<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/42-injured-after-a-powerful-blast-in-japans-restaurant-184627">Japan will accelerate </a>spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally.

"The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday.

The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said.

China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes.

Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two.

MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS

Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday.

The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea.

The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea.

"Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement.

The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said.

The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters.

TRADE WAR THREAT

The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States.

US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month.

Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes.

Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion&nbsp;on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said.

Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries.

"The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month.

Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space.

The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned.

Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said.

Japan will accelerate spending on advanced stealth fighters, long-range missiles and other equipment over the next five years to support US forces facing China's military in the Western Pacific, two new government defence papers said. The plans are the clearest indication yet of Japan's ambition to become a regional power as a military build-up by China and a resurgent Russia puts pressure on its US ally. "The United States remains the world's most powerful nation, but national rivalries are surfacing and we recognise the importance of the strategic competition with both China and Russia as they challenge the regional order," said a 10-year defence programme outline approved by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's government on Tuesday. The United States, followed by China, North Korea and Russia, are the countries that most influenced Japan's latest military thinking, the paper said. China, the world's second-biggest economy, is deploying more ships and aircraft to patrol waters near Japan, while North Korea has yet to fulfil a pledge to dismantle its nuclear and missile programmes. Russia, which continues to probe Japanese air defences, said on Monday it had built new barracks for troops on a northern island it captured from Japan at the end of World War Two. MORE STEALTH FIGHTERS Japan plans to buy 45 Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealth fighters, worth about $4 billion, in addition to the 42 jets already on order, according to a separate five-year procurement plan approved on Tuesday. The new planes will include 18 short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) B variants of the F-35 that planners want to deploy on Japanese islands along the edge of the East China Sea. The islands are part of a chain stretching past Taiwan and down to the Philippines that has marked the limit of Chinese military dominance east of the disputed South China Sea. "Japan's decision to acquire more F-35s is a testament to the aircraft's transformational capability and its increasing role in promoting regional stability and enhancing the US-Japan security alliance," Lockheed Martin said in a statement. The navy's two large helicopter carriers, the Izumo and Kaga, will be modified for F-35B operations, the paper said. The 248-metre (814 ft) long Izumo-class ships are as big as any of Japan's aircraft carriers in World War Two. They will need reinforced decks to withstand the heat blast from F-35 engines and could be fitted with ramps to aid short take-offs, two defence ministry officials told Reuters. TRADE WAR THREAT The new F-35 order may also help Japan avert a trade war with the United States. US President Donald Trump, who has threatened to impose tariffs on Japanese car imports, thanked Abe for buying the F-35s when the two met at a summit in Argentina this month. Other US-made equipment on Japan's shopping list includes two land-based Aegis Ashore air defence radars to defend against North Korean missiles, four Boeing Co KC-46 Pegasus refuelling planes to extend the range of Japanese aircraft, and nine Northrop Grumman E-2 Hawkeye early-warning planes. Japan plans to spend $224.7 billion on military equipment over the next five years, 6.4 per cent higher than the previous five-year plan. Cost-cutting will free up another 2 trillion yen for purchases, the procurement paper said. Japan only spends about 1 per cent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defence, but the size of its economy means it already has one of the world's largest militaries. "The budget is increasing and there has been an acceleration to deploy capability as soon as possible," Robert Morrissey, head of Raytheon Co's unit in Japan, said this month. Wary of North Korean promises to abandon ballistic missile development, Japan's military is buying longer-range Raytheon SM-3 interceptor missiles to strike enemy warheads in space. The defence papers assessed non-traditional military threats as well. A new joint-forces cyber unit will bolster Japan's defences against cyber attacks. More electronic warfare capabilities are planned. Japan's air force will also get its first space unit to help keep tabs on potential adversaries high above the Earth's atmosphere.

Japan aims to buy more stealth jets, radar to support US in western Pacific

German trade union Verdi called on workers at two <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-targets-airports-for-checkout-free-store-expansion-182339">Amazon logistic centres</a> to strike on Monday, part of a long-running campaign for better pay and conditions.

Verdi has organized frequent strikes at Amazon in Germany since 2013 to press demands for the retailer to raise pay for warehouse workers in accordance with collective bargaining agreements in Germany's mail order and retail industry.

Amazon has repeatedly rejected Verdi's demands, saying it believes warehouse staff should be paid in line with competitors in the logistics sector, not as retail staff. Germany is Amazon's second-biggest market after the United States.

Workers in Germany and Spain staged strikes last month on Black Friday, the discount spending spree that kicks off the start of the crucial Christmas shopping season, but Amazon said there was no impact on customer orders.

On Monday, Verdi called on workers to strike at a warehouse in Werne in the west of the country until Tuesday, while it said the protest should continue until Christmas at the Amazon warehouse in the eastern city of Leipzig.

A spokesman said it was possible that workers might also take action at other Amazon locations.

"We have repeatedly given Amazon more time to react to our demands," said Verdi representative Thomas Schneider, saying it was a "provocation" that Amazon refused to negotiate.

"We will see whether their promises to customers to delivery parcels punctually by Christmas Eve can be met."

German trade union Verdi called on workers at two Amazon logistic centres to strike on Monday, part of a long-running campaign for better pay and conditions. Verdi has organized frequent strikes at Amazon in Germany since 2013 to press demands for the retailer to raise pay for warehouse workers in accordance with collective bargaining agreements in Germany's mail order and retail industry.

German trade union Verdi called on workers at two Amazon logistic centres to strike on Monday, part of a long-running campaign for better pay and conditions. Verdi has organized frequent strikes at Amazon in Germany since 2013 to press demands for the retailer to raise pay for warehouse workers in accordance with collective bargaining agreements in Germany's mail order and retail industry. Amazon has repeatedly rejected Verdi's demands, saying it believes warehouse staff should be paid in line with competitors in the logistics sector, not as retail staff. Germany is Amazon's second-biggest market after the United States. Workers in Germany and Spain staged strikes last month on Black Friday, the discount spending spree that kicks off the start of the crucial Christmas shopping season, but Amazon said there was no impact on customer orders. On Monday, Verdi called on workers to strike at a warehouse in Werne in the west of the country until Tuesday, while it said the protest should continue until Christmas at the Amazon warehouse in the eastern city of Leipzig. A spokesman said it was possible that workers might also take action at other Amazon locations. "We have repeatedly given Amazon more time to react to our demands," said Verdi representative Thomas Schneider, saying it was a "provocation" that Amazon refused to negotiate. "We will see whether their promises to customers to delivery parcels punctually by Christmas Eve can be met."

German union calls strike at Amazon warehouses

An ex-business partner of former US national security adviser <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-special-counsel-mueller-recommends-no-jail-time-for-michael-flynn-181551">Michael Flynn</a> and a businessman with ties to Turkish government officials have been charged with undisclosed lobbying aimed at the extradition of a Muslim cleric living in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/standoff-over-trump-wall-leaves-us-govt-5-days-away-from-shutdown-184833">United States</a>.

Flynn's former partner, Bijan Rafiekian, was indicted on two criminal counts, including conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government, according to a grand jury indictment unsealed on Monday in the Eastern District of Virginia.

Ekim Alptekin, a Turkish-Dutch businessman, was charged for allegedly plotting with Turkish officials to cause the extradition of Turkish Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen and for lying to the FBI about his efforts, among six total counts.

A spokesperson for Alptekin said he denied the allegations.

The charges underscored the broadening impact of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, which is focused on possible collusion between Russia and US President Donald Trump's 2016 election campaign but which has led to at least four spinoff probes including the case against Alptekin and Rafiekian.

Coming on the heels of guilty pleas by former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and political operative Samuel Patten for similar crimes, the indictments also highlight a newfound interest at the Justice Department in enforcing a law requiring disclosure of lobbying for foreign interests.

"I don't think anyone took that law very seriously but perhaps these indictments will change that," said criminal defence lawyer Page Pate.

Flynn, who is due to be sentenced on Tuesday for lying to the FBI related to his contacts with the then Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergei Kislyak, has also admitted to lying about his role in the Turkish lobbying effort and has been cooperating with prosecutors on the probe.

The indictment alleges that Rafiekian and Alptekin made false statements about the project in filings to the Department of Justice in order to mask the involvement of the Turkish government, which had been pushing for the extradition of Gulen, identified only as a Turkish citizen in the indictment.

"The defendants sought to discredit and delegitimize the Turkish citizen in the eyes of politicians and the public, and ultimately to secure the Turkish citizen's extradition," attorneys for the Eastern District of Virginia wrote.

Rafiekian, a former director at the US Export-Import Bank and a co-founder of the Flynn Intel Group (FIG), the consultancy at the heart of the case, made his first appearance on Monday morning at a federal court in Alexandria, Virginia.

Rafiekian's lawyer, Robert Trout, declined to comment.

Alptekin, 41, maintained that he was Flynn's client and not Turkey, a spokesperson said. Alptekin was not in the United States and it was not clear if he would ever challenge the charges in court.

"Ekim remains adamant that he - and he alone - ultimately moved forward with hiring FIG, paying them, and directing their work," Molly Toomey said.

FETHULLAH GULEN

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has blamed Gulen for stoking a failed coup against him in 2016 - and his foreign minister grabbed headlines on Sunday by saying that Trump told Erdogan that Washington was working on extraditing the cleric.

A senior White official pushed back on that assertion on Monday, stressing that Trump did not commit during a meeting with Erdogan at the G20 summit two weeks ago to extradite Gulen, who denies involvement in the coup attempt.

The Alliance for Shared Values, a non-profit organisation affiliated with Gulen, said in a statement on Monday that the indictments illustrated "just how far the Erdogan government will go in breaking US law."

Flynn's work on the Turkey project came under scrutiny after he published a commentary on a political news website on the day of the 2016 presidential election calling Gulen a "radical Islamist" who should be extradited to Turkey.

Along with the editorial, the Flynn Intel Group produced a report on Gulen and video for a documentary that was never made. Of the roughly $600,000 paid to Flynn's company, $80,000 was sent back to Alptekin through his Netherlands-based firm Inovo BV, Justice Department filings show.

While Alptekin claims the $80,000 was sent back to him as repayment for work that was never completed, the indictment contends the money was part of a pre-arranged plan to kick back 20 per cent of the project to Alptekin.

Alptekin, a former chairman of the Turkey-US Business Council, has said the payments to Flynn came from him personally and from Inovo, and were not from the Turkish government.

During an interview with the FBI, Alptekin said that while he had discussed the project with a Turkish government minister he decided to go ahead and retain the Flynn Intel Group himself after the Turkish government "dropped the ball".

Among other evidence, the indictment cites an email from Alptekin to Rafiekian and Flynn in August 2016 in which Alptekin says that he had spoken about the project to discredit Gulen with two Turkish ministers and had a "green light to discuss confidentiality, budget and the scope of the contract."

The indictment also cites a September 19, 2016 meeting in New York which sources familiar with the matter said included Rafiekian, Flynn and Turkey's foreign and energy ministers. The latter at the time was Erdogan's son-in-law. The conversation centred on efforts to extradite Gulen, the indictment says.

That conversation was followed in the ensuing weeks by visits by Rafiekian and others to see, among others, a member of Congress and a congressional staffer in an attempt, among other things, to prompt congressional hearings on Gulen.

An ex-business partner of former US national security adviser Michael Flynn and a businessman with ties to Turkish government officials have been charged with undisclosed lobbying aimed at the extradition of a Muslim cleric living in the United States.

An ex-business partner of former US national security adviser Michael Flynn and a businessman with ties to Turkish government officials have been charged with undisclosed lobbying aimed at the extradition of a Muslim cleric living in the United States. Flynn's former partner, Bijan Rafiekian, was indicted on two criminal counts, including conspiracy to act as an agent of a foreign government, according to a grand jury indictment unsealed on Monday in the Eastern District of Virginia. Ekim Alptekin, a Turkish-Dutch businessman, was charged for allegedly plotting with Turkish officials to cause the extradition of Turkish Muslim cleric Fethullah Gulen and for lying to the FBI about his efforts, among six total counts. A spokesperson for Alptekin said he denied the allegations. The charges underscored the broadening impact of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's investigation, which is focused on possible collusion between Russia and US President Donald Trump's 2016 election campaign but which has led to at least four spinoff probes including the case against Alptekin and Rafiekian. Coming on the heels of guilty pleas by former Trump campaign chairman Paul Manafort and political operative Samuel Patten for similar crimes, the indictments also highlight a newfound interest at the Justice Department in enforcing a law requiring disclosure of lobbying for foreign interests. "I don't think anyone took that law very seriously but perhaps these indictments will change that," said criminal defence lawyer Page Pate. Flynn, who is due to be sentenced on Tuesday for lying to the FBI related to his contacts with the then Russian ambassador to the United States, Sergei Kislyak, has also admitted to lying about his role in the Turkish lobbying effort and has been cooperating with prosecutors on the probe. The indictment alleges that Rafiekian and Alptekin made false statements about the project in filings to the Department of Justice in order to mask the involvement of the Turkish government, which had been pushing for the extradition of Gulen, identified only as a Turkish citizen in the indictment. "The defendants sought to discredit and delegitimize the Turkish citizen in the eyes of politicians and the public, and ultimately to secure the Turkish citizen's extradition," attorneys for the Eastern District of Virginia wrote. Rafiekian, a former director at the US Export-Import Bank and a co-founder of the Flynn Intel Group (FIG), the consultancy at the heart of the case, made his first appearance on Monday morning at a federal court in Alexandria, Virginia. Rafiekian's lawyer, Robert Trout, declined to comment. Alptekin, 41, maintained that he was Flynn's client and not Turkey, a spokesperson said. Alptekin was not in the United States and it was not clear if he would ever challenge the charges in court. "Ekim remains adamant that he - and he alone - ultimately moved forward with hiring FIG, paying them, and directing their work," Molly Toomey said. FETHULLAH GULEN Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan has blamed Gulen for stoking a failed coup against him in 2016 - and his foreign minister grabbed headlines on Sunday by saying that Trump told Erdogan that Washington was working on extraditing the cleric. A senior White official pushed back on that assertion on Monday, stressing that Trump did not commit during a meeting with Erdogan at the G20 summit two weeks ago to extradite Gulen, who denies involvement in the coup attempt. The Alliance for Shared Values, a non-profit organisation affiliated with Gulen, said in a statement on Monday that the indictments illustrated "just how far the Erdogan government will go in breaking US law." Flynn's work on the Turkey project came under scrutiny after he published a commentary on a political news website on the day of the 2016 presidential election calling Gulen a "radical Islamist" who should be extradited to Turkey. Along with the editorial, the Flynn Intel Group produced a report on Gulen and video for a documentary that was never made. Of the roughly $600,000 paid to Flynn's company, $80,000 was sent back to Alptekin through his Netherlands-based firm Inovo BV, Justice Department filings show. While Alptekin claims the $80,000 was sent back to him as repayment for work that was never completed, the indictment contends the money was part of a pre-arranged plan to kick back 20 per cent of the project to Alptekin. Alptekin, a former chairman of the Turkey-US Business Council, has said the payments to Flynn came from him personally and from Inovo, and were not from the Turkish government. During an interview with the FBI, Alptekin said that while he had discussed the project with a Turkish government minister he decided to go ahead and retain the Flynn Intel Group himself after the Turkish government "dropped the ball". Among other evidence, the indictment cites an email from Alptekin to Rafiekian and Flynn in August 2016 in which Alptekin says that he had spoken about the project to discredit Gulen with two Turkish ministers and had a "green light to discuss confidentiality, budget and the scope of the contract." The indictment also cites a September 19, 2016 meeting in New York which sources familiar with the matter said included Rafiekian, Flynn and Turkey's foreign and energy ministers. The latter at the time was Erdogan's son-in-law. The conversation centred on efforts to extradite Gulen, the indictment says. That conversation was followed in the ensuing weeks by visits by Rafiekian and others to see, among others, a member of Congress and a congressional staffer in an attempt, among other things, to prompt congressional hearings on Gulen.

US charges Flynn's former business partner Bijan Rafiekian with secret lobbying for Turkey

A lawyer for Donald Trump Sunday pushed back Sunday against reports that the special counsel investigating Russian meddling in the 2016 election <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-sends-written-responses-to-robert-mueller-in-russia-probe-178500">might be seeking to interview the president</a>, saying it would happen only "over my dead body."

Rudy Giuliani said special counsel Robert Mueller and his team of prosecutors could not be trusted to deal fairly with the president, suggesting they had trapped another witness into committing perjury.

Asked on "Fox News Sunday" about reports Mueller now wants a face-to-face interview to follow up on Trump's submission of written answers, Giuliani shot back: "Good luck. Good luck."

"Over my dead body."

Mueller's 19-month-long probe into possible Russian collusion with the Trump election campaign has led to dozens of indictments for federal crimes and several guilty pleas or convictions.

Regarding a separate federal inquiry into hush-money payments by Trump to two women alleging sexual encounters with him, Giuliani said they did not violate federal election law because, he said, they were intended to help Trump avoid embarrassing his family -- not to influence the 2016 election.

"I can produce witnesses that the president was concerned about how it would affect his children, his marriage," Giuliani told Fox.

"I know what he was concerned about. I can produce 20 witnesses to tell you what he was concerned about."

Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen was sentenced last week to three years in prison in connection with the payments to an adult film star and a former Playboy model. Cohen said he regretted having helped the president carry out his "dirty deeds."

Trump, who first denied knowledge of the payments, then blamed them on bad advice from Cohen, posted an angry tweet Sunday blasting the FBI's handling of his former lawyer.

"Remember, Michael Cohen only became a 'Rat' after the FBI did something which was absolutely unthinkable &amp; unheard of until the Witch Hunt was illegally started. They BROKE INTO AN ATTORNEY'S OFFICE!"

The FBI had a legal warrant to raid Cohen's office.

Asked on Fox whether anyone had suggested to Cohen that he might receive a presidential pardon if he refused to testify against Trump, Giuliani said, "The liar can say whatever he wants. There will be no pardons."

A lawyer for Donald Trump Sunday pushed back Sunday against reports that the special counsel investigating Russian meddling in the 2016 election might be seeking to interview the president, saying it would happen only "over my dead body.

A lawyer for Donald Trump Sunday pushed back Sunday against reports that the special counsel investigating Russian meddling in the 2016 election might be seeking to interview the president, saying it would happen only "over my dead body." Rudy Giuliani said special counsel Robert Mueller and his team of prosecutors could not be trusted to deal fairly with the president, suggesting they had trapped another witness into committing perjury. Asked on "Fox News Sunday" about reports Mueller now wants a face-to-face interview to follow up on Trump's submission of written answers, Giuliani shot back: "Good luck. Good luck." "Over my dead body." Mueller's 19-month-long probe into possible Russian collusion with the Trump election campaign has led to dozens of indictments for federal crimes and several guilty pleas or convictions. Regarding a separate federal inquiry into hush-money payments by Trump to two women alleging sexual encounters with him, Giuliani said they did not violate federal election law because, he said, they were intended to help Trump avoid embarrassing his family -- not to influence the 2016 election. "I can produce witnesses that the president was concerned about how it would affect his children, his marriage," Giuliani told Fox. "I know what he was concerned about. I can produce 20 witnesses to tell you what he was concerned about." Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen was sentenced last week to three years in prison in connection with the payments to an adult film star and a former Playboy model. Cohen said he regretted having helped the president carry out his "dirty deeds." Trump, who first denied knowledge of the payments, then blamed them on bad advice from Cohen, posted an angry tweet Sunday blasting the FBI's handling of his former lawyer. "Remember, Michael Cohen only became a 'Rat' after the FBI did something which was absolutely unthinkable & unheard of until the Witch Hunt was illegally started. They BROKE INTO AN ATTORNEY'S OFFICE!" The FBI had a legal warrant to raid Cohen's office. Asked on Fox whether anyone had suggested to Cohen that he might receive a presidential pardon if he refused to testify against Trump, Giuliani said, "The liar can say whatever he wants. There will be no pardons."

Lawyer says Mueller can interview Trump only 'over my dead body'

Qatar Petroleum (QP) is looking to invest at least $20 billion in the United States over the coming few years, its chief executive told Reuters, after the Gulf Arab state unexpectedly quit OPEC this month.

Saad al-Kaabi, who holds the energy portfolio of the world's top liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplier, also said on Sunday the company aimed to announce foreign partners for new LNG trains needed for an ambitious domestic scale-up by the middle of next year, but was keeping open the possibility of going it alone.

Qatar, a tiny but wealthy country is one of the most influential players in the LNG market due to its annual production of 77 million tonnes. It plans to boost capacity 43 percent by 2023-2024 and will be building four liquefaction trains for the LNG expansion.

As part of its more than $20 billion investment push in the US&nbsp;QP is looking "at gas and oil, conventional and non-conventional," Kaabi said.

Qatar Petroleum is majority owner of the Golden Pass LNG terminal in Texas, with Exxon and ConocoPhillips holding smaller stakes.

Kaabi said he expected to make a final decision on that investment and whether to move ahead with the project "by the end of the year, if not January."

Qatar is a relatively small oil producer compared to its massive gas production. Its decision to quit OPEC this month was seen as a swipe at the group's de facto leader Saudi Arabia, which along with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, has imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies.

Kaabi said that proposed US&nbsp;legislation known as "NOPEC", or No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act, which could open the OPEC group up to anti-trust lawsuits, was among the reasons for quitting the oil exporting club.

Qatar Petroleum announced separately on Sunday that it was partnering with Italian oil major Eni on three oil fields in Mexico, taking a 35 percent stake in deposits that will begin production in mid-2019 and ramp up to about 90,000 barrels per day by 2021.

The company is in talks with international oil firms about the LNG expansion project at home, including Eni, Kaabi said. Other partners already operating in Qatar include Exxon Mobil Corp, Total, Royal Dutch Shell and ENI.

QP said it will self-finance the LNG expansion rather than borrow, a shift from previous practices where it used lenders to fund up to 70 percent of project costs.

Kaabi said it could carry out the expansion alone if no good offers from foreign firms were made.

"We are looking for a lot of things (in our partners) including asset swaps, things that will help me in my international expansion," he said.

"If I don't get good deals, nobody will come."

The company currently pumps 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boed) and aims to boost its output to 6.5 million boed in the next 8 years by expanding its upstream business abroad.

Qatar Petroleum (QP) is looking to invest at least $20 billion in the United States over the coming few years, its chief executive told Reuters, after the Gulf Arab state unexpectedly quit OPEC this month.

Qatar Petroleum (QP) is looking to invest at least $20 billion in the United States over the coming few years, its chief executive told Reuters, after the Gulf Arab state unexpectedly quit OPEC this month. Saad al-Kaabi, who holds the energy portfolio of the world's top liquefied natural gas (LNG) supplier, also said on Sunday the company aimed to announce foreign partners for new LNG trains needed for an ambitious domestic scale-up by the middle of next year, but was keeping open the possibility of going it alone. Qatar, a tiny but wealthy country is one of the most influential players in the LNG market due to its annual production of 77 million tonnes. It plans to boost capacity 43 percent by 2023-2024 and will be building four liquefaction trains for the LNG expansion. As part of its more than $20 billion investment push in the US QP is looking "at gas and oil, conventional and non-conventional," Kaabi said. Qatar Petroleum is majority owner of the Golden Pass LNG terminal in Texas, with Exxon and ConocoPhillips holding smaller stakes. Kaabi said he expected to make a final decision on that investment and whether to move ahead with the project "by the end of the year, if not January." Qatar is a relatively small oil producer compared to its massive gas production. Its decision to quit OPEC this month was seen as a swipe at the group's de facto leader Saudi Arabia, which along with the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt, has imposed a political and economic boycott on Qatar since June 2017, accusing it of supporting terrorism, which Doha denies. Kaabi said that proposed US legislation known as "NOPEC", or No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels Act, which could open the OPEC group up to anti-trust lawsuits, was among the reasons for quitting the oil exporting club. Qatar Petroleum announced separately on Sunday that it was partnering with Italian oil major Eni on three oil fields in Mexico, taking a 35 percent stake in deposits that will begin production in mid-2019 and ramp up to about 90,000 barrels per day by 2021. The company is in talks with international oil firms about the LNG expansion project at home, including Eni, Kaabi said. Other partners already operating in Qatar include Exxon Mobil Corp, Total, Royal Dutch Shell and ENI. QP said it will self-finance the LNG expansion rather than borrow, a shift from previous practices where it used lenders to fund up to 70 percent of project costs. Kaabi said it could carry out the expansion alone if no good offers from foreign firms were made. "We are looking for a lot of things (in our partners) including asset swaps, things that will help me in my international expansion," he said. "If I don't get good deals, nobody will come." The company currently pumps 4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (boed) and aims to boost its output to 6.5 million boed in the next 8 years by expanding its upstream business abroad.

Qatar Petroleum to invest $20 billion in US in major expansion

Former Pakistan Ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani opened the two-day deliberative conference titled 'Pakistan After the Elections'&nbsp;here and remarked that terrorism and international isolation are the real threats to Pakistan, however the country`s authorities refuse to recognise them.

Haqqani, while holding a discussion on 'ways of ensuring greater support for pluralist ideas, human rights, and democracy in Pakistan,'&nbsp;noted that dissent is not a real threat to Pakistan and highlighted that the authorities in Islamabad are failing to recognise the reality, reported The News International.

Asserting that the heavy-handed suppression of diverse views in Pakistan would not end the country's economic crisis, Haqqani stated that this would also negate Islamabad's purpose of projecting a positive image for the country.

"The best way to have a positive image is to build a positive reality, one that is free of the taint of terrorism, external dependence, and lack of democracy," he said.

The United States Congressman and Chairman Emeritus of the Asia subcommittee of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Brad Sherman is also scheduled to address the conference.

The conference is the third organised by the South Asians Against Terrorism and for Human Rights (SAATH), a grouping of pro-democracy Pakistanis co-hosted by Haqqani and US-based columnist Mohammad Taqi.

The SAATH congregations were earlier held in London in 2016 and 2017.

The organiser said that this year the conference was toned down as a few of the forum's Pakistani participants were "barred or intimidated by authorities from participating."

The News International reported that a few days ago, Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) member of the National Assembly, Mohsin Dawar, was detained at Peshawar airport as he was leaving Pakistan.

Dawar told the organisers that the Pakistan Government had unconstitutionally barred him from attending the gathering.

Issuing a press statement, SAATH stated that Imran Khan's government is viewed as an authoritarian rule by the pro-democracy Pakistanis, including liberals and Baloch, Sindhi, Pashtun, Seraiki and Muhajir nationalists.

"In our discussions, we hope to address questions such as where Pakistan stands in the aftermath of the 2018 elections, what are the consequences to Pakistan of mainstreaming terrorists and terror groups, and how might the weakening voices for reform and a liberal vision be strengthened," read the statement.

Taqi also reiterated that the freedom-loving Pakistanis needed to join hands "to create space for intellectual and political discourse."

Highlighting that the Pakistani press is bound in shackled, Taqi observed that the electronic media is being coerced into submission, journalists are being hounded, and the political parties have been tamed into submission.Resistance would continue against the authoritarian rule, stated Taqi. 
&nbsp;

Former Pakistan Ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani opened the two-day deliberative conference titled 'Pakistan After the Elections' here and remarked that terrorism and international isolation are the real threats to Pakistan, however the country`s authorities refuse to recognise them.

Former Pakistan Ambassador to the United States, Husain Haqqani opened the two-day deliberative conference titled 'Pakistan After the Elections' here and remarked that terrorism and international isolation are the real threats to Pakistan, however the country`s authorities refuse to recognise them. Haqqani, while holding a discussion on 'ways of ensuring greater support for pluralist ideas, human rights, and democracy in Pakistan,' noted that dissent is not a real threat to Pakistan and highlighted that the authorities in Islamabad are failing to recognise the reality, reported The News International. Asserting that the heavy-handed suppression of diverse views in Pakistan would not end the country's economic crisis, Haqqani stated that this would also negate Islamabad's purpose of projecting a positive image for the country. "The best way to have a positive image is to build a positive reality, one that is free of the taint of terrorism, external dependence, and lack of democracy," he said. The United States Congressman and Chairman Emeritus of the Asia subcommittee of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs Brad Sherman is also scheduled to address the conference. The conference is the third organised by the South Asians Against Terrorism and for Human Rights (SAATH), a grouping of pro-democracy Pakistanis co-hosted by Haqqani and US-based columnist Mohammad Taqi. The SAATH congregations were earlier held in London in 2016 and 2017. The organiser said that this year the conference was toned down as a few of the forum's Pakistani participants were "barred or intimidated by authorities from participating." The News International reported that a few days ago, Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) member of the National Assembly, Mohsin Dawar, was detained at Peshawar airport as he was leaving Pakistan. Dawar told the organisers that the Pakistan Government had unconstitutionally barred him from attending the gathering. Issuing a press statement, SAATH stated that Imran Khan's government is viewed as an authoritarian rule by the pro-democracy Pakistanis, including liberals and Baloch, Sindhi, Pashtun, Seraiki and Muhajir nationalists. "In our discussions, we hope to address questions such as where Pakistan stands in the aftermath of the 2018 elections, what are the consequences to Pakistan of mainstreaming terrorists and terror groups, and how might the weakening voices for reform and a liberal vision be strengthened," read the statement. Taqi also reiterated that the freedom-loving Pakistanis needed to join hands "to create space for intellectual and political discourse." Highlighting that the Pakistani press is bound in shackled, Taqi observed that the electronic media is being coerced into submission, journalists are being hounded, and the political parties have been tamed into submission.Resistance would continue against the authoritarian rule, stated Taqi.

'Terrorism and international isolation threat to Pakistan,' says former Pak envoy to US

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Saturday said US sanctions will have no impact on the policies of the Islamic republic at home or abroad.

"It is obvious that we are facing pressure by the US sanctions. But will that lead to a change in policy? I can assure you it won't," Zarif told the Doha Forum policy conference in Qatar.

"If there is an art we have perfected in Iran and can teach to others for a price, it is the art of evading sanctions," he added.

The US imposed two sets of sanctions on Iran this year, after earlier unilaterally pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal with global powers.

Discussing the Yemen conflict, Zarif denied Tehran had ever armed the Huthi rebels battling pro-government forces in the country.

"We have never provided weapons to Huthis," he said when challenged on what arms it had supplied.

"They have enough weapons, they don't need weapons from Iran," Zarif said.

He said there were only "allegations" that Iran had sent weapons to Yemen, whereas there were "facts" that other countries had shipped arms.

"I don't need to show any evidence about the jets that were flying in Yemen bombing the Yemenis.

"Those are American-made jets and those are Saudi fighters, I assume, which are piloting those jets," Zarif said.

"If there are allegations about Iranian weapons, there are facts about US weapons, facts about Saudis bombing the hell out of the Yemenis," he added.

Iran's regional rival Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015 as part of a coalition backing the government.

Zarif said the United States and its ally Saudi Arabia were responsible for the "humanitarian nightmare" in war-torn Yemen.

He also accused Riyadh of seeking "tension" with Iran.

Zarif also alluded to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, saying Saudi Arabia believes "it can get away with murder".

Khashoggi, a palace insider turned critic of the regime, was killed shortly after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2.

&nbsp;

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Saturday said US sanctions will have no impact on the policies of the Islamic republic at home or abroad. "It is obvious that we are facing pressure by the US sanctions.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif on Saturday said US sanctions will have no impact on the policies of the Islamic republic at home or abroad. "It is obvious that we are facing pressure by the US sanctions. But will that lead to a change in policy? I can assure you it won't," Zarif told the Doha Forum policy conference in Qatar. "If there is an art we have perfected in Iran and can teach to others for a price, it is the art of evading sanctions," he added. The US imposed two sets of sanctions on Iran this year, after earlier unilaterally pulling out of the Iran nuclear deal with global powers. Discussing the Yemen conflict, Zarif denied Tehran had ever armed the Huthi rebels battling pro-government forces in the country. "We have never provided weapons to Huthis," he said when challenged on what arms it had supplied. "They have enough weapons, they don't need weapons from Iran," Zarif said. He said there were only "allegations" that Iran had sent weapons to Yemen, whereas there were "facts" that other countries had shipped arms. "I don't need to show any evidence about the jets that were flying in Yemen bombing the Yemenis. "Those are American-made jets and those are Saudi fighters, I assume, which are piloting those jets," Zarif said. "If there are allegations about Iranian weapons, there are facts about US weapons, facts about Saudis bombing the hell out of the Yemenis," he added. Iran's regional rival Saudi Arabia intervened in the Yemen conflict in 2015 as part of a coalition backing the government. Zarif said the United States and its ally Saudi Arabia were responsible for the "humanitarian nightmare" in war-torn Yemen. He also accused Riyadh of seeking "tension" with Iran. Zarif also alluded to the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi, saying Saudi Arabia believes "it can get away with murder". Khashoggi, a palace insider turned critic of the regime, was killed shortly after entering the Saudi consulate in Istanbul on October 2.

US sanctions won't change Iran policies: Javad Zarif

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/no-trump-putin-meeting-while-russia-holds-ukraine-ship-john-bolton-183876">US national security adviser John Bolton</a> said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory."

Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation.

"Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said.

"They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States."

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets.

"China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia.

"Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said.

He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people."

Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence.

He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details.

Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action.

"The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests."

Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration.

Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans.

"China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy."

"We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment."

China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions.

In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable.

Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward."

In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations.

Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa.

Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism.

He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law.

"We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory.

The United States plans to counter the rapidly expanding Chinese and Russian economic and political influence in Africa, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Thursday, calling business practices of the two nations "corrupt" and "predatory." Washington's No 1 priority will be developing economic ties with the region to create opportunities for American businesses and protecting the independence of African countries along with US national security interests, he said in a speech at the Heritage Foundation. "Great-power competitors, namely China and Russia, are rapidly expanding their financial and political influence across Africa," Bolton said. "They are deliberately and aggressively targeting their investments in the region to gain a competitive advantage over the United States." US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, leaders of the world's two largest economies, have been trying to resolve trade disputes that have roiled markets. "China uses bribes, opaque agreements, and the strategic use of debt to hold states in Africa captive to Beijing's wishes and demands. Its investment ventures are riddled with corruption," Bolton said. He had equally harsh words for Russia. "Across the continent, Russia advances its political and economic relationships with little regard for the rule of law or accountable and transparent governance," he said. He accused Moscow of selling arms and energy in exchange for votes at the United Nations "that keep strongmen in power, undermine peace and security, and run counter to the best interests of the African people." Bolton said "predatory practices" by China and Russia stunt economic growth in Africa and threaten nations' economic independence. He said the United States was developing the "Prosper Africa" initiative to support US investment in Africa and a growing middle class in the region. He gave no details. Landry Signe, a fellow at the Brookings Institution's Africa Growth Initiative in Washington, welcomed the administration's focus on trade and investment as opposed to security, but wanted details on planned US action. "The Trump administration's new Africa Strategy reflects a more accurate understanding of the fast-changing dynamics within Africa," he said, "but the strategy doesn't seem sufficient to effectively address the United States' threatened economic, security, and influence interests." Judd Devermont, director of the Africa Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, said release of an Africa strategy was welcome after two years of "conflicting narratives" by the administration. Devermont said he was disappointed that China dominated Bolton's presentation, which lacked details on US plans. "China loomed over everything, and loomed over really important issues on trade and investment, and transparency," said Devermont. "We didn't get many details on what the 'Prosper Africa' approach looks like and how it would be resourced. Those should have been the headlines of the strategy." "We need a greater articulation on what are the sectors that the US government wants to prioritise in Africa for US investment," Devermont said, "They should be transparent with the Africans to explain why certain countries are getting the bulk of the investment." China's policies in Africa have concerned Washington as the United States seeks to ramp up development finance in the face of China's global ambitions. In July, the head of the US Overseas Private Investment Corp (OPIC) said China was saddling poor nations with unsustainable debt through large infrastructure projects that are not economically viable. Bolton said the American approach contrasted with China's "bait and switch" policies. "The way we do business is much more straightforward." In October Trump signed legislation overhauling the way the federal government lends money for foreign development, creating a $60 billion agency intended largely to respond to China’s growing influence. The new U.S. International Development Finance Corp combines OPIC and other government development organizations. Xi's "Belt and Road" initiative, unveiled in 2013, aims to build an infrastructure network connecting China by land and sea to Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Middle East, Europe and Africa. Bolton said the lack of economic progress in Africa has created a climate conducive to violent conflict and the proliferation of terrorism. He said the United States has little to show for the billions of dollars it has poured into Africa. He said the administration will work to ensure US aid is used more efficiently and effectively, with investments in health, education, government and fiscal transparency measures and rule of law. "We will make certain that ALL aid to the region - whether for security, humanitarian, or development needs - advances US interests," he said, adding that Washington will also re-evaluate its support for UN peacekeeping missions.

US to counter China, Russia influence in Africa: Bolton

A rash of bomb threats were emailed on Thursday to hundreds of businesses, public offices and schools across the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-demands-access-for-us-diplomats-journalists-to-tibet-threatening-to-bar-chinese-officials-183865">United States</a> and Canada demanding payment in cryptocurrency, but none of the threats appeared credible, law enforcement officials said.

One email targeting a St Louis-area middle school was traced by local investigators to an internet protocol, or IP, address in Moscow, the sheriff's office in Lincoln County, Missouri said.

But US government sources speaking on background to Reuters said that such findings were inconclusive and that federal investigators doubted that Russians or the Russian government were involved.

The officials cautioned that such an IP address does not prove it came from Russia because the sender could have electronically laid a false trail to cover up its true origin. They suggested instead that the flurry of emails were part of a widescale digital hoax.

The security scare began shortly before 2 pm EST as police departments in major US cities coast to coast began reporting on Twitter that numerous local businesses had received the menacing emails - awkwardly worded threats to set off a bomb unless a bitcoin payment of $20,000 were received.

Four hours into the security scare, no actual explosives had been found, authorities said. But the threats prompted brief evacuations of a Toronto subway station and a newspaper office in Raleigh, North Carolina. Some public schools and businesses also were evacuated as a precaution.

Lincoln County, Missouri, sheriff's spokesman Lieutenant Andy Binder said authorities bused the students from a middle school receiving one of the threats to another campus as a precaution, but the school was later determined to be safe and classes will resume there on Friday.

Among other cities where bomb threats were reported by authorities were Washington, New York, Detroit, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, Denver, Ottawa, and Calgary, Alberta.

Police at the University of Wisconsin in Madison tweeted an image taken of one email threat found to be circulating that said in part: "Good day. There is an explosive device (lead azide) in the building where your company is conducted. It is assembled according to my guide. It is compact and it is covered up very carefully. It can not damage the structure of the building, but in case of its explosion you will get many wounded people."

The campus police tweet concludes by referring to the emails as "a SCAM happening nationwide."

The FBI and other federal agencies were alerted to the email chains, officials said.

"We are aware of threats being made in cities across the country," Rukelt Dalberis, an FBI spokesman in Los Angeles, told Reuters separately. "We remain in touch with our law enforcement partners. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could represent a threat."

A similar wave of emailed hoax bomb threats in December 2015 prompted officials in Los Angeles to close the city's public school system, which national law enforcement officials later criticized as an overreaction.

Two weeks previously, a married couple inspired by Islamic State had killed 14 people at a California county office building in a shooting rampage.

A teenager with dual Israeli-US citizenship was arrested in Israel in March 2017 for making bomb threats to more than 100 Jewish organizations and Jewish community centers (JCCs) in dozens of US states over several months.

A rash of bomb threats were emailed on Thursday to hundreds of businesses, public offices and schools across the United States and Canada demanding payment in cryptocurrency, but none of the threats appeared credible, law enforcement officials said.

A rash of bomb threats were emailed on Thursday to hundreds of businesses, public offices and schools across the United States and Canada demanding payment in cryptocurrency, but none of the threats appeared credible, law enforcement officials said. One email targeting a St Louis-area middle school was traced by local investigators to an internet protocol, or IP, address in Moscow, the sheriff's office in Lincoln County, Missouri said. But US government sources speaking on background to Reuters said that such findings were inconclusive and that federal investigators doubted that Russians or the Russian government were involved. The officials cautioned that such an IP address does not prove it came from Russia because the sender could have electronically laid a false trail to cover up its true origin. They suggested instead that the flurry of emails were part of a widescale digital hoax. The security scare began shortly before 2 pm EST as police departments in major US cities coast to coast began reporting on Twitter that numerous local businesses had received the menacing emails - awkwardly worded threats to set off a bomb unless a bitcoin payment of $20,000 were received. Four hours into the security scare, no actual explosives had been found, authorities said. But the threats prompted brief evacuations of a Toronto subway station and a newspaper office in Raleigh, North Carolina. Some public schools and businesses also were evacuated as a precaution. Lincoln County, Missouri, sheriff's spokesman Lieutenant Andy Binder said authorities bused the students from a middle school receiving one of the threats to another campus as a precaution, but the school was later determined to be safe and classes will resume there on Friday. Among other cities where bomb threats were reported by authorities were Washington, New York, Detroit, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Oklahoma City, Denver, Ottawa, and Calgary, Alberta. Police at the University of Wisconsin in Madison tweeted an image taken of one email threat found to be circulating that said in part: "Good day. There is an explosive device (lead azide) in the building where your company is conducted. It is assembled according to my guide. It is compact and it is covered up very carefully. It can not damage the structure of the building, but in case of its explosion you will get many wounded people." The campus police tweet concludes by referring to the emails as "a SCAM happening nationwide." The FBI and other federal agencies were alerted to the email chains, officials said. "We are aware of threats being made in cities across the country," Rukelt Dalberis, an FBI spokesman in Los Angeles, told Reuters separately. "We remain in touch with our law enforcement partners. We encourage the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that could represent a threat." A similar wave of emailed hoax bomb threats in December 2015 prompted officials in Los Angeles to close the city's public school system, which national law enforcement officials later criticized as an overreaction. Two weeks previously, a married couple inspired by Islamic State had killed 14 people at a California county office building in a shooting rampage. A teenager with dual Israeli-US citizenship was arrested in Israel in March 2017 for making bomb threats to more than 100 Jewish organizations and Jewish community centers (JCCs) in dozens of US states over several months.

Bomb threats demanding bitcoin sweep US, Canada, none found credible

China's finance ministry said on Friday it will suspend additional tariffs on US-made vehicles and auto parts for three months starting January 1, 2019.

The government will suspend 25 per cent tariffs on 144 US vehicle and auto part items and 5 per cent tariffs on 67 auto items between January 1 and March 31, 2019, the ministry said in a statement on its website.

The Ministry of Finance also said it hopes China and the United States can speed up negotiations to remove all additional tariffs on each other's goods.

China's finance ministry said on Friday it will suspend additional tariffs on US-made vehicles and auto parts for three months starting January 1, 2019. The government will suspend 25 per cent tariffs on 144 US vehicle and auto part items and 5 per cent tariffs on 67 auto items between January 1 and March 31, 2019, the ministry said in a statement on its website.

China's finance ministry said on Friday it will suspend additional tariffs on US-made vehicles and auto parts for three months starting January 1, 2019. The government will suspend 25 per cent tariffs on 144 US vehicle and auto part items and 5 per cent tariffs on 67 auto items between January 1 and March 31, 2019, the ministry said in a statement on its website. The Ministry of Finance also said it hopes China and the United States can speed up negotiations to remove all additional tariffs on each other's goods.

China to suspend additional tariffs on US-made cars from January 1

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland on Wednesday warned the United States not to politicise extradition cases, a day after <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-cohen-liar-after-his-sentencing-report-183616">President Donald Trump</a> said he could intervene in the affair of a Chinese executive detained in Canada at Washington's request.

Freeland also told reporters that a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfo-arrest-fallout-after-ex-diplomat-another-canadian-national-goes-missing-after-questioning-by-chinese-authorities-183587">second Canadian citizen could be in trouble in China</a>. Authorities in China are already holding former diplomat Michael Kovrig, who was detained on Monday.

Officials say China had so far not linked Kovrig's detention to the arrest in Vancouver on Dec. 1 of Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, which infuriated Beijing. But Canadian diplomatic experts have said they have no doubt the two cases are linked.

US prosecutors accuse Meng of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions, putting the banks at risk of violating US sanctions. She has said she is innocent.

Trump told Reuters on Tuesday he would intervene&nbsp;in the US Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China.

Freeland said it was obvious the legal process should not be hijacked for political purposes and that Meng's lawyers would have the option of raising Trump's remarks if they decided to fight extradition.

"Our extradition partners should not seek to politicize the extradition process or use it for ends other than the pursuit of justice and following the rule of law," she said when asked about Trump's comments.

Her words mark another potentially difficult moment in ties between Canada and the United States, which were heavily strained during more than a year of talks to negotiate a new North American trade pact.

Others also questioned whether Trump might be misusing the extradition request.

"This is a legal issue and one that appears properly executed but your comments can only diminish an important extradition agreement," said Bruce Heyman, an ex-US ambassador to Canada who was appointed by President Barack Obama, Trump's predecessor.

Meng was released on bail by a Canadian court on Tuesday and is next due to appear before a judge on February 6.

The United States has not yet made a formal extradition petition. Once it does, if a Canadian judge rules in favour of the request, Canada's justice minister must decide whether to extradite Meng to the United States.

Canadian government officials earlier told a briefing that Meng had many legal options to fight extradition and the process could take years.

The justice minister could deny the US request if they deem "it has been made for an improper purpose," said one official.

The Meng affair has soured Canada's ties with China at a time when Ottawa is trying to boost bilateral trade.

Freeland expressed deep concern over the Kovrig case and said a second unnamed man had called Canadian authorities to say Chinese officials were asking him questions.

"We have not been able to make contact with him since he let us know about this," she said.

"We are working very hard to ascertain his whereabouts and we have also raised this case with the Chinese authorities."

The government officials said they had seen an uptick in anti-Canadian sentiment online and in China and have communicated concerns about diplomatic staff safety to the Chinese government, which beefed up security in response.

"We have in general informed our personnel in Beijing and in our consulates to take extra precautions," an official said.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland on Wednesday warned the United States not to politicise extradition cases, a day after President Donald Trump said he could intervene in the affair of a Chinese executive detained in Canada at Washington's request.

Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland on Wednesday warned the United States not to politicise extradition cases, a day after President Donald Trump said he could intervene in the affair of a Chinese executive detained in Canada at Washington's request. Freeland also told reporters that a second Canadian citizen could be in trouble in China. Authorities in China are already holding former diplomat Michael Kovrig, who was detained on Monday. Officials say China had so far not linked Kovrig's detention to the arrest in Vancouver on Dec. 1 of Huawei Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou, which infuriated Beijing. But Canadian diplomatic experts have said they have no doubt the two cases are linked. US prosecutors accuse Meng of misleading multinational banks about Iran-linked transactions, putting the banks at risk of violating US sanctions. She has said she is innocent. Trump told Reuters on Tuesday he would intervene in the US Justice Department's case against Meng if it would serve national security interests or help close a trade deal with China. Freeland said it was obvious the legal process should not be hijacked for political purposes and that Meng's lawyers would have the option of raising Trump's remarks if they decided to fight extradition. "Our extradition partners should not seek to politicize the extradition process or use it for ends other than the pursuit of justice and following the rule of law," she said when asked about Trump's comments. Her words mark another potentially difficult moment in ties between Canada and the United States, which were heavily strained during more than a year of talks to negotiate a new North American trade pact. Others also questioned whether Trump might be misusing the extradition request. "This is a legal issue and one that appears properly executed but your comments can only diminish an important extradition agreement," said Bruce Heyman, an ex-US ambassador to Canada who was appointed by President Barack Obama, Trump's predecessor. Meng was released on bail by a Canadian court on Tuesday and is next due to appear before a judge on February 6. The United States has not yet made a formal extradition petition. Once it does, if a Canadian judge rules in favour of the request, Canada's justice minister must decide whether to extradite Meng to the United States. Canadian government officials earlier told a briefing that Meng had many legal options to fight extradition and the process could take years. The justice minister could deny the US request if they deem "it has been made for an improper purpose," said one official. The Meng affair has soured Canada's ties with China at a time when Ottawa is trying to boost bilateral trade. Freeland expressed deep concern over the Kovrig case and said a second unnamed man had called Canadian authorities to say Chinese officials were asking him questions. "We have not been able to make contact with him since he let us know about this," she said. "We are working very hard to ascertain his whereabouts and we have also raised this case with the Chinese authorities." The government officials said they had seen an uptick in anti-Canadian sentiment online and in China and have communicated concerns about diplomatic staff safety to the Chinese government, which beefed up security in response. "We have in general informed our personnel in Beijing and in our consulates to take extra precautions," an official said.

Do not politicise extradition cases: Canada warns US

US oil prices edged up on Thursday, buoyed by a drawdown in inventories and by signs of easing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing.

Oil prices have also been supported by OPEC-led supply curbs announced last week, although gains have been muted after the producer group lowered its 2019 demand forecast.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $51.27 per barrel at 0020 GMT, up 0.23 per cent from their last settlement.

International Brent crude oil futures had yet to trade.

"Crude oil prices rose, helped by the easing trade tension, as well as a fall in inventories," ANZ bank said on Thursday.

"The news that China is looking to redraft its 'Made in China' 2025 plan boosted hopes that trade talks are progressing better than expected."

China appears to be easing its high-tech industrial development push, dubbed 'Made in China 2025', which has long irked the United States, amid talks between the two countries to reduce trade tensions, according to new guidance to local governments.

A drop in US crude stockpiles, though less than expected, has helped boost sentiment, analysts said.

US crude inventories fell by 1.2 million barrels in the week to December 7, compared with market expectations for a decrease of 3 million barrels.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) said 2019 demand for its crude would fall to 31.44 million barrels per day, 100,000 bpd less than predicted last month and 1.53 million less than it currently produces.

This adds to the concerns of several market watchers that the decision led by the group to cut production by 1.2 million bpd overall might not be enough to override a glut, especially on the back of soaring US output.

"Oil markets have been concerned about the possibility of weaker macroeconomic and oil demand growth; when combined with booming US shale output, this could keep markets oversupplied in 2019, even with the OPEC+ cut," Societe Generale analyst Michael Wittner said in a note.

"At this point, the OPEC+ cuts appear to have merely put a floor under prices."

The United States, where crude production has hit a record 11.7 million bpd, is set to end 2018 as the world's top oil producer, ahead of Russia and Saudi Arabia.

US oil prices edged up on Thursday, buoyed by a drawdown in inventories and by signs of easing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Oil prices have also been supported by OPEC-led supply curbs announced last week, although gains have been muted after the producer group lowered its 2019 demand forecast.

US oil prices edged up on Thursday, buoyed by a drawdown in inventories and by signs of easing trade tensions between Washington and Beijing. Oil prices have also been supported by OPEC-led supply curbs announced last week, although gains have been muted after the producer group lowered its 2019 demand forecast. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $51.27 per barrel at 0020 GMT, up 0.23 per cent from their last settlement. International Brent crude oil futures had yet to trade. "Crude oil prices rose, helped by the easing trade tension, as well as a fall in inventories," ANZ bank said on Thursday. "The news that China is looking to redraft its 'Made in China' 2025 plan boosted hopes that trade talks are progressing better than expected." China appears to be easing its high-tech industrial development push, dubbed 'Made in China 2025', which has long irked the United States, amid talks between the two countries to reduce trade tensions, according to new guidance to local governments. A drop in US crude stockpiles, though less than expected, has helped boost sentiment, analysts said. US crude inventories fell by 1.2 million barrels in the week to December 7, compared with market expectations for a decrease of 3 million barrels. Meanwhile, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) said 2019 demand for its crude would fall to 31.44 million barrels per day, 100,000 bpd less than predicted last month and 1.53 million less than it currently produces. This adds to the concerns of several market watchers that the decision led by the group to cut production by 1.2 million bpd overall might not be enough to override a glut, especially on the back of soaring US output. "Oil markets have been concerned about the possibility of weaker macroeconomic and oil demand growth; when combined with booming US shale output, this could keep markets oversupplied in 2019, even with the OPEC+ cut," Societe Generale analyst Michael Wittner said in a note. "At this point, the OPEC+ cuts appear to have merely put a floor under prices." The United States, where crude production has hit a record 11.7 million bpd, is set to end 2018 as the world's top oil producer, ahead of Russia and Saudi Arabia.

US oil prices inch up amid stockpile drop, signs of easing trade tensions

The third edition of joint military drills &nbsp;-- Cope India 2018 -- between India and the US Air forces will come to an end tomorrow at the Kalaikunda Air Force Station. 
&nbsp; 
Unlike previous editions, the third edition of the exercise has evolved to incorporate expert exchanges, perform air defence and air combat and attack drills in addition to fighter-training exercises.

&nbsp;As many as 200 US airmen with 14 aircraft from the 18th wing, Kadena air base in Japan and the 182nd airlift wing of the Illinois air national guard participated in the exercise.&nbsp;

The US Fighter jet fleet comprised of the F-15s and C-130h aircraft.

On the Indian side, as many as 10 SU-30 MKIS, six Jaguars and five Mirage 2000s, one AWACS and C-130J Super Hercules participated in the exercises at Kalaikunda and Panagarh in West Bengal.

December 13 will be the final day of the exercise.

The third edition of joint military drills -- Cope India 2018 -- between India and the US Air forces will come to an end tomorrow at the Kalaikunda Air Force Station.

The third edition of joint military drills -- Cope India 2018 -- between India and the US Air forces will come to an end tomorrow at the Kalaikunda Air Force Station. Unlike previous editions, the third edition of the exercise has evolved to incorporate expert exchanges, perform air defence and air combat and attack drills in addition to fighter-training exercises. As many as 200 US airmen with 14 aircraft from the 18th wing, Kadena air base in Japan and the 182nd airlift wing of the Illinois air national guard participated in the exercise. The US Fighter jet fleet comprised of the F-15s and C-130h aircraft. On the Indian side, as many as 10 SU-30 MKIS, six Jaguars and five Mirage 2000s, one AWACS and C-130J Super Hercules participated in the exercises at Kalaikunda and Panagarh in West Bengal. December 13 will be the final day of the exercise.

India, United States joint military exercise to end tomorrow  

A United Nations conference adopted a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/global-compact-for-migration-why-are-countries-opposing-it-182795">migration pact </a>in front of leaders and representatives from over 160 countries in Morocco on Monday, despite a string of withdrawals driven by anti-immigrant populism.

The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration -- finalised at the UN in July after 18 months of talks -- was formally approved with the bang of a gavel in Marrakesh at the start of a two-day conference.

But the United States and at least <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/more-than-150-governments-to-adopt-un-migration-pact-in-morocco-182775">16 other countries</a> either opted out or expressed concerns, with some claiming the pact infringes national sovereignty.

Billed as the first international document on managing migration, it lays out 23 objectives to open up legal migration and discourage illegal border crossings, as the number of people on the move globally has surged to more than 250 million.

Describing it as a "roadmap to prevent suffering and chaos", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sought to dispel what he called a number of myths around the pact, including claims it will allow the United Nations to impose migration policies on member states.

The pact "is not legally binding", he said. "It is a framework for international cooperation."

"We must not succumb to fear and false narratives", he told an audience that included German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela, Greek premier Alexis Tsipras, Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Spain's premier Pedro Sanchez.

Merkel launched an impassioned defence of the pact and multilateralism, saying her country "through Nazism brought incredible pain to humanity".

"The answer to pure nationalism was the foundation of the United Nations and the commitment to jointly searching for answers to our common problems," she said.

She insisted the pact seeks to prevent, rather than encourage, illegal migration. "This is about safe, orderly and regular migration -- it says (this) clearly in the title."

Draconian measures&nbsp;

On Friday, the US hit out at the pact, labelling it "an effort by the United Nations to advance global governance at the expense of the sovereign right of states".

It was the first country to disavow the negotiations late last year, while Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Hungary, Latvia, Poland and Slovakia have all pulled out of the process in recent months and weeks before Chile withdrew overnight.

Brazil also announced Monday it would withdraw from the pact from January when far-right president-elect Jair Bolsonaro takes office.

"Immigration is welcome, but it should not be indiscriminate," future foreign minister Ernesto Araujo tweeted, adding: "It must serve the national interests and cohesion of each society."&nbsp;

Rows over the accord have erupted in several European Union nations, hobbling <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/belgium-lapses-into-minority-government-over-un-migration-pact-row-182717">Belgium's coalition government </a>and pushing Slovakia's foreign minister to tender his resignation.

From the United States to Europe and beyond, right-wing and populist leaders have taken increasingly draconian measures to shut out migrants in recent years.

US President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the US-Mexico border and has focused his recent ire on a migrant caravan from Central America, while a populist coalition government in Italy has clamped down on boats rescuing migrants at sea.

Belgium's liberal premier Charles Michel attended the conference after winning the support of parliament to back the accord but was left leading a minority government after a Flemish nationalist party said it will quit his coalition over the pact.

"This model of cooperation is complex, sometimes including steps forwards and sometimes banana skins," Michel told delegates.

The pact has been welcomed by the Catholic Church as an important step towards addressing migrants' needs and reducing their vulnerability.

"The Holy See is convinced that the enormous challenges that migration poses are best faced through multilateral processes rather than isolationist policies," said papal envoy Cardinal Piero Parolin.

Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras also welcomed the accord. These countries have worked on their own regional plan to manage migration, which El Salvador's foreign minister Carlos Castaneda told reporters represents the first effort to work within the framework of the global compact.

'Should be ethically binding'

The UN's children's agency said the pact could help provide better access to education and health for migrant children and offer "them stronger protection from exploitation and violence".

Other organisations, including Amnesty International and the International Federation of the Red Cross, see the accord as just a first step towards protecting migrants.

"We have heard repeatedly that this compact is not legally binding and does not impact on state sovereignty," said IFRC president Francesco Rocca at a press conference on the sidelines of the main dialogue.

"But if we are serious about fixing this problem, it should at the very least be ethically binding."

In comments by a representative, Morocco's King Mohammed VI -- absent from proceedings -- said the pact offers a way forwards that navigates between the two extremes of closing borders and allowing uncontrolled migration.

After the Marrakesh conference, the UN General Assembly is set to adopt a resolution formally endorsing the deal on December 19.

A United Nations conference adopted a migration pact in front of leaders and representatives from over 160 countries in Morocco on Monday, despite a string of withdrawals driven by anti-immigrant populism.

A United Nations conference adopted a migration pact in front of leaders and representatives from over 160 countries in Morocco on Monday, despite a string of withdrawals driven by anti-immigrant populism. The Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration -- finalised at the UN in July after 18 months of talks -- was formally approved with the bang of a gavel in Marrakesh at the start of a two-day conference. But the United States and at least 16 other countries either opted out or expressed concerns, with some claiming the pact infringes national sovereignty. Billed as the first international document on managing migration, it lays out 23 objectives to open up legal migration and discourage illegal border crossings, as the number of people on the move globally has surged to more than 250 million. Describing it as a "roadmap to prevent suffering and chaos", UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres sought to dispel what he called a number of myths around the pact, including claims it will allow the United Nations to impose migration policies on member states. The pact "is not legally binding", he said. "It is a framework for international cooperation." "We must not succumb to fear and false narratives", he told an audience that included German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Panama's President Juan Carlos Varela, Greek premier Alexis Tsipras, Danish Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen and Spain's premier Pedro Sanchez. Merkel launched an impassioned defence of the pact and multilateralism, saying her country "through Nazism brought incredible pain to humanity". "The answer to pure nationalism was the foundation of the United Nations and the commitment to jointly searching for answers to our common problems," she said. She insisted the pact seeks to prevent, rather than encourage, illegal migration. "This is about safe, orderly and regular migration -- it says (this) clearly in the title." Draconian measures On Friday, the US hit out at the pact, labelling it "an effort by the United Nations to advance global governance at the expense of the sovereign right of states". It was the first country to disavow the negotiations late last year, while Australia, Austria, the Czech Republic, Dominican Republic, Hungary, Latvia, Poland and Slovakia have all pulled out of the process in recent months and weeks before Chile withdrew overnight. Brazil also announced Monday it would withdraw from the pact from January when far-right president-elect Jair Bolsonaro takes office. "Immigration is welcome, but it should not be indiscriminate," future foreign minister Ernesto Araujo tweeted, adding: "It must serve the national interests and cohesion of each society." Rows over the accord have erupted in several European Union nations, hobbling Belgium's coalition government and pushing Slovakia's foreign minister to tender his resignation. From the United States to Europe and beyond, right-wing and populist leaders have taken increasingly draconian measures to shut out migrants in recent years. US President Donald Trump has pledged to build a wall on the US-Mexico border and has focused his recent ire on a migrant caravan from Central America, while a populist coalition government in Italy has clamped down on boats rescuing migrants at sea. Belgium's liberal premier Charles Michel attended the conference after winning the support of parliament to back the accord but was left leading a minority government after a Flemish nationalist party said it will quit his coalition over the pact. "This model of cooperation is complex, sometimes including steps forwards and sometimes banana skins," Michel told delegates. The pact has been welcomed by the Catholic Church as an important step towards addressing migrants' needs and reducing their vulnerability. "The Holy See is convinced that the enormous challenges that migration poses are best faced through multilateral processes rather than isolationist policies," said papal envoy Cardinal Piero Parolin. Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras also welcomed the accord. These countries have worked on their own regional plan to manage migration, which El Salvador's foreign minister Carlos Castaneda told reporters represents the first effort to work within the framework of the global compact. 'Should be ethically binding' The UN's children's agency said the pact could help provide better access to education and health for migrant children and offer "them stronger protection from exploitation and violence". Other organisations, including Amnesty International and the International Federation of the Red Cross, see the accord as just a first step towards protecting migrants. "We have heard repeatedly that this compact is not legally binding and does not impact on state sovereignty," said IFRC president Francesco Rocca at a press conference on the sidelines of the main dialogue. "But if we are serious about fixing this problem, it should at the very least be ethically binding." In comments by a representative, Morocco's King Mohammed VI -- absent from proceedings -- said the pact offers a way forwards that navigates between the two extremes of closing borders and allowing uncontrolled migration. After the Marrakesh conference, the UN General Assembly is set to adopt a resolution formally endorsing the deal on December 19.

UN conference adopts migration pact despite withdrawals

US authorities on Monday charged an Ohio man with providing material support to the Islamic State for an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting attack at a synagogue.&nbsp;

Damon Joseph, 21, allegedly had made a detailed plan to kill worshippers at a synagogue in the city of Toledo during the Jewish Sabbath, which begins at sunset Friday and lasts until nightfall Saturday.&nbsp;

He was arrested Friday when he picked up two semi-automatic assault rifles from a federal undercover agent. Police said the rifles had been rendered inoperable.&nbsp;

An affidavit filed in federal court claimed Joseph was inspired by Islamic State online propaganda and the October shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue -- the worst anti-Semitic attack in modern US history in which 11 were killed.&nbsp;

"I admire what the guy did with the (Pittsburgh) shooting actually," Joseph wrote to an undercover agent, according to the affidavit.&nbsp;

"I can see myself carrying out this type of operation inshallah," he was quoted as saying, using a common Arabic-language expression which roughly translates to "God willing."

A day before his arrest, authorities said Joseph provided a plan for his attack -- including the address of the synagogue and research to identify when more worshippers would be present.&nbsp;

An undercover agent met Joseph at a predetermined location Friday and he took a duffel bag containing two AR-15-type rifles, according to the affidavit. He then was arrested.&nbsp;

"This man spent months planning a violent terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS here in the United States," US Attorney Justin Herdman said in a statement.&nbsp;

"The charges describe a calculated man fueled by an ideology of hatred and intent on killing innocent people."

Joseph came to the attention of the FBI in May, when he began distributing messages of support for the Islamic State on social media, authorities said.&nbsp;

An undercover agent began communicating with Joseph. Over the subsequent months, he expressed an interest in supporting Islamic State propaganda operations and, eventually, to carrying out an attack.&nbsp;

If convicted, Joseph could face up to 20 years in prison.

US authorities on Monday charged an Ohio man with providing material support to the Islamic State for an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting attack at a synagogue.

US authorities on Monday charged an Ohio man with providing material support to the Islamic State for an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting attack at a synagogue. Damon Joseph, 21, allegedly had made a detailed plan to kill worshippers at a synagogue in the city of Toledo during the Jewish Sabbath, which begins at sunset Friday and lasts until nightfall Saturday. He was arrested Friday when he picked up two semi-automatic assault rifles from a federal undercover agent. Police said the rifles had been rendered inoperable. An affidavit filed in federal court claimed Joseph was inspired by Islamic State online propaganda and the October shooting at a Pittsburgh synagogue -- the worst anti-Semitic attack in modern US history in which 11 were killed. "I admire what the guy did with the (Pittsburgh) shooting actually," Joseph wrote to an undercover agent, according to the affidavit. "I can see myself carrying out this type of operation inshallah," he was quoted as saying, using a common Arabic-language expression which roughly translates to "God willing." A day before his arrest, authorities said Joseph provided a plan for his attack -- including the address of the synagogue and research to identify when more worshippers would be present. An undercover agent met Joseph at a predetermined location Friday and he took a duffel bag containing two AR-15-type rifles, according to the affidavit. He then was arrested. "This man spent months planning a violent terrorist attack on behalf of ISIS here in the United States," US Attorney Justin Herdman said in a statement. "The charges describe a calculated man fueled by an ideology of hatred and intent on killing innocent people." Joseph came to the attention of the FBI in May, when he began distributing messages of support for the Islamic State on social media, authorities said. An undercover agent began communicating with Joseph. Over the subsequent months, he expressed an interest in supporting Islamic State propaganda operations and, eventually, to carrying out an attack. If convicted, Joseph could face up to 20 years in prison.

US man allegedly planned IS-inspired attack Ohio synagogue

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/assembly-election-results-2018-live-stakes-high-ahead-of-2019-general-elections-183025">Assembly Election Results 2018 Live: Congress leading in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh; MNF in Mizoram, TRS ahead in Telangana</a>

The vote count is in full swing, numbers are changing every minute. Here's what the latest trends for Assembly Elections 2018 Results look like:

Madhya Pradesh: &nbsp;BJP 45, Congress 42 
Rajasthan: BJP 43, Congress 71 
Chhattisgarh: BJP 21, Congress 25 
Telangana: TRS 30, Congress + 25, BJP 3, Others 5 
Mizoram: Congress 1, MNF 1

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-top-kim-jong-un-aides-over-north-korea-rights-183017">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-top-kim-jong-un-aides-over-north-korea-rights-183017"> sanctions top Kim aides over North Korea human rights record</a>

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on three North Korean officials as it called the regime's human rights record among the world's worst, in an abrupt shift from President Donald Trump's efforts to woo the regime.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-hikes-minimum-wage-to-appease-yellow-vest-protesters-183016">Macron hikes minimum wage after 'yellow vest' protests in France</a>

French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a 100-euro ($113) per month increase in the minimum wage from next year in a major concession to "yellow vest" protesters who have roiled the country.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-briefly-shuts-dozens-of-online-news-sites-citing-security-concerns-183041">Bangladesh briefly shuts dozens of online news sites, citing security concerns</a>

Bangladesh's telecoms regulator shut down dozens of online news portals for several hours on Monday, citing security reasons, as officials scrutinise hundreds of sites before a parliamentary election this month.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-arrested-170-immigrants-who-tried-to-claim-migrant-children-183037">US arrests 170 immigrants who tried to claim migrant children</a>

US immigration authorities arrested 170 people between early July and late November who came forward to claim migrant children in government custody, according to official data released on Monday, crackdown advocates say is discouraging relatives from volunteering to take in some of the 14,000 detained children.

Assembly Election Results 2018 Live: Congress leading in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh; MNF in Mizoram, TRS ahead in Telangana The vote count is in full swing, numbers are changing every minute.

Assembly Election Results 2018 Live: Congress leading in Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh; MNF in Mizoram, TRS ahead in Telangana The vote count is in full swing, numbers are changing every minute. Here's what the latest trends for Assembly Elections 2018 Results look like: Madhya Pradesh: BJP 45, Congress 42 Rajasthan: BJP 43, Congress 71 Chhattisgarh: BJP 21, Congress 25 Telangana: TRS 30, Congress + 25, BJP 3, Others 5 Mizoram: Congress 1, MNF 1 US sanctions top Kim aides over North Korea human rights record The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on three North Korean officials as it called the regime's human rights record among the world's worst, in an abrupt shift from President Donald Trump's efforts to woo the regime. Macron hikes minimum wage after 'yellow vest' protests in France French President Emmanuel Macron announced on Monday a 100-euro ($113) per month increase in the minimum wage from next year in a major concession to "yellow vest" protesters who have roiled the country. Bangladesh briefly shuts dozens of online news sites, citing security concerns Bangladesh's telecoms regulator shut down dozens of online news portals for several hours on Monday, citing security reasons, as officials scrutinise hundreds of sites before a parliamentary election this month. US arrests 170 immigrants who tried to claim migrant children US immigration authorities arrested 170 people between early July and late November who came forward to claim migrant children in government custody, according to official data released on Monday, crackdown advocates say is discouraging relatives from volunteering to take in some of the 14,000 detained children.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Top Chinese and US negotiators held telephone talks on Tuesday to exchange views on the timetable of trade talks, the Chinese commerce ministry said.

Vice Premier Liu He spoke with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer 10 days after presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a trade war truce.

A 90-day deadline was set to reach an agreement, but no date has been set for the next round of talks and tensions have risen anew following Canada's arrest of an executive of Chinese telecom giant Huawei at the behest of the United States.

The commerce ministry said in a statement Liu and the US officials "exchanged views on the implementation of the consensus" reached by Trump and Xi as well as on the timetable for the next round of negotiations.

The brief statement did not provide more details.

Lighthizer said Sunday that March 1 was a "hard deadline" for the two sides to reach an agreement that would prevent an escalation of the trade war.

The world's top two economies have exchanged steep tariffs on more than $300 billion in total two-way trade, locking them in a conflict that has begun to eat into profits.&nbsp;

Trump has agreed to hold off on hiking tariffs to give space for negotiations.

Top Chinese and US negotiators held telephone talks on Tuesday to exchange views on the timetable of trade talks, the Chinese commerce ministry said. Vice Premier Liu He spoke with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer 10 days after presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a trade war truce.

Top Chinese and US negotiators held telephone talks on Tuesday to exchange views on the timetable of trade talks, the Chinese commerce ministry said. Vice Premier Liu He spoke with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer 10 days after presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping agreed to a trade war truce. A 90-day deadline was set to reach an agreement, but no date has been set for the next round of talks and tensions have risen anew following Canada's arrest of an executive of Chinese telecom giant Huawei at the behest of the United States. The commerce ministry said in a statement Liu and the US officials "exchanged views on the implementation of the consensus" reached by Trump and Xi as well as on the timetable for the next round of negotiations. The brief statement did not provide more details. Lighthizer said Sunday that March 1 was a "hard deadline" for the two sides to reach an agreement that would prevent an escalation of the trade war. The world's top two economies have exchanged steep tariffs on more than $300 billion in total two-way trade, locking them in a conflict that has begun to eat into profits. Trump has agreed to hold off on hiking tariffs to give space for negotiations.

Chinese, US negotiators discuss trade talks timetable

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on three North Korean officials as it called the regime's human rights record among the world's worst, in an abrupt shift from <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-grant-kim-jong-uns-wishes-after-denuclearisation-south-korea-president-181032">President Donald Trump</a>'s efforts to woo the regime.

In actions required by Congress, the Trump administration said it would seize any US assets of Choe Ryong Hae, described as the right-hand man of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/satellite-images-show-activity-at-north-korean-missile-base-report-181786">leader Kim Jong Un</a>, and two others over their roles in suppression of freedom of speech.

"Standing up for such rights and freedoms is a foreign policy priority that represents the best traditions of the United States," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said.

"Human rights abuses in North Korea remain among the worst in the world and include extrajudicial killings, forced labour, torture, prolonged arbitrary detention, rape, forced abortions and other sexual violence," he said.

The State Department is required by a 2016 law to produce a report on North Korean human rights for Congress twice a year.

But its submission on Monday -- International Human Rights Day -- was the first since October 2017 as Trump championed diplomacy with North Korea that focused squarely on its nuclear program.

"The United States has consistently condemned the North Korean regime for its flagrant and egregious abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and this administration will continue to take action against human rights abusers around the globe," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement announcing the sanctions.

Trump, however, has openly played down human rights concerns when preserving relationships with allies, notably Saudi Arabia.

The sanctions will seize any assets of the three officials in the United States and ban any US-based financial transactions with them.

Such restrictions may have little impact on officials in one of the world's most closed countries but will have a clear symbolic force as North Korea seeks greater acceptance by the United States.

Kim and Trump held the first-of-a-kind summit in June in Singapore as North Korea seeks a historic declaration of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War.

Trump, who saw the summit as a highlight in his foreign affairs record, has said that he and Kim are "in love" and as recently as this month voiced respect for the North Korean leader.

But Trump's hopes of arranging a follow-up summit have been at a standstill, with the North Koreans abruptly calling off a meeting in New York last month with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

North Korea has been insisting on a relaxation of wide-ranging sanctions on the country, while the United States said that the UN Security Council should only ease pressure once Pyongyang takes concrete steps to end its nuclear program.

Choe is a lifetime confidant of Kim's father, Kim Jong Il, and in the past has been described as the effective number-two in controlling the military.

He is often trusted to make foreign trips or deliver high-profile announcements. At a major military parade last year, he warned that North Korea was ready to "beat down enemies with the power of nuclear justice."

When Choe briefly vanished from official media in 2014, North Korea watchers feared he suffered a fate similar to Kim's uncle, Jang Song Thaek, who was executed as a traitor, but Choe quickly re-emerged in prominent roles.

The Treasury Department noted that Choe is head of the ruling Workers Party's Organization and Guidance Department, which enforces ideological discipline and ensures that all officials keep in line.

Another of the officials targeted was Jong Kyong Thaek, the minister of state security, which is in charge of counter-intelligence operations.

The third sanctioned official was Pak Kwang Ho, who is involved in widespread censorship as director of the Propaganda and Agitation Department.

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on three North Korean officials as it called the regime's human rights record among the world's worst, in an abrupt shift from President Donald Trump's efforts to woo the regime.

The United States on Monday imposed sanctions on three North Korean officials as it called the regime's human rights record among the world's worst, in an abrupt shift from President Donald Trump's efforts to woo the regime. In actions required by Congress, the Trump administration said it would seize any US assets of Choe Ryong Hae, described as the right-hand man of leader Kim Jong Un, and two others over their roles in suppression of freedom of speech. "Standing up for such rights and freedoms is a foreign policy priority that represents the best traditions of the United States," State Department spokesman Robert Palladino said. "Human rights abuses in North Korea remain among the worst in the world and include extrajudicial killings, forced labour, torture, prolonged arbitrary detention, rape, forced abortions and other sexual violence," he said. The State Department is required by a 2016 law to produce a report on North Korean human rights for Congress twice a year. But its submission on Monday -- International Human Rights Day -- was the first since October 2017 as Trump championed diplomacy with North Korea that focused squarely on its nuclear program. "The United States has consistently condemned the North Korean regime for its flagrant and egregious abuses of human rights and fundamental freedoms, and this administration will continue to take action against human rights abusers around the globe," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement announcing the sanctions. Trump, however, has openly played down human rights concerns when preserving relationships with allies, notably Saudi Arabia. The sanctions will seize any assets of the three officials in the United States and ban any US-based financial transactions with them. Such restrictions may have little impact on officials in one of the world's most closed countries but will have a clear symbolic force as North Korea seeks greater acceptance by the United States. Kim and Trump held the first-of-a-kind summit in June in Singapore as North Korea seeks a historic declaration of the end of the 1950-53 Korean War. Trump, who saw the summit as a highlight in his foreign affairs record, has said that he and Kim are "in love" and as recently as this month voiced respect for the North Korean leader. But Trump's hopes of arranging a follow-up summit have been at a standstill, with the North Koreans abruptly calling off a meeting in New York last month with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. North Korea has been insisting on a relaxation of wide-ranging sanctions on the country, while the United States said that the UN Security Council should only ease pressure once Pyongyang takes concrete steps to end its nuclear program. Choe is a lifetime confidant of Kim's father, Kim Jong Il, and in the past has been described as the effective number-two in controlling the military. He is often trusted to make foreign trips or deliver high-profile announcements. At a major military parade last year, he warned that North Korea was ready to "beat down enemies with the power of nuclear justice." When Choe briefly vanished from official media in 2014, North Korea watchers feared he suffered a fate similar to Kim's uncle, Jang Song Thaek, who was executed as a traitor, but Choe quickly re-emerged in prominent roles. The Treasury Department noted that Choe is head of the ruling Workers Party's Organization and Guidance Department, which enforces ideological discipline and ensures that all officials keep in line. Another of the officials targeted was Jong Kyong Thaek, the minister of state security, which is in charge of counter-intelligence operations. The third sanctioned official was Pak Kwang Ho, who is involved in widespread censorship as director of the Propaganda and Agitation Department.

US sanctions top Kim aides over North Korea human rights record

A powerful winter storm that struck the US&nbsp;Southeast over the weekend killed at least one motorist, left more than 310,000 customers without power and forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights on Sunday.

A winter storm warning remained in effect for most of North Carolina, Virginia and southern West Virginia as at least an additional 2 inches (5 cm) of snow and sleet were expected to fall overnight and into Monday after more than a foot (30 cm) of snow fell over the weekend.

Authorities reported hundreds of spinouts and collisions across the region as snow, sleet and freezing rain covered roadways across the region on Sunday.

Divers searched for a driver whose 18-wheeler was found in a river in Kinston, North Carolina on Sunday morning, an NBC affiliate in Raleigh reported. WRAL-TV also reported that a driver was killed outside of Charlotte when a tree fell on a car.

More than 310,000 customers were without power in the Carolinas, Tennessee and Virginia on Sunday evening, Poweroutage.us reported.

The storm prompted more than 1,000 flight cancellations at Charlotte/Douglas International Airport, the sixth-busiest airport in the country, and other airports across the region, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware.

North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said on Sunday that the state of emergency would remain in effect and that the North Carolina National Guard had been activated to help with the response.

The effects of the storm could last for days in the state, officials warned.

In North Raleigh, residents woke up to several inches of snow that blanketed roads, cars and homes. Many people took to Twitter to share photos of the unusually harsh weather, and the hashtag #Snowmageddon2018 was trending on Twitter on Sunday morning.

In South Carolina, the snow gave way to sleet and rain as temperatures hovered around freezing, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said on Twitter.

The storm formed earlier this week off the Texas coast and moved east, lashing parts of Arkansas and Tennessee with icy rain.

A powerful winter storm that struck the US Southeast over the weekend killed at least one motorist, left more than 310,000 customers without power and forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights on Sunday.

A powerful winter storm that struck the US Southeast over the weekend killed at least one motorist, left more than 310,000 customers without power and forced the cancellation of hundreds of flights on Sunday. A winter storm warning remained in effect for most of North Carolina, Virginia and southern West Virginia as at least an additional 2 inches (5 cm) of snow and sleet were expected to fall overnight and into Monday after more than a foot (30 cm) of snow fell over the weekend. Authorities reported hundreds of spinouts and collisions across the region as snow, sleet and freezing rain covered roadways across the region on Sunday. Divers searched for a driver whose 18-wheeler was found in a river in Kinston, North Carolina on Sunday morning, an NBC affiliate in Raleigh reported. WRAL-TV also reported that a driver was killed outside of Charlotte when a tree fell on a car. More than 310,000 customers were without power in the Carolinas, Tennessee and Virginia on Sunday evening, Poweroutage.us reported. The storm prompted more than 1,000 flight cancellations at Charlotte/Douglas International Airport, the sixth-busiest airport in the country, and other airports across the region, according to flight-tracking website FlightAware. North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper said on Sunday that the state of emergency would remain in effect and that the North Carolina National Guard had been activated to help with the response. The effects of the storm could last for days in the state, officials warned. In North Raleigh, residents woke up to several inches of snow that blanketed roads, cars and homes. Many people took to Twitter to share photos of the unusually harsh weather, and the hashtag #Snowmageddon2018 was trending on Twitter on Sunday morning. In South Carolina, the snow gave way to sleet and rain as temperatures hovered around freezing, the South Carolina Emergency Management Division said on Twitter. The storm formed earlier this week off the Texas coast and moved east, lashing parts of Arkansas and Tennessee with icy rain.

Winter storm kills one, knocks out power to 310,000 in US Southeast

Less than two years ago, Heather Nauert was working as an anchor on Donald Trump's favorite news show, "Fox &amp; Friends."

Her rise since then has been stunning. Trump has now named her as his pick to become America's voice and face at the United Nations.

After Trump was inaugurated as president in January 2017, Nauert became -- with no experience in government, foreign policy or politics -- the spokeswoman at the State Department.

When Trump fired media-shy Texas oilman Rex Tillerson as his secretary of state in March via tweet -- their relationship by then bordered on poisonous -- Nauert saw her influence grow under successor Mike Pompeo, whose combative style is more in tune with the president.

She also got a major promotion, becoming the acting under-secretary for public diplomacy and public affairs, the fourth highest official at the State Department.&nbsp;

Overnight she took charge of overseeing communication from US diplomatic missions around the world as well as countering propaganda from the Islamic State movement and other foreign adversaries.

If confirmed by the Senate, the 48-year-old Nauert would <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/nikki-haley-resignation-and-future-plans-170742">replace Nikki Haley</a>, who announced her resignation in October amid speculation of future political plans.

Haley similarly had little foreign policy experience when appointed, although she had a national name as the governor of South Carolina.

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I am pleased to announce that Heather Nauert, Spokeswoman for the United States Department of State, will be nominated to serve as United Nations Ambassador. I want to congratulate Heather, and thank Ambassador Nikki Haley for her great service to our Country!
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The White House-Fox nexus

Nauert's appointment would reinforce the link between Fox News and Trump, who has been accused of turning to the conservative-leaning channel, rather than experts, for policy advice.

The television-loving president has chosen a series of Fox personalities for high-level posts and consultation.&nbsp;

Nauert covered domestic and international stories as an ABC News correspondent from 2005 to 2007 prior to joining Fox.

Originally from Wisconsin, she attended Mount Vernon College, a now-defunct all-women's school in Washington, before graduating from the elite Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism.

Trump announced the nomination in brief remarks to reporters. The president, who puts a premium on loyalty, earlier hailed Nauert as "a supporter for a long time -- really, excellent."

Under Tillerson, Nauert grew frustrated at not having close access to her immediate boss and had been seen as quitting to return to New York, where her family has remained.

But she has taken on a bolder role under Pompeo, assertively seeking to promote his message.

But unlike White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, whose testy exchanges with reporters are routinely carried live, Nauert has enjoyed a civil relationship with the smaller State Department press corps as they travel the world together.

Poise on camera, but at UN?

Nauert raised eyebrows in June when she appeared to describe the D-Day landings -- when the United States, Britain and allies stormed Nazi-occupied France in 1944 -- as evidence of a longtime "strong relationship" with Germany.&nbsp;

But the former television anchor has mostly avoided snafus, keeping regular press briefings concise and winning praise for her poise as she fields a dizzying array of foreign policy questions.

"Those I know who work with her remark frequently that she is more open than most Trump appointees to listening to and working with career diplomats," said Brett Bruen, who served as White House director of global engagement under former president Barack Obama.

He added that colleagues described Nauert as a quick learner who "executed her functions capably."

But Bruen, who now heads the Global Situation Room consulting firm, questioned whether Nauert was the best pick when "American influence on the world stage is at a historic low."

"We need more than a smooth spokesperson. We need a seasoned, steady and strong voice who understands the subtleties of multinational diplomacy," he said.

"I worry that we will grow ever more isolated on this, the most important of world stages," he said.

Haley has had the task of promoting Trump's "America First" agenda as the United States pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal, the Paris climate accord, the UN Human Rights Council and other agreements and institutions broadly supported by the 193 members of the United Nations.

Unlike Haley, however, Nauert is not expected to have cabinet status, keeping power over foreign policy firmly with Pompeo and especially John Bolton, the hawkish White House national security advisor.

She does, however, have something in common with Bolton. He too was a former US ambassador to the UN -- and caught Trump's eye as a commentator on Fox News.

Less than two years ago, Heather Nauert was working as an anchor on Donald Trump's favorite news show, "Fox & Friends." Her rise since then has been stunning. Trump has now named her as his pick to become America's voice and face at the United Nations.

Less than two years ago, Heather Nauert was working as an anchor on Donald Trump's favorite news show, "Fox & Friends." Her rise since then has been stunning. Trump has now named her as his pick to become America's voice and face at the United Nations. After Trump was inaugurated as president in January 2017, Nauert became -- with no experience in government, foreign policy or politics -- the spokeswoman at the State Department. When Trump fired media-shy Texas oilman Rex Tillerson as his secretary of state in March via tweet -- their relationship by then bordered on poisonous -- Nauert saw her influence grow under successor Mike Pompeo, whose combative style is more in tune with the president. She also got a major promotion, becoming the acting under-secretary for public diplomacy and public affairs, the fourth highest official at the State Department. Overnight she took charge of overseeing communication from US diplomatic missions around the world as well as countering propaganda from the Islamic State movement and other foreign adversaries. If confirmed by the Senate, the 48-year-old Nauert would replace Nikki Haley, who announced her resignation in October amid speculation of future political plans. Haley similarly had little foreign policy experience when appointed, although she had a national name as the governor of South Carolina. I am pleased to announce that Heather Nauert, Spokeswoman for the United States Department of State, will be nominated to serve as United Nations Ambassador. I want to congratulate Heather, and thank Ambassador Nikki Haley for her great service to our Country! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) December 7, 2018 × The White House-Fox nexus Nauert's appointment would reinforce the link between Fox News and Trump, who has been accused of turning to the conservative-leaning channel, rather than experts, for policy advice. The television-loving president has chosen a series of Fox personalities for high-level posts and consultation. Nauert covered domestic and international stories as an ABC News correspondent from 2005 to 2007 prior to joining Fox. Originally from Wisconsin, she attended Mount Vernon College, a now-defunct all-women's school in Washington, before graduating from the elite Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism. Trump announced the nomination in brief remarks to reporters. The president, who puts a premium on loyalty, earlier hailed Nauert as "a supporter for a long time -- really, excellent." Under Tillerson, Nauert grew frustrated at not having close access to her immediate boss and had been seen as quitting to return to New York, where her family has remained. But she has taken on a bolder role under Pompeo, assertively seeking to promote his message. But unlike White House press secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders, whose testy exchanges with reporters are routinely carried live, Nauert has enjoyed a civil relationship with the smaller State Department press corps as they travel the world together. Poise on camera, but at UN? Nauert raised eyebrows in June when she appeared to describe the D-Day landings -- when the United States, Britain and allies stormed Nazi-occupied France in 1944 -- as evidence of a longtime "strong relationship" with Germany. But the former television anchor has mostly avoided snafus, keeping regular press briefings concise and winning praise for her poise as she fields a dizzying array of foreign policy questions. "Those I know who work with her remark frequently that she is more open than most Trump appointees to listening to and working with career diplomats," said Brett Bruen, who served as White House director of global engagement under former president Barack Obama. He added that colleagues described Nauert as a quick learner who "executed her functions capably." But Bruen, who now heads the Global Situation Room consulting firm, questioned whether Nauert was the best pick when "American influence on the world stage is at a historic low." "We need more than a smooth spokesperson. We need a seasoned, steady and strong voice who understands the subtleties of multinational diplomacy," he said. "I worry that we will grow ever more isolated on this, the most important of world stages," he said. Haley has had the task of promoting Trump's "America First" agenda as the United States pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal, the Paris climate accord, the UN Human Rights Council and other agreements and institutions broadly supported by the 193 members of the United Nations. Unlike Haley, however, Nauert is not expected to have cabinet status, keeping power over foreign policy firmly with Pompeo and especially John Bolton, the hawkish White House national security advisor. She does, however, have something in common with Bolton. He too was a former US ambassador to the UN -- and caught Trump's eye as a commentator on Fox News.

From Fox anchor to UN envoy, a meteoric rise for Heather Nauert

Losses on Wall Street deepened in late-morning trade on Thursday as the arrest of a key Chinese executive at the urging of the United States exacerbated trade war fears.

Near 1630 GMT, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 2.3 per cent at 24,446.09 after earlier falling more than three per cent. The blue-chip index has lost almost 1,400 points in the last two sessions.

The broad-based S&amp;P slid 2.0 per cent to 2,645.74, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index shed 2.4 per cent to 6,998.19.

The drops, which pushed both the Dow and S&amp;P 500 into the red for 2018, came after the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Canada for extradition to the United States in an investigation into suspected Iran sanctions violations by the telecom giant.

The Meng arrest stirred tensions just as the United States and China agreed to a ceasefire in their trade spat while negotiators seek a deal within three months.

"The concept of getting a quick resolution is fading," said Art Hogan, chief market strategist at B&nbsp;Riley FBR.&nbsp;

After rallying on Monday following the US-China ceasefire on tariffs announced over the weekend, US markets had fallen sharply on Tuesday on scepticism about the agreement.&nbsp;

US markets were closed on Wednesday because of the funeral of former President George HW&nbsp;Bush but resumed their downward move on Thursday following the Meng arrest.

Other headwinds facing stocks include worries over slowing US growth that is prompting greater uncertainty on whether the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates later this month.

Petroleum-linked stocks were also down amid a pullback in oil prices as OPEC members debated a production cut.

Large banks were particularly weak, with Bank of America losing four per cent, Citigroup 5.6 per cent and JPMorgan Chase 3.5 per cent as investors now view the odds of a Fed rate hike on December 19 at 69.8 per cent, down from 82.7 per cent a week ago, according to futures markets.

Boeing also suffered outsized losses, shedding 6.2 per cent on trade war fears and as the aerospace giant continues to face scrutiny following an October 29 accident in Indonesia in which 189 people died.&nbsp;

The head of the carrier, Lion Mentari Airlines, has reportedly threatened to cancel orders of additional Boeing planes.

Losses on Wall Street deepened in late-morning trade on Thursday as the arrest of a key Chinese executive at the urging of the United States exacerbated trade war fears.

Losses on Wall Street deepened in late-morning trade on Thursday as the arrest of a key Chinese executive at the urging of the United States exacerbated trade war fears. Near 1630 GMT, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 2.3 per cent at 24,446.09 after earlier falling more than three per cent. The blue-chip index has lost almost 1,400 points in the last two sessions. The broad-based S&P slid 2.0 per cent to 2,645.74, while the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite Index shed 2.4 per cent to 6,998.19. The drops, which pushed both the Dow and S&P 500 into the red for 2018, came after the arrest of Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou in Canada for extradition to the United States in an investigation into suspected Iran sanctions violations by the telecom giant. The Meng arrest stirred tensions just as the United States and China agreed to a ceasefire in their trade spat while negotiators seek a deal within three months. "The concept of getting a quick resolution is fading," said Art Hogan, chief market strategist at B Riley FBR. After rallying on Monday following the US-China ceasefire on tariffs announced over the weekend, US markets had fallen sharply on Tuesday on scepticism about the agreement. US markets were closed on Wednesday because of the funeral of former President George HW Bush but resumed their downward move on Thursday following the Meng arrest. Other headwinds facing stocks include worries over slowing US growth that is prompting greater uncertainty on whether the Federal Reserve will increase interest rates later this month. Petroleum-linked stocks were also down amid a pullback in oil prices as OPEC members debated a production cut. Large banks were particularly weak, with Bank of America losing four per cent, Citigroup 5.6 per cent and JPMorgan Chase 3.5 per cent as investors now view the odds of a Fed rate hike on December 19 at 69.8 per cent, down from 82.7 per cent a week ago, according to futures markets. Boeing also suffered outsized losses, shedding 6.2 per cent on trade war fears and as the aerospace giant continues to face scrutiny following an October 29 accident in Indonesia in which 189 people died. The head of the carrier, Lion Mentari Airlines, has reportedly threatened to cancel orders of additional Boeing planes.

Wall Street stocks suffer losses after Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou's arrest

Like many top Chinese executives, Meng Wanzhou is a mysterious figure even in her home country, but the 46-year-old chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies had been widely tipped to one day take the helm of the tech giant her father founded.

That was until her shock arrest in Canada at the request of US authorities on Wednesday, a move that has entangled her in the protracted diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing. Her fate is now uncertain.

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters the arrest stems from Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's alleged violation of US sanctions on Iran. Similar allegations of breaching US export restrictions led to rival Chinese telecoms equipment maker ZTE Corp being hit with a devastating ban and heavy fines this year.

Huawei said in a statement that it had been provided with little information "about the charges" against Meng, who is also one of the vice chairs of its board and the daughter of founder Ren Zhengfei from his first marriage. Huawei added that it was "not aware of any wrongdoing by Ms Meng".

The detention of Meng, who takes her family name from her mother and has also used the English first names "Cathy" and "Sabrina", has once again thrown the spotlight on Huawei at a time of heightened global concerns over electronic security.

Much of the scrutiny stems from Ren's background with China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), where he worked as a civilian engineer for nearly a decade until his departure in 1983, after helping to build its communications network.

Officials in some governments, particularly the United States, have voiced concern that his company is close to the Chinese military and government. Huawei has repeatedly insisted Beijing has no influence over it.

LOW PROFILE

Ren, 74, founded the Chinese telecommunications company in 1988 and, like his elder daughter, has largely kept a low profile.

But in a rare move, he posed last month for a family photo shoot for French lifestyle magazine Paris Match with his younger daughter and current wife.

Annabel Yao, 20, Meng's half-sister, posed in front of a grand piano with her mother, identified by the magazine as Yao Ling, and Ren, who wore a blue shirt with his hand resting on his smiling daughter's shoulder.

A Huawei spokesman confirmed to Reuters that Yao is Ren's wife. Few outsiders had previously heard of the younger daughter, a Harvard computer science student and ballerina. She recently made a high-profile appearance at the exclusive Le Bal Debutante ball in Paris.

Huawei is privately held and describes itself as employee-owned. Though Ren owns only around 1.4 per cent of the shares, employees say he has supreme leadership within the company, frequently communicating to staff scattered throughout the world via internal memos.

Huawei, now China's largest technology company by employees, with more than 180,000 staff and revenue of $93 billion in 2017, started off selling digital telephone switches in the 1990s.

It won its first big overseas contract for fixed-line network products from Hong Kong's Hutchison-Whampoa in 1996. Today, Huawei's domestic and overseas revenue is equally split, according to the 2017 annual report.

Huawei derives around half of its revenue from supplying equipment to telecoms carriers around the world. It has overtaken Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia to be the world's largest telecoms equipment maker by revenue.

Smartphones have become another key business in recent years, pitting it against Apple Inc and Samsung Electronics in the highly competitive market.

HEIR APPARENT

According to Huawei's website, Meng joined the company in 1993, obtained a master's degree from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 1998, and rose up the ranks over the years, mostly holding financial roles.

She has held the positions of director of the international accounting department, CFO of Huawei Hong Kong, and president of the accounting management department, according to the website.

In her first media appearance before the Chinese press in 2013, Meng said she had first joined the company as a secretary "whose job was just to take calls".

She also said she was married with a son and a daughter and that her husband did not work in the industry, dismissing speculation she was married to a senior Huawei executive.

Meng's importance at Huawei became apparent in 2011 when she was first named as a board member. Company insiders describe her as capable and hardworking.

While her brother, Meng Ping, as well as her father's younger brother and his current wife all work at Huawei and related companies, none has held such senior management roles.

"The other family members are in back office, Sabrina is CFO and sits on the board," a Huawei source said. "So she is viewed as the boss's most likely successor."

Like many top Chinese executives, Meng Wanzhou is a mysterious figure even in her home country, but the 46-year-old chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies had been widely tipped to one day take the helm of the tech giant her father founded.

Like many top Chinese executives, Meng Wanzhou is a mysterious figure even in her home country, but the 46-year-old chief financial officer of Huawei Technologies had been widely tipped to one day take the helm of the tech giant her father founded. That was until her shock arrest in Canada at the request of US authorities on Wednesday, a move that has entangled her in the protracted diplomatic tensions between Washington and Beijing. Her fate is now uncertain. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters the arrest stems from Huawei Technologies Co Ltd's alleged violation of US sanctions on Iran. Similar allegations of breaching US export restrictions led to rival Chinese telecoms equipment maker ZTE Corp being hit with a devastating ban and heavy fines this year. Huawei said in a statement that it had been provided with little information "about the charges" against Meng, who is also one of the vice chairs of its board and the daughter of founder Ren Zhengfei from his first marriage. Huawei added that it was "not aware of any wrongdoing by Ms Meng". The detention of Meng, who takes her family name from her mother and has also used the English first names "Cathy" and "Sabrina", has once again thrown the spotlight on Huawei at a time of heightened global concerns over electronic security. Much of the scrutiny stems from Ren's background with China's People's Liberation Army (PLA), where he worked as a civilian engineer for nearly a decade until his departure in 1983, after helping to build its communications network. Officials in some governments, particularly the United States, have voiced concern that his company is close to the Chinese military and government. Huawei has repeatedly insisted Beijing has no influence over it. LOW PROFILE Ren, 74, founded the Chinese telecommunications company in 1988 and, like his elder daughter, has largely kept a low profile. But in a rare move, he posed last month for a family photo shoot for French lifestyle magazine Paris Match with his younger daughter and current wife. Annabel Yao, 20, Meng's half-sister, posed in front of a grand piano with her mother, identified by the magazine as Yao Ling, and Ren, who wore a blue shirt with his hand resting on his smiling daughter's shoulder. A Huawei spokesman confirmed to Reuters that Yao is Ren's wife. Few outsiders had previously heard of the younger daughter, a Harvard computer science student and ballerina. She recently made a high-profile appearance at the exclusive Le Bal Debutante ball in Paris. Huawei is privately held and describes itself as employee-owned. Though Ren owns only around 1.4 per cent of the shares, employees say he has supreme leadership within the company, frequently communicating to staff scattered throughout the world via internal memos. Huawei, now China's largest technology company by employees, with more than 180,000 staff and revenue of $93 billion in 2017, started off selling digital telephone switches in the 1990s. It won its first big overseas contract for fixed-line network products from Hong Kong's Hutchison-Whampoa in 1996. Today, Huawei's domestic and overseas revenue is equally split, according to the 2017 annual report. Huawei derives around half of its revenue from supplying equipment to telecoms carriers around the world. It has overtaken Sweden's Ericsson and Finland's Nokia to be the world's largest telecoms equipment maker by revenue. Smartphones have become another key business in recent years, pitting it against Apple Inc and Samsung Electronics in the highly competitive market. HEIR APPARENT According to Huawei's website, Meng joined the company in 1993, obtained a master's degree from Huazhong University of Science and Technology in 1998, and rose up the ranks over the years, mostly holding financial roles. She has held the positions of director of the international accounting department, CFO of Huawei Hong Kong, and president of the accounting management department, according to the website. In her first media appearance before the Chinese press in 2013, Meng said she had first joined the company as a secretary "whose job was just to take calls". She also said she was married with a son and a daughter and that her husband did not work in the industry, dismissing speculation she was married to a senior Huawei executive. Meng's importance at Huawei became apparent in 2011 when she was first named as a board member. Company insiders describe her as capable and hardworking. While her brother, Meng Ping, as well as her father's younger brother and his current wife all work at Huawei and related companies, none has held such senior management roles. "The other family members are in back office, Sabrina is CFO and sits on the board," a Huawei source said. "So she is viewed as the boss's most likely successor."

Arrest of Huawei CFO throws rare spotlight on family

Former US vice president Joe Biden has stoked speculation he may run for the White House in 2020 by saying he believes he is the "most qualified person" to be president.

Biden, 76, made the remarks on Monday night while in Montana during a stop on a tour to promote his 2017 book "Promise Me, Dad" about the death from brain cancer of his son Beau.

"I think I'm the most qualified person in the country to be president," a local newspaper, the Missoula Current, quoted Biden as saying.

"The issues that we face as a country today are the issues that I've worked on my whole life -– the plight of the middle class and foreign policy," he said.

Biden, who served for eight years as vice president to Democrat Barack Obama, said he would have to consult with his family before deciding whether to take on Republican Donald Trump two years from now.

"My family and I need to decide as a unit whether we're ready -- we do everything as a family," Biden said, adding that he would make a decision in the next six weeks to two months.

Biden, who served as a US senator from Delaware before becoming vice president, was asked whether his reputation for making "gaffes" could harm his prospects.

"I may be a gaffe machine, but my god, what a wonderful thing compared to a guy who can't tell the truth," he said in a reference to Trump.

"No one doubts what I say, the problem is I sometimes say all that I mean," Biden said. "The question is what kind of nation are we becoming?

"We can't have four more years."

Biden, should he decide to run, would be considered a strong candidate in what could be a crowded field seeking the 2020 Democratic nomination for president.

Former US vice president Joe Biden has stoked speculation he may run for the White House in 2020 by saying he believes he is the "most qualified person" to be president.

Former US vice president Joe Biden has stoked speculation he may run for the White House in 2020 by saying he believes he is the "most qualified person" to be president. Biden, 76, made the remarks on Monday night while in Montana during a stop on a tour to promote his 2017 book "Promise Me, Dad" about the death from brain cancer of his son Beau. "I think I'm the most qualified person in the country to be president," a local newspaper, the Missoula Current, quoted Biden as saying. "The issues that we face as a country today are the issues that I've worked on my whole life -– the plight of the middle class and foreign policy," he said. Biden, who served for eight years as vice president to Democrat Barack Obama, said he would have to consult with his family before deciding whether to take on Republican Donald Trump two years from now. "My family and I need to decide as a unit whether we're ready -- we do everything as a family," Biden said, adding that he would make a decision in the next six weeks to two months. Biden, who served as a US senator from Delaware before becoming vice president, was asked whether his reputation for making "gaffes" could harm his prospects. "I may be a gaffe machine, but my god, what a wonderful thing compared to a guy who can't tell the truth," he said in a reference to Trump. "No one doubts what I say, the problem is I sometimes say all that I mean," Biden said. "The question is what kind of nation are we becoming? "We can't have four more years." Biden, should he decide to run, would be considered a strong candidate in what could be a crowded field seeking the 2020 Democratic nomination for president.

Biden says he's 'most qualified' to be US president

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-works-on-convincing-russia-to-join-oil-cuts-181667">Russia </a>will develop missiles now banned under the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces treaty if the United States exits the arms control pact and starts making such weapons, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/certain-will-talk-to-xi-putin-about-halting-arms-race-some-time-in-the-future-trump-181238">President Vladimir Putin</a> said on Wednesday.

The United States delivered Russia a 60-day ultimatum on Tuesday to come clean about what Washington says is a violation of the 1987 nuclear arms control treaty, saying it would be forced to start a six-month process of withdrawal if nothing changes.

Putin, in televised comments, accused the United States of blaming Russia for violations as a pretext for Washington to exit the pact.

Putin noted that many countries produce missiles banned under the INF treaty, but that Moscow and Washington had undertaken to limit themselves with the accord signed in 1987.

"Now it seems our American partners believe that the situation has changed so much that the United States must also have such a weapon. What's our response? It's simple: in that case, we will also do this," he said.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said statements from the United States and NATO were whipping up tensions.

Russia's ministry of foreign affairs had said the United States was yet to provide any evidence Moscow was in breach of a landmark arms control treaty.

US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had said earlier that Russia had developed "multiple battalions of the SSC-8 missiles", referring to the land-based, intermediate-range Cruise missile which also has the name of Novator 9M729.

"Its range makes it a direct menace to Europe," he told a news conference after a meeting with his NATO counterparts on Monday.

Russia will develop missiles now banned under the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces treaty if the United States exits the arms control pact and starts making such weapons, President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday.

Russia will develop missiles now banned under the Intermediate-range Nuclear Forces treaty if the United States exits the arms control pact and starts making such weapons, President Vladimir Putin said on Wednesday. The United States delivered Russia a 60-day ultimatum on Tuesday to come clean about what Washington says is a violation of the 1987 nuclear arms control treaty, saying it would be forced to start a six-month process of withdrawal if nothing changes. Putin, in televised comments, accused the United States of blaming Russia for violations as a pretext for Washington to exit the pact. Putin noted that many countries produce missiles banned under the INF treaty, but that Moscow and Washington had undertaken to limit themselves with the accord signed in 1987. "Now it seems our American partners believe that the situation has changed so much that the United States must also have such a weapon. What's our response? It's simple: in that case, we will also do this," he said. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said statements from the United States and NATO were whipping up tensions. Russia's ministry of foreign affairs had said the United States was yet to provide any evidence Moscow was in breach of a landmark arms control treaty. US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had said earlier that Russia had developed "multiple battalions of the SSC-8 missiles", referring to the land-based, intermediate-range Cruise missile which also has the name of Novator 9M729. "Its range makes it a direct menace to Europe," he told a news conference after a meeting with his NATO counterparts on Monday.

Watch: Will produce banned weapons if US begins similar move, says Putin on nuclear arms control treaty

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-chopper-case-christian-michel-appears-in-delhi-court-security-tightened-181662">AgustaWestland chopper case: Special court sends Christian Michel to five-day CBI custody</a>

The Patiala House court on Wednesday granted the investigating agency five-day custody of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/live-hockey-world-cup-2018-netherlands-vs-germany-181671">As it happened | Hockey World Cup 2018: Full time! Germany beat Netherlands 4-1</a>

It's an end to Germany's fantastic hockey. They have defeated Netherlands 4-1 after lacking 0-1 in the first quarter.

They scored three late goals in the fourth quarter to put up a challenging game and register a win.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-officers-were-fighting-like-kilkenny-cats-says-attorney-general-venugopal-181677">CBI top officers were fighting like '</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-officers-were-fighting-like-kilkenny-cats-says-attorney-general-venugopal-181677">kilkenny</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cbi-top-officers-were-fighting-like-kilkenny-cats-says-attorney-general-venugopal-181677"> cats', says attorney general Venugopal</a>

The Centre on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that the fight between two top officers of the CBI - Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana - in public exposed the premier probe agency to ridicule.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666">Watch: </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666"> gives Russia 60 days to comply with </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666">nuclear</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-gives-russia-60-days-to-comply-with-nuclear-treaty-181666"> treaty</a>

The United States warned Russia on Tuesday it will withdraw from a major Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms if Moscow does not dismantle missiles that Washington says breach it within 60 days.

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pak-supports-peace-and-reconciliation-in-afghanistan-imran-khan-tells-us-special-envoy-181702">Pak supports peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan: Imran Khan tells US special envoy</a>

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

AgustaWestland chopper case: Special court sends Christian Michel to five-day CBI custody The Patiala House court on Wednesday granted the investigating agency five-day custody of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal.

AgustaWestland chopper case: Special court sends Christian Michel to five-day CBI custody The Patiala House court on Wednesday granted the investigating agency five-day custody of Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the Rs 3,600-crore AgustaWestland VVIP chopper deal. As it happened | Hockey World Cup 2018: Full time! Germany beat Netherlands 4-1 It's an end to Germany's fantastic hockey. They have defeated Netherlands 4-1 after lacking 0-1 in the first quarter. They scored three late goals in the fourth quarter to put up a challenging game and register a win. CBI top officers were fighting like 'kilkenny cats', says attorney general Venugopal The Centre on Wednesday told the Supreme Court that the fight between two top officers of the CBI - Director Alok Verma and Special Director Rakesh Asthana - in public exposed the premier probe agency to ridicule. Watch: US gives Russia 60 days to comply with nuclear treaty The United States warned Russia on Tuesday it will withdraw from a major Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms if Moscow does not dismantle missiles that Washington says breach it within 60 days. Pak supports peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan: Imran Khan tells US special envoy Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan told America's special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan are in Islamabad's abiding interest and he will continue to support peace efforts in the war-torn neighbouring country.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad.

Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help.

Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace in Afghanistan.

His visit to Pakistan came a day after Pakistani officials confirmed that Trump had written to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving peace talks forward. Khan said Pakistan would do whatever possible to help Washington negotiate with the Taliban.

Khalilzad arrived on Tuesday in Islamabad and called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a foreign office statement said.&nbsp;

It said the envoy reiterated Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace in Afghanistan. Khalilzad on Sunday began an eight-country tour, including Pakistan, Russia and Qatar, to promote peace and convince the Taliban to join negotiations.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help.

US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Wednesday paid a courtesy call on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad. Pakistan assured visiting US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday that it would back a negotiated settlement with the Taliban to end the long war in Afghanistan after President Donald Trump personally asked for Islamabad's help. Khalilzad, an Afghan-born veteran US diplomat who served as George W. Bush's ambassador to Afghanistan, Iraq and the United Nations, was named by the Trump administration three months ago as a special envoy to negotiate peace in Afghanistan. His visit to Pakistan came a day after Pakistani officials confirmed that Trump had written to Prime Minister Imran Khan seeking assistance in moving peace talks forward. Khan said Pakistan would do whatever possible to help Washington negotiate with the Taliban. Khalilzad arrived on Tuesday in Islamabad and called on Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi, a foreign office statement said. It said the envoy reiterated Trump's desire to seek Pakistan's cooperation for peace in Afghanistan. Khalilzad on Sunday began an eight-country tour, including Pakistan, Russia and Qatar, to promote peace and convince the Taliban to join negotiations.

Watch: US envoy meets Pakistan PM Imran Khan in Islamabad

Saudi Arabia is seeking to persuade Russia on Wednesday to cut oil production substantially with OPEC next year in an attempt to arrest a decline in the price of crude and prevent another global glut.

Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak was due later in the day to meet his Saudi counterpart Khalid al-Falih, whose country leads the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries.

OPEC holds policy talks on Thursday in Vienna, followed by a gathering with allies including Russia on Friday.

Saudi Arabia has indicated it wants OPEC and its allies to cut output by at least 1.3 million barrels per day, or 1.3 per cent of global production.

Riyadh wants Moscow to contribute at least 250,000-300,000 bpd to the cut but Russia insists the amount should be only half of that, OPEC and non-OPEC sources said.

"It is not easy but we will always work together with our colleagues," United Arab Emirates Energy Minister Suhail bin Mohammed al-Mazroui told reporters when asked about Russia's position.

A source close to the Russian Energy Ministry said: "No one is eager to cut unless there is an emergency. It is the United States where we are seeing the bulk of the increase in oil output. OPEC and Russia will be very careful about voluntary 'blood letting'."

Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States have been vying for the position of top crude producer in recent years. The United States is not part of any output-limiting initiative due to its strict anti-trust legislation and fragmented oil industry.

Crude prices have sunk since October due to global economic weakness and fears of a glut due largely to rising US production.

Saudi Arabia is seeking to persuade Russia on Wednesday to cut oil production substantially with OPEC next year in an attempt to arrest a decline in the price of crude and prevent another global glut.

Saudi Arabia is seeking to persuade Russia on Wednesday to cut oil production substantially with OPEC next year in an attempt to arrest a decline in the price of crude and prevent another global glut. Russian Energy Minister Alexander Novak was due later in the day to meet his Saudi counterpart Khalid al-Falih, whose country leads the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries. OPEC holds policy talks on Thursday in Vienna, followed by a gathering with allies including Russia on Friday. Saudi Arabia has indicated it wants OPEC and its allies to cut output by at least 1.3 million barrels per day, or 1.3 per cent of global production. Riyadh wants Moscow to contribute at least 250,000-300,000 bpd to the cut but Russia insists the amount should be only half of that, OPEC and non-OPEC sources said. "It is not easy but we will always work together with our colleagues," United Arab Emirates Energy Minister Suhail bin Mohammed al-Mazroui told reporters when asked about Russia's position. A source close to the Russian Energy Ministry said: "No one is eager to cut unless there is an emergency. It is the United States where we are seeing the bulk of the increase in oil output. OPEC and Russia will be very careful about voluntary 'blood letting'." Russia, Saudi Arabia and the United States have been vying for the position of top crude producer in recent years. The United States is not part of any output-limiting initiative due to its strict anti-trust legislation and fragmented oil industry. Crude prices have sunk since October due to global economic weakness and fears of a glut due largely to rising US production.

Saudi Arabia works on convincing Russia to join oil cuts

The United States warned Russia on Tuesday it will withdraw from a major Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms if Moscow does not dismantle missiles that Washington says breach it within 60 days.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington would no longer be bound by the 1987 Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty unless Moscow withdraws a new system that has threatened to trigger an arms race.

NATO said it was now "up to Russia" to save the deal, seen by many as an important part of the global arms control architecture, and alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said it was time to prepare for its demise.

"The United States today declares Russia in material breach of the treaty and we will suspend our obligations as a remedy in 60 days unless Russia returns to full and verifiable compliance," Pompeo said after talks with fellow NATO foreign ministers.

"Russia's actions gravely undermine American national security and that of our allies and partners. It makes no sense for the United States to remain in a treaty that constrains our ability to respond to Russia's violations."

The US and NATO say Russia's 9M729 system, also known by the designation SSC-8, violates the INF treaty, which banned ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres.

The nuclear-capable Russian cruise missiles are mobile and hard to detect and can hit cities in Europe with little or no warning, according to NATO, dramatically changing the security calculus on the continent.

Stoltenberg said that although Russia has a last chance to comply, "we must also start to prepare for a world without the treaty", which was the first to abolish a whole category of weapons.

"This was really arms control at its best and therefore it's a really a big setback if this treaty now breaks totally down," he said.

"I regret that we will now most likely see the end of the INF treaty, but at the same time we don't have any other alternative than to react in the way we do."

In October, President Donald Trump declared the United States would pull out of the treaty and build up America's nuclear stockpile "until people come to their senses".

But on Monday, the US leader said he wants talks with his Chinese and Russian counterparts Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin "to head off a major and uncontrollable Arms Race".

'Not sustainable'&nbsp;

The INF was a bilateral treaty between the US and the then Soviet Union, so it puts no restrictions on other major military actors like China.

Pompeo said there was no reason why the US "should continue to cede this crucial military advantage" to rival powers.

If Russia does not comply within the 60-day deadline, the US will begin the six-month process of formally withdrawing from the INF treaty.

Until then, Pompeo said, the US would not "test or produce or deploy any systems" that would breach the treaty.

Over the past five years, the US has raised its concerns over the SSC-8 at least 30 times with Russia "to the highest levels of leadership", Pompeo said, only to be met with denials, obfuscation and spurious counter-claims.

The US won strong backing for its position from the rest of the NATO allies, who said in a joint statement that it was "now up to Russia to preserve the INF treaty".

"Allies have emphasised that the situation whereby the United States and other parties fully abide by the Treaty and Russia does not, is not sustainable," they warned. &nbsp;&nbsp;

French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it was "essential to act in a firm and united way", warning Moscow it would bear the responsibility if the treaty collapsed.

Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association, warned that failing to negotiate a solution with Moscow "risks the start of a new missile race in Europe that will undermine European security".

The United States warned Russia on Tuesday it will withdraw from a major Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms if Moscow does not dismantle missiles that Washington says breach it within 60 days.

The United States warned Russia on Tuesday it will withdraw from a major Cold War treaty limiting mid-range nuclear arms if Moscow does not dismantle missiles that Washington says breach it within 60 days. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington would no longer be bound by the 1987 Intermediate Range Nuclear Forces (INF) treaty unless Moscow withdraws a new system that has threatened to trigger an arms race. NATO said it was now "up to Russia" to save the deal, seen by many as an important part of the global arms control architecture, and alliance chief Jens Stoltenberg said it was time to prepare for its demise. "The United States today declares Russia in material breach of the treaty and we will suspend our obligations as a remedy in 60 days unless Russia returns to full and verifiable compliance," Pompeo said after talks with fellow NATO foreign ministers. "Russia's actions gravely undermine American national security and that of our allies and partners. It makes no sense for the United States to remain in a treaty that constrains our ability to respond to Russia's violations." The US and NATO say Russia's 9M729 system, also known by the designation SSC-8, violates the INF treaty, which banned ground-launched missiles with a range of 500 to 5,500 kilometres. The nuclear-capable Russian cruise missiles are mobile and hard to detect and can hit cities in Europe with little or no warning, according to NATO, dramatically changing the security calculus on the continent. Stoltenberg said that although Russia has a last chance to comply, "we must also start to prepare for a world without the treaty", which was the first to abolish a whole category of weapons. "This was really arms control at its best and therefore it's a really a big setback if this treaty now breaks totally down," he said. "I regret that we will now most likely see the end of the INF treaty, but at the same time we don't have any other alternative than to react in the way we do." In October, President Donald Trump declared the United States would pull out of the treaty and build up America's nuclear stockpile "until people come to their senses". But on Monday, the US leader said he wants talks with his Chinese and Russian counterparts Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin "to head off a major and uncontrollable Arms Race". 'Not sustainable' The INF was a bilateral treaty between the US and the then Soviet Union, so it puts no restrictions on other major military actors like China. Pompeo said there was no reason why the US "should continue to cede this crucial military advantage" to rival powers. If Russia does not comply within the 60-day deadline, the US will begin the six-month process of formally withdrawing from the INF treaty. Until then, Pompeo said, the US would not "test or produce or deploy any systems" that would breach the treaty. Over the past five years, the US has raised its concerns over the SSC-8 at least 30 times with Russia "to the highest levels of leadership", Pompeo said, only to be met with denials, obfuscation and spurious counter-claims. The US won strong backing for its position from the rest of the NATO allies, who said in a joint statement that it was "now up to Russia to preserve the INF treaty". "Allies have emphasised that the situation whereby the United States and other parties fully abide by the Treaty and Russia does not, is not sustainable," they warned. French Foreign Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said it was "essential to act in a firm and united way", warning Moscow it would bear the responsibility if the treaty collapsed. Daryl Kimball, executive director of the Arms Control Association, warned that failing to negotiate a solution with Moscow "risks the start of a new missile race in Europe that will undermine European security".

Watch: US gives Russia 60 days to comply with nuclear treaty

Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday the United States had yet to provide any evidence Moscow was in breach of a landmark arms control treaty, but said it was ready to keep discussing the matter with Washington.

The United States delivered Russia a 60-day ultimatum on Tuesday to come clean about what Washington says is a violation of a 1987 nuclear arms control treaty, saying it would be forced to start a six-month process of withdrawal if nothing changed.

Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for Russia's foreign ministry, told a briefing that the US embassy in Moscow had handed over a note on Tuesday evening saying Washington would quit the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty unless Russia began complying with it.

"These documents were received for further processing," said Zakharova.&nbsp;

"In them once again there were groundless allegations about our alleged violation of this agreement. We have repeatedly said that this is conjecture. No proof (of our alleged violation) has been presented to us."

Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday the United States had yet to provide any evidence Moscow was in breach of a landmark arms control treaty, but said it was ready to keep discussing the matter with Washington.

Russia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Wednesday the United States had yet to provide any evidence Moscow was in breach of a landmark arms control treaty, but said it was ready to keep discussing the matter with Washington. The United States delivered Russia a 60-day ultimatum on Tuesday to come clean about what Washington says is a violation of a 1987 nuclear arms control treaty, saying it would be forced to start a six-month process of withdrawal if nothing changed. Maria Zakharova, a spokeswoman for Russia's foreign ministry, told a briefing that the US embassy in Moscow had handed over a note on Tuesday evening saying Washington would quit the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty unless Russia began complying with it. "These documents were received for further processing," said Zakharova. "In them once again there were groundless allegations about our alleged violation of this agreement. We have repeatedly said that this is conjecture. No proof (of our alleged violation) has been presented to us."

US has no evidence to prove breach of nuclear treaty: Russia

A dozen Central American migrants were seen jumping over the border fence in Tijuana on Monday as the Border Patrol looked on from a distance.

The migrants crossed illegally into the US as sirens were heard and a helicopter circled overhead.

It is unclear what happened to the migrants once they crossed.

At least 6,000 migrants have descended upon the Mexican border city of Tijuana, just south of San Diego on the US side.

Most joined the caravan to find better job prospects in the United States.

A dozen Central American migrants were seen jumping over the border fence in Tijuana on Monday as the Border Patrol looked on from a distance. The migrants crossed illegally into the US as sirens were heard and a helicopter circled overhead.

A dozen Central American migrants were seen jumping over the border fence in Tijuana on Monday as the Border Patrol looked on from a distance. The migrants crossed illegally into the US as sirens were heard and a helicopter circled overhead. It is unclear what happened to the migrants once they crossed. At least 6,000 migrants have descended upon the Mexican border city of Tijuana, just south of San Diego on the US side. Most joined the caravan to find better job prospects in the United States.

Watch: Migrants jump US-Mexico border fence at night

South Africa broke free of recession on Tuesday when it reported GDP growth of 2.2 per cent for the third quarter, the statistics authority said, marking a positive economic trajectory ahead of elections.&nbsp;

President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took power in February, has pledged to revive the listless economy ahead of polls due in May by attracting $100 billion in foreign investment and by fighting corruption.

The growth, which contrasted sharply with the second quarter's 0.4 per cent contraction, was driven by a surge in the manufacturing, agriculture and transport sectors, Stats SA said in a statement.

The announcement follows a strong week for the local rand currency which has benefited from a detente in the United States' trade war with China.&nbsp;

The Rand currency was the second strongest performing of all developing countries against the dollar since Friday, gaining 1.81 per cent according to Bloomberg.

Lukman Otunuga, an analyst at FXTM foreign exchange, said in a note to investors that the country's exit from recession would boost "confidence over the South African economy and investor appetite towards the rand".

The purchasing managers' index published by Absa's Bureau for Economic Research on Monday showed that factory orders had bounced back from a 15-month low.

Manufacturing was up 7.5 per cent in the third quarter compared to the second, Stats SA said.

But Finance Minister Tito Mboweni's mid-term budget statement delivered in October slashed South Africa's 2018 growth forecast from 1.5 per cent to 0.7 per cent.

Mboweni is the country's fifth finance minister in three years after his respected predecessor Nhlanhla Nene resigned in October.

The country's economic performance is seen as crucial to bolstering the ruling African National Congress' standing ahead of national polls due in May 2019.

Voters have been buffeted by soaring fuel prices and a weak local currency while unemployment is stubbornly high at about 28 per cent -- rising to over 50 per cent for young people.

South Africa broke free of recession on Tuesday when it reported GDP growth of 2.2 per cent for the third quarter, the statistics authority said, marking a positive economic trajectory ahead of elections.

South Africa broke free of recession on Tuesday when it reported GDP growth of 2.2 per cent for the third quarter, the statistics authority said, marking a positive economic trajectory ahead of elections. President Cyril Ramaphosa, who took power in February, has pledged to revive the listless economy ahead of polls due in May by attracting $100 billion in foreign investment and by fighting corruption. The growth, which contrasted sharply with the second quarter's 0.4 per cent contraction, was driven by a surge in the manufacturing, agriculture and transport sectors, Stats SA said in a statement. The announcement follows a strong week for the local rand currency which has benefited from a detente in the United States' trade war with China. The Rand currency was the second strongest performing of all developing countries against the dollar since Friday, gaining 1.81 per cent according to Bloomberg. Lukman Otunuga, an analyst at FXTM foreign exchange, said in a note to investors that the country's exit from recession would boost "confidence over the South African economy and investor appetite towards the rand". The purchasing managers' index published by Absa's Bureau for Economic Research on Monday showed that factory orders had bounced back from a 15-month low. Manufacturing was up 7.5 per cent in the third quarter compared to the second, Stats SA said. But Finance Minister Tito Mboweni's mid-term budget statement delivered in October slashed South Africa's 2018 growth forecast from 1.5 per cent to 0.7 per cent. Mboweni is the country's fifth finance minister in three years after his respected predecessor Nhlanhla Nene resigned in October. The country's economic performance is seen as crucial to bolstering the ruling African National Congress' standing ahead of national polls due in May 2019. Voters have been buffeted by soaring fuel prices and a weak local currency while unemployment is stubbornly high at about 28 per cent -- rising to over 50 per cent for young people.

South Africa exits recession as government eyes 2019 polls

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