New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that a state emergency declaration and other options, including calling in health care workers from the National Guard, are on the table to address any potential hospital staffing shortages.&nbsp;

This comes in as New York prepares to enforce its COVID-19 vaccination deadline.

In a statement, Hochul said, "I am monitoring the staffing situation closely and we have a plan to increase our health care workforce and help alleviate the burdens on our hospitals and other health care facilities."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cdc-study-schools-with-mask-mandates-likely-to-have-fewer-outbreaks-416046">Also read |&nbsp;CDC study: Schools with mask mandates likely to have fewer outbreaks</a>

"I commend all of the health care workers who have stepped up to get themselves vaccinated, and I urge all remaining health care workers who are unvaccinated to do so now so they can continue providing care."

The preparation plan further includes signing an executive order to declare a state of emergency to increase staff, &nbsp;to allow licensed health care professionals from other places to work in New York.&nbsp;

The plan also includes the potential deployment of medically-trained National Guard members, and the opportunity to expedite visa requests for medical professionals.&nbsp;

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that a state emergency declaration and other options, including calling in health care workers from the National Guard, are on the table to address any potential hospital staffing shortages.

New York Governor Kathy Hochul said that a state emergency declaration and other options, including calling in health care workers from the National Guard, are on the table to address any potential hospital staffing shortages. This comes in as New York prepares to enforce its COVID-19 vaccination deadline. In a statement, Hochul said, "I am monitoring the staffing situation closely and we have a plan to increase our health care workforce and help alleviate the burdens on our hospitals and other health care facilities." Also read | CDC study: Schools with mask mandates likely to have fewer outbreaks "I commend all of the health care workers who have stepped up to get themselves vaccinated, and I urge all remaining health care workers who are unvaccinated to do so now so they can continue providing care." The preparation plan further includes signing an executive order to declare a state of emergency to increase staff, to allow licensed health care professionals from other places to work in New York. The plan also includes the potential deployment of medically-trained National Guard members, and the opportunity to expedite visa requests for medical professionals.

New York prepares for staff shortages as it prepares to enforce its COVID-19 vaccination deadline

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday.

The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.m. Eastern time Saturday, moving about 10 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph.

The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early next week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said.

Beyond the swells, it was “still too early to tell what impacts might occur in the United States,” Dennis Feltgen, a meteorologist at the hurricane center in Miami, said Saturday.

Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season.

“All folks need to do right now is check the latest forecast as we get into next week,” Feltgen said. He said people should ensure they have a hurricane plan, including supplies, in place.

Also Friday, Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa has a small window to “intensify slightly,” but it is likely to dissipate by Sunday and also is not expected to threaten land, forecasters said.

After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda.

If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad.

“With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said.

Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes.

This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season — August through November — has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean.

Tropical Storm Odette formed Sept. 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated.

Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on Sept. 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area.

The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms — though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming.

Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge — the most destructive element of tropical cyclones.

Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1.

In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic.

The agency updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season Nov. 30.

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday. The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.

Hurricane Sam strengthened into a Category 4 storm as it moved west across the Atlantic Ocean, forecasters said Saturday. The hurricane was about 1,000 miles east-southeast of the northern Leeward Islands as of 5 p.m. Eastern time Saturday, moving about 10 mph, with maximum sustained winds of 140 mph, according to the National Hurricane Center. The Saffir-Simpson scale classifies major hurricanes as Category 3 or higher, with maximum sustained winds above 110 mph. Category 4 storms have wind speeds of 130 to 156 mph. The swells generated by the hurricane were forecast to reach the Lesser Antilles early next week and have the potential to cause life-threatening surf and rip current conditions, the center said. Beyond the swells, it was “still too early to tell what impacts might occur in the United States,” Dennis Feltgen, a meteorologist at the hurricane center in Miami, said Saturday. Sam, which formed Thursday in the central Atlantic, is the fourth named storm to develop in less than a week and the 18th overall in a busy 2021 Atlantic hurricane season. “All folks need to do right now is check the latest forecast as we get into next week,” Feltgen said. He said people should ensure they have a hurricane plan, including supplies, in place. Also Friday, Subtropical Storm Teresa formed north of Bermuda, becoming the 19th named storm of the hurricane season. Teresa has a small window to “intensify slightly,” but it is likely to dissipate by Sunday and also is not expected to threaten land, forecasters said. After Sam and Teresa, the next named storms would be Victor and Wanda. If forecasters go through the list, they will turn to an additional set of names approved by the World Meteorological Organization this year. That list begins with Adria, followed by Braylen and Caridad. “With more than two months to go in the hurricane season, it is certainly possible that the 2021 Atlantic list of names will be exhausted,” Feltgen said. Last year, there were 30 named storms, including six major hurricanes, forcing meteorologists to exhaust the alphabet for the second time and move to using Greek letters. It was the most named storms on record, surpassing the 28 from 2005, and the second-highest number of hurricanes. This year, the arrival of peak hurricane season — August through November — has led to a run of named storms that formed in quick succession, bringing stormy weather, flooding and damaging winds to parts of the United States and the Caribbean. Tropical Storm Odette formed Sept. 17, followed days later by Peter and Rose. All three storms have since dissipated. Tropical Storm Mindy hit the Florida Panhandle on Sept. 8, just hours after it formed in the Gulf of Mexico, and as a powerful Hurricane Larry was simultaneously churning in the Atlantic. Ida battered Louisiana as a Category 4 hurricane Aug. 29 before its remnants brought deadly flooding to the New York area. The links between hurricanes and climate change are becoming more apparent. A warming planet can expect stronger hurricanes over time, and a higher incidence of the most powerful storms — though the overall number of storms could drop, because factors like stronger wind shear could keep weaker storms from forming. Hurricanes are also becoming wetter because of more water vapor in the warmer atmosphere; scientists have suggested storms like Hurricane Harvey in 2017 produced far more rain than they would have without the human effects on climate. Also, rising sea levels are contributing to higher storm surge — the most destructive element of tropical cyclones. Ana became the first named storm of the 2021 season May 23, making this the seventh year in a row that a named storm developed in the Atlantic before the official start of the season June 1. In May, scientists with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecast that there would be 13 to 20 named storms this year, six to 10 of which would be hurricanes, including three to five major hurricanes of Category 3 or higher in the Atlantic. The agency updated its forecast in early August, predicting 15 to 21 named storms, including seven to 10 hurricanes, by the end of the season Nov. 30.

Sam becomes a category 4 hurricane

As per a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enforcing masks in schools helps reduce the spread of COVID-19.

One study looked at data from schools in Arizona's Maricopa and Pima Counties after they resumed in-person learning in late July.

The two counties account for roughly 75 per cent of the state's population.&nbsp;

It was concluded that the K-12 schools that did not have mask requirements at the beginning of the school year were 3.5 times more likely to have COVID-19 outbreaks than schools that required all people to wear a mask indoors from the first day of school.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eruptions-shut-airport-on-canaries-volcanic-island-416032">Also read |&nbsp;Eruptions shut airport on Canaries volcanic island</a>

As a part of the study, 999 schools were analysed. Out of this, 21 per cent had an early mask requirement, 30.9 per cent enacted a mask requirement between nine and 17 days after the school year began, and 48 per cent had no mask requirement.

Of the 191 COVID-19 outbreaks that occurred in those schools, 113 were in schools that did not enforce masks at all. Schools with early mask requirements had the lowest number of outbreaks.&nbsp;

Another study from the CDC looked at the impact of school mask mandates across the US. In this, researchers found that counties that had no mask requirements in their schools had a higher rate of pediatric COVID-19 cases after the school year began than those schools that did have requirements.

Schools that required masks&nbsp;had 16.32 cases per 100,000 children in the first week of classes while&nbsp;schools without had 34.85 cases per 100,000 children.&nbsp;

As per a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enforcing masks in schools helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. One study looked at data from schools in Arizona's Maricopa and Pima Counties after they resumed in-person learning in late July.

As per a new study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, enforcing masks in schools helps reduce the spread of COVID-19. One study looked at data from schools in Arizona's Maricopa and Pima Counties after they resumed in-person learning in late July. The two counties account for roughly 75 per cent of the state's population. It was concluded that the K-12 schools that did not have mask requirements at the beginning of the school year were 3.5 times more likely to have COVID-19 outbreaks than schools that required all people to wear a mask indoors from the first day of school. Also read | Eruptions shut airport on Canaries volcanic island As a part of the study, 999 schools were analysed. Out of this, 21 per cent had an early mask requirement, 30.9 per cent enacted a mask requirement between nine and 17 days after the school year began, and 48 per cent had no mask requirement. Of the 191 COVID-19 outbreaks that occurred in those schools, 113 were in schools that did not enforce masks at all. Schools with early mask requirements had the lowest number of outbreaks. Another study from the CDC looked at the impact of school mask mandates across the US. In this, researchers found that counties that had no mask requirements in their schools had a higher rate of pediatric COVID-19 cases after the school year began than those schools that did have requirements. Schools that required masks had 16.32 cases per 100,000 children in the first week of classes while schools without had 34.85 cases per 100,000 children.

CDC study: Schools with mask mandates likely to have fewer outbreaks

At a press conference, the US Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby on Saturday said the United States does not need to inform Taliban while going in for a counter-terrorism airstrike in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Watch:

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The remark came a day after Taliban demanded compensation from countries involved in fighting in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

“We retain all necessary authorities to execute over the horizon counter-terrorism operations, and we remain confident in these capabilities moving forward without speaking to specific rules of engagement surrounding airstrikes. There is currently no requirement to clear airspace with the Taliban and we do not expect that any future over the horizon counter-terrorism strikes would hinge on such a clearance,” Kirby added. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taliban-recognition-not-on-the-table-says-russian-foreign-minister-sergei-lavrov-416018" hreflang="en">Taliban recognition 'not on the table', says Russian Foreign Minister</a>

Meanwhile, the US Central Command commander General Kenneth McKenzie has admitted that the US made a "mistake" by launching a drone airstrike in Kabul’s residential area on August 29. He agreed that the strike did not kill ISIS-K militants, but did take lives of 10 civilians. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-hang-four-bodies-from-cranes-in-herat-call-it-lesson-for-kidnappers-415958" hreflang="en">Taliban hang four bodies from cranes in Herat, call it 'lesson' for kidnappers</a>

The officials had then tried to prove it as a success by claiming to have killed Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K) militants. After an investigation, McKenzie told reporters, "The strike was a tragic mistake." &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

At a press conference, the US Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby on Saturday said the United States does not need to inform Taliban while going in for a counter-terrorism airstrike in Afghanistan.

At a press conference, the US Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby on Saturday said the United States does not need to inform Taliban while going in for a counter-terrorism airstrike in Afghanistan. Watch: × The remark came a day after Taliban demanded compensation from countries involved in fighting in Afghanistan. “We retain all necessary authorities to execute over the horizon counter-terrorism operations, and we remain confident in these capabilities moving forward without speaking to specific rules of engagement surrounding airstrikes. There is currently no requirement to clear airspace with the Taliban and we do not expect that any future over the horizon counter-terrorism strikes would hinge on such a clearance,” Kirby added. Also Read: Taliban recognition 'not on the table', says Russian Foreign Minister Meanwhile, the US Central Command commander General Kenneth McKenzie has admitted that the US made a "mistake" by launching a drone airstrike in Kabul’s residential area on August 29. He agreed that the strike did not kill ISIS-K militants, but did take lives of 10 civilians. Also Read: Taliban hang four bodies from cranes in Herat, call it 'lesson' for kidnappers The officials had then tried to prove it as a success by claiming to have killed Islamic State-Khorasan (ISIS-K) militants. After an investigation, McKenzie told reporters, "The strike was a tragic mistake." (With inputs from agencies)

US doesn't need to inform Taliban over Afghan counter-terrorism airstrikes, says Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby

Several people took to streets to demand governments of the western countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan.<o:p></o:p>

People gathered in Herat, the western province of Afghanistan, where they called upon the United States (US) and other European Union (EU) countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan abroad.<o:p></o:p>

The group claimed that since people are facing extreme poverty and economic recession, especially since Taliban took over the country, foreign government should help the locals.

<o:p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-doesnt-need-to-inform-taliban-over-afghan-counter-terrorism-airstrikes-said-department-of-defense-press-secretary-john-kirby-416166">US doesn't need to inform Taliban over Afghan counter-terrorism airstrikes, said Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby</a></o:p>

Several western countries decided to freeze assets of Afghanistan and have paused all financial aids for the country the day Taliban took control of the country.<o:p></o:p>

"International community should not be looking at us through the lens of enmity, since centuries it has been proven that the people of Afghanistan cannot be governed or ruled by intruders,"&nbsp;said Muhammad Amin. "It's not just me but everyone here that the international community should recognize the Islamic Emirate and that our 9.4 billion dollar which is Afghanistan's money which has been frozen abroad should be unfrozen so that the money can be used for the development of the country."

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Hundreds of people from different walks of life gathered in Herat, the western province of Afghanistan, calling on US and European countries to unfreeze the reserves of Afghanistan. They said, the people of Afghanistan are facing poverty and economic recession, there is
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This comes a few days after Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev urged western governments to unfreeze Afghanistan's assets kept abroad in foreign banks.<o:p></o:p>

<o:p></o:p>

The President urged governments to take the action to facilitate dialogue with the Taliban government in Kabul.<o:p></o:p>

"Considering the humanitarian situation, we propose looking into the possibility of lifting the freeze on Afghanistan's accounts in foreign banks," he said.<o:p></o:p>

Meanwhile, women and young girls have also been taking to streets to call for equal rights for women. Several groups have been coming forward all around the world to raise their voices against <o:p></o:p>

Several people took to streets to demand governments of the western countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan. People gathered in Herat, the western province of Afghanistan, where they called upon the United States (US) and other European Union (EU) countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan abroad.

Several people took to streets to demand governments of the western countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan. People gathered in Herat, the western province of Afghanistan, where they called upon the United States (US) and other European Union (EU) countries to unfreeze assets of Afghanistan abroad. The group claimed that since people are facing extreme poverty and economic recession, especially since Taliban took over the country, foreign government should help the locals. Also read | US doesn't need to inform Taliban over Afghan counter-terrorism airstrikes, said Department of Defense press secretary John Kirby Several western countries decided to freeze assets of Afghanistan and have paused all financial aids for the country the day Taliban took control of the country. "International community should not be looking at us through the lens of enmity, since centuries it has been proven that the people of Afghanistan cannot be governed or ruled by intruders," said Muhammad Amin. "It's not just me but everyone here that the international community should recognize the Islamic Emirate and that our 9.4 billion dollar which is Afghanistan's money which has been frozen abroad should be unfrozen so that the money can be used for the development of the country." 1/2 Hundreds of people from different walks of life gathered in Herat, the western province of Afghanistan, calling on US and European countries to unfreeze the reserves of Afghanistan. They said, the people of Afghanistan are facing poverty and economic recession, there is — Suhail Shaheen. محمد سهیل شاهین (@suhailshaheen1) September 26, 2021 × This comes a few days after Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev urged western governments to unfreeze Afghanistan's assets kept abroad in foreign banks. The President urged governments to take the action to facilitate dialogue with the Taliban government in Kabul. "Considering the humanitarian situation, we propose looking into the possibility of lifting the freeze on Afghanistan's accounts in foreign banks," he said. Meanwhile, women and young girls have also been taking to streets to call for equal rights for women. Several groups have been coming forward all around the world to raise their voices against

Locals gather in Herat to urge US, EU to unfreeze Afghanistan's assets

In Pics | Firefighters try and protect giant sequoias amid California fires

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal.

"It seems evident they should be more active" in "resolving all issues related" to the accord, Lavrov told reporters at the United Nations in New York.

Lavrov added that he hoped negotiations in Vienna among Iran, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany would resume "as soon as possible."

The talks, brokered by the Europeans, seek the return of the United States to the 2015 agreement trashed by former president Donald Trump -- as well as Iran's return to full compliance.

Trump pulled America out in 2018, reinstating sanctions on Iran that Washington had lifted as part of the agreement.

Since then, Tehran has also retreated from many of its commitments.

Lavrov said Iran no longer meets elements of the agreement "simply because the United States has left it."

He added that sanctions reimposed on Iran also affected countries who "trade legally" with Tehran.

"These sanctions should be lifted as part of the restoration of the nuclear deal," he said, adding that Iran's "should not suffer from unilateral US measures."

Trump's successor Joe Biden has indicated he wants to return to the deal, but his administration has expressed impatience at the stalled talks.

Discussions between Iran and the remaining five parties aimed at reviving the deal began in Vienna in April but have been suspended since June, when ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi was elected president.

Hopes of reviving the deal were kept alive earlier this month when Iran agreed to a new compromise with the UN nuclear agency on the monitoring of its nuclear facilities.

Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said Friday the talks would resume "very soon," but the United States said Tehran had not been specific about the timeframe.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov called Saturday on the United States to take a more active approach to help resume stalled talks aimed at reviving the Iran nuclear deal. "It seems evident they should be more active" in "resolving all issues related" to the accord, Lavrov told reporters at the United Nations in New York. Lavrov added that he hoped negotiations in Vienna among Iran, Russia, China, France, Britain and Germany would resume "as soon as possible." The talks, brokered by the Europeans, seek the return of the United States to the 2015 agreement trashed by former president Donald Trump -- as well as Iran's return to full compliance. Trump pulled America out in 2018, reinstating sanctions on Iran that Washington had lifted as part of the agreement. Since then, Tehran has also retreated from many of its commitments. Lavrov said Iran no longer meets elements of the agreement "simply because the United States has left it." He added that sanctions reimposed on Iran also affected countries who "trade legally" with Tehran. "These sanctions should be lifted as part of the restoration of the nuclear deal," he said, adding that Iran's "should not suffer from unilateral US measures." Trump's successor Joe Biden has indicated he wants to return to the deal, but his administration has expressed impatience at the stalled talks. Discussions between Iran and the remaining five parties aimed at reviving the deal began in Vienna in April but have been suspended since June, when ultraconservative Ebrahim Raisi was elected president. Hopes of reviving the deal were kept alive earlier this month when Iran agreed to a new compromise with the UN nuclear agency on the monitoring of its nuclear facilities. Iran's foreign minister, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, said Friday the talks would resume "very soon," but the United States said Tehran had not been specific about the timeframe.

Russia calls on US to 'be more active' to revive Iran nuclear deal

Harsh Shringla, India's foreign secretary, addressed reporters in Washington, DC, this morning on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's discussions with the leaders of India, &nbsp;US, Japan and Australia during the Quad Summit.&nbsp; 
 
The foreign secretary mentioned that "there was praise for India's UN Security Council presidency, particularly on the Afghanistan issue. President Biden stated unequivocally that India should have a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, and he emphasised the significance of the defence alliance." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-summit-modi-biden-morrison-suga-vow-free-open-indo-pacific-at-historic-first-quad-summit-415687">Also read | Quad summit: Modi, Biden, Morrison, Suga vow free, open Indo-Pacific at historic first in-person meet</a>

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Talking about PM Modi’s meeting with the leaders, Shringla said that "PM Modi expressed thanks for the solidarity shown by the US government and the people of the US when we had our second wave of crisis. President Joe Biden appreciated India's role in extending assistance to countries across the world, including through pharmaceuticals and vaccines." 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-1994-visit-to-unga-2021-heres-a-look-at-modis-us-visits-415717">Pictures: From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits</a> 
 
"President Joe Biden accepted PM Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India, and Biden expressed his gratitude. We are looking forward to President Joe Biden's visit," said Harsh Shringla during the press conference.&nbsp;

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<h5>PM Narendra Modi proposed a common international travelling protocol involving mutual recognition of the COVID19 vaccination certificate. It was well-received by all the Quad leaders.</h5>
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According to the foreign secretary, India will make available 8 million doses of Johnson &amp; Johnson's Janssen vaccine, which is manufactured in India by Biological E, at Quad's request.

This would be completed by the end of October and would be consistent with our plan to resume vaccination exports. 
 
Harsh Vardhan Shringla, when asked about concerns affecting NRIs, said that the discussion between the Prime Minister and the US President was wide-ranging, and that issues affecting the Indian community, such as the H1b visa, were discussed.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Prime Minister Narendra Modi will depart later this evening for New York. He is scheduled to address the 76th session of the UNGA tomorrow morning, " he added.

Harsh Shringla, India's foreign secretary, addressed reporters in Washington, DC, this morning on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's discussions with the leaders of India, US, Japan and Australia during the Quad Summit.

Harsh Shringla, India's foreign secretary, addressed reporters in Washington, DC, this morning on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's discussions with the leaders of India, US, Japan and Australia during the Quad Summit. The foreign secretary mentioned that "there was praise for India's UN Security Council presidency, particularly on the Afghanistan issue. President Biden stated unequivocally that India should have a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, and he emphasised the significance of the defence alliance." Also read | Quad summit: Modi, Biden, Morrison, Suga vow free, open Indo-Pacific at historic first in-person meet US President Joe Biden believes that India should have a permanent place on the United Nations Security Council, and he emphasised the significance of the defence alliance. × Talking about PM Modi’s meeting with the leaders, Shringla said that "PM Modi expressed thanks for the solidarity shown by the US government and the people of the US when we had our second wave of crisis. President Joe Biden appreciated India's role in extending assistance to countries across the world, including through pharmaceuticals and vaccines." Pictures: From 1994 visit to UNGA 2021, here's a look at Modi's US visits "President Joe Biden accepted PM Narendra Modi's invitation to visit India, and Biden expressed his gratitude. We are looking forward to President Joe Biden's visit," said Harsh Shringla during the press conference. PM Narendra Modi proposed a common international travelling protocol involving mutual recognition of the COVID19 vaccination certificate. It was well-received by all the Quad leaders. × According to the foreign secretary, India will make available 8 million doses of Johnson & Johnson's Janssen vaccine, which is manufactured in India by Biological E, at Quad's request. This would be completed by the end of October and would be consistent with our plan to resume vaccination exports. Harsh Vardhan Shringla, when asked about concerns affecting NRIs, said that the discussion between the Prime Minister and the US President was wide-ranging, and that issues affecting the Indian community, such as the H1b visa, were discussed. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi will depart later this evening for New York. He is scheduled to address the 76th session of the UNGA tomorrow morning, " he added.

US President says India should have permanent seat at UNSC: MEA after Quad summit

An impromptu border camp that roiled the US&nbsp;government was cleared of thousands of Haitian migrants by Friday, with most remaining in the United States for now and others expelled on deportation flights or returned to Mexico.

Reuters witnesses said the jumble of makeshift shelters and tents had all but disappeared from Del Rio, Texas, with workers removing the last debris along the border with Mexico. State troopers lined the banks of the Rio Grande to discourage new crossings.

US&nbsp;Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said nearly 30,000 migrants had been encountered in Del Rio in the past two weeks and that by morning there were none left in the camp beneath its international bridge.

Mayorkas vowed a swift probe into "horrifying" images that had sparked outrage this week which showed a border guard on horseback using his reins to contain Haitian migrants.

"We know that those images painfully conjured up the worst elements of our nation's ongoing battle against systemic racism," he told a news conference.

More than 12,000 migrants will have a chance to make their case for protection before US&nbsp;immigration judges, an estimated 8,000 voluntarily returned to Mexico, and 2,000 were expelled to Haiti. The fate of others detained is to be decided.

Seeking to balance outrage about treatment of the migrants, Del Rio Mayor Bruno Lozano praised agents for trying to provide food and medical care, and said there were no fatalities.

As well as the Biden administration's decision to send migrants back to chronic instability convulsing Haiti, Mexico has sought to bus and fly Haitians to its southern states.

On Friday, Reuters reported that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) had formally asked Brazil to receive some of the Haitians from the camp, according to two sources with knowledge of the request.

Many of the Haitians arriving at the U.S. border had previously lived in Brazil and Chile, while others have transited through the South American countries.

U.S. President Joe Biden has faced criticism over the expulsions, including in a sternly worded resignation letter from the U.S. Special Envoy to Haiti, Daniel Foote, who described the Caribbean nation as a collapsed state.

Washington in May extended temporary protection from deportation to Haitians in the United States, citing political crisis, rights abuses, crime and lack of access to food, water and healthcare in the deeply impoverished country.

Since then, Haiti's president has been assassinated and it suffered a destructive earthquake.

But the Biden government has kept up deportations, mindful that letting in more Haitians may encourage others to try.

At least five more flights from the U.S. border were scheduled on Friday, flight tracking website FlightAware showed.

Thousands more Haitians are moving through Central America, with others among around 16,000 awaiting boats into the jungles of the Darien Gap in Panama, a bottleneck on the journey north.

Not all migrant traffic is U.S.-bound. On Friday, around 100 mostly Venezuelan migrants were moving south into Chile's northern border in a bid to make a fresh start there.

PUSHED SOUTH

Haitians who crossed back to Mexico in recent days were met by Mexican officials who urged them to return to Mexico's southern border with Guatemala to request asylum here.

"We're not taking them out of the country," Francisco Garduno, head of the Mexican government's National Migration Institute (INM), told Reuters. "We're bringing them away from the border so there are no hygiene and overcrowding problems."

Mexico's Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR) is overwhelmed and scheduling appointments months away.

Official data show Haitians are less likely to have asylum claims approved in Mexico compared with many nationalities.

Last year, of all asylum claims that were formally resolved, only 22% of Haitian cases won approval, compared with 98% for Venezuelans, 85% of Hondurans, 83% of Salvadorans and 44% of Cubans. So far this year, the Haitian number is up to 31%.

Willy Jean, who spent two fruitless months in the Mexican city of Tapachula, said if Mexico really wanted to help, it should allow them to make their applications elsewhere.

"Tapachula's really tough, really small, there's lots of people," he told an INM agent trying to persuade him to go south. "There's no work, there's nothing."

An impromptu border camp that roiled the US government was cleared of thousands of Haitian migrants by Friday, with most remaining in the United States for now and others expelled on deportation flights or returned to Mexico.

An impromptu border camp that roiled the US government was cleared of thousands of Haitian migrants by Friday, with most remaining in the United States for now and others expelled on deportation flights or returned to Mexico. Reuters witnesses said the jumble of makeshift shelters and tents had all but disappeared from Del Rio, Texas, with workers removing the last debris along the border with Mexico. State troopers lined the banks of the Rio Grande to discourage new crossings. US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said nearly 30,000 migrants had been encountered in Del Rio in the past two weeks and that by morning there were none left in the camp beneath its international bridge. Mayorkas vowed a swift probe into "horrifying" images that had sparked outrage this week which showed a border guard on horseback using his reins to contain Haitian migrants. "We know that those images painfully conjured up the worst elements of our nation's ongoing battle against systemic racism," he told a news conference. More than 12,000 migrants will have a chance to make their case for protection before US immigration judges, an estimated 8,000 voluntarily returned to Mexico, and 2,000 were expelled to Haiti. The fate of others detained is to be decided. Seeking to balance outrage about treatment of the migrants, Del Rio Mayor Bruno Lozano praised agents for trying to provide food and medical care, and said there were no fatalities. As well as the Biden administration's decision to send migrants back to chronic instability convulsing Haiti, Mexico has sought to bus and fly Haitians to its southern states. On Friday, Reuters reported that the International Organization for Migration (IOM) had formally asked Brazil to receive some of the Haitians from the camp, according to two sources with knowledge of the request. Many of the Haitians arriving at the U.S. border had previously lived in Brazil and Chile, while others have transited through the South American countries. U.S. President Joe Biden has faced criticism over the expulsions, including in a sternly worded resignation letter from the U.S. Special Envoy to Haiti, Daniel Foote, who described the Caribbean nation as a collapsed state. Washington in May extended temporary protection from deportation to Haitians in the United States, citing political crisis, rights abuses, crime and lack of access to food, water and healthcare in the deeply impoverished country. Since then, Haiti's president has been assassinated and it suffered a destructive earthquake. But the Biden government has kept up deportations, mindful that letting in more Haitians may encourage others to try. At least five more flights from the U.S. border were scheduled on Friday, flight tracking website FlightAware showed. Thousands more Haitians are moving through Central America, with others among around 16,000 awaiting boats into the jungles of the Darien Gap in Panama, a bottleneck on the journey north. Not all migrant traffic is U.S.-bound. On Friday, around 100 mostly Venezuelan migrants were moving south into Chile's northern border in a bid to make a fresh start there. PUSHED SOUTH Haitians who crossed back to Mexico in recent days were met by Mexican officials who urged them to return to Mexico's southern border with Guatemala to request asylum here. "We're not taking them out of the country," Francisco Garduno, head of the Mexican government's National Migration Institute (INM), told Reuters. "We're bringing them away from the border so there are no hygiene and overcrowding problems." Mexico's Commission for Refugee Assistance (COMAR) is overwhelmed and scheduling appointments months away. Official data show Haitians are less likely to have asylum claims approved in Mexico compared with many nationalities. Last year, of all asylum claims that were formally resolved, only 22% of Haitian cases won approval, compared with 98% for Venezuelans, 85% of Hondurans, 83% of Salvadorans and 44% of Cubans. So far this year, the Haitian number is up to 31%. Willy Jean, who spent two fruitless months in the Mexican city of Tapachula, said if Mexico really wanted to help, it should allow them to make their applications elsewhere. "Tapachula's really tough, really small, there's lots of people," he told an INM agent trying to persuade him to go south. "There's no work, there's nothing."

US border camp cleared of Haitians, thousands more on the move

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is a master at the twisting, modifying, and blending fact and fiction to suit his purposes.&nbsp;

He gave his third UNGA speech as prime minister of Pakistan on Friday, and his speech, delivered over video,&nbsp;was clearly three times more disgraceful.&nbsp;

The Pakistani prime minister attempted to portray Pakistan as the victim of American ungratefulness and an international double standards, in a prerecorded speech aired on&nbsp;Friday evening.&nbsp;

“For some reason, Pakistan has been blamed for the current crisis in Afghanistan by politicians in the United States and some politicians in Europe,” Khan remarked. 
 
Watch:

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“From this platform, I want them all to know that, aside from Afghanistan, Pakistan was the country that suffered the most when we joined the US war on terror after 9/11,” he said, referring to the 11 September, 2001 terror attacks carried out by al Qaeda that led to US invasion of Afghanistan and the eventual killing of the terror group's chief Osama bin Laden, in Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"The only reason we suffered so much was that we became an ally of the US, of the coalition, in the war against Afghanistan, where attacks were being conducted from Afghan soil into Pakistan. At least there should have been a word of appreciation. But rather than appreciation, imagine how we feel when we are blamed for the turn of events in Afghanistan". 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-says-executions-will-return-in-afghanistan-415399" hreflang="en">Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;

However, reality differs significantly from the fiction scenario he painted before&nbsp;the world from the UNGA platform.

The truth is that Taliban militants were trained in Pakistani seminaries by Pakistan's notorious intelligence agency ISI and military.

They were either taught about jihad or assisted in the suppression of women.

Pakistan voluntarily joined the war on terror waged by the United States to suppress Pashtun nationalism.

Islamabad has always feared the formation of a Pashtun state, so it has encouraged Islamic nationalism instead, causing Afghanistan to devolve into chaos.&nbsp; 
 
Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chaotic-afghanistan-will-again-become-a-safe-haven-for-terrorists-imran-khan-at-unga-415729" hreflang="en">Chaotic Afghanistan will again become a safe haven for terrorists: Imran Khan</a>

In his failed attempt, Khan also tried to portray the Taliban as a positive force.&nbsp;

Acting as the Taliban's messenger once more, he pleaded with world leaders to assist them by bolstering, stabilising, and rewarding them. It was almost as if the Taliban, which tried and failed to speak at UNGA, had dispatched Imran Khan to the UN to represent them.&nbsp;

In Panjshir, Pakistan's nefarious role in war-torn Afghanistan&nbsp;was exposed when its military drones and helicopters supported Taliban in capturing the province from the Afghan National Resistance Front.&nbsp;

Taliban apologist Imran Khan remarked, "According to the UN, half the people of Afghanistan are already vulnerable. And by next year, almost 90% of the people in Afghanistan will go below the poverty line. There is a huge humanitarian crisis looming ahead. This will have serious repercussions not just for the neighbours of Afghanistan but it will have repercussions everywhere."&nbsp;

"We must strengthen the present government, stabilise it for the sake of the people of Afghanistan. What have the Taliban promised? They will respect human rights, they will have an inclusive government, they will not allow the soil to be used by terrorists and they have given amnesty. If the world community incentivises them, encourages them to walk the talk, it will be a win-win situation for everyone," he added.

He said that if the world helps the Taliban, the country&nbsp;would not be used for international terrorism.

But the reality is that, with the Taliban regaining power and a witches' brew of terrorist factions active in the country, it is in a state of chaos. Afghanistan has already established itself as the new jihadi capital.&nbsp;

Al Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Haqqani Network, Tehreek-e-Taliban and Islamic State, all these terrorist organisations have moved to Afghanistan.&nbsp;

They're reorganising and spreading, publishing declarations about fighting Islam's adversaries.

Global jihad is seeing a revival. It's happening right in front of the Taliban's eyes, and Taliban apologist Imran Khan wants to reward these individuals.&nbsp;

It was for India’s government that Khan reserved his harshest words, once again labelling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government “fascist.”

Khan described India as a place where fear reigns supreme. Muslims are persecuted in this country, and Kashmiris are denied their rights, he claimed.

He went so far as to accuse the West of being biased towards India.

Pakistan's use of a worldwide platform to make personal statements has become an annual event. Imran's speech is an insult to the United Nations.

Sneha Dubey, India's young diplomat, gave a stinging response loaded with the facts to Pakistan's allegations regarding Kashmir before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Dubey used her Right of Reply to criticise Imran Khan's references to Kashmir in his UN General Assembly virtual speech, claiming that Islamabad has a long history of deliberately aiding terrorists.&nbsp;

Dubey, First Secretary of India said at UNGA, "Regrettably, this is not the first time the leader of Pakistan has misused platforms provided by the UN to propagate false and malicious propaganda against my country, and seeking in vain to divert the world's attention from the sad state of his country where terrorists enjoy free pass while the lives of ordinary people, especially those belonging to the minority communities, are turned upside down."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is a master at the twisting, modifying, and blending fact and fiction to suit his purposes. He gave his third UNGA speech as prime minister of Pakistan on Friday, and his speech, delivered over video, was clearly three times more disgraceful.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is a master at the twisting, modifying, and blending fact and fiction to suit his purposes. He gave his third UNGA speech as prime minister of Pakistan on Friday, and his speech, delivered over video, was clearly three times more disgraceful. The Pakistani prime minister attempted to portray Pakistan as the victim of American ungratefulness and an international double standards, in a prerecorded speech aired on Friday evening. “For some reason, Pakistan has been blamed for the current crisis in Afghanistan by politicians in the United States and some politicians in Europe,” Khan remarked. Watch: “From this platform, I want them all to know that, aside from Afghanistan, Pakistan was the country that suffered the most when we joined the US war on terror after 9/11,” he said, referring to the 11 September, 2001 terror attacks carried out by al Qaeda that led to US invasion of Afghanistan and the eventual killing of the terror group's chief Osama bin Laden, in Pakistan. "The only reason we suffered so much was that we became an ally of the US, of the coalition, in the war against Afghanistan, where attacks were being conducted from Afghan soil into Pakistan. At least there should have been a word of appreciation. But rather than appreciation, imagine how we feel when we are blamed for the turn of events in Afghanistan". Also Read: Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan However, reality differs significantly from the fiction scenario he painted before the world from the UNGA platform. The truth is that Taliban militants were trained in Pakistani seminaries by Pakistan's notorious intelligence agency ISI and military. They were either taught about jihad or assisted in the suppression of women. Pakistan voluntarily joined the war on terror waged by the United States to suppress Pashtun nationalism. Islamabad has always feared the formation of a Pashtun state, so it has encouraged Islamic nationalism instead, causing Afghanistan to devolve into chaos. Also Read: Chaotic Afghanistan will again become a safe haven for terrorists: Imran Khan In his failed attempt, Khan also tried to portray the Taliban as a positive force. Acting as the Taliban's messenger once more, he pleaded with world leaders to assist them by bolstering, stabilising, and rewarding them. It was almost as if the Taliban, which tried and failed to speak at UNGA, had dispatched Imran Khan to the UN to represent them. In Panjshir, Pakistan's nefarious role in war-torn Afghanistan was exposed when its military drones and helicopters supported Taliban in capturing the province from the Afghan National Resistance Front. Taliban apologist Imran Khan remarked, "According to the UN, half the people of Afghanistan are already vulnerable. And by next year, almost 90% of the people in Afghanistan will go below the poverty line. There is a huge humanitarian crisis looming ahead. This will have serious repercussions not just for the neighbours of Afghanistan but it will have repercussions everywhere." "We must strengthen the present government, stabilise it for the sake of the people of Afghanistan. What have the Taliban promised? They will respect human rights, they will have an inclusive government, they will not allow the soil to be used by terrorists and they have given amnesty. If the world community incentivises them, encourages them to walk the talk, it will be a win-win situation for everyone," he added. He said that if the world helps the Taliban, the country would not be used for international terrorism. But the reality is that, with the Taliban regaining power and a witches' brew of terrorist factions active in the country, it is in a state of chaos. Afghanistan has already established itself as the new jihadi capital. Al Qaeda, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Lashkar-e-Jhangvi, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Haqqani Network, Tehreek-e-Taliban and Islamic State, all these terrorist organisations have moved to Afghanistan. They're reorganising and spreading, publishing declarations about fighting Islam's adversaries. Global jihad is seeing a revival. It's happening right in front of the Taliban's eyes, and Taliban apologist Imran Khan wants to reward these individuals. It was for India’s government that Khan reserved his harshest words, once again labelling Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government “fascist.” Khan described India as a place where fear reigns supreme. Muslims are persecuted in this country, and Kashmiris are denied their rights, he claimed. He went so far as to accuse the West of being biased towards India. Pakistan's use of a worldwide platform to make personal statements has become an annual event. Imran's speech is an insult to the United Nations. Sneha Dubey, India's young diplomat, gave a stinging response loaded with the facts to Pakistan's allegations regarding Kashmir before the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). Dubey used her Right of Reply to criticise Imran Khan's references to Kashmir in his UN General Assembly virtual speech, claiming that Islamabad has a long history of deliberately aiding terrorists. Dubey, First Secretary of India said at UNGA, "Regrettably, this is not the first time the leader of Pakistan has misused platforms provided by the UN to propagate false and malicious propaganda against my country, and seeking in vain to divert the world's attention from the sad state of his country where terrorists enjoy free pass while the lives of ordinary people, especially those belonging to the minority communities, are turned upside down."

Decoding Taliban apologist Imran Khan's speech at UNGA: A rant mixed with lies and fiction

WION Executive Editor Palki Sharma tacking all details in Washington, D.C., watch her ground report after the crucial QUAD summit in detail.

Modi, Biden , Morrison , Suga vow free Indo-Pacific

One of the world's most famous detainees is now out. US prosecutors cut a deal with Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou - allowing her to return to China. Will the Biden administration go soft on Huawei now? Palki Sharma tells you more.

Gravitas US Edition: One of the world's most famous detainees is finally out

From Wuhan Virus Origins to Afghanistan, the global economy and vaccines - Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke on a range of issues at the UN General Assembly. Palki Sharma brings you the 6 key takeaways from PM Modi's speech.

Gravitas US Edition: UN General Assembly: PM Modi sends clear message to Pakistan & China

In a historic judgment, Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou has been freed from all charges by a Canadian judge. Watch this report for more details.

Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou free to leave Canada, judge rules

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, the first time since the coronavirus pandemic broke out in December 2019. Here are the key takeaways from his much-awaited address.

Indian PM Modi addresses 76th UN General Assembly: Key takeaways

During his address at the 76th UNGA session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that "Countries with regressive thinking that are using terrorism as a political tool must understand that it is an equally big threat for them."

PM Modi UNGA Address 2021: Terrorism is an equal threat to nations using them

Indian PM Narendra Modi said that "The global economy needs to be diversified even further and for this expansion of global value chains are necessary. Our self-reliant India is inspired by this very spirit."

PM Modi UNGA Address 2021: Global value chains have to be reformed says PM Modi

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi addresses the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Saturday. In his speech, he focused on global challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, afghan crisis, terrorism, and climate change. WION's Sidhant Sibal & Palki Sharma share their insights on the much-awaited address.

Indian PM Modi addresses 193-membered world body at 76th UNGA

The Taliban can be potential partners in peace for both the United States and Pakistan, said Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview with Newsweek's Senior Foreign Policy Writer Tom O'Connor. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The PM also termed US President Joe Biden's hard line against Taliban as "unnecessary". Pakistan is a "willing companion" of the US in counter-terrorism and other endeavours, added Khan. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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The leader thinks cooperation between regional powers and the United States is crucial in avoiding a catastrophe, as the dynamics had evolved quickly in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Commenting on the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, Khan said this might lead to a stable security situation in the country. He hopes the Taliban government would open up possibilities for trade and development projects. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/chaotic-afghanistan-will-again-become-a-safe-haven-for-terrorists-imran-khan-at-unga-415729" hreflang="en">Chaotic Afghanistan will again become a safe haven for terrorists: Imran Khan</a>

The PM also stressed on the need to neutralise terrorist groups in Afghanistan, especially the TTP. And also says it is important to address the humanitarian crisis and economic issues of the country. &nbsp;

"I believe that the US can work with a new government in Afghanistan to promote common interests and regional stability," Khan said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-leader-says-executions-will-return-in-afghanistan-415399" hreflang="en">Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan</a>&nbsp;

"Pakistan desires to promote a comprehensive, not selective, approach to neutralising terrorists' threats from Afghanistan. We will cooperate with the international community, including the US, in this effort," he said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The Taliban can be potential partners in peace for both the United States and Pakistan, said Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview with Newsweek's Senior Foreign Policy Writer Tom O'Connor.

The Taliban can be potential partners in peace for both the United States and Pakistan, said Prime Minister Imran Khan in an interview with Newsweek's Senior Foreign Policy Writer Tom O'Connor. The PM also termed US President Joe Biden's hard line against Taliban as "unnecessary". Pakistan is a "willing companion" of the US in counter-terrorism and other endeavours, added Khan. Watch: × The leader thinks cooperation between regional powers and the United States is crucial in avoiding a catastrophe, as the dynamics had evolved quickly in Afghanistan. Commenting on the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, Khan said this might lead to a stable security situation in the country. He hopes the Taliban government would open up possibilities for trade and development projects. Also Read: Chaotic Afghanistan will again become a safe haven for terrorists: Imran Khan The PM also stressed on the need to neutralise terrorist groups in Afghanistan, especially the TTP. And also says it is important to address the humanitarian crisis and economic issues of the country. "I believe that the US can work with a new government in Afghanistan to promote common interests and regional stability," Khan said. Also Read: Taliban leader says executions will return in Afghanistan "Pakistan desires to promote a comprehensive, not selective, approach to neutralising terrorists' threats from Afghanistan. We will cooperate with the international community, including the US, in this effort," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Taliban can be partners in peace for US, Pakistan, says Prime Minister Imran Khan

During his address at the 76th UNGA session, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that "India has developed the world's first DNA vaccine for COVID-19 which can be administered to everyone above the age of 12."

PM Modi UNGA Address 2021: India has developed the world's first DNA vaccine says PM Modi

Indian PM Narendra Modi addresses the 76th UNGA session in New York. He said that "in the last 1.5 years, the entire world has been facing the worst pandemic in 100 years, I pay tribute to all those who have lost their lives in this deadly pandemic and I express my condolences to their families".

PM Modi UNGA Address 2021: PM Modi pays tribute to lives lost due to pandemic

As the Indian delegation puts an end to its two days of engagements in the capital, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said the United States and India will be holding a counter-terrorism joint working group meeting designation dialogue. &nbsp;

At a press briefing on Friday, the diplomat also said that in the areas of law enforcement, there is also going to be a renewed US-India Homeland Security dialogue. &nbsp;

Watch:

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In the bilateral discussions at the While House, both India and the US agreed that the issue of terrorism is very important. The two sides denounced any use of terrorist proxies and emphasised the importance of denying the logistical, financial or military support to terrorist groups, which could be used to plan, or launch attacks, Shringla said. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-arrives-in-new-york-to-address-unga-tomorrow-415739">PM Modi arrives in New York, to address UNGA tomorrow</a>

The two sides also called on the Taliban to adhere to its commitments under resolution 2593. It includes ensuring that Afghan territory is not used to threaten attack against any country, shelter any terrorist groups or finance attacks and underscores the importance of combating terrorism in the country, he said. &nbsp;

There was a clear concern expressed on Pakistan's role in Afghanistan and the continuing support for an approach that did not seem to be conducive to the international community's expectations of what the war-ravaged country should be like, Shringla added.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-summit-us-president-says-india-should-have-permanent-seat-at-unsc-mea-after-quad-summit-415719" hreflang="en">Biden says India should have permanent seat at UNSC: MEA after Quad summit</a>&nbsp;

Both during the India-US bilateral meeting and the Quad summit, there was a clear sense of a more careful look, examination and monitoring of Pakistan's role in Afghanistan, the diplomat added. &nbsp;

In response to a question, Shringla said, "An important factor which sometimes gets overlooked is when you see Pakistan, protecting itself as a facilitator, whereas, it has really been in many senses an instigator of some of the problems that we're dealing with in our neighbourhood and beyond.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

As the Indian delegation puts an end to its two days of engagements in the capital, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said the United States and India will be holding a counter-terrorism joint working group meeting designation dialogue.

As the Indian delegation puts an end to its two days of engagements in the capital, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said the United States and India will be holding a counter-terrorism joint working group meeting designation dialogue. At a press briefing on Friday, the diplomat also said that in the areas of law enforcement, there is also going to be a renewed US-India Homeland Security dialogue. Watch: × In the bilateral discussions at the While House, both India and the US agreed that the issue of terrorism is very important. The two sides denounced any use of terrorist proxies and emphasised the importance of denying the logistical, financial or military support to terrorist groups, which could be used to plan, or launch attacks, Shringla said. Also Read: PM Modi arrives in New York, to address UNGA tomorrow The two sides also called on the Taliban to adhere to its commitments under resolution 2593. It includes ensuring that Afghan territory is not used to threaten attack against any country, shelter any terrorist groups or finance attacks and underscores the importance of combating terrorism in the country, he said. There was a clear concern expressed on Pakistan's role in Afghanistan and the continuing support for an approach that did not seem to be conducive to the international community's expectations of what the war-ravaged country should be like, Shringla added. Also Read: Biden says India should have permanent seat at UNSC: MEA after Quad summit Both during the India-US bilateral meeting and the Quad summit, there was a clear sense of a more careful look, examination and monitoring of Pakistan's role in Afghanistan, the diplomat added. In response to a question, Shringla said, "An important factor which sometimes gets overlooked is when you see Pakistan, protecting itself as a facilitator, whereas, it has really been in many senses an instigator of some of the problems that we're dealing with in our neighbourhood and beyond.” (With inputs from agencies)

US, India to hold counter-terrorism working group meeting dialogue: Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla

After Washington DC focus has now shifted to New York where Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to address the 76th UNGA session. PM Modi's address will focus on the pressing global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change, and other important issues.

Stage set for Indian PM Narendra Modi's 76th UNGA session address

An elected county prosecutor in Pennsylvania who was charged Wednesday with rape in connection with an attack on a woman in her home left the residence only after she promised not to call the police, authorities said.

The Pennsylvania State Police said the Somerset County district attorney, Jeffrey L. Thomas, was charged with rape, indecent and simple assault, strangulation and criminal trespass in connection with the Sept. 18 attack in Windber, a borough that is about two hours east of Pittsburgh.

Thomas, 36, a Republican, was elected district attorney in 2019. His lawyer, Ryan Tutera, and a woman who answered the phone at the district attorney’s office Friday declined to comment on whether Thomas would step down.

A State Police report said Thomas used Snapchat to message the woman, who was not identified, and told her that he would be at her home in a few minutes. She responded that he was not welcome in her home and he entered “by subterfuge,” carrying several cans of beer, the report said.

He handed her an opened can of beer, and when he did not leave as she told him to, she slapped him, the police report said. Thomas struck her face, causing her nose to bleed. He then pulled down her sports bra and choked her before biting her breasts and raping her, the report said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-gunman-in-deadly-mass-shooting-at-kroger-in-tennessee-identified-as-29-year-old-store-vendor-415830">Also read |&nbsp;US: Gunman in deadly mass shooting at Kroger in Tennessee, identified as 29-year-old store vendor</a>

He grabbed the woman by her neck and hair and asked whether she was going to call the police, the report said. He eventually left only after she said she would not call the police, according to the report.

The police said that Thomas had known the woman for years “in a professional capacity,” and that he had repeatedly contacted her “to initiate a sexual relationship,” which she declined. Thomas had arrived at her house on a previous occasion and walked in uninvited and would also “routinely drive around her residence,” the police report said.

Josh Shapiro, the Pennsylvania attorney general, said in a statement that the charges against Thomas were “deeply disturbing,” adding that “today is a reminder that no one is above the law.”

He also commended the woman for being brave enough to come forward. “That is never an easy thing to do, especially when your abuser is a powerful elected official,” he said.

The court proceedings may be unusual as the plaintiff, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was set to be represented by the Somerset County district attorney’s office, which Thomas led.

Tutera said Friday that all of the county’s magistrate judges would recuse themselves because of their previous work with Thomas’ office, and that the state might appoint a judge. Thomas had a preliminary hearing scheduled for Sept. 29, but Tutera said it would very likely be postponed.

Tutera said the woman drank beer and smoked marijuana with Thomas in her home, adding, “I think that there’s more to this story than meets the eye.” Thomas was released from jail Thursday morning after posting $5,000 bail, Tutera said.

In October 2020, Thomas was cited in Cambria County, which is north of Somerset County, for disorderly conduct and harassment, WJAC-TV reported.

He used obscene language at a pizza restaurant and later threatened to “engage in a physical altercation” at a gymnastics gym, the television station reported. The status of those citations was not immediately available Friday.

“Just because I am an elected official, I’m not supposed to get upset that my 5-year-old daughter’s birthday party gets screwed up,” he told the station in response to the citations. “That’s ridiculous.”

This is the second time this year that a Pennsylvania district attorney has been accused of sexual assault. In February, Chad M. Salsman, who was the district attorney in Bradford County, was accused of sexually assaulting clients from his private practice before he was elected district attorney in 2019. He pleaded guilty to some of the charges and resigned in May of this year, and was sentenced in July to 18 months to five years in prison.

An elected county prosecutor in Pennsylvania who was charged Wednesday with rape in connection with an attack on a woman in her home left the residence only after she promised not to call the police, authorities said.

An elected county prosecutor in Pennsylvania who was charged Wednesday with rape in connection with an attack on a woman in her home left the residence only after she promised not to call the police, authorities said. The Pennsylvania State Police said the Somerset County district attorney, Jeffrey L. Thomas, was charged with rape, indecent and simple assault, strangulation and criminal trespass in connection with the Sept. 18 attack in Windber, a borough that is about two hours east of Pittsburgh. Thomas, 36, a Republican, was elected district attorney in 2019. His lawyer, Ryan Tutera, and a woman who answered the phone at the district attorney’s office Friday declined to comment on whether Thomas would step down. A State Police report said Thomas used Snapchat to message the woman, who was not identified, and told her that he would be at her home in a few minutes. She responded that he was not welcome in her home and he entered “by subterfuge,” carrying several cans of beer, the report said. He handed her an opened can of beer, and when he did not leave as she told him to, she slapped him, the police report said. Thomas struck her face, causing her nose to bleed. He then pulled down her sports bra and choked her before biting her breasts and raping her, the report said. Also read | US: Gunman in deadly mass shooting at Kroger in Tennessee, identified as 29-year-old store vendor He grabbed the woman by her neck and hair and asked whether she was going to call the police, the report said. He eventually left only after she said she would not call the police, according to the report. The police said that Thomas had known the woman for years “in a professional capacity,” and that he had repeatedly contacted her “to initiate a sexual relationship,” which she declined. Thomas had arrived at her house on a previous occasion and walked in uninvited and would also “routinely drive around her residence,” the police report said. Josh Shapiro, the Pennsylvania attorney general, said in a statement that the charges against Thomas were “deeply disturbing,” adding that “today is a reminder that no one is above the law.” He also commended the woman for being brave enough to come forward. “That is never an easy thing to do, especially when your abuser is a powerful elected official,” he said. The court proceedings may be unusual as the plaintiff, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, was set to be represented by the Somerset County district attorney’s office, which Thomas led. Tutera said Friday that all of the county’s magistrate judges would recuse themselves because of their previous work with Thomas’ office, and that the state might appoint a judge. Thomas had a preliminary hearing scheduled for Sept. 29, but Tutera said it would very likely be postponed. Tutera said the woman drank beer and smoked marijuana with Thomas in her home, adding, “I think that there’s more to this story than meets the eye.” Thomas was released from jail Thursday morning after posting $5,000 bail, Tutera said. In October 2020, Thomas was cited in Cambria County, which is north of Somerset County, for disorderly conduct and harassment, WJAC-TV reported. He used obscene language at a pizza restaurant and later threatened to “engage in a physical altercation” at a gymnastics gym, the television station reported. The status of those citations was not immediately available Friday. “Just because I am an elected official, I’m not supposed to get upset that my 5-year-old daughter’s birthday party gets screwed up,” he told the station in response to the citations. “That’s ridiculous.” This is the second time this year that a Pennsylvania district attorney has been accused of sexual assault. In February, Chad M. Salsman, who was the district attorney in Bradford County, was accused of sexually assaulting clients from his private practice before he was elected district attorney in 2019. He pleaded guilty to some of the charges and resigned in May of this year, and was sentenced in July to 18 months to five years in prison.

Pennsylvania prosecutor charged in rape at woman’s home, police say

Ukraine held a large-scale joint military drill with the US and other NATO forces. Troops from 15 countries participated in the exercise. Around 6000 soldiers participated out of which 4000 were from Ukraine.

Ukraine holds large-scale joint military drill with US forces, NATO allies

The crucial first in-person quad meeting has now been concluded. Lisa Curtis, international affairs expert talks about the QUAD summit and developments of the much-awaited meet.

QUAD grouping is about competing with China and countering its aggressive behavior: Lisa Curtis

After holding marathon meetings for the last two days, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday evening (local time) left for New York, where he is scheduled to address the 76th session of the UNGA.

PM Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the country on Wednesday, his first beyond the neighbourhood since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris here. He also met with his Australian counterpart, Scott Morrison, and the Japanese PM, Yoshihide Suga. PM Modi also participated in the first in-person Quad meeting after COVID-19.

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After a series of meetings in Washington DC, PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> emplanes for New York City. He will be addressing the UNGA session there. <a href="https://t.co/V4njbyHOfr">pic.twitter.com/V4njbyHOfr</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1441540402092261386?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He also held meetings with five global CEOs for potential investment in India on Thursday.

PM Modi's US visit will conclude on September 25 with an address at the United Nations General Assembly focusing on the pressing global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change and other important issues.

The theme for this year's General Debate is 'Building Resilience through hope to recover from Covid-19, rebuild sustainably, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people, and revitalise the United Nations'.

After holding marathon meetings for the last two days, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday evening (local time) left for New York, where he is scheduled to address the 76th session of the UNGA.

After holding marathon meetings for the last two days, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday evening (local time) left for New York, where he is scheduled to address the 76th session of the UNGA. PM Modi arrived in Washington for a three-day visit to the country on Wednesday, his first beyond the neighbourhood since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris here. He also met with his Australian counterpart, Scott Morrison, and the Japanese PM, Yoshihide Suga. PM Modi also participated in the first in-person Quad meeting after COVID-19. After a series of meetings in Washington DC, PM @narendramodi emplanes for New York City. He will be addressing the UNGA session there. pic.twitter.com/V4njbyHOfr — PMO India (@PMOIndia) September 24, 2021 × He also held meetings with five global CEOs for potential investment in India on Thursday. PM Modi's US visit will conclude on September 25 with an address at the United Nations General Assembly focusing on the pressing global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change and other important issues. The theme for this year's General Debate is 'Building Resilience through hope to recover from Covid-19, rebuild sustainably, respond to the needs of the planet, respect the rights of people, and revitalise the United Nations'.

PM Narendra Modi leaves for New York; to address UNGA 2021

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's US visit will conclude on September 25 with an address at the United Nations General Assembly focusing on the pressing global challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, the need to combat terrorism, climate change, and other important issues.

After QUAD summit, Indian PM Modi prepares for 76th UNGA session

WION is constantly tracking all updates of the first in-person QUAD summit. What has the historic meeting achieved? Palki Sharma shares her insights on it

WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma shares her insights on historic QUAD summit

As per an investigation released by the state Department of Labor and Employment's Division of Oil and Public Safety, a six-year-old named Wongel Estifanos died on an amusement park ride in Colorado earlier this month as a result of "multiple operator errors."

The Haunted Mine Drop at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park will now remain closed until it is re-permitted.&nbsp;

"There is no way we can imagine the pain of loss that the Estifanos family and their friends are experiencing," the park said Friday in a statement.&nbsp;

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. Safety is, and always has been, our top priority."

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An incident has occurred on the Haunted Mine Drop ride that resulted in a fatality. An investigation is in progress. Out of respect for all involved, we have no further comment until details have been confirmed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved.
— Glenwood Caverns (@GlenwoodCaverns) <a href="https://twitter.com/GlenwoodCaverns/status/1434740127222272004?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The ride operators did not notice that Estifanos was sitting on her seatbelt before it began. When the ride was over, Estifanos was no longer in the seat. The autopsy report said that there were multiple blunt force injuries to her body.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-gunman-in-deadly-mass-shooting-at-kroger-in-tennessee-identified-as-29-year-old-store-vendor-415830">Also read |&nbsp;US: Gunman in deadly mass shooting at Kroger in Tennessee, identified as 29-year-old store vendor</a>

Estifanos was on a vacation with her parents from Colorado Springs when she died on the Haunted Mine Drop on September 5.&nbsp;

The ride was built in 2017. It carries six passengers and requires all riders to be over 46-inches in height.&nbsp;

Like all amusement park rides in Colorado, the Mine Drop is required to undergo annual inspections by a third party.&nbsp;

As per the regulations, the park may be subjected to fines and penalties of up to $1,000 for every day that there were violations that resulted in "serious bodily injury."

As per an investigation released by the state Department of Labor and Employment's Division of Oil and Public Safety, a six-year-old named Wongel Estifanos died on an amusement park ride in Colorado earlier this month as a result of "multiple operator errors.

As per an investigation released by the state Department of Labor and Employment's Division of Oil and Public Safety, a six-year-old named Wongel Estifanos died on an amusement park ride in Colorado earlier this month as a result of "multiple operator errors." The Haunted Mine Drop at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park will now remain closed until it is re-permitted. "There is no way we can imagine the pain of loss that the Estifanos family and their friends are experiencing," the park said Friday in a statement. "Our thoughts and prayers go out to them. Safety is, and always has been, our top priority." An incident has occurred on the Haunted Mine Drop ride that resulted in a fatality. An investigation is in progress. Out of respect for all involved, we have no further comment until details have been confirmed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved. — Glenwood Caverns (@GlenwoodCaverns) September 6, 2021 × The ride operators did not notice that Estifanos was sitting on her seatbelt before it began. When the ride was over, Estifanos was no longer in the seat. The autopsy report said that there were multiple blunt force injuries to her body. Also read | US: Gunman in deadly mass shooting at Kroger in Tennessee, identified as 29-year-old store vendor Estifanos was on a vacation with her parents from Colorado Springs when she died on the Haunted Mine Drop on September 5. The ride was built in 2017. It carries six passengers and requires all riders to be over 46-inches in height. Like all amusement park rides in Colorado, the Mine Drop is required to undergo annual inspections by a third party. As per the regulations, the park may be subjected to fines and penalties of up to $1,000 for every day that there were violations that resulted in "serious bodily injury."

6-year-old killed on amusement park ride in Colorado after multiple operator errors

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in New York on Friday. He is scheduled to address the 76th session of UNGA today (Indian time). PM Modi left from Washington after meeting US President Joe Biden and attending the Quad Summit.

Indian PM Modi reaches New York to address 76th UNGA session

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