India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes.

The commitment was made by the IBSA member states -- India, Brazil and South Africa, which was attended by the foreign ministers of the respective countries.

"At a time of significant and pressing global challenges, India, Brazil and South Africa acknowledge our common objectives and shared responsibility to help build a peaceful, secure and prosperous world. The right to development and equality of opportunities are critical means to achieve such goals," a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

It noted that there is a need for the reformation of the multilateral system, so as to ensure that it works effectively for all states and its peoples.

"As large democracies and vibrant nations, we believe that people should be placed at the centre of inclusive international governance. We are committed to reforming the multilateral system in order to meet the needs and expectations of our peoples, as well as to respond to increasing global challenges," the statement said.

"We reaffirm our commitment to enhance the voice and representation of emerging and developing economies, especially those in Africa, in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions," it added.

The member countries also said they remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories in the UN Security Council, stressing that it remains a crucial international undertaking.

"The comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) system, including that of the UN Security Council, remains a crucial international undertaking. As we welcome, inter-alia, the cooperation between the United Nations and IBSA countries, as well as with regional organisations and institutions, such as the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), in the promotion of international peace and security, we remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories for achieving a more representative, inclusive and equitable UN Security Council," the statement outlined.

It also said that IBSA member states remained concerned with the slow pace of inter-governmental negotiations on UN Security Council reform, which have not produced tangible progress in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

"With the onset of the 75th anniversary of the UN in 2020, we urge redoubling of efforts to achieve progress on this issue, with a view to an early comprehensive reform of the Security Council," the statement said.

The IBSA members outlined that the reform of the international economic governance architecture, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the international financial institutions, should also be a priority.

"IBSA countries have contributed meaningfully in making the international economic governance architecture more representative and democratic, and will continue to work together to advance an agenda that promotes sustainable development and inclusive growth," the statement said.

"The process of WTO reform must keep development at its core, promote inclusiveness and non-discrimination, build trust and address the inequalities and asymmetries in existing agreements. It should take into account the diversity of interests and concerns of the whole Membership, including developing Members, in particular, LDCs. IBSA countries recognise the central role played by the WTO in promoting the interests of developing countries on issues such as agriculture," it stressed.

The statement noted that strengthening the global financial safety net, with a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced International Monetary Fund (IMF) at its centre, is essential.

The member nations reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to prosecute persons sought for corruption and other economic crimes, including through international organisations and institutions such as the G20, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others.

"We underscore the need for continuing consultations and exchange of views between the IBSA countries in order to build partnerships in multilateral fora," the statement said.

"We commit ourselves to promoting the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation and coordination in all relevant multilateral fora and international organizations including the WTO and groupings of G20, BRICS, BASIC, and G-77," it further noted.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes.

India, Brazil and South Africa on Thursday pledged to promote the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation in all relevant multilateral fora and international organisations and reiterated their commitment to working together to prosecute persons sought for corruption and economic crimes. The commitment was made by the IBSA member states -- India, Brazil and South Africa, which was attended by the foreign ministers of the respective countries. "At a time of significant and pressing global challenges, India, Brazil and South Africa acknowledge our common objectives and shared responsibility to help build a peaceful, secure and prosperous world. The right to development and equality of opportunities are critical means to achieve such goals," a statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. It noted that there is a need for the reformation of the multilateral system, so as to ensure that it works effectively for all states and its peoples. "As large democracies and vibrant nations, we believe that people should be placed at the centre of inclusive international governance. We are committed to reforming the multilateral system in order to meet the needs and expectations of our peoples, as well as to respond to increasing global challenges," the statement said. "We reaffirm our commitment to enhance the voice and representation of emerging and developing economies, especially those in Africa, in the decision-making bodies of multilateral institutions," it added. The member countries also said they remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories in the UN Security Council, stressing that it remains a crucial international undertaking. "The comprehensive reform of the United Nations (UN) system, including that of the UN Security Council, remains a crucial international undertaking. As we welcome, inter-alia, the cooperation between the United Nations and IBSA countries, as well as with regional organisations and institutions, such as the African Union Peace and Security Council (AUPSC), in the promotion of international peace and security, we remain committed to working together for the expansion of membership in both the permanent and non-permanent categories for achieving a more representative, inclusive and equitable UN Security Council," the statement outlined. It also said that IBSA member states remained concerned with the slow pace of inter-governmental negotiations on UN Security Council reform, which have not produced tangible progress in the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). "With the onset of the 75th anniversary of the UN in 2020, we urge redoubling of efforts to achieve progress on this issue, with a view to an early comprehensive reform of the Security Council," the statement said. The IBSA members outlined that the reform of the international economic governance architecture, including the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the international financial institutions, should also be a priority. "IBSA countries have contributed meaningfully in making the international economic governance architecture more representative and democratic, and will continue to work together to advance an agenda that promotes sustainable development and inclusive growth," the statement said. "The process of WTO reform must keep development at its core, promote inclusiveness and non-discrimination, build trust and address the inequalities and asymmetries in existing agreements. It should take into account the diversity of interests and concerns of the whole Membership, including developing Members, in particular, LDCs. IBSA countries recognise the central role played by the WTO in promoting the interests of developing countries on issues such as agriculture," it stressed. The statement noted that strengthening the global financial safety net, with a strong, quota-based, and adequately resourced International Monetary Fund (IMF) at its centre, is essential. The member nations reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to prosecute persons sought for corruption and other economic crimes, including through international organisations and institutions such as the G20, the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others. "We underscore the need for continuing consultations and exchange of views between the IBSA countries in order to build partnerships in multilateral fora," the statement said. "We commit ourselves to promoting the reform of the multilateral system through cooperation and coordination in all relevant multilateral fora and international organizations including the WTO and groupings of G20, BRICS, BASIC, and G-77," it further noted.

India, Brazil, South Africa pledge to work together in prosecuting economic offenders, reforming of multilateral system

Before starting his first address before the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-unga-today-pm-modi-to-lead-from-the-front-252332">United Nations General Assembly </a>on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie.

"Believe me, many more people will see this selfie than will hear this speech," Bukele quipped before delivering his address calling on the United Nations to change with the times and for world leaders to do more to connect with their countries' youth.

The former mayor of the capital, San Salvador, who took office in June, is a prolific user of social media. In his speech, he attributed his election victory to his mastery of platforms like Facebook Live, which he said his political opponents did not fully grasp.

After finishing his speech, Bukele uploaded the photo to Twitter, where it received more than 7,000 likes in less than an hour. The picture showed him smiling in front of the U.N. logo - a map of the world surrounded by olive branches - and Argentine U.N. Ambassador Martin Garcia Moritan, one of several General Assembly vice presidents.

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— Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) <a href="https://twitter.com/nayibbukele/status/1177305252179193862?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Maybe in a few years, thousands of us will not have to travel to New York to meet in this building," Bukele said. "A series of videoconferences would have cost several hundred million dollars less, and I'm sure it would have the same effect, if not greater."

Before starting his first address before the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie.

Before starting his first address before the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday, 38-year-old El Salvador President Nayib Bukele asked the audience to hold on a second, took out his phone, and snapped a selfie. "Believe me, many more people will see this selfie than will hear this speech," Bukele quipped before delivering his address calling on the United Nations to change with the times and for world leaders to do more to connect with their countries' youth. The former mayor of the capital, San Salvador, who took office in June, is a prolific user of social media. In his speech, he attributed his election victory to his mastery of platforms like Facebook Live, which he said his political opponents did not fully grasp. After finishing his speech, Bukele uploaded the photo to Twitter, where it received more than 7,000 likes in less than an hour. The picture showed him smiling in front of the U.N. logo - a map of the world surrounded by olive branches - and Argentine U.N. Ambassador Martin Garcia Moritan, one of several General Assembly vice presidents. #UNSelfie pic.twitter.com/P7qH5p2l04 — Nayib Bukele (@nayibbukele) September 26, 2019 × "Maybe in a few years, thousands of us will not have to travel to New York to meet in this building," Bukele said. "A series of videoconferences would have cost several hundred million dollars less, and I'm sure it would have the same effect, if not greater."

'Just bear with me', El Salvador President Nayib Bukele takes selfie before his first address at UNGA

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/high-drama-at-saarc-meet-as-pakistans-foreign-minister-qureshi-boycotts-jaishankars-statement-252290">Pakistan</a> has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps.

Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistans-bid-to-internationalise-kashmir-fails-world-leans-on-indias-side-252264">rising tensions between India and Pakistan</a>.

"Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a&nbsp;statement.

Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a&nbsp;response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot.

"Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).

"It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added.

On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into <a href="wionews.com/world/pakistan-called-out-by-us-for-staying-mum-over-chinas-treatment-of-muslims-252323">Pakistan</a> to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then,&nbsp;tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.&nbsp;

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan.

Pakistan has invited the permanent members of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and other countries to inspect the terrorist camps. Acting Foreign Secretary Moazzam Ahmad Khan on Thursday briefed Resident Ambassadors of the P5 countries (Permanent Members of the UNSC) about rising tensions between India and Pakistan. "Pakistan is ready to provide full cooperation to delegates from the P5 countries or diplomats from any other country who wish to visit any of the alleged locations to see for themselves that such Indian allegations are totally baseless," said the Foreign Office in a statement. Pakistan's invitation to representatives comes as a response to the Indian Army Chief Bipin Rawat's statement that Islamabad has recently reactivated the terror camp in Balakot. "Let me tell you, Balakot has been reactivated by Pakistan very recently. Obviously, that shows that Balakot was affected and damaged and destroyed. That is why people had got away from there," General Rawat had said while addressing a press conference in Chennai. He was responding to questions on whether there were new terror launch pads in Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). "It highlights that some action had been taken by the Indian Air Force (IAF) at Balakot and now they have got the people back there," Rawat added. On February 27 this year, IAF fighters flew deep into Pakistan to bomb a Jaish-e-Mohammed terror facility at Balakot in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province. The action came after the February 14 suicide bombing in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, which killed over 40 Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel. Since then, tensions between India and Pakistan had escalated. It is not the first time that Pakistan has invited foreign delegates and media to visit Pakistan to provide facts. Even after the IAF's Balakot strike, Pakistan had taken representatives of some Islamabad-based international media houses and foreign diplomats to the area.

Pakistan invites United Nations Security Council permanent members to inspect terror camps

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

The council has 'approved'&nbsp;the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline.

In a notification dated August 15 the UNSC committee pursuant to resolution 1267, 1989, 2253, said, "The Chair has the honor to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the Committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorize certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, Haji Muhammad Ashraf&nbsp;and Zafar Iqbal&nbsp;to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)."

"The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the letter added.

Pakistan in a letter to UN Security Council 1267 Committee has contended that Hafiz Saeed supports a family of four members, as a sole supporter, he is responsible for food, drink and clothes expenses for all family members.

"The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the United Nations presents Its compliments to the Security Council concerning Jamaat Ud Da'wa and associated Individuals, groups, undertakings and entities, and has the honour to notify the committee, pursuant to paragraph 1(a) of security council resolution 1152(2002) and paragraph 81(a) of resolution 2360(2017), that the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has received a request from a Pakistani citizen Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who is listed on the list established and maintained by the committee under permanent reference 001.263," the letter stated.

"His bank account was blocked by the government of Pakistan under compliance with UNSC resolution 1267 requesting an asset freeze exemption to access frozen funds In the amount of Pakistani rupees 011,50,000 to cover the necessary basic living expenses for himself and his family," it added.

This development comes despite Pakistan claims that it is taking stringent actions against terrorist.

In May, Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department had booked Hafiz Saeed and top leaders of JuD under charges of terror financing. The authorities have also arrested Saeed.

However, India, who has always accused Pakistan of supporting and providing safe haven to terrorists, dismissed the recent arrest of Saeed as a mere "drama".&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed.

Pakistan has approached United Nations Security Council (UNSC) with a request to release monthly expenses for 2008 Mumbai attack mastermind and globally designated terrorist Hafiz Saeed. The council has 'approved' the letter after no objections were raised to it within the set deadline. In a notification dated August 15 the UNSC committee pursuant to resolution 1267, 1989, 2253, said, "The Chair has the honor to refer to his draft letter to the Islamic Republic of Pakistan communicating the Committee's decision with respect to the intention of the Pakistani authorities to authorize certain expenditures to the benefit of Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, Haji Muhammad Ashraf and Zafar Iqbal to cover basic expenses, as specified in the note verbale of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan pursuant to paragraph 81 (a) of resolution 2368 (2017)." "The Chair wishes to inform the members that no objections were placed by the set deadline of 15 August 2019 for the consideration of the draft letter. Consequently, the letter is approved and the Chair will instruct the Secretariat to dispatch it," the letter added. Pakistan in a letter to UN Security Council 1267 Committee has contended that Hafiz Saeed supports a family of four members, as a sole supporter, he is responsible for food, drink and clothes expenses for all family members. "The Permanent Mission of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan to the United Nations presents Its compliments to the Security Council concerning Jamaat Ud Da'wa and associated Individuals, groups, undertakings and entities, and has the honour to notify the committee, pursuant to paragraph 1(a) of security council resolution 1152(2002) and paragraph 81(a) of resolution 2360(2017), that the government of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has received a request from a Pakistani citizen Hafiz Muhammad Saeed, who is listed on the list established and maintained by the committee under permanent reference 001.263," the letter stated. "His bank account was blocked by the government of Pakistan under compliance with UNSC resolution 1267 requesting an asset freeze exemption to access frozen funds In the amount of Pakistani rupees 011,50,000 to cover the necessary basic living expenses for himself and his family," it added. This development comes despite Pakistan claims that it is taking stringent actions against terrorist. In May, Pakistan's Counter-Terrorism Department had booked Hafiz Saeed and top leaders of JuD under charges of terror financing. The authorities have also arrested Saeed. However, India, who has always accused Pakistan of supporting and providing safe haven to terrorists, dismissed the recent arrest of Saeed as a mere "drama".

Pak approaches UNSC to allow release of monthly expenses for Hafiz Saeed, committee allows request

At the United Nations, Prime Minister&nbsp;Narendra Modi reiterated his commitment to stop the use of single-use plastic. In a special report, WION's&nbsp;Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay takes a look at the many ways the United Nations aims to avoid plastic use.&nbsp;

Climate change has been at the forefront of India's agenda at the United Nations General Assembly. The Indian prime minister has taken&nbsp;leadership position on the issue. PM Modi has spoken about sustainable development and climate action in India as well and&nbsp;talked about giving up the use of single-use plastic altogether.

When such conversations begin at the United Nations, it is obvious for a tangible change to reverberate through the UN premises. At the media centre of the United Nations, WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay saw what could aptly be called the future of packaged drinking water - no more plastic bottles!

No plastic at UN

"At the United Nations, we didn't see plastic water bottles, we came across boxed water, the package read, "boxed water is better". It is sustainable, thoughtful and pure," Palki Sharma Upadhyay reported from New York. &nbsp;

The second option to plastic water bottles that WION came across was called "Ever &amp; Ever" - drinking water packaged in recyclable aluminum bottles.&nbsp;

Ever and ever...

"Thanks to those who recycle, 75 per cent of all aluminum ever produced is still in use. When used properly and recycled, this water may go on to become wind chimes, a flag pole, a filing cabinet, a pin-tie, and the Ever &amp; Ever once again," as mentioned on the product website.&nbsp;

Plastic waste

As per a report published by an environmental watchdog, WorldWatch, in the year 2015, "Some 299 million tons of plastics were produced in 2013, representing a 4 per cent increase over 2012. Recovery and recycling, however, remain insufficient, and millions of tons of plastics end up in landfills and oceans each year".

"According to the United Nations Environmental Program, between 22 percent and 43 percent of the plastic used worldwide is disposed of in landfills, where its resources are wasted, the material takes up valuable space, and it blights communities," the report stated.&nbsp;

Interestingly, there have been many attempts to thwart the growing human dependence on the world of plastic.&nbsp;

Leaf republic

A German startup called the Leaf Republic creates durable, bio-degradable cutlery from waste leaves. The leaf-based cutlery is free from artificial agents and chemicals. The leaves are procured from wild vines of South America and Asia. A single plate comprises three layers, sewn and put together using palm fibres.&nbsp;

The waterproof leaf-based cutlery is washable can be used again. The plates, when discarded, take around a month to get decomposed completely.

Eat your water!

Ooho, 'edible water bottles' were put on trial in April 2017 in London, UK. Tiny balls of water are, in reality, ice dipped in a mix of algae and calcium chloride. The entire ball of water can be gobbled down as it is, the product is completely digestible.

"The aim of Ooho is to provide the convenience of plastic bottles while limiting the environmental impact," Skipping Rocks Lab.

So, the next time you reach out to plastic water bottles, think of the alternatives you already have available in the market.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At the United Nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his commitment to stop the use of single-use plastic. In a special report, WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay takes a look at the many ways the United Nations aims to avoid plastic use.

At the United Nations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated his commitment to stop the use of single-use plastic. In a special report, WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay takes a look at the many ways the United Nations aims to avoid plastic use. Climate change has been at the forefront of India's agenda at the United Nations General Assembly. The Indian prime minister has taken leadership position on the issue. PM Modi has spoken about sustainable development and climate action in India as well and talked about giving up the use of single-use plastic altogether. When such conversations begin at the United Nations, it is obvious for a tangible change to reverberate through the UN premises. At the media centre of the United Nations, WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay saw what could aptly be called the future of packaged drinking water - no more plastic bottles! No plastic at UN "At the United Nations, we didn't see plastic water bottles, we came across boxed water, the package read, "boxed water is better". It is sustainable, thoughtful and pure," Palki Sharma Upadhyay reported from New York. The second option to plastic water bottles that WION came across was called "Ever & Ever" - drinking water packaged in recyclable aluminum bottles. Ever and ever... "Thanks to those who recycle, 75 per cent of all aluminum ever produced is still in use. When used properly and recycled, this water may go on to become wind chimes, a flag pole, a filing cabinet, a pin-tie, and the Ever & Ever once again," as mentioned on the product website. Plastic waste As per a report published by an environmental watchdog, WorldWatch, in the year 2015, "Some 299 million tons of plastics were produced in 2013, representing a 4 per cent increase over 2012. Recovery and recycling, however, remain insufficient, and millions of tons of plastics end up in landfills and oceans each year". "According to the United Nations Environmental Program, between 22 percent and 43 percent of the plastic used worldwide is disposed of in landfills, where its resources are wasted, the material takes up valuable space, and it blights communities," the report stated. Interestingly, there have been many attempts to thwart the growing human dependence on the world of plastic. Leaf republic A German startup called the Leaf Republic creates durable, bio-degradable cutlery from waste leaves. The leaf-based cutlery is free from artificial agents and chemicals. The leaves are procured from wild vines of South America and Asia. A single plate comprises three layers, sewn and put together using palm fibres. The waterproof leaf-based cutlery is washable can be used again. The plates, when discarded, take around a month to get decomposed completely. Eat your water! Ooho, 'edible water bottles' were put on trial in April 2017 in London, UK. Tiny balls of water are, in reality, ice dipped in a mix of algae and calcium chloride. The entire ball of water can be gobbled down as it is, the product is completely digestible. "The aim of Ooho is to provide the convenience of plastic bottles while limiting the environmental impact," Skipping Rocks Lab. So, the next time you reach out to plastic water bottles, think of the alternatives you already have available in the market.

Watch: At UN, WION explores alternatives to plastic water bottles 

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition."

For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election.

The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning.

But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries.

The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution.

"We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing."

It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday.

Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia.

Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China.

Pressure on Europe

Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly.

It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US"

That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more.

A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement.

Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States.

US President Donald Trump on Wednesday reinforced his support for Venezuelan opposition politician Juan Guaido on Wednesday, praising Latin American leaders who back him, boosting aid funding and barring members of President Nicolas Maduro's government from entering the United States. In a meeting on the sidelines of the annual United Nations gathering of world leaders, Trump told Latin American presidents who recognise Guaido as Venezuela's rightful president that they were part of a "historic coalition." For more than eight months they have been trying to oust Maduro, who has overseen a dramatic economic collapse and is accused of corruption, human rights violations and rigging the 2018 presidential election. The New York meeting was part of the administration's efforts to keep Venezuela "high on the international agenda," a senior US State Department official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said on Monday, pushing back on perceptions that the US commitment to Venezuela was waning. But it was not clear what further options Washington had left. The opposition delegation came to the UN General Assembly in search of a breakthrough in its eight-month power struggle with Maduro, but is more focused on getting the European Union to sanction Maduro officials with assets stashed in European countries. The State Department said it would provide $36 million in humanitarian aid in Venezuela to go toward an underfunded UN program aiming at raising $223 million to serve 2.6 million people. Previous aid efforts within Venezuela have been marked by concerns Maduro would interfere with distribution. "We're giving millions and millions of dollars in aid, not that we want to, from the Maduro standpoint, but we have to," Trump said during a news conference on Wednesday afternoon. "People are dying, they have no food, they (have) no water, they have no nothing." It is also providing Guaido with $52 million to fund his parallel government's operations - much of which was diverted from money previously destined for Central American countries, US Agency for International Development (USAID) director Mark Green said on Wednesday. Venezuela plunged into a deep political crisis in January when Guaido, the leader of the opposition-controlled National Assembly, assumed a rival presidency, arguing Maduro was illegitimate. He has been recognised as president by dozens of countries, including the United States and neighbouring Colombia. Guaido and his Latin American allies are increasingly seeking to portray Maduro as a threat to regional stability to galvanize countries into stepping up the pressure. During his speech to the General Assembly on Wednesday, Colombian President Ivan Duque said he would provide the United Nations with a dossier proving Maduro was harbouring armed Colombian rebels. Venezuelan Foreign Minister Jorge Arreaza, who is expected to address the assembly on Thursday, called Duque's speech "shameful." Maduro calls Guaido a coup-mongering puppet of the United States and retains the support of allies such as Cuba, Russia and China. Pressure on Europe Washington's travel ban applied to government officials with the rank of vice minister or above, military members with a rank of colonel or above, and members of a pro-government legislature called the Constituent Assembly. It also banned anyone who acts "on behalf of or in support of" Maduro and those deriving "financial benefit" from the government, and their immediate family members. US officials have previously said such measures were effective because "these people's wives can't shop in the US" That move was likely to raise even more pressure on Europe. While the EU has sanctioned several individual members of Maduro's government, the opposition, the United States and other Latin American countries have called on it to do more. A group of European and Latin American countries met to discuss Venezuela on the sidelines of the United Nations on Wednesday afternoon, but participants declined to take questions on the way out and did not immediately issue a joint statement. Spanish Foreign Minister Josep Borrell, the incoming top diplomat for the EU, said during the meeting that the "end of Venezuela's crisis should result from a peaceful and negotiated path" leading to free elections, according to an EU statement. The statement did not mention any new European sanctions.

Trump bans Venezuelan officials from US, boosts aid in support of opposition

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries.&nbsp;

Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to&nbsp;climate- change.

&nbsp;The announcement came during the first India-CARICOM summit that took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.&nbsp;

CARICOM is a 15-member Caribbean nations grouping.

"Our countries face the challenge of climate change.. our focus is to increase ties with Caricom countries," PM said during the summit.

Leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, vice-president of Suriname, and foreign ministers of Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Haiti and Guyana were present at the meet.&nbsp;

The development comes a day after India announced $12 million grant to Pacific nations towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice.

India has been reaching out to the Caribbean lately.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, India announced financial assistance of one million dollars to the Bahamas after it was hit by hurricane Dorian.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister has also invited CARICOM countries to join International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.&nbsp;

New Delhi will also set up a Regional Center for Excellence in Information Technology in Georgetown, Guyana and the Regional Vocational Training Center in Belize by upgrading the existing India-funded centres in these countries. 
&nbsp;

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries. Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to climate- change.

India on Wednesday announced $14 million grant for community development projects for Caribbean or CARICOM group of countries. Along with this, New Delhi also announced a $150 million line of credit for solar, renewable energy and projects related to climate- change. The announcement came during the first India-CARICOM summit that took place on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. CARICOM is a 15-member Caribbean nations grouping. "Our countries face the challenge of climate change.. our focus is to increase ties with Caricom countries," PM said during the summit. Leaders of Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Dominica, Jamaica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad and Tobago, vice-president of Suriname, and foreign ministers of Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Haiti and Guyana were present at the meet. The development comes a day after India announced $12 million grant to Pacific nations towards the implementation of development projects in areas of their choice. India has been reaching out to the Caribbean lately. Earlier this month, India announced financial assistance of one million dollars to the Bahamas after it was hit by hurricane Dorian. Indian Prime Minister has also invited CARICOM countries to join International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. New Delhi will also set up a Regional Center for Excellence in Information Technology in Georgetown, Guyana and the Regional Vocational Training Center in Belize by upgrading the existing India-funded centres in these countries.

PM Modi announces $14 million grant for community development projects in CARICOM

Chinese&nbsp;State Councillor and&nbsp;Foreign&nbsp;Minister&nbsp;Wang Yi on Wednesday called on&nbsp;all&nbsp;the relevant parties to enhance their sense of urgency and make&nbsp;all-out&nbsp;efforts&nbsp;to push for a political and diplomatic settlement of the&nbsp;Iranian&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;issue.

Wang made the statement at a meeting with&nbsp;foreign&nbsp;affairs officials from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/europe-to-step-up-diplomatic-efforts-on-iran-crisis-germany-246644">European Union (EU)</a>,&nbsp;Iran, Russia, France, Germany and Britain during the United Nations (UN) General Assembly high-level week.

He said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-addresses-united-nations-in-shadow-of-iran-crisis-domestic-scandal-251626">United States exertion of extreme pressure</a> on&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;has led to the&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;crisis, and leaving the situation unchecked will trigger even a bigger crisis.

In order to properly&nbsp;solve&nbsp;the crisis, Wang said the relevant parties should uphold the fundamental principle of multilateralism.

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), endorsed by the UN&nbsp;Security Council, is an important&nbsp;outcome of multilateral diplomacy, said Wang.

He pointed&nbsp;out&nbsp;that safeguarding the JCPOA, commonly known as the&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;deal, is to uphold multilateralism, the authority of the UN&nbsp;Security Council, and the international order based on international law.

All&nbsp;parties should never waver in their determination in face of challenges and difficulties, he added.

Wang said&nbsp;all&nbsp;parties should continue to honour the commitments of the JCPOA.

Ensuring a balance between rights and obligations prescribed in the JCPOA concerns fairness and justice at the very least.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-us-iran-crisis-brewing-for-a-while-227215">Iran</a>&nbsp;should resume implementing the deal, while other parties should make every effort to safeguard&nbsp;Iran's legitimate economic benefits, Wang pointed&nbsp;out.

China will continue its legitimate economic, trade and energy cooperation with&nbsp;Iran, push ahead with the Arak heavy water reactor renovation project, and support the EU-initiated payment system to facilitate trade with&nbsp;Iran, said Wang.

He called on the relevant parties to stick to the right approach of resolving differences through consultation.

China stands for a solution based on the principle of gradual progress, equality and mutual benefit, said Wang.

Problems related to the implementation of the deal should be&nbsp;solved via the mechanism of the JCPOA Joint Commission, Wang said, adding that China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on&nbsp;Iran.

Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday called on all the relevant parties to enhance their sense of urgency and make all-out efforts to push for a political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue.

Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday called on all the relevant parties to enhance their sense of urgency and make all-out efforts to push for a political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue. Wang made the statement at a meeting with foreign affairs officials from the European Union (EU), Iran, Russia, France, Germany and Britain during the United Nations (UN) General Assembly high-level week. He said that the United States exertion of extreme pressure on Iran has led to the Iran nuclear crisis, and leaving the situation unchecked will trigger even a bigger crisis. In order to properly solve the crisis, Wang said the relevant parties should uphold the fundamental principle of multilateralism. The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), endorsed by the UN Security Council, is an important outcome of multilateral diplomacy, said Wang. He pointed out that safeguarding the JCPOA, commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, is to uphold multilateralism, the authority of the UN Security Council, and the international order based on international law. All parties should never waver in their determination in face of challenges and difficulties, he added. Wang said all parties should continue to honour the commitments of the JCPOA. Ensuring a balance between rights and obligations prescribed in the JCPOA concerns fairness and justice at the very least. Iran should resume implementing the deal, while other parties should make every effort to safeguard Iran's legitimate economic benefits, Wang pointed out. China will continue its legitimate economic, trade and energy cooperation with Iran, push ahead with the Arak heavy water reactor renovation project, and support the EU-initiated payment system to facilitate trade with Iran, said Wang. He called on the relevant parties to stick to the right approach of resolving differences through consultation. China stands for a solution based on the principle of gradual progress, equality and mutual benefit, said Wang. Problems related to the implementation of the deal should be solved via the mechanism of the JCPOA Joint Commission, Wang said, adding that China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on Iran.

Chinese foreign minister calls for international efforts to solve Iran nuclear issue

It has been a week of hectic engagement for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-new-york-pm-modi-tells-american-investors-a-golden-opportunity-awaits-in-india-252042">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> in New York with focus on a solar Park, an address on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the contemporary world inside the United Nations building and being conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award.

While business dominated on Wednesday, Tuesday saw India sending a strong message on climate change with the inauguration of Gandhi solar park on top of the United Nations headquarters in an event that saw the participation of Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern.

PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century.

Watch Video:

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"Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom," PM Modi said.

PM Modi was conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award by the Gates Foundation for his work on sanitation. The PM dedicated the award to "130 crore people of India and the collective endeavors of our nation to improve cleanliness."

"The Gates Foundation honoured me with the Global Goalkeeper Award at a time when the world is marking Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary and when India has made remarkable progress in fulfilling his dream of a Swachh Bharat."

Prime minister also reached out to small Island countries with the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-announces-12-million-for-12-pacific-island-small-states-251970"> India Pacific Island meet</a> and the first&nbsp;India Caribbean summit. He already has had bilateral meetings with 10 global leaders including President Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and expected to have more leaders on Thursday. &nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi will address the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, it will be the second time the Indian prime minister would be addressing&nbsp;the world body since 2014.

It has been a week of hectic engagement for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York with focus on a solar Park, an address on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the contemporary world inside the United Nations building and being conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award.

It has been a week of hectic engagement for Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New York with focus on a solar Park, an address on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the contemporary world inside the United Nations building and being conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award. While business dominated on Wednesday, Tuesday saw India sending a strong message on climate change with the inauguration of Gandhi solar park on top of the United Nations headquarters in an event that saw the participation of Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern. PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century. Watch Video: "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom," PM Modi said. PM Modi was conferred the Global Goalkeeper Award by the Gates Foundation for his work on sanitation. The PM dedicated the award to "130 crore people of India and the collective endeavors of our nation to improve cleanliness." "The Gates Foundation honoured me with the Global Goalkeeper Award at a time when the world is marking Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary and when India has made remarkable progress in fulfilling his dream of a Swachh Bharat." Prime minister also reached out to small Island countries with the India Pacific Island meet and the first India Caribbean summit. He already has had bilateral meetings with 10 global leaders including President Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly and expected to have more leaders on Thursday. Prime Minister Modi will address the United Nations General Assembly on Friday, it will be the second time the Indian prime minister would be addressing the world body since 2014.

PM Modi's hectic schedule at UNGA: Address on Gandhi, UN Solar Park & Global Goalkeeper Award

US hits China on Hong Kong, Uighurs and trade in UN speech

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Iran's demands for US sanctions relief were "unrealistic" as she met separately with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-accuses-china-of-currency-manipulation-theft-of-intellectual-property-in-un-speech-251807">rival nations' presidents</a>.

"I would naturally be happy if there were talks between the United States and Iran," she told reporters at the United Nations.

But she dismissed Iran's demands that the United States lift all its sanctions before any high-level talks can take place.

"I think that that's unrealistic," she said after separate talks with US President<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-addresses-united-nations-in-shadow-of-iran-crisis-domestic-scandal-251626"> Donald Trump</a> and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani.

Trump, addressing the General Assembly, threatened to impose even more sanctions on Iran after it was accused of carrying out an attack on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure.

Watch: Iran's central bank hit with sanctions

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French President Emmanuel Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe are also meeting with both leaders as part of an international push to defuse tensions.

"Now more than ever is the time for negotiations among Iran, the United States, the signatories of the JCPOA and regional powers, centered on the region's security and stability," Macron told the United Nations, referring to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran.

Trump last year bolted from an international accord on Iran's nuclear program and infuriated the clerical regime by unilaterally trying to end all of its oil exports.

 
&nbsp;

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Iran's demands for US sanctions relief were "unrealistic" as she met separately with the rival nations' presidents.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel said Tuesday that Iran's demands for US sanctions relief were "unrealistic" as she met separately with the rival nations' presidents. "I would naturally be happy if there were talks between the United States and Iran," she told reporters at the United Nations. But she dismissed Iran's demands that the United States lift all its sanctions before any high-level talks can take place. "I think that that's unrealistic," she said after separate talks with US President Donald Trump and Iranian President Hassan Rouhani. Trump, addressing the General Assembly, threatened to impose even more sanctions on Iran after it was accused of carrying out an attack on Saudi Arabia's oil infrastructure. Watch: Iran's central bank hit with sanctions × French President Emmanuel Macron and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe are also meeting with both leaders as part of an international push to defuse tensions. "Now more than ever is the time for negotiations among Iran, the United States, the signatories of the JCPOA and regional powers, centered on the region's security and stability," Macron told the United Nations, referring to the 2015 nuclear deal with Iran. Trump last year bolted from an international accord on Iran's nuclear program and infuriated the clerical regime by unilaterally trying to end all of its oil exports.

Gernman chancellor Angela Merkel says Iran's demands on US sanctions 'unrealistic'

In a surprising turn of events, President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-talks-is-over-world-needs-to-act-now-pm-modi-at-un-climate-change-summit-251563">Donald Trump</a> made a brief unscheduled appearance on Monday at the United Nations climate summit, which he had been expected to skip entirely.

Trump, who has repeatedly expressed doubt about the overwhelming scientific consensus on manmade causes of global warming, spent a few minutes in the hall of the General Assembly where he applauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech, then left.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-asks-world-leaders-at-un-251559">Dozens of world leaders were discussing measures</a> to try and slow down ever-more dangerous trends in climate change. Trump, who withdrew the United States from a major international pact on reducing greenhouse gas outputs, did not speak.

Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror: Donald Trump at 'Howdy, Modi' event

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Earlier, opening the summit, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "The climate emergency is a race we are losing, but it is a race we can win."&nbsp;

French President Emmanuel Macron invited his counterparts from Chile, Colombia and Bolivia to a meeting where $500 million in extra funds were pledged by the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, and non-profit Conservation International to protect the world's rainforests.

Fewer than half the 136 heads of government or state in New York this week to attend the UN General Assembly will be present Monday.

In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump made a brief unscheduled appearance on Monday at the United Nations climate summit, which he had been expected to skip entirely.

In a surprising turn of events, President Donald Trump made a brief unscheduled appearance on Monday at the United Nations climate summit, which he had been expected to skip entirely. Trump, who has repeatedly expressed doubt about the overwhelming scientific consensus on manmade causes of global warming, spent a few minutes in the hall of the General Assembly where he applauded Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's speech, then left. Dozens of world leaders were discussing measures to try and slow down ever-more dangerous trends in climate change. Trump, who withdrew the United States from a major international pact on reducing greenhouse gas outputs, did not speak. Watch: Committed to fight radical Islamic terror: Donald Trump at 'Howdy, Modi' event × Earlier, opening the summit, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "The climate emergency is a race we are losing, but it is a race we can win." French President Emmanuel Macron invited his counterparts from Chile, Colombia and Bolivia to a meeting where $500 million in extra funds were pledged by the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank, and non-profit Conservation International to protect the world's rainforests. Fewer than half the 136 heads of government or state in New York this week to attend the UN General Assembly will be present Monday.

President Trump makes unexpected appearance at United Nations climate summit

Climate Activist Greta Thunberg glares at US President at United Nations. Watch video to know more.

Climate Activist Greta Thunberg glares at US President at United Nations

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-strong-message-on-climate-change-pm-modi-to-inaugurate-gandhi-solar-park-251609">Prime Minister Narendra Modi</a> has called for the need to avoid politicisation of UN listings and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), stating that the only way to defeat terror is through development.&nbsp;

Speaking at the United Nations, the prime minister said that terrorists should not be allowed to get funds and arms for this objective to be realised. "We need to avoid the politicisation of mechanisms like the UN listings and the FATF and these mechanisms should be enforced and strengthened," he said. &nbsp;

This is an important development given the fact that Islamabad has been saying that New Delhi is pushing the country to blacklist that will impact the economy.

Sharing India's experience, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-talks-is-over-world-needs-to-act-now-pm-modi-at-un-climate-change-summit-251563">PM said</a>, "democratic values, diversity and inclusive development were the most important weapons against ideologies that promote terrorism, extremism and radicalisation."&nbsp;

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Briefing the media on the meeting led by Jordan and New Zealand, secretary west Gitesh Sarma said, "the PM called for global solidarity and readiness against terrorism in the same way as the world has shown solidarity against challenges like climate change... and terrorist act anywhere should be considered as terrorism and not good or bad terrorism".

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was attending leaders' dialogue to discuss 'strategic responses to terrorist and violent extremist narrative' which took stock of Christchurch's call to eliminate terrorists and violent extremist content online.

India has supported Christchurch's call to sanitize cyberspace from contents that promote terrorism, hate and violence.

PM Modi also called for the need to institutionalise counter-terror cooperation at a multilateral level and help in capacity building of friendly countries in the region.

Interestingly, India was mentioned by French President Emmanuel Macron during his opening speech at the conference. Macron expressed his appreciation for its association for the Christchurch call.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the need to avoid politicisation of UN listings and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), stating that the only way to defeat terror is through development.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has called for the need to avoid politicisation of UN listings and the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), stating that the only way to defeat terror is through development. Speaking at the United Nations, the prime minister said that terrorists should not be allowed to get funds and arms for this objective to be realised. "We need to avoid the politicisation of mechanisms like the UN listings and the FATF and these mechanisms should be enforced and strengthened," he said. This is an important development given the fact that Islamabad has been saying that New Delhi is pushing the country to blacklist that will impact the economy. Sharing India's experience, PM said, "democratic values, diversity and inclusive development were the most important weapons against ideologies that promote terrorism, extremism and radicalisation." × Briefing the media on the meeting led by Jordan and New Zealand, secretary west Gitesh Sarma said, "the PM called for global solidarity and readiness against terrorism in the same way as the world has shown solidarity against challenges like climate change... and terrorist act anywhere should be considered as terrorism and not good or bad terrorism". Prime Minister Narendra Modi was attending leaders' dialogue to discuss 'strategic responses to terrorist and violent extremist narrative' which took stock of Christchurch's call to eliminate terrorists and violent extremist content online. India has supported Christchurch's call to sanitize cyberspace from contents that promote terrorism, hate and violence. PM Modi also called for the need to institutionalise counter-terror cooperation at a multilateral level and help in capacity building of friendly countries in the region. Interestingly, India was mentioned by French President Emmanuel Macron during his opening speech at the conference. Macron expressed his appreciation for its association for the Christchurch call.

India says avoid politicisation of UN listing, FATF during anti-terror meet at United Nations 

United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Henrietta Fore called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly session here on Monday.

During the meeting, the Prime Minister underlined the efforts made by his government to improve the health and nutrition of children in India through several focused initiatives.

"Ms. Henrietta Fore @unicefchief called on PM @narendramodi on the margins of #UNGA. PM underlined the efforts made by the Government towards health and nutrition of children in India through several focused initiatives," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Earlier in the day, Modi held meetings with several world leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Colombian President Ivan Marquez, Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering and Niger President Issoufou Mahamadou on the sidelines of his UN engagements.

Modi, who is currently in the US on a week-long visit, addressed at the UN Climate Action Summit and the high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Henrietta Fore called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly session here on Monday.

United Nations International Children`s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) Executive Director Henrietta Fore called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the 74th UN General Assembly session here on Monday. During the meeting, the Prime Minister underlined the efforts made by his government to improve the health and nutrition of children in India through several focused initiatives. "Ms. Henrietta Fore @unicefchief called on PM @narendramodi on the margins of #UNGA. PM underlined the efforts made by the Government towards health and nutrition of children in India through several focused initiatives," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Earlier in the day, Modi held meetings with several world leaders including German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Colombian President Ivan Marquez, Bhutan Prime Minister Lotay Tshering and Niger President Issoufou Mahamadou on the sidelines of his UN engagements. Modi, who is currently in the US on a week-long visit, addressed at the UN Climate Action Summit and the high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage.

UNICEF executive director calls on PM Modi on UNGA sidelines

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation. Javadekar spoke on a range of issues and stated that India has emerged as a global leader on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-thunders-at-world-leaders-at-united-nations-251573">climate change</a>.

Here's the full transcript of the interview.&nbsp;

WION: The kind of commitment that India has shown on climate change, would it be fair to say that while developed countries kept their side of the bargain, India has emerged as a global leader on climate change?

Javadekar: I think absolutely yes, it has been a stunning performance by India and what a change. Five years ago, we were considered as the backbenchers now we are leading from the front with our actions. India has done remarkably in solar energy program, renewable energy program, the water program, the sanitation program, the clean air program, the clean fuel program, bio-fuel, and many others. Our forest covers, tree covers have increased, in-forest and outside forest also to an extent of 15,000 sq kilometres. So, it's all under Modi ji's dynamic leadership that all these actions are happening in India and we can proudly put before the world.

WION: PM Modi had said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/time-for-talks-is-over-world-needs-to-act-now-pm-modi-at-un-climate-change-summit-251563">time for talking is over</a> and it is the time for the action, that India has come up with a roadmap.

Javadekar: The roadmap is what he laid out today. As far as renewable energy is concerned, as far as bio-fuel is concerned, then making fuel also taking it to the next level and at the same time investing more money, the increase in forest cover, the water mission, the sanitation program, single-use plastic ban call. The prime minister has not called for a ban, he has appealed to the common people to stop using single-use plastic.

That's what the program is about, collecting the uncollected plastic waste, uncollected plastic waste is a problem and that will be addressed through this public movement. We issued a notification in 2016 on plastic waste management, which also has elements on extended producers responsibility and many other factors, so now we have given some time to corporations and municipal bodies and will now be implementing it more strictly after the October 2 program launch by the prime minister.

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WION: On single-use plastic ban, the prime minister said the move does not succeed unless you provide a viable alternative, your thoughts?&nbsp;

Javadekar: The prime minister never talked about banning. To stop using single-use plastic is a public movement, it is a voluntary action. The problem is uncollected plastic waste below 50 microns, the thin bags are a major problem. Because for grocery shops or for buying vegetables also, people use those thin plastic bags. PM Modi says to use a cloth bag instead, it was being used earlier too.

The bottles that get recycled are not a problem. The prime minister wants to change the habit of extra dependence on plastic. Let there be a public movement, let there be regulations to follow and then we can achieve the target of clean India also by addressing the last mile of waste management.

WION: PM Modi also mentioned a global behavioural change. Do you believe that any of these roadmaps with leading economies of the world like us would not follow the actions? Like the US pulling out of the Paris accord and that has dealt a blow to global climate action.

Javadekar: I don't know the records actually but ever since the US pulled out of the Paris accord, today was the first time when US President Donald Trump dropped in a UN meeting on climate and that too to listen to PM Modi.

WION: Does that denote a change of heart?

Javadekar: I don't know, but lets always be hopeful that things will change for the better.

WION: Another point that was raised today was a disaster-resilient infrastructure. At a time when the global economy is under pressure if you talk about meeting emission norms, if you talk about pushing global climate action, it puts immense pressure on emerging economies like India. How do we balance with that?

Javadekar: That is the real issue, therefore the role of finance and technology transfer, seamless technology transfer becomes more important. Because you should not profit from possible disaster or a certain disaster of climate change. So, technologies we can reduce emissions must be available to the world at an affordable cost. That's the point which we are raising. The last two days we were in a meeting for industrial transitions and low carbon path. That's very important.

We need innovations and technologies to be cheaper, technologies to be affordable so that it is a win-win situation where you reduce the emissions and can still manage it effectively without increasing the price and without becoming uncompetitive in the markets.

WION: The prime minister also linked it to the Indian tradition and called it a people's movement. Movements and policies succeed when there is a political push and political will. In recent general elections in India, talks of climate change were in the manifesto but it was not in front of any political parties' manifesto or agenda. Do you think the PM wants climate change as the central point for the political agenda as well?

Javadekar: He is not setting the political agenda, what he is doing is taking India's legacy forward. We have a very good term in our tradition which is 'charachar srishti' which means flora and fauna becomes a family, that is what India's ethos is all about. We care about the environment, our theme is that the environment will give you enough but your greed cannot be fulfilled because we have limited resources - that is the message of the Indian culture. You know that the Bishnoi tribes in Rajasthan sacrificed their lives so that the trees could not be cut, that's a huge thing.

WION: We know that Delhi, during Diwali, will become a gas chamber. Is the government going to do anything about it?

Javadekar: We have already done 5 major things, therefore the good days - as far as clean air is considered - have increased and the number of bad air days has reduced. Point 2.5 and point 10 mg of dust particles have also reduced in the last 5 years because of our concentrated actions. Eastern peripheral expressway was completed by this government and therefore around 60,000 vehicles which use to pass through Delhi are now not coming to Delhi, which used to add great pollution to that extent.

With respect to industrial pollution, there is an effective ban on industries and pollution, 24 hours monitoring, a new technology for bricks cleaning and many measures are in place so that industrial pollution is under check. For dust pollution, we came out with the construction management rule, the construction and waste demolition rule now has new factories also under the purview.

We have already closed the Badarpur power plant and Rajghat power plant. We have already switched to BS-Vi fuel. Vehicles from April 1 will be BS-Vi compliant. Thousands of three-wheeler vehicles are already e-rikshaws. All this has had an impact on air pollution.

Even in stubble burning, there is a reduction of 30 per cent because the central government has invested, state governments have invested, we are offering incentives so that they don't burn and use that for many other uses. So everything is going as per the plan.

In November, yes, there is always a problem because we have windless and rainless winters. These are two naturals things which worsen the air quality, but we have at least accepted that there is a problem, we started AQI, the prime minister launched and we also established hundreds of air quality monitoring stations. We are doing localised experiments also. Everything is resulting favourably as far as Delhi's air pollution is concerned.

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation.

On the sidelines of the UN Climate Summit, Minister of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar spoke to WION's Palki Sharma Upadhyay in an exclusive conversation. Javadekar spoke on a range of issues and stated that India has emerged as a global leader on climate change. Here's the full transcript of the interview. WION: The kind of commitment that India has shown on climate change, would it be fair to say that while developed countries kept their side of the bargain, India has emerged as a global leader on climate change? Javadekar: I think absolutely yes, it has been a stunning performance by India and what a change. Five years ago, we were considered as the backbenchers now we are leading from the front with our actions. India has done remarkably in solar energy program, renewable energy program, the water program, the sanitation program, the clean air program, the clean fuel program, bio-fuel, and many others. Our forest covers, tree covers have increased, in-forest and outside forest also to an extent of 15,000 sq kilometres. So, it's all under Modi ji's dynamic leadership that all these actions are happening in India and we can proudly put before the world. WION: PM Modi had said that the time for talking is over and it is the time for the action, that India has come up with a roadmap. Javadekar: The roadmap is what he laid out today. As far as renewable energy is concerned, as far as bio-fuel is concerned, then making fuel also taking it to the next level and at the same time investing more money, the increase in forest cover, the water mission, the sanitation program, single-use plastic ban call. The prime minister has not called for a ban, he has appealed to the common people to stop using single-use plastic. That's what the program is about, collecting the uncollected plastic waste, uncollected plastic waste is a problem and that will be addressed through this public movement. We issued a notification in 2016 on plastic waste management, which also has elements on extended producers responsibility and many other factors, so now we have given some time to corporations and municipal bodies and will now be implementing it more strictly after the October 2 program launch by the prime minister. × WION: On single-use plastic ban, the prime minister said the move does not succeed unless you provide a viable alternative, your thoughts? Javadekar: The prime minister never talked about banning. To stop using single-use plastic is a public movement, it is a voluntary action. The problem is uncollected plastic waste below 50 microns, the thin bags are a major problem. Because for grocery shops or for buying vegetables also, people use those thin plastic bags. PM Modi says to use a cloth bag instead, it was being used earlier too. The bottles that get recycled are not a problem. The prime minister wants to change the habit of extra dependence on plastic. Let there be a public movement, let there be regulations to follow and then we can achieve the target of clean India also by addressing the last mile of waste management. WION: PM Modi also mentioned a global behavioural change. Do you believe that any of these roadmaps with leading economies of the world like us would not follow the actions? Like the US pulling out of the Paris accord and that has dealt a blow to global climate action. Javadekar: I don't know the records actually but ever since the US pulled out of the Paris accord, today was the first time when US President Donald Trump dropped in a UN meeting on climate and that too to listen to PM Modi. WION: Does that denote a change of heart? Javadekar: I don't know, but lets always be hopeful that things will change for the better. WION: Another point that was raised today was a disaster-resilient infrastructure. At a time when the global economy is under pressure if you talk about meeting emission norms, if you talk about pushing global climate action, it puts immense pressure on emerging economies like India. How do we balance with that? Javadekar: That is the real issue, therefore the role of finance and technology transfer, seamless technology transfer becomes more important. Because you should not profit from possible disaster or a certain disaster of climate change. So, technologies we can reduce emissions must be available to the world at an affordable cost. That's the point which we are raising. The last two days we were in a meeting for industrial transitions and low carbon path. That's very important. We need innovations and technologies to be cheaper, technologies to be affordable so that it is a win-win situation where you reduce the emissions and can still manage it effectively without increasing the price and without becoming uncompetitive in the markets. WION: The prime minister also linked it to the Indian tradition and called it a people's movement. Movements and policies succeed when there is a political push and political will. In recent general elections in India, talks of climate change were in the manifesto but it was not in front of any political parties' manifesto or agenda. Do you think the PM wants climate change as the central point for the political agenda as well? Javadekar: He is not setting the political agenda, what he is doing is taking India's legacy forward. We have a very good term in our tradition which is 'charachar srishti' which means flora and fauna becomes a family, that is what India's ethos is all about. We care about the environment, our theme is that the environment will give you enough but your greed cannot be fulfilled because we have limited resources - that is the message of the Indian culture. You know that the Bishnoi tribes in Rajasthan sacrificed their lives so that the trees could not be cut, that's a huge thing. WION: We know that Delhi, during Diwali, will become a gas chamber. Is the government going to do anything about it? Javadekar: We have already done 5 major things, therefore the good days - as far as clean air is considered - have increased and the number of bad air days has reduced. Point 2.5 and point 10 mg of dust particles have also reduced in the last 5 years because of our concentrated actions. Eastern peripheral expressway was completed by this government and therefore around 60,000 vehicles which use to pass through Delhi are now not coming to Delhi, which used to add great pollution to that extent. With respect to industrial pollution, there is an effective ban on industries and pollution, 24 hours monitoring, a new technology for bricks cleaning and many measures are in place so that industrial pollution is under check. For dust pollution, we came out with the construction management rule, the construction and waste demolition rule now has new factories also under the purview. We have already closed the Badarpur power plant and Rajghat power plant. We have already switched to BS-Vi fuel. Vehicles from April 1 will be BS-Vi compliant. Thousands of three-wheeler vehicles are already e-rikshaws. All this has had an impact on air pollution. Even in stubble burning, there is a reduction of 30 per cent because the central government has invested, state governments have invested, we are offering incentives so that they don't burn and use that for many other uses. So everything is going as per the plan. In November, yes, there is always a problem because we have windless and rainless winters. These are two naturals things which worsen the air quality, but we have at least accepted that there is a problem, we started AQI, the prime minister launched and we also established hundreds of air quality monitoring stations. We are doing localised experiments also. Everything is resulting favourably as far as Delhi's air pollution is concerned.

We're leading from the front on climate change: Prakash Javadekar tells WION

US President Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on China and accused the world's second-largest economy of currency manipulation, and theft of intellectual property.

US President Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on China and accused the world's second-largest economy of currency manipulation, and theft of intellectual property. In a speech at the United Nations General Assembly, Trump said in 2001 China was admitted to the World Trade Organisation in the hope that it would compel the country to liberalise its economy, however, decades later this theory has been proven wrong, he said. ''Not only has China declined to adopt promised reforms, but it has also embraced an economic model dependent on massive market barriers, currency manipulation, product dumping, forced technology transfers and theft of intellectual property,'' he added. Trump further said that US lost 60,000 factories after China entered WTO, and the same is happening to other countries all over the globe. WTO needs a drastic change, he said and added, the second-largest economy in the world shouldn't be allowed to declare itself a developing country to game the system at others' expense. Accusing Iran of ''blood lust'', Trump said sanctions on Iran would be further increased unless it halts its "fanatical" weapons drive and "aggression" in the Middle East. "Hoping to free itself from sanctions, the regime has escalated its violent and unprovoked aggression," Trump told. "As long as Iran's menacing behaviour continues, sanctions will not be lifted -- they will be tightened." Trump also made a fresh attack against the global order, saying that "globalists" would not triumph. "The future does not belong to globalists. The future belongs to patriots," Trump said. "The future belongs to sovereign and independent nations who protect their citizens, respect their neighbours and honour the differences that make each country special and unique," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Trump excoriates China on trade, Iran's 'blood lust' in United Nations speech

Talking about India's climate change policies, PM Narendra Modi said that respect for nature is part of the tradition and need and not greed has been New Delhi's focus. Watch this video to know more.

PM Modi speaks at UN summit on climate change

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan could well cross paths with each other at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Tuesday.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Imran Khan could well cross paths with each other at the United Nations headquarters in New York on Tuesday. As the UN General Assembly session formally opens, at least one occasion could present itself when Modi and Khan would be under the same roof -- an eagerly-awaited optic amid khan's attempt to draw global attention to Jammu and Kashmir following the abrogation of Article 370 which Indian government maintains is an internal matter. That said, while Modi and Khan may chance upon each other at various engagements slated for today, it is speculative at best to assume that the two will confront each other at the United Nations. Both Indian prime minister and his Pakistan counterpart would address the UN general assembly on September 27. Earlier Modi and Khan crossed paths during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Bishkek for the first time following Pulwama terror attack. The informal exchange came in the backdrop of Modi’s strong pitch for a regional and global drive to eliminate terrorism. “The Prime Minister exchanged usual pleasantries with the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan in the Leaders’ Lounge,” said a source then. However, the sources said, the interaction did not amount to a meeting or a “pull-aside” and was just an exchange of pleasantries.

PM Modi, Imran Khan likely to cross paths at United Nations headquarters today 

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-makes-unscheduled-appearance-at-united-nations-climate-summit-251577">Donald Trump</a> will try selling his tough Iran policy in a speech to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-asks-world-leaders-at-un-251559">United Nations</a> on Tuesday, but the bid for international leadership will be overshadowed by the growing political scandal at home.

"We'll be talking about Iran," Trump told reporters about his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York.

Saying his administration had already put "a lot of pressure" on Tehran, he hinted at new measures in the US campaign to end Iran's nuclear technology programs and, more generally, to curb the country's power in the Middle East.

"A lot of things are going to happen," he said. "A lot more than you would know. A lot more than the media knows."

Watch: Modi-Trump joint appearance a sign of strong ties

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For all the tough talk, speculation persisted that Trump might somehow still meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN, something that appeared to have been ruled out in the wake of an attack on oil facilities in US ally Saudi Arabia.

"I never rule anything out," Trump said Monday.

The US president's speech to the UN General Assembly is always one of the highlights of the world body's annual get-together.

But Trump is an awkward fit at an organization designed to collaborate over the planet's problems.

That's all the more so as his 2020 reelection battle intensifies and the former real estate businessman strengthens his nationalist, "America First" message.

Trump, who opposes any attempt to cut carbon emissions, largely snubbed the chief event of the opening day Monday, a summit called by the UN secretary-general on global warming.

Although he did attend, having previously indicated he wouldn't come at all, Trump left after less than 15 minutes and did not speak, before hosting his own conference on religious freedom.

Alleged dirty tricks

Adding to the turmoil around the lightning rod US leader, he faces new threats of impeachment from Democrats over claims that he pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to dig up dirt on his possible 2020 election opponent Joe Biden.

Everywhere Trump went at UN headquarters on Monday, he faced questions from reporters about the controversy.

Trump says he did nothing wrong, although he admits talking to Zelensky about what he says was corruption by Biden's family. 
A meeting scheduled with Zelensky on Wednesday will come under scrutiny.

The mounting furore back in Washington clearly wore on Trump, who is under pressure to release transcripts of his phone calls with the Ukrainian leader.

Trump angrily called journalists "crooked as hell," Biden "corrupt" and claimed that members of his Republican party would get "the electric chair" if they were as bad as he claimed Biden was.

Airing another grudge, he complained about not having been awarded a Nobel peace prize, saying he would have, many times over, "if they give it out fairly."

Economy boasts, worries

What the world is sure to get from Trump's speech is a rundown of his successes with the powerful US economy.

"We'll say the United States is the greatest country in the world. It's never been stronger and it's never been better," he said ahead of the UN bash.

Last year, Trump boasted that he had "accomplished more than almost any administration" in US history. Diplomats laughed.

This time, Trump will have his work cut out justifying his high-stakes trade war with China and reassuring partners.

The two top economic superpowers' exchange of massive tariffs has spooked markets around the world.

Trump insists that his all-or-nothing approach is needed to break decades of unfair trade practices by China. And he says that US tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of Chinese exports have forced Beijing to come to the negotiating table.

"China wants to make a deal. They have a lot of people that don't have jobs now because their supply chain is broken," he said.

US President Donald Trump will try selling his tough Iran policy in a speech to the United Nations on Tuesday, but the bid for international leadership will be overshadowed by the growing political scandal at home.

US President Donald Trump will try selling his tough Iran policy in a speech to the United Nations on Tuesday, but the bid for international leadership will be overshadowed by the growing political scandal at home. "We'll be talking about Iran," Trump told reporters about his speech at the UN General Assembly in New York. Saying his administration had already put "a lot of pressure" on Tehran, he hinted at new measures in the US campaign to end Iran's nuclear technology programs and, more generally, to curb the country's power in the Middle East. "A lot of things are going to happen," he said. "A lot more than you would know. A lot more than the media knows." Watch: Modi-Trump joint appearance a sign of strong ties For all the tough talk, speculation persisted that Trump might somehow still meet with Iranian President Hassan Rouhani at the UN, something that appeared to have been ruled out in the wake of an attack on oil facilities in US ally Saudi Arabia. "I never rule anything out," Trump said Monday. The US president's speech to the UN General Assembly is always one of the highlights of the world body's annual get-together. But Trump is an awkward fit at an organization designed to collaborate over the planet's problems. That's all the more so as his 2020 reelection battle intensifies and the former real estate businessman strengthens his nationalist, "America First" message. Trump, who opposes any attempt to cut carbon emissions, largely snubbed the chief event of the opening day Monday, a summit called by the UN secretary-general on global warming. Although he did attend, having previously indicated he wouldn't come at all, Trump left after less than 15 minutes and did not speak, before hosting his own conference on religious freedom. Alleged dirty tricks Adding to the turmoil around the lightning rod US leader, he faces new threats of impeachment from Democrats over claims that he pressured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to dig up dirt on his possible 2020 election opponent Joe Biden. Everywhere Trump went at UN headquarters on Monday, he faced questions from reporters about the controversy. Trump says he did nothing wrong, although he admits talking to Zelensky about what he says was corruption by Biden's family. A meeting scheduled with Zelensky on Wednesday will come under scrutiny. The mounting furore back in Washington clearly wore on Trump, who is under pressure to release transcripts of his phone calls with the Ukrainian leader. Trump angrily called journalists "crooked as hell," Biden "corrupt" and claimed that members of his Republican party would get "the electric chair" if they were as bad as he claimed Biden was. Airing another grudge, he complained about not having been awarded a Nobel peace prize, saying he would have, many times over, "if they give it out fairly." Economy boasts, worries What the world is sure to get from Trump's speech is a rundown of his successes with the powerful US economy. "We'll say the United States is the greatest country in the world. It's never been stronger and it's never been better," he said ahead of the UN bash. Last year, Trump boasted that he had "accomplished more than almost any administration" in US history. Diplomats laughed. This time, Trump will have his work cut out justifying his high-stakes trade war with China and reassuring partners. The two top economic superpowers' exchange of massive tariffs has spooked markets around the world. Trump insists that his all-or-nothing approach is needed to break decades of unfair trade practices by China. And he says that US tariffs on hundreds of billions of dollars of Chinese exports have forced Beijing to come to the negotiating table. "China wants to make a deal. They have a lot of people that don't have jobs now because their supply chain is broken," he said.

Trump addresses United Nations in shadow of Iran crisis, domestic scandal

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for global solidarity and readiness against terrorism in the same way the world has shown solidarity against challenges like climate change.&nbsp;

"A terrorist attack, anywhere in the world should be considered as terrorism, not good or bad terrorist," PM Modi said while speaking at the '<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-attends-leaderss-dialogue-on-strategic-responses-to-terrorist-violent-extremist-narratives-in-new-york-251613">Leaders' Dialogue on Strategic Responses to Terrorist and Violent Extremist Narratives</a>' at the UN headquarters in New York.

PM Modi also suggested institutionalising counter-terrorism cooperation at the multilateral level and said that terrorists should not be allowed to get funds an arms, Gitesh Sharma, Ministery of External Affairs Secretary informed in a press conference in Delhi.&nbsp;

"For this objective to be realised we need to avoid politicisation of mechanisms like UN listings and Financial Action Task Force," PM Modi said in the conference.

He also called for qualitative upgradation in the ongoing cooperation and intelligence sharing through bilateral and regional frameworks.

Earlier in the day, the PM addressed the high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage and Climate Action Summit.

Watch: Young climate activists keep pressure on world leaders

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At the Climate Action Summit, Modi said that the time for talking is over as he announced plans to increase India's renewable energy capacity to 450 GW from 175 GW and invited countries to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure being launched by India.

Besides the two important summits, the Prime Minister held a flurry of bilateral meetings with several world leaders and reviewed bilateral ties. He also met UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore.

On Tuesday, PM Modi will hold third bilateral meet of this year with US President Donald Trump at the sideline of the United Nations General Assembly.

He is also scheduled to inaugurate the Gandhi Solar Park which is built with India's help on the roof of the United Nations' headquarters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for global solidarity and readiness against terrorism in the same way the world has shown solidarity against challenges like climate change.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday called for global solidarity and readiness against terrorism in the same way the world has shown solidarity against challenges like climate change. "A terrorist attack, anywhere in the world should be considered as terrorism, not good or bad terrorist," PM Modi said while speaking at the 'Leaders' Dialogue on Strategic Responses to Terrorist and Violent Extremist Narratives' at the UN headquarters in New York. PM Modi also suggested institutionalising counter-terrorism cooperation at the multilateral level and said that terrorists should not be allowed to get funds an arms, Gitesh Sharma, Ministery of External Affairs Secretary informed in a press conference in Delhi. "For this objective to be realised we need to avoid politicisation of mechanisms like UN listings and Financial Action Task Force," PM Modi said in the conference. He also called for qualitative upgradation in the ongoing cooperation and intelligence sharing through bilateral and regional frameworks. Earlier in the day, the PM addressed the high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage and Climate Action Summit. Watch: Young climate activists keep pressure on world leaders × At the Climate Action Summit, Modi said that the time for talking is over as he announced plans to increase India's renewable energy capacity to 450 GW from 175 GW and invited countries to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure being launched by India. Besides the two important summits, the Prime Minister held a flurry of bilateral meetings with several world leaders and reviewed bilateral ties. He also met UNICEF Executive Director Henrietta Fore. On Tuesday, PM Modi will hold third bilateral meet of this year with US President Donald Trump at the sideline of the United Nations General Assembly. He is also scheduled to inaugurate the Gandhi Solar Park which is built with India's help on the roof of the United Nations' headquarters.

To disarm terrorists, avoid politicisation of UN listings, FATF: PM Modi in New York

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he could not rule out a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/white-house-does-not-rule-out-trump-rouhani-meeting-after-saudi-attacks-249856"> meeting with Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani</a> at the United Nations this week, but no encounter was yet scheduled.

Speculation has been rife over whether the two leaders would finally meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, with France's Emmanuel Macron trying to broker what would be a historic rendezvous.

The chances of this happening have seemingly diminished in the wake of a dramatic attack on Saudi oil facilities blamed by the United States on Iran, which denies being involved.

"I never rule anything out," Trump told reporters, but added that he had "nothing scheduled at this moment."

Macron is cautiously hopeful for a breakthrough and is seeking to bring the two together, having consulted informally with Trump on Monday, then meeting for more than 90 minutes with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-ready-to-meet-iranian-leader-rouhani-raising-hopes-of-breakthrough-245861">Rouhani</a> that evening.

"The path of de-escalation is narrow but more necessary than ever, and it was time for Iran to take it," Macron told Rouhani in the meeting, according to a statement from the French presidency.

Macron plans to meet the US president again on Tuesday, and told reporters earlier on Monday, "I'll do everything I can so that conditions are created for discussion."

However, Trump responded to his efforts by saying "we don't need a mediator."&nbsp;

The Iranians "know whom to call," he said.

Not Closing the Door

Tehran and Washington have been at loggerheads since May last year when Trump abandoned a 2015 nuclear deal and began reimposing sanctions on Iran in a campaign of "maximum pressure."

Following the Group of Seven summit in France in August, though, Trump spoke openly of his willingness to meet his Iranian counterpart face-to-face, if the conditions were right.

Trump is fond of the optics of high-profile meetings - his summits with North Korea's Kim Jong Un are a testament to that -&nbsp;and a summit would mark a diplomatic coup a year ahead of his re-election bid.

He tempered his enthusiasm, though, after the devastating September 14 attacks on Saudi oil installations that Washington and Riyadh have, to varying degrees, blamed on Tehran.

The attacks heightened tensions and renewed fears of a military escalation in the region.

"Did the chances of a meeting increase with these strikes? No, we have to be clear, we can see that things are getting tense," Macron said Sunday en route to New York.

"The two main players are there," he said, referring to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-on-a-meeting-with-irans-rouhani-anything-is-possible-247640">Rouhani and Trump</a>. "Something can happen", he added.

Diplomats hope a meeting would help de-escalate tensions in the Gulf that have flared since May when the United States ended all waivers in its unilateral sanctions that seek to stop Iran from selling any oil.

Iran has responded by reducing its commitments under the nuclear deal and Trump has deployed military assets to the region.

Europeans urge dialogue

The door to talks appears open, though. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, viewed as a hawk on Iran, has spoken of the need to give diplomacy "every opportunity to succeed" in the wake of the Saudi attacks.

There are signs of goodwill on the Iranian side, too. On the eve of the General Assembly, Iran said a British-flagged oil tanker seized in the Gulf two months ago was free to leave.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who met his French counterpart late Sunday, said that "we are not closing the door for conversation."

"What we're saying is that you need to establish credibility," he told reporters at the United Nations, warning against any meeting becoming simply "a photo opportunity" for Trump.&nbsp;

Macron met German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-prime-minister-boris-johnson-says-iran-behind-attacks-on-saudi-oil-sites-251431">Boris Johnson</a> on Monday afternoon where they agreed with the US that Iran was responsible for the blasts at the Abqaiq and Khurais facilities.

"There is no other plausible explanation," the leaders said in a joint statement.

But the three European countries, which remain part of the nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama and are trying to salvage it -&nbsp;said that the solution was diplomacy.

"We urge Iran to engage in such a dialogue and refrain from further provocation and escalation," they said.

Macron said that if Trump became convinced he could get something from a meeting with Rouhani, he could decide to go ahead at very short notice.

A senior US official said no meeting was planned at this stage, even between lower-level officials.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he could not rule out a meeting with Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani at the United Nations this week, but no encounter was yet scheduled.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he could not rule out a meeting with Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani at the United Nations this week, but no encounter was yet scheduled. Speculation has been rife over whether the two leaders would finally meet on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, with France's Emmanuel Macron trying to broker what would be a historic rendezvous. The chances of this happening have seemingly diminished in the wake of a dramatic attack on Saudi oil facilities blamed by the United States on Iran, which denies being involved. "I never rule anything out," Trump told reporters, but added that he had "nothing scheduled at this moment." Macron is cautiously hopeful for a breakthrough and is seeking to bring the two together, having consulted informally with Trump on Monday, then meeting for more than 90 minutes with Rouhani that evening. "The path of de-escalation is narrow but more necessary than ever, and it was time for Iran to take it," Macron told Rouhani in the meeting, according to a statement from the French presidency. Macron plans to meet the US president again on Tuesday, and told reporters earlier on Monday, "I'll do everything I can so that conditions are created for discussion." However, Trump responded to his efforts by saying "we don't need a mediator." The Iranians "know whom to call," he said. Not Closing the Door Tehran and Washington have been at loggerheads since May last year when Trump abandoned a 2015 nuclear deal and began reimposing sanctions on Iran in a campaign of "maximum pressure." Following the Group of Seven summit in France in August, though, Trump spoke openly of his willingness to meet his Iranian counterpart face-to-face, if the conditions were right. Trump is fond of the optics of high-profile meetings - his summits with North Korea's Kim Jong Un are a testament to that - and a summit would mark a diplomatic coup a year ahead of his re-election bid. He tempered his enthusiasm, though, after the devastating September 14 attacks on Saudi oil installations that Washington and Riyadh have, to varying degrees, blamed on Tehran. The attacks heightened tensions and renewed fears of a military escalation in the region. "Did the chances of a meeting increase with these strikes? No, we have to be clear, we can see that things are getting tense," Macron said Sunday en route to New York. "The two main players are there," he said, referring to Rouhani and Trump. "Something can happen", he added. Diplomats hope a meeting would help de-escalate tensions in the Gulf that have flared since May when the United States ended all waivers in its unilateral sanctions that seek to stop Iran from selling any oil. Iran has responded by reducing its commitments under the nuclear deal and Trump has deployed military assets to the region. Europeans urge dialogue The door to talks appears open, though. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, viewed as a hawk on Iran, has spoken of the need to give diplomacy "every opportunity to succeed" in the wake of the Saudi attacks. There are signs of goodwill on the Iranian side, too. On the eve of the General Assembly, Iran said a British-flagged oil tanker seized in the Gulf two months ago was free to leave. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, who met his French counterpart late Sunday, said that "we are not closing the door for conversation." "What we're saying is that you need to establish credibility," he told reporters at the United Nations, warning against any meeting becoming simply "a photo opportunity" for Trump. Macron met German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Monday afternoon where they agreed with the US that Iran was responsible for the blasts at the Abqaiq and Khurais facilities. "There is no other plausible explanation," the leaders said in a joint statement. But the three European countries, which remain part of the nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama and are trying to salvage it - said that the solution was diplomacy. "We urge Iran to engage in such a dialogue and refrain from further provocation and escalation," they said. Macron said that if Trump became convinced he could get something from a meeting with Rouhani, he could decide to go ahead at very short notice. A senior US official said no meeting was planned at this stage, even between lower-level officials.

Donald Trump says Rouhani meeting not scheduled as speculation swirls

In a strong message on action on climate change, Prime minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Gandhi Solar Park, built with India's help on the roof of the United Nations.

In a strong message on action on climate change, Prime minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the Gandhi Solar Park, built with India's help on the roof of the United Nations. He will be joined by five world leaders, South Korea President Moon Jae In, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness, Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern and United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres. The event will take place at the United Nations Economic and Social Council Chamber where leaders will address under the theme "Relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the contemporary world". Syed Akbaruddin, India's envoy to United Nations said, "Gandhi Ji is known, as a votary and prophet of non-violence and his views known worldwide but there is less knowledge on how he was focused on sustainability, environment, clean energy and simplicity in life. All these are reflected in solar energy and that is why we chose the solar park. Since it will be a tribute to Gandhiji on his 150 birth anniversary we have in consultation with UN-designated it as Gandhi solar park ". Watch: Discussion on 'Brand Modi & An Enthused Diaspora' × There are 193 solar panels, each representing, a member country of the United Nations and the annual output from each panel is 86244 kWh/year, which is equal to CO2 emissions from 30,246 kg of coal burned. This equals to the carbon sequestered from 1008 tree seedlings grown for 10-years. United Nations will also release special UN postage stamp commemorating 150 birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and remotely inaugurate Gandhi Peace Park. Earlier on Monday, prime minister Narendra Modi's first engagement at the United Nations was at Climate Action Summit during which he called for a global movement to bring about change saying "time for talks is over, the world needs to act now". He said, "What is needed today, is a comprehensive approach which covers everything from education to values, and from lifestyle to developmental philosophy. What we need is a global people’s movement to bring about behavioural change." India aims to increase its share of non-fossil fuel, and by 2022 plans to increase renewable energy capacity to much beyond 175 GW, and later till 450 GW. In addition, India is also providing clean cooking gas to 150 million families. Almost 80 countries have joined India lead International Solar Alliance campaign.

In strong message on climate change, PM Modi to inaugurate Gandhi Solar Park

The US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will sit down for third bilateral meet this year in New York on Tuesday. Both leaders met first on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, this year; which was followed by the meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France.

The US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi will sit down for third bilateral meet this year in New York on Tuesday. Both leaders met first on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Osaka, Japan, this year; which was followed by the meet on the sidelines of the G7 summit in France. Now, both leaders will meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meet comes within the 48-hours of both sharing the stage in Houston during the largest Indian American diaspora meet on Sunday. During the mega event on Sunday, both leaders endorsed each other. Using Trump's slogan "make America great again", PM said that the US President has achieved much for the United States; and India has connected well with President Trump. He the vouched for Trump ahead of 2020 presidential polls, saying "abki baar, Tump sarkar". Trump meanwhile, called PM Modi as "one of Americas most devoted and most loyal friend" who is "doing a truly exceptional job for India and all of the Indian people" The event made headlines in all major American newspapers from The New York Times to The Wall Street Journal and to The Washington Post. Pictures of both leaders were on the front pages of American dailies, on the first day of high decibel diplomatic week that started at the United Nations. The Modi-Trump meet comes a day after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan met US President Donald Trump in New York and in a big snub said both any mediation by Washington will require approval from both India and Pakistan. US President Donald Trump said, "I have a very good relationship with Prime minister Modi, I have very good relations with Prime Minister Khan. And if at any point they say they can iron out, I will be the extremely good arbitrator. I have never failed as an arbitrator...but you want accent from the other side". India has made it clear that when it comes to India and Pakistan ties, no third party mediation is required which has been stated under the Shimla and Lahore agreements.

PM Modi, Trump to sit down for third bilateral meet of this year on Tuesday

Who said what at United Nations climate summit

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-how-dare-you-greta-thunberg-thunders-at-world-leaders-at-united-nations-251573">Greta Thunberg and 15 other</a> young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming.

The complaint accused Germany, France, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey of failing to uphold their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed 30 years ago.

The complaint, filed by the 16-year-old Swedish activist and 15 other petitioners from 12 different countries and aged between eight and 17, accused the five countries of violating children's rights by failing to take adequate and timely action against climate change.

It was filed after Thunberg delivered a searing attack on world leaders for their slow response to climate change at a special session kicking off the UN General Assembly in New York.

Every member of the United Nations except the United States has ratified the convention to protect the health and rights of children.&nbsp;

Monday's complaint focuses on a little-known "optional protocol" that came into effect in 2014 that allows children to file a complaint to the Committee on the Rights of the Child if they feel their rights are being denied. &nbsp;

The committee is then meant to investigate the charges before making recommendations to the countries concerned on how they can fix the issue.&nbsp;

The 16 young people were backed by the legal firm Hausfeld LLP and Earthjustice, an environmental law group.

Lawyer Michael Hausfeld said that while the committee's recommendations are not legally binding, the 44 countries that ratified the protocol pledged to respect them. He said he hoped the recommendations would be made in the coming 12 months.

The five countries named in the complaint are among the 44 that ratified the protocol and are also among the top global polluters, as well as being members of the G20 group of leading global economies.&nbsp;

The largest polluters in the world - the United States, China and India - did not ratify the protocol.

Countries like France and Germany may have recently begun working to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, but have also played a large role historically in polluting the atmosphere, the law firm argued.

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, Greta Thunberg and 15 other young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming.

After global street protests demanding action on climate change, Greta Thunberg and 15 other young activists on Monday filed a complaint at the UN against five countries for not doing enough to ward off global warming. The complaint accused Germany, France, Brazil, Argentina and Turkey of failing to uphold their obligations under the Convention on the Rights of the Child, signed 30 years ago. The complaint, filed by the 16-year-old Swedish activist and 15 other petitioners from 12 different countries and aged between eight and 17, accused the five countries of violating children's rights by failing to take adequate and timely action against climate change. It was filed after Thunberg delivered a searing attack on world leaders for their slow response to climate change at a special session kicking off the UN General Assembly in New York. Every member of the United Nations except the United States has ratified the convention to protect the health and rights of children. Monday's complaint focuses on a little-known "optional protocol" that came into effect in 2014 that allows children to file a complaint to the Committee on the Rights of the Child if they feel their rights are being denied. The committee is then meant to investigate the charges before making recommendations to the countries concerned on how they can fix the issue. The 16 young people were backed by the legal firm Hausfeld LLP and Earthjustice, an environmental law group. Lawyer Michael Hausfeld said that while the committee's recommendations are not legally binding, the 44 countries that ratified the protocol pledged to respect them. He said he hoped the recommendations would be made in the coming 12 months. The five countries named in the complaint are among the 44 that ratified the protocol and are also among the top global polluters, as well as being members of the G20 group of leading global economies. The largest polluters in the world - the United States, China and India - did not ratify the protocol. Countries like France and Germany may have recently begun working to tackle greenhouse gas emissions, but have also played a large role historically in polluting the atmosphere, the law firm argued.

After protests at climate change summit, Greta Thunberg, others file UN complaint against five countries

The UN Secretary-General will convene a Climate Summit on Monday, and the UNGA will hold a one-day high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). After opening the 74th General Debate, the UNGA will meet to discuss Sustainable Development on September 24.

Around 200 leaders will meet at United Nations General Assembly in New York&nbsp;to discuss diplomatic issues of global value including climate change, the volatile situation in the Middle East, and trade tussles. These include six summits, 360 side events, and 50 meetings on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-climate-change-protest-in-150-countries-250860">climate change</a> alone.&nbsp;

On September 26, the UNGA will hold a high-level dialogue on Financing for Development (FfD), as well as a high-level meeting on the elimination of nuclear weapons. This will be followed by a review of the progress made in addressing the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on September 27.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, alongside Brazilian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/bolsonaro-may-not-be-the-real-culprit-of-the-amazon-fire-246177">Jair&nbsp;Bolsonaro</a> is expected to skip the Climate Change Summit, while those attending include German Chancellor Angela Merkel who will skip the rest of the events, and French President Emmanuel Macron.

Many prominent leaders are skipping the UNGA altogether. These include President Xi Jinping of China, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, alongside Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel. Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela is not expected to show either, for he is regarded as an illegitimate leader by over 50 governments, including the US. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will also not attend any events.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also be present at UNGA.

Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the UK, is expected to present his case to Donald Tusk, the European Council President. Even though Climate Change is one of the key topics to be discussed, the UK's discourse will still largely revolve around Brexit. Additionally, he will be a part of joint discussions with Emmanuel Macron of France and Germany’s Angela Merkel, and a meeting with Ireland’s Leo Varadkar.

The Pakistani Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-arrives-in-us-ahead-of-74th-session-of-unga-251133">Imran Khan</a> will speak at the Climate Summit today.

The US and Saudi Arabia are expected to make their case against Iran. Even though Trump was supposed to meet President Hassan Rouhani of Iran, the September 14 attacks on Saudi oil facilities have dwindled the chances of this meeting.

The United States and its ally Saudi Arabia blame Iran for the attack on the world's biggest crude oil processing facility and have said they will present evidence to back that up. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been fighting a Saudi-led military coalition since 2015, has claimed responsibility.

Rouhani is expected to put forward his case against Trump on Wednesday. Iran would present to the UN a regional cooperation plan for peace called 'The Gulf Security Plan.&nbsp; 
 
Additionally, with climate change at the forefront of UN discussions, more than 60 leaders of states are expected to speak at the Climate Action Summit.

The UN Secretary-General will convene a Climate Summit on Monday, and the UNGA will hold a one-day high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). After opening the 74th General Debate, the UNGA will meet to discuss Sustainable Development on September 24.

The UN Secretary-General will convene a Climate Summit on Monday, and the UNGA will hold a one-day high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage (UHC). After opening the 74th General Debate, the UNGA will meet to discuss Sustainable Development on September 24. Around 200 leaders will meet at United Nations General Assembly in New York to discuss diplomatic issues of global value including climate change, the volatile situation in the Middle East, and trade tussles. These include six summits, 360 side events, and 50 meetings on climate change alone. On September 26, the UNGA will hold a high-level dialogue on Financing for Development (FfD), as well as a high-level meeting on the elimination of nuclear weapons. This will be followed by a review of the progress made in addressing the priorities of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) on September 27. US President Donald Trump, alongside Brazilian Prime Minister Jair Bolsonaro is expected to skip the Climate Change Summit, while those attending include German Chancellor Angela Merkel who will skip the rest of the events, and French President Emmanuel Macron. Many prominent leaders are skipping the UNGA altogether. These include President Xi Jinping of China, President Vladimir V. Putin of Russia, alongside Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel. Nicolas Maduro, the President of Venezuela is not expected to show either, for he is regarded as an illegitimate leader by over 50 governments, including the US. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will also not attend any events. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will also be present at UNGA. Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister of the UK, is expected to present his case to Donald Tusk, the European Council President. Even though Climate Change is one of the key topics to be discussed, the UK's discourse will still largely revolve around Brexit. Additionally, he will be a part of joint discussions with Emmanuel Macron of France and Germany’s Angela Merkel, and a meeting with Ireland’s Leo Varadkar. The Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan will speak at the Climate Summit today. The US and Saudi Arabia are expected to make their case against Iran. Even though Trump was supposed to meet President Hassan Rouhani of Iran, the September 14 attacks on Saudi oil facilities have dwindled the chances of this meeting. The United States and its ally Saudi Arabia blame Iran for the attack on the world's biggest crude oil processing facility and have said they will present evidence to back that up. Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi group, which has been fighting a Saudi-led military coalition since 2015, has claimed responsibility. Rouhani is expected to put forward his case against Trump on Wednesday. Iran would present to the UN a regional cooperation plan for peace called 'The Gulf Security Plan. Additionally, with climate change at the forefront of UN discussions, more than 60 leaders of states are expected to speak at the Climate Action Summit.

UN General Assembly 2019: What to expect at the 74th session this week

The United States will co-host an event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on China's treatment of Muslim minorities including ethnic Uighurs, the US State Department said in a statement on Monday.

The United States will co-host an event on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on China's treatment of Muslim minorities including ethnic Uighurs, the US State Department said in a statement on Monday. The event on Tuesday will be hosted by US Deputy Secretary of State John Sullivan and will feature personal stories of victims, the statement said. It did not identify other hosts. "China’s repression campaign includes, among other abuses, the mass detention of more than one million individuals in internment camps since April 2017," the State Department said. UN experts and activists say at least 1 million Uighurs and members of other largely Muslim minority groups have been detained in camps in the remote Xinjiang region. Beijing describes complexes in Xinjiang as "vocational training centres" helping to stamp out extremism and give people new skills. Washington has been weighing how to confront China on the issue at the annual gathering of world leaders in New York this week. On Sunday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo urged all countries in the world to resist China's demands to repatriate Uighurs. Pompeo said Beijing's campaign in the western Chinese region of Xinjiang was an "attempt to erase its own citizens." Pompeo and US Vice President Mike Pence could also address China's treatment of the Uighurs at events this week, but a final decision on any US remarks "is expected to hinge on how the trade issue is going," an administration official said last week. China and the United States are fighting a trade war and are set to resume trade talks in October.

US to co-host event at United Nations on China's treatment of Uighurs

A visibly angry Greta Thunberg berated world leaders as she addressed a UN climate summit on Monday, accusing them of betraying her generation by failing to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and asking "How dare you?

A visibly angry Greta Thunberg berated world leaders as she addressed a UN climate summit on Monday, accusing them of betraying her generation by failing to tackle greenhouse gas emissions and asking "How dare you?" The Swedish teen, who has become the global face of the growing youth movement against climate inaction, began by telling her audience: "My message is that we'll be watching you," eliciting laughter. But it was soon clear that the tone of the message would be very serious. "This is all wrong. I shouldn't be up here. I should be back at school on the other side of the ocean," the 16-year-old, who is taking a year off from her studies, said. "You come to us young people for hope. How dare you?" she thundered. "You have stolen my dreams and my childhood with your empty words, yet I'm one of the lucky ones. People are suffering, people are dying, entire ecosystems are collapsing. "We are in the beginning of a mass extinction, and all you can talk about is the money and fairy tales of eternal economic growth. How dare you!" She added that in her talks with leaders, she had been told that the youth were being heard and the urgency was understood. "But no matter how sad and angry I am, I do not want to believe that, because if you really understood the situation and still kept on failing to act, then you would be evil, and that I refuse to believe." Thunberg, who often appears uncomfortable in the limelight and is seen as a reluctant leader, then detailed the various targets that were being missed, heightening the risk of "irreversible chain reactions beyond human control." She also took aim at the summit called by Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to ask countries to expand their commitments saying: "There will not be any solutions or plans presented in line with these figures here today because these numbers are too uncomfortable, and you are still not mature enough to tell it like it is." "You are failing us," she concluded. "But the young people are starting to understand your betrayal. "The eyes of all future generations, are upon you, And if you choose to fail us. I say, we will never forgive you!"

How dare you, Greta Thunberg thunders at world leaders at United Nations

Indian envoy to United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York ahead of UN General Assembly (UNGA) high-level meeting next week.

Indian envoy to United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin spoke exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York ahead of UN General Assembly (UNGA) high-level meeting next week. During the conversation, the Indian envoy said India is looking for action-oriented, tangible outcomes to the challenges faced by the global community. He also extensively spoke about India's climate strategy and the Gandhi solar park built on the UN roof by Indian government's grant. WION: Tell us about the Gandhi Solar park built with India's help on the roof of the United Nations? Syed Akbaruddin: The United Nations is now focused on climate action. The summit that is being called by the UN Secretary-General is focused on tangible concrete climate action. So when we looked at our participation in this summit, we looked at how we can contribute to the UN and its goals. We also looked at our own traditions. Ours is a tradition that revers the sun god. We also believe that the sun not only the source of energy but a source of very life itself. This goes back to millennia in our tradition. For all these things we chose, a solar park because it will symbolise in a very tangible and manifest way, the link between India's civilisational heritage as well as our future vision. Gandhi Ji is known, as a votary and prophet of non-violence and his views on those issues are well known but less is known, how he was focused on sustainability, environment, clean energy and simplicity in life. all these are reflected in solar energy and that is why we choose the solar park and since it will be a tribute to Gandhiji on his 150 birth anniversary; we have in consultation with UN-designated it as Gandhi solar park. We hope PM Modi will be joined by UN Secretary-General and other leaders on 24 September. WION: How is India shaping the global discourse on Climate Change? Syed Akbaruddin: You have to understand, one-sixth of the world community is in India, and whatever we do will impact globally. Our Prime Minister is committed to a way of life which is in harmony with nature. His view is, for generations Indians have lived in harmony with nature and therefore they should continue that lifestyle which has sustained us for all our known history. And that is our effort. In terms of climate change, we have committed ourself to a path which is sustainable and which has components of renewable energy, and that is why we have increased our commitments under the Paris accord more than 4 years ahead of schedule. We have the ambition, the vision to keep pushing for a sustainable renewable path for development. WION: India is sending a strong message with the establishment of the solar park. How will this message echo when PM Modi speaks at a climate summit? Syed Akbaruddin: We are grateful that the United Nations has given PM Modi pride of place in terms of speakers. His vision about how India intends to take forward a renewable and sustainable path towards development will find echos because we are a developing country, because we are a country which is committed to sustainable lifestyle and world is looking at us to be a pathfinder and to be a facilitator to what is increasingly a major a concern globally that unless we act, man-made climate change will overwhelm all of us. WION: You must be talking to your counterparts. What have they been saying about India's role? Syed Akbaruddin: You will notice that we have engagement with a large array of developing countries. Many of them are members of the international solar alliance, so unprecedented effort and outreach PM Modi will be meeting numerous leaders. This is a first for us, this is a unique way of engagement and you will see tangible outcomes next week when meetings take place. I don't want to preempt those outcomes. All I can tell you, India is looking towards action-oriented, tangible outcomes to challenges the international community is facing.

Looking towards action-oriented, tangible outcomes: Indian Envoy on UNGA week

Average global temperature between 2015-2019 is on track to be the hottest of any five-year period on record, a UN report by the world’s leading climate agencies said Sunday.

"It is currently estimated to be 1.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial (1850-1900) times and 0.2 degrees Celsius warmer than 2011-2015," said the report titled United in Science, a synthesis of key findings.

Other major takeaways from the report include that the extent of Arctic summer sea ice has declined at a rate of 12 per cent per decade over the past 40 years, with the four lowest values between 2015 and 2019.

Overall, the amount of ice lost from the Antarctic ice sheet increased by a factor of six each year between 1979 and 2017, while glacier loss for 2015-19 is also the highest for any five-year period on record.

The report comes ahead of a major UN climate summit Monday that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called to ask countries to raise their greenhouse gas reduction targets.

On this metric, too, the world is failing. The report found that rather than falling, carbon dioxide grew two percent in 2018, reaching a record high of 37 billion tonnes.

More importantly, there is also no sign yet of reaching what is known as "peak emissions," the point at which levels will start to fall, though these are not growing at the same rate as the global economy.

Average global temperature between 2015-2019 is on track to be the hottest of any five-year period on record, a UN report by the world’s leading climate agencies said Sunday.

Average global temperature between 2015-2019 is on track to be the hottest of any five-year period on record, a UN report by the world’s leading climate agencies said Sunday. "It is currently estimated to be 1.1 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial (1850-1900) times and 0.2 degrees Celsius warmer than 2011-2015," said the report titled United in Science, a synthesis of key findings. Other major takeaways from the report include that the extent of Arctic summer sea ice has declined at a rate of 12 per cent per decade over the past 40 years, with the four lowest values between 2015 and 2019. Overall, the amount of ice lost from the Antarctic ice sheet increased by a factor of six each year between 1979 and 2017, while glacier loss for 2015-19 is also the highest for any five-year period on record. The report comes ahead of a major UN climate summit Monday that Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called to ask countries to raise their greenhouse gas reduction targets. On this metric, too, the world is failing. The report found that rather than falling, carbon dioxide grew two percent in 2018, reaching a record high of 37 billion tonnes. More importantly, there is also no sign yet of reaching what is known as "peak emissions," the point at which levels will start to fall, though these are not growing at the same rate as the global economy.

Five-year period ending 2019 set to be hottest on record: United Nations

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