declined to say whether the documents provided evidence of a violation of the nuclear deal.

Most of the purported evidence Netanyahu presented dated to the period before the 2015 accord was signed, although he said Iran had also kept important files on nuclear technology since then, and continued adding to its "nuclear weapons knowledge".

Pompeo said that while the existence of the Amad nuclear project was known for some time, the new material discovered by the Israelis will help better understand the scope and scale of the program.

He added that the documents make "very clear that at the very least the Iranians have continued to lie to their own people." Asked whether the information indicated a violation of the Iran nuclear agreement, Pompeo responded: "I'll leave that to lawyers. The president will ultimately have to make a determination about that too."

&nbsp;

Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Benjamin Netanyahu's speech was a 'repetition' of past accusations, which the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already disproven

Iran on Tuesday called Israel Prime Minister an "infamous liar" after his comments over Iran having secret nuclear weapons program that could increase pressure on the United States to pull out of the 2015 nuclear deal. Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said on Tuesday that Benjamin Netanyahu's speech was a "repetition" of past accusations, which the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has already disproven. Reports say that Netanyahu's comments were made in a bid to influence Trump's upcoming decision about the nuclear deal, but Tehran is ready for any scenario by Trump. Iran's foreign ministry spokesperson, Bahram Ghasemi, also criticises Netanyahu's "propaganda", adding that he did not have anything to offer except lies. Meanwhile, Netanyahu informed US President Donald Trump about evidence of a past secret Iranian nuclear arms programme in March, a senior Israeli official said, a move apparently aimed at killing an international deal with Tehran that both leaders oppose. Trump agreed Israel would publish the information before May 12, the date by which he is due to decide whether the United States should quit the nuclear deal with Iran, an arch foe of both countries, the Israeli official said. Netanyahu, on Monday, said that he has evidence that the Iran officials have been lying about the secret nuclear weapons program and that they have an "automative archive" at an unknown compound. Intelligence experts and diplomats said Netanyahu's presentation, in a prime-time television presentation, did not seem to have a "smoking gun" showing a violation by Iran but it could strengthen the hand of advisers to US President Donald Trump who want to scrap the nuclear agreement. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the information showed that Iran's leaders lied to their people about a nuclear weapons program known as "Project Amad". But Pompeo declined to say whether the documents provided evidence of a violation of the nuclear deal. Most of the purported evidence Netanyahu presented dated to the period before the 2015 accord was signed, although he said Iran had also kept important files on nuclear technology since then, and continued adding to its "nuclear weapons knowledge". Pompeo said that while the existence of the Amad nuclear project was known for some time, the new material discovered by the Israelis will help better understand the scope and scale of the program. He added that the documents make "very clear that at the very least the Iranians have continued to lie to their own people." Asked whether the information indicated a violation of the Iran nuclear agreement, Pompeo responded: "I'll leave that to lawyers. The president will ultimately have to make a determination about that too."

Iran: Netanyahu an 'infamous liar,' comments aimed at influencing Trump

US&nbspPresident Donald&nbspTrump&nbspon Monday suggested his planned meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un take place at the Peace House on the border between North and South Korea, as preparations for the summit advance.

"Numerous countries are being considered for the MEETING, but would Peace House/Freedom House, on the Border of North & South Korea, be a more Representative, Important and Lasting site than a third party country? Just asking!"&nbspTrump&nbspsaid on Twitter.

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Numerous countries are being considered for the MEETING, but would Peace House/Freedom House, on the Border of North & South Korea, be a more Representative, Important and Lasting site than a third party country? Just asking!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/990928644100034561?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 30, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Trump&nbspis expected to meet with Kim in weeks, and said in an interview on Thursday that he was considering five locations for his summit with the North Korean leader, although he has said multiple times that the talks may not happen.

The Peace House is in the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, on the border between the two countries. It is the same site as the one that hosted Kim's historic meeting last week with the South Korean president.

The choices of a venue for the&nbspTrump&nbspsummit also include neutral third countries like Singapore, but U.S. officials have been skeptical that Kim would be willing to travel far.

Last week the leaders of North and South Korea met and pledged to end hostilities and work toward the "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean peninsula, seeming to increase the likelihood of the&nbspTrump-Kim summit. A war between North and South ended in July 1953 in a truce rather than an official peace treaty.

On Friday, Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in vowed "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean peninsula, a goal that the United States also seeks as it tries to prevent North Korea developing a nuclear weapon that could reach the United States.

A senior adviser to Moon told Reuters last week that Seoul had a "comprehensive road map" that it was sharing with Washington before the summit between&nbspTrump&nbspand Kim.

If&nbspTrump&nbspmeets with Kim at the DMZ, it will not be the first time the White House had planned a trip to that border. On a 12-day trip to multiple Asian countries in November,&nbspTrump&nbspvisited South Korea, but a surprise visit to the DMZ was scrapped due to weather issues.

Trump is expected to meet with Kim in weeks, and said in an interview on Thursday that he was considering five locations for his summit with the North Korean leader, although he has said multiple times that the talks may not happen

US&nbspPresident Donald&nbspTrump&nbspon Monday suggested his planned meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un take place at the Peace House on the border between North and South Korea, as preparations for the summit advance. "Numerous countries are being considered for the MEETING, but would Peace House/Freedom House, on the Border of North & South Korea, be a more Representative, Important and Lasting site than a third party country? Just asking!"&nbspTrump&nbspsaid on Twitter. Numerous countries are being considered for the MEETING, but would Peace House/Freedom House, on the Border of North & South Korea, be a more Representative, Important and Lasting site than a third party country? Just asking! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 30, 2018 × Trump&nbspis expected to meet with Kim in weeks, and said in an interview on Thursday that he was considering five locations for his summit with the North Korean leader, although he has said multiple times that the talks may not happen. The Peace House is in the heavily fortified Demilitarized Zone, or DMZ, on the border between the two countries. It is the same site as the one that hosted Kim's historic meeting last week with the South Korean president. The choices of a venue for the&nbspTrump&nbspsummit also include neutral third countries like Singapore, but U.S. officials have been skeptical that Kim would be willing to travel far. Last week the leaders of North and South Korea met and pledged to end hostilities and work toward the "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean peninsula, seeming to increase the likelihood of the&nbspTrump-Kim summit. A war between North and South ended in July 1953 in a truce rather than an official peace treaty. On Friday, Kim and South Korean President Moon Jae-in vowed "complete denuclearisation" of the Korean peninsula, a goal that the United States also seeks as it tries to prevent North Korea developing a nuclear weapon that could reach the United States. A senior adviser to Moon told Reuters last week that Seoul had a "comprehensive road map" that it was sharing with Washington before the summit between&nbspTrump&nbspand Kim. If&nbspTrump&nbspmeets with Kim at the DMZ, it will not be the first time the White House had planned a trip to that border. On a 12-day trip to multiple Asian countries in November,&nbspTrump&nbspvisited South Korea, but a surprise visit to the DMZ was scrapped due to weather issues.

Trump suggests meeting Kim Jong Un at Korea's Peace House

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani will work on saving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal over the coming weeks despite threats from US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The two leaders had an hour-long phone call where Macron conveyed his hopes for including Tehran's missile programmes, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 and the regional crisis in the Middle East.

As per reports, the Iran government had claimed that the US had breached the agreement by criticizing it ahead of President Donald Trump's decision about whether to abandon the deal.

Rouhani had said that Trump's critical comments about the deal had built "fear and ambiguity for different countries and businesses for their relations with Iran" which could ultimately hamper the country's economy.&nbsp;

Macron, followed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, came to Washington last week in hopes of persuading President Donald Trump not to reimpose sanctions on Iran before a May 12 deadline and imperil the 2015 Iran nuclear deal.

Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other economic sanctions. The deal — struck by Iran, Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States — under Trump's predecessor, former President Barack Obama.

The United States has been trying to drum up support for new sanctions against Iran and has repeatedly threatened to tear up the 2015 agreement.

Trump on January&nbsp;12 gave the three European nations an ultimatum to "fix the terrible flaws of the Iran nuclear deal" or he would refuse to extend U.S. sanctions relief on Iran. Key U.S. sanctions will resume unless Trump issues fresh "waivers" to suspend them.

Trump sees three defects in the agreement: a failure to address Iran's ballistic missile program the terms under which international inspectors can visit suspect Iranian nuclear sites and "sunset" clauses under which key limits on the Iranian nuclear program start to expire.

At a news conference with Trump on Tuesday, Macron said he wanted "to work on a new deal with Iran" to limit Iran's nuclear program in the short term and long term, restrain its ballistic missile activities and curb what the West sees as its destabilizing behavior in the Middle East.

The two leaders had an hour-long phone call where Macron conveyed his hopes for including Tehran's missile programmes, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 and the regional crisis in the Middle East

French President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani will work on saving the 2015 Iran nuclear deal over the coming weeks despite threats from US President Donald Trump. The two leaders had an hour-long phone call where Macron conveyed his hopes for including Tehran's missile programmes, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 and the regional crisis in the Middle East. As per reports, the Iran government had claimed that the US had breached the agreement by criticizing it ahead of President Donald Trump's decision about whether to abandon the deal. Rouhani had said that Trump's critical comments about the deal had built "fear and ambiguity for different countries and businesses for their relations with Iran" which could ultimately hamper the country's economy. Macron, followed by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, came to Washington last week in hopes of persuading President Donald Trump not to reimpose sanctions on Iran before a May 12 deadline and imperil the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Under the accord, Tehran agreed to limit its nuclear program in return for relief from US and other economic sanctions. The deal — struck by Iran, Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia, and the United States — under Trump's predecessor, former President Barack Obama. The United States has been trying to drum up support for new sanctions against Iran and has repeatedly threatened to tear up the 2015 agreement. Trump on January 12 gave the three European nations an ultimatum to "fix the terrible flaws of the Iran nuclear deal" or he would refuse to extend U.S. sanctions relief on Iran. Key U.S. sanctions will resume unless Trump issues fresh "waivers" to suspend them. Trump sees three defects in the agreement: a failure to address Iran's ballistic missile program the terms under which international inspectors can visit suspect Iranian nuclear sites and "sunset" clauses under which key limits on the Iranian nuclear program start to expire. At a news conference with Trump on Tuesday, Macron said he wanted "to work on a new deal with Iran" to limit Iran's nuclear program in the short term and long term, restrain its ballistic missile activities and curb what the West sees as its destabilizing behavior in the Middle East.

Macron, Rouhani will work on saving Iran nuclear deal despite threats from Trump

Iran has the technical capability to enrich uranium to a higher level than it could before a multinational nuclear deal was reached to curb its nuclear programme, state TV quoted the head of Iran's Atomic Energy organisation Ali Akbar Salehi as saying.

US&nbspPresident Donald&nbspTrump has given European signatories to the 2105 deal a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" in the agreement, or he will refuse to extend US&nbspsanctions relief on Iran.

Salehi warned Trump against taking this course. "Iran is not bluffing ... Technically, we are fully prepared to enrich uranium higher than we used to produce before the deal was reached... I hope Trump comes to his senses and stays in the deal."

Under the deal, which led to the lifting of most international sanctions in 2016, Iran's level of enrichment must remain around 3.6 per cent.

Uranium refined to 20 per cent fissile purity is well beyond the 5 per cent normally required to fuel civilian nuclear power plants, though still well short of highly enriched, or 80-90 per cent, purity needed for a nuclear bomb.

Also,&nbspFrench President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani will work on <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-rouhani-decide-to-work-on-iran-nuclear-deal-despite-threats-by-trump--133752">saving the&nbspIran nuclear deal </a>over the coming weeks despite threats from US President Donald Trump.&nbsp

The two leaders had an hour-long phone call where Macron conveyed his hopes for including Tehran's missile programmes, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 and the regional crisis in the Middle East.

As per reports, the Iran government had claimed that the US had breached the agreement by criticizing it ahead of President Donald Trump's decision about whether to abandon the deal.

Under the deal, which led to the lifting of most international sanctions in 2016, Iran's level of enrichment must remain around 3.6 per cent

Iran has the technical capability to enrich uranium to a higher level than it could before a multinational nuclear deal was reached to curb its nuclear programme, state TV quoted the head of Iran's Atomic Energy organisation Ali Akbar Salehi as saying. US&nbspPresident Donald&nbspTrump has given European signatories to the 2105 deal a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" in the agreement, or he will refuse to extend US&nbspsanctions relief on Iran. Salehi warned Trump against taking this course. "Iran is not bluffing ... Technically, we are fully prepared to enrich uranium higher than we used to produce before the deal was reached... I hope Trump comes to his senses and stays in the deal." Under the deal, which led to the lifting of most international sanctions in 2016, Iran's level of enrichment must remain around 3.6 per cent. Uranium refined to 20 per cent fissile purity is well beyond the 5 per cent normally required to fuel civilian nuclear power plants, though still well short of highly enriched, or 80-90 per cent, purity needed for a nuclear bomb. Also,&nbspFrench President Emmanuel Macron and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani will work on saving the&nbspIran nuclear deal over the coming weeks despite threats from US President Donald Trump. The two leaders had an hour-long phone call where Macron conveyed his hopes for including Tehran's missile programmes, its nuclear activities beyond 2025 and the regional crisis in the Middle East. As per reports, the Iran government had claimed that the US had breached the agreement by criticizing it ahead of President Donald Trump's decision about whether to abandon the deal.

Iran says it can produce higher enriched uranium if US exits nuclear deal

South Korean President Moon Jae-Un said that US President Donald Trump should win a Nobel Peace Prize for his making the Korea talks possible.&nbsp;

"President Trump should win the Nobel Peace Prize. What we need is only peace," Moon told a cabinet meeting, according to a presidential Blue House official who briefed media.

Trump has tamped down expectations from the North Korea talks over its nuclear weapon programme but has claimed credit for making it possible. &nbsp;

Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday pledged to end hostilities between the two countries and work towards the “complete denuclearisation” of the Korean peninsula in the first inter-Korean summit in more than a decade.

Calls have followed for the Nobel Peace Prize for Trump, Kim and South Korea’s Moon Jae-in. According to a leading London bookie, the Korea reconciliation initiative is currently the favorite for the prize in 2018, with Kim and Moon front-ending it. Trump is the next favorite.

If Trump does indeed land the Nobel, he will be the fifth US president to win it, following Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama.

Trump is preparing for his own summit with Kim in late May or early June. That upcoming meeting was the main subject of a private walk and chat that Kim and Moon had during their meeting at the border, the official said.

In January, Moon said Trump "deserves big credit for bringing about the inter-Korean talks. It could be a resulting work of the U.S.-led sanctions and pressure."

Trump has tamped down expectations from the North Korea talks over its nuclear weapon programme but has claimed credit for making it possible.

South Korean President Moon Jae-Un said that US President Donald Trump should win a Nobel Peace Prize for his making the Korea talks possible. "President Trump should win the Nobel Peace Prize. What we need is only peace," Moon told a cabinet meeting, according to a presidential Blue House official who briefed media. Trump has tamped down expectations from the North Korea talks over its nuclear weapon programme but has claimed credit for making it possible. Moon and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un on Friday pledged to end hostilities between the two countries and work towards the “complete denuclearisation” of the Korean peninsula in the first inter-Korean summit in more than a decade. Calls have followed for the Nobel Peace Prize for Trump, Kim and South Korea’s Moon Jae-in. According to a leading London bookie, the Korea reconciliation initiative is currently the favorite for the prize in 2018, with Kim and Moon front-ending it. Trump is the next favorite. If Trump does indeed land the Nobel, he will be the fifth US president to win it, following Theodore Roosevelt, Woodrow Wilson, Jimmy Carter and Barack Obama. Trump is preparing for his own summit with Kim in late May or early June. That upcoming meeting was the main subject of a private walk and chat that Kim and Moon had during their meeting at the border, the official said. In January, Moon said Trump "deserves big credit for bringing about the inter-Korean talks. It could be a resulting work of the U.S.-led sanctions and pressure."

Donald Trump should win Nobel Peace Prize: South Korea President

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he had spoken with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and preparations for a meeting with North Korea were being set.

“Just had a long and very good talk with President Moon of South Korea. Things are going very well, time and location of meeting with North Korea is being set,” Trump said on Twitter.

Trump added that he had also spoken with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to inform him of ongoing negotiations.

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Just had a long and very good talk with President Moon of South Korea. Things are going very well, time and location of meeting with North Korea is being set. Also spoke to Prime Minister Abe of Japan to inform him of the ongoing negotiations.
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/990225456233316354?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 28, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Last year, Pyongyang carried out its sixth nuclear test, by far its most powerful to date, and launched missiles capable of reaching the US mainland.

Its actions sent tensions soaring as Kim and Trump traded personal insults and threats of war.

Trump has demanded the North give up its weapons, and Washington is pressing for it to do so in a complete, verifiable and irreversible way.

Pyongyang is demanding as yet unspecified security guarantees to discuss its arsenal.

(With inputs from Agencies)

Moon met with Kim in a historic summit, agreeing on Friday to pursue a permanent peace and the complete denuclearisation of the Korean peninsula.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday that he had spoken with South Korean President Moon Jae-in and preparations for a meeting with North Korea were being set. “Just had a long and very good talk with President Moon of South Korea. Things are going very well, time and location of meeting with North Korea is being set,” Trump said on Twitter. Trump added that he had also spoken with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to inform him of ongoing negotiations. Just had a long and very good talk with President Moon of South Korea. Things are going very well, time and location of meeting with North Korea is being set. Also spoke to Prime Minister Abe of Japan to inform him of the ongoing negotiations. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 28, 2018 × Last year, Pyongyang carried out its sixth nuclear test, by far its most powerful to date, and launched missiles capable of reaching the US mainland. Its actions sent tensions soaring as Kim and Trump traded personal insults and threats of war. Trump has demanded the North give up its weapons, and Washington is pressing for it to do so in a complete, verifiable and irreversible way. Pyongyang is demanding as yet unspecified security guarantees to discuss its arsenal. (With inputs from Agencies)

Things 'going very well': Trump on talks with South Korea leader

German business leaders voiced disappointment on Saturday over the outcome of talks between Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump, saying they feared he would impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports.

The United States imposed import tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent on aluminum in March, but it provided a temporary exemption until May 1 for the European Union. Trump will decide then whether to make the exemption permanent.

"I regret the fact that the chancellor's visit to Washington produced no palpable progress on the contentious issues between Germany and the United States," said Dieter Kempf, president of the BDI industry body.

Merkel and Trump aired differences over trade and NATO on Friday at a White House meeting where they tried to put on a show of warmth and friendship.

During a joint news conference, Trump lamented his country's trade deficit with the EU. Merkel said any decision on whether to exempt the bloc from tariffs permanently was now in the president's hand.

"The threatened tariffs remain a major burden on transatlantic relations," added Kempf.

French President Emmanuel Macron also pressed Trump on trade during a three-day state visit in the same week as Merkel's quick trip. Neither leader appeared to have made progress convincing Trump to make the exemptions permanent.

"Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the EU will be exempted from the unfair US tariffs," said Volker Treier of the DIHK industry and commerce chambers.

The United States imposed import tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent on aluminum in March, but it provided a temporary exemption until May 1 for the European Union

German business leaders voiced disappointment on Saturday over the outcome of talks between Chancellor Angela Merkel and U.S. President Donald Trump, saying they feared he would impose tariffs on steel and aluminium imports. The United States imposed import tariffs of 25 per cent on steel and 10 per cent on aluminum in March, but it provided a temporary exemption until May 1 for the European Union. Trump will decide then whether to make the exemption permanent. "I regret the fact that the chancellor's visit to Washington produced no palpable progress on the contentious issues between Germany and the United States," said Dieter Kempf, president of the BDI industry body. Merkel and Trump aired differences over trade and NATO on Friday at a White House meeting where they tried to put on a show of warmth and friendship. During a joint news conference, Trump lamented his country's trade deficit with the EU. Merkel said any decision on whether to exempt the bloc from tariffs permanently was now in the president's hand. "The threatened tariffs remain a major burden on transatlantic relations," added Kempf. French President Emmanuel Macron also pressed Trump on trade during a three-day state visit in the same week as Merkel's quick trip. Neither leader appeared to have made progress convincing Trump to make the exemptions permanent. "Unfortunately, it doesn't look like the EU will be exempted from the unfair US tariffs," said Volker Treier of the DIHK industry and commerce chambers.

German business leaders fear US tariffs after Merkel-Trump talks

US President Donald Trump will travel to Britain in July for a working visit with Prime Minister Theresa May, after months of back-and-forth over when the US president would visit what traditionally has been the United States' closest ally.

Representatives for the White House and 10 Downing Street said Trump would visit the United Kingdom on July 13 and hold bilateral talks with May but gave no other details.

It was also not immediately clear how long Trump would stay on his visit, which would come more than a year after taking office.

The delay has raised questions about the US-UK relationship, and the working visit signals a more low-key affair than an official state visit.

Trump had planned a trip to London to open a new US embassy there but canceled in January.

Many Britons have vowed to stage protests if Trump visits.

Representatives for the White House and 10 Downing Street said Trump would visit the United Kingdom on July 13 and hold bilateral talks with May but gave no other details

US President Donald Trump will travel to Britain in July for a working visit with Prime Minister Theresa May, after months of back-and-forth over when the US president would visit what traditionally has been the United States' closest ally. Representatives for the White House and 10 Downing Street said Trump would visit the United Kingdom on July 13 and hold bilateral talks with May but gave no other details. It was also not immediately clear how long Trump would stay on his visit, which would come more than a year after taking office. The delay has raised questions about the US-UK relationship, and the working visit signals a more low-key affair than an official state visit. Trump had planned a trip to London to open a new US embassy there but canceled in January. Many Britons have vowed to stage protests if Trump visits.

Trump to visit Britain, hold talks with UK's May July 13

US President Donald Trump distanced himself from his longtime personal lawyer Michael Cohen on Thursday, hours before a judge ruled that documents seized from Cohen by the FBI should be reviewed by an independent court-appointed official.

The appointment of former judge Barbara Jones as a "special master," to review the documents and decide which ones prosecutors should be allowed to see, was essentially a compromise that both prosecutors and Cohen's lawyers had said they would be open to, even though that option was not their first choice.

The FBI raided Cohen's office and home on April 9, infuriating Trump. Prosecutors said they had been investigating the lawyer for months, largely over his business dealings rather than his legal work.

Once they receive the documents from Jones, prosecutors could use them in their case.

It is not clear if those documents pertain to Trump's business dealings. But earlier on Thursday in an interview with Fox News, Trump said Cohen had handled only "a tiny, tiny little fraction" of his overall legal work.

He said the investigation "doesn't have to do with me" and "they're looking at something having to do with his business. I have nothing to do with his business."

Trump, who has said little publicly about an adult-film star who says she was paid to stay silent about a one-night stand she had with Trump in 2006, also confirmed for the first time that Cohen had represented him in "this crazy Stormy Daniels deal."

Trump and Cohen have sought to limit which of the seized documents prosecutors could see, citing attorney-client privilege.

The prosecutors initially said the documents should be reviewed by lawyers within their own office, who would be walled off from the main prosecution team. Cohen argued that his lawyers should get a first look.

US District Judge Kimba Wood instead decided at an hour-long hearing on Thursday to opt to ask a special master to see the documents first.

The prosecutors have begun to turn all of the seized materials over to Jones, who will review them to determine what is protected by attorney-client privilege. Lawyers for Cohen and Trump will be able to review in tandem, so they can object to Jones' decisions if they disagree, the judge said.

The parties are due back in court to check in on the progress on May 24. Without setting a specific deadline, Wood indicated she may intervene if it were going too slowly.

Jones has served in a similar role in a number of other matters. In 2016, she was appointed the independent review officer for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters to hear corruption charges at the labour union and has overseen corporate compliance cases.

Prosecutors have said they do not believe the papers are likely to contain many privileged documents related to Trump. In a court filing on Thursday morning, they cited Trump's comment that Cohen handled only a small part of his legal work.

Cohen has admitted paying $130,000 to Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, before the 2016 election to secure her silence about having sex with Trump, which he denies. Cohen said the payment was legal, and Daniels has sued to end her nondisclosure agreement.

Prosecutors are investigating Cohen for possible bank and tax fraud, possible campaign law violations linked to the payment to Daniels, and perhaps other matters related to Trump's presidential campaign, a person familiar with the probe has said.

The investigation stemmed in part from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's inquiry into possible collusion between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, something that Trump has repeatedly denied.

The appointment of former judge Barbara Jones as a "special master," to review the documents and decide which ones prosecutors should be allowed to see, was essentially a compromise that both prosecutors and Cohen's lawyers had said they would be open to, even though that option was not their first choice

US President Donald Trump distanced himself from his longtime personal lawyer Michael Cohen on Thursday, hours before a judge ruled that documents seized from Cohen by the FBI should be reviewed by an independent court-appointed official. The appointment of former judge Barbara Jones as a "special master," to review the documents and decide which ones prosecutors should be allowed to see, was essentially a compromise that both prosecutors and Cohen's lawyers had said they would be open to, even though that option was not their first choice. The FBI raided Cohen's office and home on April 9, infuriating Trump. Prosecutors said they had been investigating the lawyer for months, largely over his business dealings rather than his legal work. Once they receive the documents from Jones, prosecutors could use them in their case. It is not clear if those documents pertain to Trump's business dealings. But earlier on Thursday in an interview with Fox News, Trump said Cohen had handled only "a tiny, tiny little fraction" of his overall legal work. He said the investigation "doesn't have to do with me" and "they're looking at something having to do with his business. I have nothing to do with his business." Trump, who has said little publicly about an adult-film star who says she was paid to stay silent about a one-night stand she had with Trump in 2006, also confirmed for the first time that Cohen had represented him in "this crazy Stormy Daniels deal." Trump and Cohen have sought to limit which of the seized documents prosecutors could see, citing attorney-client privilege. The prosecutors initially said the documents should be reviewed by lawyers within their own office, who would be walled off from the main prosecution team. Cohen argued that his lawyers should get a first look. US District Judge Kimba Wood instead decided at an hour-long hearing on Thursday to opt to ask a special master to see the documents first. The prosecutors have begun to turn all of the seized materials over to Jones, who will review them to determine what is protected by attorney-client privilege. Lawyers for Cohen and Trump will be able to review in tandem, so they can object to Jones' decisions if they disagree, the judge said. The parties are due back in court to check in on the progress on May 24. Without setting a specific deadline, Wood indicated she may intervene if it were going too slowly. Jones has served in a similar role in a number of other matters. In 2016, she was appointed the independent review officer for the International Brotherhood of Teamsters to hear corruption charges at the labour union and has overseen corporate compliance cases. Prosecutors have said they do not believe the papers are likely to contain many privileged documents related to Trump. In a court filing on Thursday morning, they cited Trump's comment that Cohen handled only a small part of his legal work. Cohen has admitted paying $130,000 to Daniels, whose real name is Stephanie Clifford, before the 2016 election to secure her silence about having sex with Trump, which he denies. Cohen said the payment was legal, and Daniels has sued to end her nondisclosure agreement. Prosecutors are investigating Cohen for possible bank and tax fraud, possible campaign law violations linked to the payment to Daniels, and perhaps other matters related to Trump's presidential campaign, a person familiar with the probe has said. The investigation stemmed in part from Special Counsel Robert Mueller's inquiry into possible collusion between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia, something that Trump has repeatedly denied.

Trump distances himself from his personal lawyer as probe moves forward

China is open to negotiating with the United States to resolve trade tensions, Premier Li Keqiang was quoted as saying by state media late on Thursday, noting that the countries should manage their conflicts through dialogue.&nbsp

Li made the remarks at a meeting with US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) said.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is due to lead a delegation to China for talks intended to ease trade tensions.

President Donald Trump has threatened a new round of tariffs on $100 billion worth of Chinese products that could target mobile phones, computers and other consumer goods. China retaliated against an initial round of US tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese exports.&nbsp

"There is no winner in trade conflict, which will not only affect the recovery of the world economy but also the global industrial chain," Li said in comments reported by the official Xinhua news agency.

"It is also what the international community expects from our two countries," he said.

Larry Kudlow, Trump`s top economic adviser, who will join Mnuchin`s delegation in Beijing, said on Thursday he hoped the talks with China would yield progress but that resolving US complaints would be "a long process."

Trump said earlier this week the United States had a "very good chance" of striking a deal with China over trade.

Xinhua cited Li as saying he hoped the two countries would be able to "manage and control" their differences.Trump has criticised China for raising trade barriers against US companies, including high import tariffs in sectors like autos.

Li added China would "unswervingly open further to the outside world", reiterating President Xi Jinping`s assurances over about the country opening more widely to trade.

"China also stands ready to promote cooperation with the United States in transportation, such as autonomous driving," Li said. China recently announced plans to remove caps on foreign ownership of domestic auto ventures and to cut import duties.

Chinese companies including Baidu Inc&nbspare pushing hard in self-driving vehicles, increasing competition for more established US names such as Waymo, the self-driving arm of Google parent Alphabet, and Tesla Inc.&nbsp

President Donald Trump has threatened a new round of tariffs on $100 billion worth of Chinese products that could target mobile phones, computers and other consumer goods. China retaliated against an initial round of US tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese exports

China is open to negotiating with the United States to resolve trade tensions, Premier Li Keqiang was quoted as saying by state media late on Thursday, noting that the countries should manage their conflicts through dialogue. Li made the remarks at a meeting with US Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao, state broadcaster China Central Television (CCTV) said. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin is due to lead a delegation to China for talks intended to ease trade tensions. President Donald Trump has threatened a new round of tariffs on $100 billion worth of Chinese products that could target mobile phones, computers and other consumer goods. China retaliated against an initial round of US tariffs on $50 billion in Chinese exports. "There is no winner in trade conflict, which will not only affect the recovery of the world economy but also the global industrial chain," Li said in comments reported by the official Xinhua news agency. "It is also what the international community expects from our two countries," he said. Larry Kudlow, Trump`s top economic adviser, who will join Mnuchin`s delegation in Beijing, said on Thursday he hoped the talks with China would yield progress but that resolving US complaints would be "a long process." Trump said earlier this week the United States had a "very good chance" of striking a deal with China over trade. Xinhua cited Li as saying he hoped the two countries would be able to "manage and control" their differences.Trump has criticised China for raising trade barriers against US companies, including high import tariffs in sectors like autos. Li added China would "unswervingly open further to the outside world", reiterating President Xi Jinping`s assurances over about the country opening more widely to trade. "China also stands ready to promote cooperation with the United States in transportation, such as autonomous driving," Li said. China recently announced plans to remove caps on foreign ownership of domestic auto ventures and to cut import duties. Chinese companies including Baidu Inc&nbspare pushing hard in self-driving vehicles, increasing competition for more established US names such as Waymo, the self-driving arm of Google parent Alphabet, and Tesla Inc.

China's Premier Li says open to trade negotiations with United States

United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure.

Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them.

On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?"

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The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/989650212380692480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 26, 2018</a></blockquote>
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It is&nbsp;expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries.

On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also&nbsp;pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened.

FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations.

FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.

Donald Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid to host football World Cup 2026

United States President Donald Trump has tweeted in support of the joint North American bid to host FIFA World Cup 2026. He said, "The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup." Previously the US hosted football World Cup in 1994. For FIFA 2026, North American bid boasts large stadiums and excellent infrastructure. Trump also issued a warning to the countries who might oppose the joint US-Canada-Mexico bid. Other than the North American joint bid, Morocco is the only strong rival which can stand against them. On Thursday, Trump tweeted, "It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)?" The U.S. has put together a STRONG bid w/ Canada & Mexico for the 2026 World Cup. It would be a shame if countries that we always support were to lobby against the U.S. bid. Why should we be supporting these countries when they don’t support us (including at the United Nations)? — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 26, 2018 × It is expected that Morocco might receive strong backing from FIFA's African and Middle East countries. On June 13 in Moscow, The FIFA Congress will meet to select the 2026 host. A majority of the 207 voting FIFA members is needed to decide. Member countries might also pick neither bid, which would lead to the host process being reopened. FIFA member countries receive one vote each, no matter their size, which gives disproportionate influence to small soccer nations. FIFA 2026 will be the 23rd edition of football World Cup. The upcoming edition is scheduled to take place in June 2018 in Russia.

Trump threatens countries who don't support North American joint bid for FIFA 2026

The US Senate confirmed Mike Pompeo as President Donald Trump's secretary of state on Thursday, putting the former CIA director in a pivotal role to handle U.S. foreign policy challenges such as North Korea and Iran.

Pompeo, a former Army officer who was a Republican congressman, is regarded as a Trump loyalist with hawkish world views.

He is already deeply involved in diplomacy. Trump sent Pompeo to North Korea three weeks ago to meet with the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, ahead of a summit with the U.S. president to address Pyongyang's nuclear program.

Senators voted 57-42 in favour of Pompeo, who had faced stiff resistance from Democrats worried about his reputation for hawkishness and past harsh statements about homosexuality and Islam.

Pompeo will be forced quickly to address a wide array of other international challenges, including long conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, Chinese expansionism in Asia and Russian assertiveness.

Washington is also working with European allies such as French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to decide whether to toughen an international nuclear agreement with Iran.

Pompeo narrowly avoided a historic rebuke by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.

Pompeo, who became one of Trump's closest advisers during his 15 months at the CIA, faced stiff opposition from Democrats, who worried he might be too closely aligned with the president.

While in Congress, Pompeo was an outspoken opponent of the Iran nuclear accord.

But he said during his confirmation hearing that he was open to fixing, rather than blowing apart, the pact, which the West believes is key to preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb.

Trump picked the CIA's deputy director, Gina Haspel, to replace Pompeo as head of the spy agency. If confirmed by the Senate, she would become the first woman to hold the post.

Pompeo avoided being the first nominee for secretary of state ever rejected by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee only when Republican Senator Rand Paul, who had vowed to oppose him, announced his support minutes before the committee voted on Monday after pressure from the party.

While in Congress, Pompeo was an outspoken opponent of the Iran nuclear accord.

The US Senate confirmed Mike Pompeo as President Donald Trump's secretary of state on Thursday, putting the former CIA director in a pivotal role to handle U.S. foreign policy challenges such as North Korea and Iran. Pompeo, a former Army officer who was a Republican congressman, is regarded as a Trump loyalist with hawkish world views. He is already deeply involved in diplomacy. Trump sent Pompeo to North Korea three weeks ago to meet with the country's leader, Kim Jong Un, ahead of a summit with the U.S. president to address Pyongyang's nuclear program. Senators voted 57-42 in favour of Pompeo, who had faced stiff resistance from Democrats worried about his reputation for hawkishness and past harsh statements about homosexuality and Islam. Pompeo will be forced quickly to address a wide array of other international challenges, including long conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, Chinese expansionism in Asia and Russian assertiveness. Washington is also working with European allies such as French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel to decide whether to toughen an international nuclear agreement with Iran. Pompeo narrowly avoided a historic rebuke by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Pompeo, who became one of Trump's closest advisers during his 15 months at the CIA, faced stiff opposition from Democrats, who worried he might be too closely aligned with the president. While in Congress, Pompeo was an outspoken opponent of the Iran nuclear accord. But he said during his confirmation hearing that he was open to fixing, rather than blowing apart, the pact, which the West believes is key to preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb. Trump picked the CIA's deputy director, Gina Haspel, to replace Pompeo as head of the spy agency. If confirmed by the Senate, she would become the first woman to hold the post. Pompeo avoided being the first nominee for secretary of state ever rejected by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee only when Republican Senator Rand Paul, who had vowed to oppose him, announced his support minutes before the committee voted on Monday after pressure from the party.

US Senate confirms Mike Pompeo as US secretary of state

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that three or four possible dates were being considered for his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.

"We have a decision to be made. We have three and four dates. That includes five locations. That will be narrowed down," Trump said on Fox News.

Trump had previously said his much-anticipated meeting with Kim would take place in May or early June, within weeks of Friday's historic inter-Korean summit.

Earlier on April 17, President Trump had confirmed direct talks between the United States and North Korea. He also confirmed that his CIA chief Mike Pompeo took part in secret talks with Kim Jong-Un.

The tension-wracked peninsula has seen a dramatic diplomatic detente, with the nuclear-armed North last week announcing a moratorium on nuclear tests and long-range missile launches.

On April 10, Kim Jong-Un had publicly acknowledged the prospect of talks between the United States and Pyongyang for the first time.

If the talks go ahead, it would be the first time that a sitting US President would&nbsp;meet a North Korean leader.

(With inputs from PTI)

Trump had previously said his much-anticipated meeting with Kim would take place in May or early June, within weeks of Friday's historic inter-Korean summit.

US President Donald Trump said on Thursday that three or four possible dates were being considered for his landmark summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. "We have a decision to be made. We have three and four dates. That includes five locations. That will be narrowed down," Trump said on Fox News. Trump had previously said his much-anticipated meeting with Kim would take place in May or early June, within weeks of Friday's historic inter-Korean summit. Earlier on April 17, President Trump had confirmed direct talks between the United States and North Korea. He also confirmed that his CIA chief Mike Pompeo took part in secret talks with Kim Jong-Un. The tension-wracked peninsula has seen a dramatic diplomatic detente, with the nuclear-armed North last week announcing a moratorium on nuclear tests and long-range missile launches. On April 10, Kim Jong-Un had publicly acknowledged the prospect of talks between the United States and Pyongyang for the first time. If the talks go ahead, it would be the first time that a sitting US President would meet a North Korean leader. (With inputs from PTI)

US president Donald Trump says 3 or 4 dates possible for Kim Jong Un summit

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Asaram was on Wednesday found guilty of raping a teenage girl at his ashram near Jodhpur in 2013. The sentence was passed inside Jodhpur Central Jail — where Asaram has been lodged since 2013 — itself.&nbsp

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A day after flaunting his friendship with Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron forcefully challenged many of the US president's policies on Wednesday, urging the United States to engage more with the world, step up the fight against climate change and stay in the Iran nuclear pact for now.

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Thirteen schoolchildren have died in Uttar Pradesh after a train collided with the van they were travelling in.&nbsp

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The Taliban announced the start of its annual spring offensive on Wednesday, dismissing an offer for peace talks by President Ashraf Ghani and saying it will focus on U.S. forces in Afghanistan.

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SpaceX CEO Elon Musk never fails to take the world by surprise and his latest Twitter post seems to have reinstated the same. Earlier today Musk announced his latest project, a 'cyborg dragon'.&nbsp

Asaram appeared broken after conviction, kept telling lawyers to 'do something': Jail officials Asaram was on Wednesday found guilty of raping a teenage girl at his ashram near Jodhpur in 2013. The sentence was passed inside Jodhpur Central Jail — where Asaram has been lodged since 2013 — itself. After hugs and kisses, Macron tears into Trump. Says forget America First, 'make our planet great again' A day after flaunting his friendship with Donald Trump, French President Emmanuel Macron forcefully challenged many of the US president's policies on Wednesday, urging the United States to engage more with the world, step up the fight against climate change and stay in the Iran nuclear pact for now. Train collides with school van in UP, 13 children dead Thirteen schoolchildren have died in Uttar Pradesh after a train collided with the van they were travelling in. Taliban announce spring offensive, dismisses peace overtures The Taliban announced the start of its annual spring offensive on Wednesday, dismissing an offer for peace talks by President Ashraf Ghani and saying it will focus on U.S. forces in Afghanistan. Elon Musk's next project? He says he's 'building a cyborg dragon' SpaceX CEO Elon Musk never fails to take the world by surprise and his latest Twitter post seems to have reinstated the same. Earlier today Musk announced his latest project, a 'cyborg dragon'.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme.

At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the U.S. president says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous.

"This is a deal with decayed foundations," Trump said. "It's a bad deal. It's falling down."

With a May 12 deadline looming for Trump to decide on restoring US&nbsp;economic sanctions on Tehran, Macron said he spoke to Trump about a "new deal" in which the United States and Europe would address the outstanding concerns about Iran beyond its nuclear programme.

Macron is using a three-day state visit to the United States, in a high-stakes bid to salvage the Iran nuclear deal, which many in the West see as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East.

Under Macron's proposal, the United States and Europe would agree to block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran's ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.

It was unclear whether Macron made substantial progress in his efforts to prevent Trump from pulling out of the 2015 deal, and Trump stressed there would be repercussions should Iran restart its nuclear programme.

"If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid," Trump said.

But Trump said, "We will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, 'maybe deal, maybe not' deal." The French believe progress had been made.

“What was important and new this morning was that President Trump was OK with putting on the table, with France, the idea of a new agreement that should be proposed to and worked on with the Iranians," a French official said.

It was unclear what this would mean for the fate of the 2015 accord and whether the other countries such as China and Russia that signed it would agree to any new measures against Iran.

A source familiar with the internal debate at the White House said one option under discussion was giving Europe more time to toughen the current Iran deal's terms.

Iran has said it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses and a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday that Tehran might quit a treaty designed to stop the spread of nuclear weapons if Trump scraps the agreement.

BACK SLAPPING

Trump and Macron have developed a remarkably strong relationship at a time when many European leaders have kept a certain distance from Trump.

On Tuesday evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power in January, 2017. Macron's visit will be followed by one on Friday from German Chancellor Angela Merkel.

Trump, 71, and Macron, 40, were remarkably chummy, repeatedly shaking hands, slapping each other's backs and extolling each other's friendship.

At one point Trump brushed dandruff from Macron's suit coat, saying: "We have to make him perfect -- he is perfect.”

Macron hopes to leverage their friendship into progress on not only Iran but exempting Europe from steel tariffs, and protecting the 2016 Paris climate accord.

Their talks also covered the U.S. presence in Syria weeks after the United States, France and Britain launched airstrikes in retaliation for a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Trump wants to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria, believing Islamic State militants are largely defeated, but Macron and other allies argue they should stay to ensure militants do not resurface and to block Iran from strengthening its foothold there.

Macron urged Trump to keep U.S. forces in Syria for the time being.

Trump did not promise to leave the troops in Syria but made clear they would not be withdrawn imminently.

"We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint," Trump said.

The two leaders also discussed European calls for exemptions from Trump's plan for 25 percent tariffs on steel imports. Trump said chronic trade deficits with U.S. allies around the world are "unacceptable."

'If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid,' Trump said at joint news conference with French President Emmanuel Macron who is trying to get Trump to agree to a new deal on Iran's nuclear programme

US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme. At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the U.S. president says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous. "This is a deal with decayed foundations," Trump said. "It's a bad deal. It's falling down." With a May 12 deadline looming for Trump to decide on restoring US economic sanctions on Tehran, Macron said he spoke to Trump about a "new deal" in which the United States and Europe would address the outstanding concerns about Iran beyond its nuclear programme. Macron is using a three-day state visit to the United States, in a high-stakes bid to salvage the Iran nuclear deal, which many in the West see as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. Under Macron's proposal, the United States and Europe would agree to block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran's ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon. It was unclear whether Macron made substantial progress in his efforts to prevent Trump from pulling out of the 2015 deal, and Trump stressed there would be repercussions should Iran restart its nuclear programme. "If Iran threatens us in any way, they will pay a price like few countries have ever paid," Trump said. But Trump said, "We will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, 'maybe deal, maybe not' deal." The French believe progress had been made. “What was important and new this morning was that President Trump was OK with putting on the table, with France, the idea of a new agreement that should be proposed to and worked on with the Iranians," a French official said. It was unclear what this would mean for the fate of the 2015 accord and whether the other countries such as China and Russia that signed it would agree to any new measures against Iran. A source familiar with the internal debate at the White House said one option under discussion was giving Europe more time to toughen the current Iran deal's terms. Iran has said it will ramp up its nuclear programme if the deal collapses and a senior Iranian official said on Tuesday that Tehran might quit a treaty designed to stop the spread of nuclear weapons if Trump scraps the agreement. BACK SLAPPING Trump and Macron have developed a remarkably strong relationship at a time when many European leaders have kept a certain distance from Trump. On Tuesday evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power in January, 2017. Macron's visit will be followed by one on Friday from German Chancellor Angela Merkel. Trump, 71, and Macron, 40, were remarkably chummy, repeatedly shaking hands, slapping each other's backs and extolling each other's friendship. At one point Trump brushed dandruff from Macron's suit coat, saying: "We have to make him perfect -- he is perfect.” Macron hopes to leverage their friendship into progress on not only Iran but exempting Europe from steel tariffs, and protecting the 2016 Paris climate accord. Their talks also covered the U.S. presence in Syria weeks after the United States, France and Britain launched airstrikes in retaliation for a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Trump wants to withdraw U.S. forces from Syria, believing Islamic State militants are largely defeated, but Macron and other allies argue they should stay to ensure militants do not resurface and to block Iran from strengthening its foothold there. Macron urged Trump to keep U.S. forces in Syria for the time being. Trump did not promise to leave the troops in Syria but made clear they would not be withdrawn imminently. "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint," Trump said. The two leaders also discussed European calls for exemptions from Trump's plan for 25 percent tariffs on steel imports. Trump said chronic trade deficits with U.S. allies around the world are "unacceptable."

Will pay a price few countries have: Trump threatens Iran with retaliation if it restarts nuclear programme

Iran's president poured scorn on Wednesday on US&nbspand European discussions over Tehran's nuclear agreement, and dismissed Donald Trump as a "tradesman" who lacked the qualifications to deal with a complex international pact.

Hassan Rouhani spoke after French President Emmanuel Macron flew to Washington to try to persuade Trump not to scrap the 2015 agreement - under which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions.

“They say that with the certain leader of a European country we want to make a decision about a seven-sided agreement,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV.

“For what? With what right?”&nbsphe added.

He reserved particular scorn for the US&nbsppresident, who has called the agreement one of the worst deals ever negotiated and has threatened to restore US&nbspsanctions next month unless what he sees as severe flaws are fixed.

“You don’t have any background in politics. You don’t have any background in law. You don’t have any background on international treaties,” Rouhani said. “How can a tradesman, a merchant, a building constructor, a tower constructor make judgements about international affairs,” he added referring to Trump's career as a property developer.

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme.

At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the US&nbsppresident says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous.

The other powers that signed the agreement with Iran - Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France - have all said they want to preserve it. Many in the West see it as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East.

In a bid to salvage the deal while satisfying Trump's call for tougher action, Macron’s has proposed that the United States and Europe block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran’s ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel will hold talks with Trump in Washington later in the week.

Senior Iranian officials have said repeatedly that Iran’s ballistic missile program is not up for negotiation.

Hassan Rouhani spoke after French President Emmanuel Macron flew to Washington to try to persuade Trump not to scrap the 2015 agreement - under which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions

Iran's president poured scorn on Wednesday on US&nbspand European discussions over Tehran's nuclear agreement, and dismissed Donald Trump as a "tradesman" who lacked the qualifications to deal with a complex international pact. Hassan Rouhani spoke after French President Emmanuel Macron flew to Washington to try to persuade Trump not to scrap the 2015 agreement - under which Iran curbed its nuclear programme in return for the lifting of sanctions. “They say that with the certain leader of a European country we want to make a decision about a seven-sided agreement,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state TV. “For what? With what right?”&nbsphe added. He reserved particular scorn for the US&nbsppresident, who has called the agreement one of the worst deals ever negotiated and has threatened to restore US&nbspsanctions next month unless what he sees as severe flaws are fixed. “You don’t have any background in politics. You don’t have any background in law. You don’t have any background on international treaties,” Rouhani said. “How can a tradesman, a merchant, a building constructor, a tower constructor make judgements about international affairs,” he added referring to Trump's career as a property developer. US&nbspPresident Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron pledged on Tuesday to seek stronger measures to contain Iran but Trump refrained from committing to staying in a 2015 nuclear deal and threatened Tehran with retaliation if it restarted its nuclear programme. At a joint news conference with Macron, Trump kept up his blistering rhetoric against the nuclear accord between Iran and world powers that the US&nbsppresident says does not address Tehran's rising influence in the Middle East or its ballistic missile programme. He called it insane, terrible and ridiculous. The other powers that signed the agreement with Iran - Russia, China, Germany, Britain and France - have all said they want to preserve it. Many in the West see it as the best hope of preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb and heading off a nuclear arms race in the Middle East. In a bid to salvage the deal while satisfying Trump's call for tougher action, Macron’s has proposed that the United States and Europe block any Iranian nuclear activity until 2025 and beyond, address Iran’s ballistic missile programme and generate conditions for a political solution to contain Iran in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon. German Chancellor Angela Merkel will hold talks with Trump in Washington later in the week. Senior Iranian officials have said repeatedly that Iran’s ballistic missile program is not up for negotiation.

Iran pours scorn on nuclear talks, dismisses 'tradesman' Trump

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly, as ministers from Canada, Mexico and the United States prepared to meet later in the day to try to work out their differences and hash out an agreement.

"NAFTA, as you know, is moving along. They (Mexico) have an election coming up very soon. And it will be interesting to see what happens with that election," Trump said at a cabinet meeting briefly attended by reporters.

"But we`re doing very nicely with NAFTA. I could make a deal really quickly, but I`m not sure that`s in the best interests of the United States. But we`ll see what happens," he added.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo are pressing for a quick deal to avoid clashing with Mexico`s July 1 presidential election. That will entail overcoming major differences on several U.S. demands.

Guajardo said that flexibility will be needed to reach an agreement on a revamped North American Free Trade Agreement deal. 
He also underscored that Mexico would not accept any U.S. tariffs on aluminium or steel, saying that a revised NAFTA should serve to settle the issue with its northern neighbour.

Asked by reporters if a deal was imminent, Guajardo said: "Any day that you start (to) walk towards a goal nobody can guarantee that you will achieve it, (it) depends on the commitment and flexibilities around the table."

Negotiators have said a new NAFTA could be possible by early May, and officials hailed progress on the key issue of new automotive sector rules last week.

"In the coming 10 days we can really have a new agreement in principle," said Moises Kalach, head of the international negotiating arm of the CCE business lobby, which represents the Mexican private sector at the NAFTA talks.

The three sides still need to iron out differences on content rules for autos, dispute resolution mechanisms and other issues.

"As soon as there is political will from the American government to go for a final deal, I think we can close this," Kalach told Mexican radio. "We`ve had all our (negotiating) teams in Washington for two weeks and we will continue working all this week, the weekend and into next week."

Guajardo also said there was no need for a separate deal with the United States on steel and aluminium by May 1 when the current exemption on U.S. tariffs expires.

"I think whatever we do has to take into account the kind of commitment that we`re going to do in NAFTA, and definitely, Mexico has been very clear: we will not accept any type of restrictions in aluminium or steel," he said.

Last month, Trump pressed ahead with import tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent for aluminium but exempted Canada and Mexico and offered the possibility of excluding other allies.

"NAFTA, as you know, is moving along. They (Mexico) have an election coming up very soon.," Trump said.

US President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly, as ministers from Canada, Mexico and the United States prepared to meet later in the day to try to work out their differences and hash out an agreement. "NAFTA, as you know, is moving along. They (Mexico) have an election coming up very soon. And it will be interesting to see what happens with that election," Trump said at a cabinet meeting briefly attended by reporters. "But we`re doing very nicely with NAFTA. I could make a deal really quickly, but I`m not sure that`s in the best interests of the United States. But we`ll see what happens," he added. Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland, U.S. Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Mexican Economy Minister Ildefonso Guajardo are pressing for a quick deal to avoid clashing with Mexico`s July 1 presidential election. That will entail overcoming major differences on several U.S. demands. Guajardo said that flexibility will be needed to reach an agreement on a revamped North American Free Trade Agreement deal. He also underscored that Mexico would not accept any U.S. tariffs on aluminium or steel, saying that a revised NAFTA should serve to settle the issue with its northern neighbour. Asked by reporters if a deal was imminent, Guajardo said: "Any day that you start (to) walk towards a goal nobody can guarantee that you will achieve it, (it) depends on the commitment and flexibilities around the table." Negotiators have said a new NAFTA could be possible by early May, and officials hailed progress on the key issue of new automotive sector rules last week. "In the coming 10 days we can really have a new agreement in principle," said Moises Kalach, head of the international negotiating arm of the CCE business lobby, which represents the Mexican private sector at the NAFTA talks. The three sides still need to iron out differences on content rules for autos, dispute resolution mechanisms and other issues. "As soon as there is political will from the American government to go for a final deal, I think we can close this," Kalach told Mexican radio. "We`ve had all our (negotiating) teams in Washington for two weeks and we will continue working all this week, the weekend and into next week." Guajardo also said there was no need for a separate deal with the United States on steel and aluminium by May 1 when the current exemption on U.S. tariffs expires. "I think whatever we do has to take into account the kind of commitment that we`re going to do in NAFTA, and definitely, Mexico has been very clear: we will not accept any type of restrictions in aluminium or steel," he said. Last month, Trump pressed ahead with import tariffs of 25 percent on steel and 10 percent for aluminium but exempted Canada and Mexico and offered the possibility of excluding other allies.

Trump says new NAFTA deal could be completed quickly

French President Macron <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-face-severe-consequences-if-nuclear-deal-not-accepted-iran-president-132538">and President Trump today </a>discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal".

Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal",&nbsp"insane" and "ridiculous".

Iran has threatened to hit back at the US if Trump decides to do away with the deal, a decision which must be reached by May 12th.

"I can say that we have had very frank discussions on that, just the two of us," Macron said at the press conference with Trump, adding, "we, therefore, wish from now on to work on a new deal with Iran."

"I think we will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, maybe, deal," Trump said.

"This is a deal with decayed foundations. It's a bad deal, it's a bad structure. It's falling down," Trump added.&nbsp

"We're going to see what happens on the 12th," the US president added.

Trump said he and Macron could have an agreement soon on the Iran deal.&nbsp

"We could have at least an agreement among ourselves very quickly. I think we're fairly close to understanding each other," the US president said.

Macron had earlier supported the Iran deal asserting that it allowed the countries monitoring it a realistic chance to keep Tehran's nuclear ambition under control.

He had told Trump the Iran accord is part of a "broader picture" of security in the region which included the volatile situation in Syria.

On Syria, Trump said: "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint, and that was a very big part of our discussion."

The US president also said that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly.

<iframe allow="autoplay encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/guWM1TOPHg4" width="560"></iframe>

Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal", "insane" and "ridiculous".

French President Macron and President Trump today discussed the Iran nuclear deal at the Oval office in the White House with both leaders keen to hammer out a "new deal". Trump had earlier termed the Iran nuclear deal brokered by the previous Obama administration as a "terrible deal", "insane" and "ridiculous". Iran has threatened to hit back at the US if Trump decides to do away with the deal, a decision which must be reached by May 12th. "I can say that we have had very frank discussions on that, just the two of us," Macron said at the press conference with Trump, adding, "we, therefore, wish from now on to work on a new deal with Iran." "I think we will have a great shot at doing a much bigger, maybe, deal," Trump said. "This is a deal with decayed foundations. It's a bad deal, it's a bad structure. It's falling down," Trump added. "We're going to see what happens on the 12th," the US president added. Trump said he and Macron could have an agreement soon on the Iran deal. "We could have at least an agreement among ourselves very quickly. I think we're fairly close to understanding each other," the US president said. Macron had earlier supported the Iran deal asserting that it allowed the countries monitoring it a realistic chance to keep Tehran's nuclear ambition under control. He had told Trump the Iran accord is part of a "broader picture" of security in the region which included the volatile situation in Syria. On Syria, Trump said: "We want to come home. We'll be coming home. But we want to leave a strong and lasting footprint, and that was a very big part of our discussion." The US president also said that a new NAFTA trade deal could be completed quickly.

'Wish to work on new nuclear deal with Iran,' says Macron after meeting Trump

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump said on Tuesday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had been "very honourable" and that discussions ahead of a planned meeting between the two leaders were going well.

"We have been told directly that they would like to have the meeting as soon as possible, and we think that's a great thing for the world," Trump told reporters during a meeting with French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron at the White House.

"We're having ... very good discussions. Kim Jong Un, he really has been very open and I think very honourable from everything we're seeing," Trump added.

Trump has said he could meet with Kim in late May or June.

The United States is pressing North Korea to denuclearize and has said it would keep up a policy of "maximum pressure" on Pyongyang to achieve that goal.

South Korean President Moon Jae-in said on Thursday North Korea had expressed a commitment to "complete denuclearization" of the Korean peninsula, and North Korea said on Saturday it would immediately suspend nuclear and missile test

Trump has said he could meet with Kim in late May or June

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump said on Tuesday that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un had been "very honourable" and that discussions ahead of a planned meeting between the two leaders were going well. "We have been told directly that they would like to have the meeting as soon as possible, and we think that's a great thing for the world," Trump told reporters during a meeting with French Prime Minister Emmanuel Macron at the White House. "We're having ... very good discussions. Kim Jong Un, he really has been very open and I think very honourable from everything we're seeing," Trump added. Trump has said he could meet with Kim in late May or June. The United States is pressing North Korea to denuclearize and has said it would keep up a policy of "maximum pressure" on Pyongyang to achieve that goal. South Korean President Moon Jae-in said on Thursday North Korea had expressed a commitment to "complete denuclearization" of the Korean peninsula, and North Korea said on Saturday it would immediately suspend nuclear and missile test

Trump says talks with North Korea going well ahead of summit

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump treated French President Emmanuel Macron to a colorful welcome ceremony at the White House on Tuesday (April 24) during a state visit that threatened to expose differences on Iran, trade and Syria between two close allies.

The two leaders were then to launch into a morning of talks expected to include how to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which Trump wants to withdraw the United States from unless European powers strengthen its terms.

Trump, in welcoming remarks, thanked France for joining with the United States and Britain in launching airstrikes in Syria earlier this month in response to a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad.

Macron, in his remarks, called for the two countries to work together against Islamist militants, on North Korea and Iran, on "free and fair trade," and on climate change.

"It is together that we will counter the proliferation in weapons of mass destruction, whether it is in North Korea or in Iran," Macron said.

In the evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power.

The two leaders were then to launch into a morning of talks expected to include how to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which Trump wants to withdraw the United States from unless European powers strengthen its terms

US&nbspPresident Donald Trump treated French President Emmanuel Macron to a colorful welcome ceremony at the White House on Tuesday (April 24) during a state visit that threatened to expose differences on Iran, trade and Syria between two close allies. The two leaders were then to launch into a morning of talks expected to include how to salvage the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, which Trump wants to withdraw the United States from unless European powers strengthen its terms. Trump, in welcoming remarks, thanked France for joining with the United States and Britain in launching airstrikes in Syria earlier this month in response to a chemical weapons attack blamed on Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. Macron, in his remarks, called for the two countries to work together against Islamist militants, on North Korea and Iran, on "free and fair trade," and on climate change. "It is together that we will counter the proliferation in weapons of mass destruction, whether it is in North Korea or in Iran," Macron said. In the evening, the Trumps are to host the Macrons at the first state dinner conducted by Trump since he took power.

Trump welcomes France's Macron to White House

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday warned US President Donald Trump to remain in the nuclear deal or else he could face "severe consequences."

The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is "prepared for all possible situations."

“I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television.

“If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences,” he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. “Iran is prepared for all possible situations,” he added.

His comments come during a time when Trump has been hosting French President Emmanuel Macron in Washington, who is working to convince him to stay in the pact. As per reports, &nbspGermany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel will also work to convince Trump at a meeting later this week.

On Monday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-either-all-or-nothing-says-iran-foreign-minister-over-nuclear-deal--132298">Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> had said that "It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith."

Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs.

In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016.

Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran.

The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is 'prepared for all possible situations'

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Tuesday warned US President Donald Trump to remain in the nuclear deal or else he could face "severe consequences." The nuclear deal was formed by Tehran in 2015 for which the other signatories have stepped up efforts to save it. Rouhani also said that Iran is "prepared for all possible situations." “I am telling those in the White House that if they do not live up to their commitments, the Iranian government will firmly react,” Rouhani said in a speech broadcast live on state television. “If anyone betrays the deal, they should know that they would face severe consequences,” he told a cheering crowd of thousands gathered in the city of Tabriz. “Iran is prepared for all possible situations,” he added. His comments come during a time when Trump has been hosting French President Emmanuel Macron in Washington, who is working to convince him to stay in the pact. As per reports, &nbspGermany’s Chancellor Angela Merkel will also work to convince Trump at a meeting later this week. On Monday, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif had said that "It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith." Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs. In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016. Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran.

Trump will face 'severe consequences' if nuclear deal not accepted: Iran President

The European signatories of Iran's nuclear deal with major powers should convince US President Donald Trump not to exit the accord as there is no "plan B" for the agreement, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted on Monday (April 23).

"It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith," Zarif wrote on his Twitter account.

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President Macron is correct in saying there's no "Plan B" on JCPOA. It's either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage President Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more importantly to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith.
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Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs.

In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016.

Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran.

US&nbsp;allies and rivals spoke out in support of the Iran nuclear deal on Monday, bolstering French President Emmanuel Macron's pitch to US&nbsp;President Donald Trump that there was no "Plan B" for keeping a lid on Tehran's atomic ambitions.

A nuclear non-proliferation conference in Geneva heard repeated calls for parties to the deal -- the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany -- to ensure its implementation and preservation.

"The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action continues to be the best way to ensure the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme and to realise the promised tangible economic benefits for the Iranian people," UN&nbsp;High representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu said.

But US&nbsp;non-proliferation envoy Robert Ford said Iran presented a very real long-term challenge to the non-proliferation regime.

"Iran (is) a country that for years illegally and secretly sought to develop nuclear weapons, suspended its weaponization work only when confronted by the potentially direst of consequences without ever coming clean about its illicit endeavours," he said.

"For several more years (it) continued its efforts to enrich uranium in violation of legally-binding UN&nbsp;Security Council requirements, and retains the ability to position itself, several years hence, dangerously close to rapid weaponization."

On a visit to Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he had agreed with his Chinese counterpart to block any US&nbsp;attempt to sabotage the deal.

"We are against revising these agreements, we consider it very counter productive to try to reduce to zero years of international work carried out via talks between the six major powers and Iran," Lavrov said after talks with the Chinese government’s top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi.

"We will obstruct attempts to sabotage these agreements which were enshrined in a U.N. Security Council resolution," Lavrov said.

EU disarmament envoy Jacek Bylica said the deal strengthened the international non-proliferation regime, contributed to regional and international security and ensured the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme.

Cornel Seruta, a senior official at the International Atomic Energy Agency, said the deal had significantly improved access to Iran.

"In short, Iran is now subject to the most robust nuclear verification regime and Iran is implementing its nuclear related commitments under the JCPOA," he said. "It is essential that Iran continues to fully implement those commitments."

Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran

The European signatories of Iran's nuclear deal with major powers should convince US President Donald Trump not to exit the accord as there is no "plan B" for the agreement, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif tweeted on Monday (April 23). "It is either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more important to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith," Zarif wrote on his Twitter account. President Macron is correct in saying there's no "Plan B" on JCPOA. It's either all or nothing. European leaders should encourage President Trump not just to stay in the nuclear deal, but more importantly to begin implementing his part of the bargain in good faith. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) April 23, 2018 × Under Iran's settlement with the United States, France, Germany, Britain, Russia and China, Teheran agreed to curb its nuclear programme to satisfy the powers that it could not be used to develop atomic bombs. In exchange, Iran received relief from sanctions, most of which were lifted in January 2016. Trump has given the European signatories a May 12 deadline to "fix the terrible flaws" of the 2015 nuclear deal, or he will refuse to extend US sanctions relief on Iran. US allies and rivals spoke out in support of the Iran nuclear deal on Monday, bolstering French President Emmanuel Macron's pitch to US President Donald Trump that there was no "Plan B" for keeping a lid on Tehran's atomic ambitions. A nuclear non-proliferation conference in Geneva heard repeated calls for parties to the deal -- the United States, China, Russia, Britain, France and Germany -- to ensure its implementation and preservation. "The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action continues to be the best way to ensure the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran’s nuclear programme and to realise the promised tangible economic benefits for the Iranian people," UN High representative for Disarmament Affairs Izumi Nakamitsu said. But US non-proliferation envoy Robert Ford said Iran presented a very real long-term challenge to the non-proliferation regime. "Iran (is) a country that for years illegally and secretly sought to develop nuclear weapons, suspended its weaponization work only when confronted by the potentially direst of consequences without ever coming clean about its illicit endeavours," he said. "For several more years (it) continued its efforts to enrich uranium in violation of legally-binding UN Security Council requirements, and retains the ability to position itself, several years hence, dangerously close to rapid weaponization." On a visit to Beijing, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he had agreed with his Chinese counterpart to block any US attempt to sabotage the deal. "We are against revising these agreements, we consider it very counter productive to try to reduce to zero years of international work carried out via talks between the six major powers and Iran," Lavrov said after talks with the Chinese government’s top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi. "We will obstruct attempts to sabotage these agreements which were enshrined in a U.N. Security Council resolution," Lavrov said. EU disarmament envoy Jacek Bylica said the deal strengthened the international non-proliferation regime, contributed to regional and international security and ensured the exclusively peaceful nature of Iran's nuclear programme. Cornel Seruta, a senior official at the International Atomic Energy Agency, said the deal had significantly improved access to Iran. "In short, Iran is now subject to the most robust nuclear verification regime and Iran is implementing its nuclear related commitments under the JCPOA," he said. "It is essential that Iran continues to fully implement those commitments."

It is either all or nothing, says Iran foreign minister over nuclear deal

French President Emmanuel Macron's three-day visit to the United States will begin tomorrow,&nbsp;April 23. A day before Macron is scheduled to arrive in the US, a leading American news channel aired an interview wherein the French President spoke about rebuilding Syria.

Macron noted that United States, France and other allies will have a "very important" role in rebuilding Syria after they defeat Islamic State militants.

The French president noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war which will require fresh efforts from the United States, France and other allies in order to create a new Syria.&nbsp;

"The day we will have finished this war against ISIS, if we leave, definitely and totally, even from a political point of view, we will leave the floor to the Iranian regime, Bashar al-Assad and these guys. And they will prepare the new war. They will fuel the new terrorists," Macron shared

Although Trump wants US forces to leave Syria as quickly as possible, Macron had warned against Iran's efforts to overrun Syria if the countries exit too quickly.<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Qbh7cBHtl2A" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen></iframe>

"It's not automatically US&nbsp;Forces, but that's US&nbsp;diplomacy and that's your presence. We will have to build a new Syria after the war. And that's why I think the US&nbsp;role is very important to play. Why? I will be very blunt.... So my point is to say, even after the end of the war against ISIS, the US., France, our allies, all the countries of the region, even Russia and Turkey, will have a very important role to play in order to create this new Syria and ensure Syrian people to decide for the future," Macron explained

Macron's arrival in Washington on Monday will see bilateral talks with his American counterpart. Both the leaders will discuss the Iran nuclear agreement at the White House on Tuesday, a senior US&nbsp;administration official said on Friday.

Trump and Macron will also discuss the joint military strike on Syria this month following a suspected chemical weapons attack near Damascus.

(With inputs from Reuters)&nbsp;

Macron noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war

French President Emmanuel Macron's three-day visit to the United States will begin tomorrow, April 23. A day before Macron is scheduled to arrive in the US, a leading American news channel aired an interview wherein the French President spoke about rebuilding Syria. Macron noted that United States, France and other allies will have a "very important" role in rebuilding Syria after they defeat Islamic State militants. The French president noted that even after the war against ISIS is won, the Assad-led government will fuel new terrorists and wage a new war which will require fresh efforts from the United States, France and other allies in order to create a new Syria. "The day we will have finished this war against ISIS, if we leave, definitely and totally, even from a political point of view, we will leave the floor to the Iranian regime, Bashar al-Assad and these guys. And they will prepare the new war. They will fuel the new terrorists," Macron shared Although Trump wants US forces to leave Syria as quickly as possible, Macron had warned against Iran's efforts to overrun Syria if the countries exit too quickly. "It's not automatically US Forces, but that's US diplomacy and that's your presence. We will have to build a new Syria after the war. And that's why I think the US role is very important to play. Why? I will be very blunt.... So my point is to say, even after the end of the war against ISIS, the US., France, our allies, all the countries of the region, even Russia and Turkey, will have a very important role to play in order to create this new Syria and ensure Syrian people to decide for the future," Macron explained Macron's arrival in Washington on Monday will see bilateral talks with his American counterpart. Both the leaders will discuss the Iran nuclear agreement at the White House on Tuesday, a senior US administration official said on Friday. Trump and Macron will also discuss the joint military strike on Syria this month following a suspected chemical weapons attack near Damascus. (With inputs from Reuters)

US, France have 'very important' role to play after end of Syrian war: Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron will arrive in Washington on Monday (April 23) for a three-day visit, where his good rapport with US&nbsp;President Donald Trump will be put to the test.

Macron will try to sway Trump on key issues from Syria to Iran and trade after a year spent investing a lot of political capital with few returns.

He played to Trump's admiration for the military and grandeur by inviting him to Paris for the annual July 14 celebrations and dining him at the Eiffel Tower. The soft diplomacy aimed to gain Trump's confidence and influence US&nbsp;foreign policy at a time European diplomats say Washington lacks direction.

French political scientist and international relations expert Bertand Badie said Macron was seeking to take the place of Britain as the United States' privileged ally.

With the exception of one unusually prolonged and firm handshake, Macron has opted for a non-confrontational approach toward the unconventional US&nbsp;president, hoping that by engaging with him he could win concessions.

Trump has given the European Union until May 1 to negotiate permanent exemptions from steel and aluminium tariffs and France, Britain and Germany until May 12 to "fix" the Iran nuclear deal with world powers.

Macron will try to sway Trump on key issues from Syria to Iran and trade after a year spent investing a lot of political capital with few returns

French President Emmanuel Macron will arrive in Washington on Monday (April 23) for a three-day visit, where his good rapport with US President Donald Trump will be put to the test. Macron will try to sway Trump on key issues from Syria to Iran and trade after a year spent investing a lot of political capital with few returns. He played to Trump's admiration for the military and grandeur by inviting him to Paris for the annual July 14 celebrations and dining him at the Eiffel Tower. The soft diplomacy aimed to gain Trump's confidence and influence US foreign policy at a time European diplomats say Washington lacks direction. French political scientist and international relations expert Bertand Badie said Macron was seeking to take the place of Britain as the United States' privileged ally. With the exception of one unusually prolonged and firm handshake, Macron has opted for a non-confrontational approach toward the unconventional US president, hoping that by engaging with him he could win concessions. Trump has given the European Union until May 1 to negotiate permanent exemptions from steel and aluminium tariffs and France, Britain and Germany until May 12 to "fix" the Iran nuclear deal with world powers.

As French President heads to US, 'strong relationship' with Donald Trump under test

A US&nbsp;push to change the Iran nuclear deal was sending a "very dangerous message" that countries should never negotiate with Washington, Iran's foreign minister warned as US&nbsp;and North Korean leaders prepare to meet for denuclearisation talks.

Speaking to reporters in New York on Saturday, Mohammad Javad Zarif also said that for French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel "to try to appease the president (Donald Trump) would be an exercise in futility."

Trump will decide by May 12 whether to restore US&nbsp;economic sanctions on Tehran, which would be a severe blow to the 2015 pact between Iran and six major powers. He has pressured European allies to work with Washington to fix the deal.

Macron and Merkel are both due to meet with Trump in Washington this week.

"The United States has not only failed to implement its side (of the deal), but is even asking for more," said Zarif, who is in New York to attend a UN&nbsp;General Assembly meeting.

"That's a very dangerous message to send to people of Iran but also to the people of the world - that you should never come to an agreement with the United States because at the end of the day the operating principle of the United States is 'what's mine is mine, what's yours is negotiable,'" he said.

US&nbsp;Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said earlier this month that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has "looked at the Iran deal, he's seen what he can get and he's seen how he can push through loopholes and we're not going to let that happen again."

Under the Iran nuclear deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in return for relief from economic sanctions. Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama, struck the pact to try to keep Iran from building a nuclear weapon but Trump believes it has "disastrous flaws."

Zarif said if Washington leaves the deal, there were many options being considered by Tehran, including complaining through a dispute mechanism set up by the agreement or simply leaving the deal by restarting its nuclear activities.

"We will make a decision based on our national security interests when the times comes. But whatever that decision will be, it won't be very pleasant to the United States," he said.

When asked if Iran could stay in the deal with the remaining parties, Zarif said: "I believe that's highly unlikely because it is important for Iran to received the benefits of the agreement and there was no way Iran would do a one-sided implementation of the agreement."

Iran has always said its nuclear program was only for peaceful purposes and Zarif said if Tehran resumed its nuclear activities it would not be intended "to get a bomb."

"America should never have feared Iran producing a nuclear bomb, but we will pursue vigorously our nuclear enrichment. If they want to fear anything its up to them," Zarif said.

Trump will decide by May 12 whether to restore US economic sanctions on Tehran

A US push to change the Iran nuclear deal was sending a "very dangerous message" that countries should never negotiate with Washington, Iran's foreign minister warned as US and North Korean leaders prepare to meet for denuclearisation talks. Speaking to reporters in New York on Saturday, Mohammad Javad Zarif also said that for French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel "to try to appease the president (Donald Trump) would be an exercise in futility." Trump will decide by May 12 whether to restore US economic sanctions on Tehran, which would be a severe blow to the 2015 pact between Iran and six major powers. He has pressured European allies to work with Washington to fix the deal. Macron and Merkel are both due to meet with Trump in Washington this week. "The United States has not only failed to implement its side (of the deal), but is even asking for more," said Zarif, who is in New York to attend a UN General Assembly meeting. "That's a very dangerous message to send to people of Iran but also to the people of the world - that you should never come to an agreement with the United States because at the end of the day the operating principle of the United States is 'what's mine is mine, what's yours is negotiable,'" he said. US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley said earlier this month that North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has "looked at the Iran deal, he's seen what he can get and he's seen how he can push through loopholes and we're not going to let that happen again." Under the Iran nuclear deal, Tehran agreed to curb its nuclear program in return for relief from economic sanctions. Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama, struck the pact to try to keep Iran from building a nuclear weapon but Trump believes it has "disastrous flaws." Zarif said if Washington leaves the deal, there were many options being considered by Tehran, including complaining through a dispute mechanism set up by the agreement or simply leaving the deal by restarting its nuclear activities. "We will make a decision based on our national security interests when the times comes. But whatever that decision will be, it won't be very pleasant to the United States," he said. When asked if Iran could stay in the deal with the remaining parties, Zarif said: "I believe that's highly unlikely because it is important for Iran to received the benefits of the agreement and there was no way Iran would do a one-sided implementation of the agreement." Iran has always said its nuclear program was only for peaceful purposes and Zarif said if Tehran resumed its nuclear activities it would not be intended "to get a bomb." "America should never have feared Iran producing a nuclear bomb, but we will pursue vigorously our nuclear enrichment. If they want to fear anything its up to them," Zarif said.

As US, North Korea plan to meet, Iran warns against Trump deals

Days after the US-led air strikes in Syria, the retaliation possibly seems to be coming from Russia in cyberspace. Moscow may actually opt for cyber attacks over nuclear war.&nbsp;

Cyberspace is proving to be a battleground for Russia and the West. Russia has already been accused of carrying out cyber attacks on Washington, London and other cities.

In a fresh series of allegations, the United States and Britain have accused the Kremlin of launching attacks on firewalls and other networking equipment used by government agencies, businesses and critical infrastructure operators across the globe.

American and British officials say that the new cyber attacks have affected a wide range of organisations including internet service providers, private businesses, among others around the world.&nbsp;

Washington and London issued a joint statement that says, "The operation is to support espionage, extract intellectual property, maintain persistent access to victim networks and potentially lay a foundation for future offensive operations".&nbsp;

Britain and US have issued an alert to understand the threat and protect potential targets. This comes amid tensions between Russia and the West over a suspected chemical attack in Syria.&nbsp;

White House's cybersecurity coordinator, Rob Joyce, recently noted, "The alert is not related to the suspected chemical attack in a town in Syria that prompted a US-led military strike over the weekend targetting facilities of the Russian-backed Syrian government".&nbsp;

The Kremlin has outrightly denied the allegations. The Russian embassy issued a statement saying that "British accusations of cyber threats from Moscow are striking examples of a reckless, provocative and unfounded policy against Russia".

Australia has also joined the US and the UK in blaming Russia for the cyber attacks.&nbsp;

This is not the first time when such allegations are levelled against Putin-led Russia. While Moscow continues to rubbish all accusations, the blame-game continues to intensify between Russia and the West.&nbsp;

Australia has also joined the US and the UK in blaming Russia for the cyber attacks

Days after the US-led air strikes in Syria, the retaliation possibly seems to be coming from Russia in cyberspace. Moscow may actually opt for cyber attacks over nuclear war. Cyberspace is proving to be a battleground for Russia and the West. Russia has already been accused of carrying out cyber attacks on Washington, London and other cities. In a fresh series of allegations, the United States and Britain have accused the Kremlin of launching attacks on firewalls and other networking equipment used by government agencies, businesses and critical infrastructure operators across the globe. American and British officials say that the new cyber attacks have affected a wide range of organisations including internet service providers, private businesses, among others around the world. Washington and London issued a joint statement that says, "The operation is to support espionage, extract intellectual property, maintain persistent access to victim networks and potentially lay a foundation for future offensive operations". Britain and US have issued an alert to understand the threat and protect potential targets. This comes amid tensions between Russia and the West over a suspected chemical attack in Syria. White House's cybersecurity coordinator, Rob Joyce, recently noted, "The alert is not related to the suspected chemical attack in a town in Syria that prompted a US-led military strike over the weekend targetting facilities of the Russian-backed Syrian government". The Kremlin has outrightly denied the allegations. The Russian embassy issued a statement saying that "British accusations of cyber threats from Moscow are striking examples of a reckless, provocative and unfounded policy against Russia". Australia has also joined the US and the UK in blaming Russia for the cyber attacks. This is not the first time when such allegations are levelled against Putin-led Russia. While Moscow continues to rubbish all accusations, the blame-game continues to intensify between Russia and the West.

Watch: US, Britain blame Russia for global cyber attack

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday they had agreed to intensify trade consultations between the two longtime allies, with an aim to expand investment and trade between their countries.

"President Trump and I agreed to start talks for free, fair and reciprocal trade deals," Abe said at a joint news conference with Trump.

Trump reaffirmed his desire at the news conference to address trade imbalances with Japan, saying he preferred one-on-one talks to negotiate a bilateral deal aimed at trimming the US trade deficit.

While the leaders said they had agreed to have top advisers pursue talks, Abe made clear that differences remained in each country's approach.

"On the US side, they are interested in a bilateral deal," Abe told reporters. "Our country's position is that TPP is the best for both of our countries," he added, referring to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal.

The TPP was sought by former Democratic President Barack Obama. Trump abandoned it during his first weeks in office, saying it was not a good deal for the United States.

"I don't want to go back into TPP, but if they offered us a deal that I can't refuse on behalf of the United States, I would do it," Trump said.

"But I like bilateral better. I think it's better for our country. I think it's better for our workers, and I much would prefer a bilateral deal, a deal directly with Japan," he added.

Trump last month imposed a 25 per cent tariff on steel imports and a 10 per cent tariff on aluminium imports that have been in place for about three weeks.

He said the tariffs had brought many countries to the negotiating able and that he may take them off of steel and aluminium imported from Japan if the two countries can come to a trade agreement.

The Trump administration granted temporary tariff exemptions to several other US allies but not Japan. Just after the tariffs took effect, South Korea agreed to a permanent steel exemption in exchange for a new quota that effectively cuts its steel shipments by 30 per cent.

Abe said that Japanese steel and aluminium did not "exert any negative influence" on US security.

"It's our position that the quality of Japanese products is high and many of these products are difficult to be replaced with. They are greatly contributing to US industries and employment," Abe said.

While the leaders said they had agreed to have top advisers pursue talks, Abe made clear that differences remained in each country's approach

US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Wednesday they had agreed to intensify trade consultations between the two longtime allies, with an aim to expand investment and trade between their countries. "President Trump and I agreed to start talks for free, fair and reciprocal trade deals," Abe said at a joint news conference with Trump. Trump reaffirmed his desire at the news conference to address trade imbalances with Japan, saying he preferred one-on-one talks to negotiate a bilateral deal aimed at trimming the US trade deficit. While the leaders said they had agreed to have top advisers pursue talks, Abe made clear that differences remained in each country's approach. "On the US side, they are interested in a bilateral deal," Abe told reporters. "Our country's position is that TPP is the best for both of our countries," he added, referring to the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal. The TPP was sought by former Democratic President Barack Obama. Trump abandoned it during his first weeks in office, saying it was not a good deal for the United States. "I don't want to go back into TPP, but if they offered us a deal that I can't refuse on behalf of the United States, I would do it," Trump said. "But I like bilateral better. I think it's better for our country. I think it's better for our workers, and I much would prefer a bilateral deal, a deal directly with Japan," he added. Trump last month imposed a 25 per cent tariff on steel imports and a 10 per cent tariff on aluminium imports that have been in place for about three weeks. He said the tariffs had brought many countries to the negotiating able and that he may take them off of steel and aluminium imported from Japan if the two countries can come to a trade agreement. The Trump administration granted temporary tariff exemptions to several other US allies but not Japan. Just after the tariffs took effect, South Korea agreed to a permanent steel exemption in exchange for a new quota that effectively cuts its steel shipments by 30 per cent. Abe said that Japanese steel and aluminium did not "exert any negative influence" on US security. "It's our position that the quality of Japanese products is high and many of these products are difficult to be replaced with. They are greatly contributing to US industries and employment," Abe said.

Differences remain as Trump, Japan's Abe agree to intensify trade talks

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