Lawyers for both the prosecution and the defense continued to argue on Tuesday over whether Derek Chauvin violated police policy when he knelt on George Floyd.

George Floyd Murder Trial: What happened in the Derek Chauvin trial on Day 7?

Iran and the United States have held indirect talks in Vienna to revive the embattled 2015 Nuclear deal. The officials from the five world powers also conducted the delicate diplomacy in Vienna.

US & Iran hold indirect talks in Vienna on reviving nuclear deal

US President Joe Biden's special envoy Ricardo Zuñiga said on Tuesday that the White House is looking to create legal ways for Central American migrants to reach the country.

White House aiming to create legal ways for Central Americans to migrate

According to reports US bankruptcies surged in March to the highest level in a year, driven by a 41% jump in month-to-month filings by consumers.

World Business Watch: US bankruptcies increased in March, overall commercial filings also increased

US President Joe Biden is looking to raise corporate income tax rates to help pay for his proposed $2.3 trillion infrastructure spending plan. He said that the rise in the tax would not dampen the already fragile economy and drive business abroad.

Biden looks to raise US corporate taxes, says higher corporate tax won’t hurt economy

The United States and Iran are expected to hold indirect talks in Vienna from Tuesday as part of broader negotiations to revive the 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and other global powers.

US-Iran to hold indirect nuclear talks in Vienna today

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry praised India as a world leader in renewables as he began talks with government leaders aimed at cutting carbon emissions faster to slow global warming.

India is the world’s third biggest emitter behind the United States and China and is under pressure to commit itself to net zero emissions by 2050, in line with pledges made by several other countries.

"India is getting the job done on climate, pushing the curve," Kerry said.&nbsp;

"You (India) are indisputably a world leader already in the deployment of renewable energy."

Government sources said that India was unlikely to bind itself to a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 as its energy demand was projected to grow more than that of any other nation over the next two decades.

Kerry is leading efforts to get countries to step up commitments ahead of a summit of 40 leaders on April 22-23 called by US President Joe Biden.&nbsp;

Later this year, world leaders are due to gather for a UN climate summit to build on the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming.&nbsp;

Kerry said India was setting a ‘very strong example’ for other nations on powering a growing economy with clean energy.

"That kind of urgency is exactly what we need to confront global climate change," he said.

India points to its target of generating 450 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030 - five times its current capacity and two and half times its Paris pledge.&nbsp;

But officials in India argue against adopting tougher emission goals, noting that its per capita emissions are still only an eighth of those of the United States and less than a third of China’s, even as it tries to bridge a development gap.

Kerry said it was ‘absolutely critical’ that India, the United States and others scale up investments in areas including energy storage, clean fuels and decarbonising industries.

"India, in particular, is a red-hot investment opportunity because of its clean energy transition," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry praised India as a world leader in renewables as he began talks with government leaders aimed at cutting carbon emissions faster to slow global warming.

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry praised India as a world leader in renewables as he began talks with government leaders aimed at cutting carbon emissions faster to slow global warming. India is the world’s third biggest emitter behind the United States and China and is under pressure to commit itself to net zero emissions by 2050, in line with pledges made by several other countries. "India is getting the job done on climate, pushing the curve," Kerry said. "You (India) are indisputably a world leader already in the deployment of renewable energy." Government sources said that India was unlikely to bind itself to a goal of net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 as its energy demand was projected to grow more than that of any other nation over the next two decades. Kerry is leading efforts to get countries to step up commitments ahead of a summit of 40 leaders on April 22-23 called by US President Joe Biden. Later this year, world leaders are due to gather for a UN climate summit to build on the 2015 Paris accord to limit global warming. Kerry said India was setting a ‘very strong example’ for other nations on powering a growing economy with clean energy. "That kind of urgency is exactly what we need to confront global climate change," he said. India points to its target of generating 450 gigawatts of renewable energy by 2030 - five times its current capacity and two and half times its Paris pledge. But officials in India argue against adopting tougher emission goals, noting that its per capita emissions are still only an eighth of those of the United States and less than a third of China’s, even as it tries to bridge a development gap. Kerry said it was ‘absolutely critical’ that India, the United States and others scale up investments in areas including energy storage, clean fuels and decarbonising industries. "India, in particular, is a red-hot investment opportunity because of its clean energy transition," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

US envoy Kerry says India is ‘getting job done’ on climate

US & Iran direct meet over Nuclear deal highly unlikely

There has been a steep surge in COVID-19 cases across the US and health experts held youth responsible for this increase in cases. Dr. Rochelle Walensky, the director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, said during a briefing Monday that “cases are increasing nationally, and we are seeing this occur predominantly in younger adults.”

US Covid-19: Health Experts held youth responsible for rising cases

Iran and the United States will begin indirect talks in Vienna on Tuesday aimed at bringing both countries back into full compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal that Washington abandoned three years ago.&nbsp;

Iran has steadily overstepped the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme in response to Washington’s withdrawal from the accord in 2018 and its reimposition of sanctions that have crippled the Islamic Republic’s economy.&nbsp;

While Tehran has repeatedly rebuffed ‘direct and indirect negotiations’ with its old foe, Washington said on Monday it expected the talks to be difficult. Both Tehran and Washington did not foresee any early breakthrough.

"We are not optimistic nor pessimistic about the outcome of this meeting now, but we are confident that we are on the right track, and if America’s will, seriousness and honesty is proven, it could be a good sign for a better future for this agreement and ultimately its full implementation," Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei told reporters.

US and Iranian officials will begin indirect talks in the Austrian capital, where the pact was originally reached in 2015, later on Tuesday. Officials from Britain, France and Germany, are expected to act as intermediaries. Russia and China, the other parties to the 2015 pact, will also attend.

A Western diplomat said on Friday that a shuttle-diplomacy approach would be adopted. The diplomat said France would be the main interlocutor for both sides.

According to diplomats, the remaining parties to the deal will first meet at a Viennese hotel for preparatory talks. The US delegation, headed by special envoy Rob Malley, will be based in a nearby hotel.&nbsp;

Adding fresh doubt to chances of a breakthrough, an Iranian official said, "Our agenda during the meeting will be removal of all US sanctions against Iran ... as our supreme leader has said repeatedly, anything less than that will not be accepted by Tehran."&nbsp;

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say on all state matters, has opposed any gradual easing of sanctions.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Iran and the United States will begin indirect talks in Vienna on Tuesday aimed at bringing both countries back into full compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal that Washington abandoned three years ago.

Iran and the United States will begin indirect talks in Vienna on Tuesday aimed at bringing both countries back into full compliance with the 2015 nuclear deal that Washington abandoned three years ago. Iran has steadily overstepped the accord’s limits on its nuclear programme in response to Washington’s withdrawal from the accord in 2018 and its reimposition of sanctions that have crippled the Islamic Republic’s economy. While Tehran has repeatedly rebuffed ‘direct and indirect negotiations’ with its old foe, Washington said on Monday it expected the talks to be difficult. Both Tehran and Washington did not foresee any early breakthrough. "We are not optimistic nor pessimistic about the outcome of this meeting now, but we are confident that we are on the right track, and if America’s will, seriousness and honesty is proven, it could be a good sign for a better future for this agreement and ultimately its full implementation," Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei told reporters. US and Iranian officials will begin indirect talks in the Austrian capital, where the pact was originally reached in 2015, later on Tuesday. Officials from Britain, France and Germany, are expected to act as intermediaries. Russia and China, the other parties to the 2015 pact, will also attend. A Western diplomat said on Friday that a shuttle-diplomacy approach would be adopted. The diplomat said France would be the main interlocutor for both sides. According to diplomats, the remaining parties to the deal will first meet at a Viennese hotel for preparatory talks. The US delegation, headed by special envoy Rob Malley, will be based in a nearby hotel. Adding fresh doubt to chances of a breakthrough, an Iranian official said, "Our agenda during the meeting will be removal of all US sanctions against Iran ... as our supreme leader has said repeatedly, anything less than that will not be accepted by Tehran." Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has the final say on all state matters, has opposed any gradual easing of sanctions. (With inputs from agencies)

Iran, US begin indirect talks to bring nuclear deal to life

The US climate envoy John Kerry is on an Asia visit and has arrived in New Delhi after visiting UAE. Kerry is meeting with the Indian Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar.

US Climate Envoy John Kerry holds talks with Indian Environment Minister Javadekar

US Climate Envoy John Kerry holds talks with Indian Environment Minister

The US climate envoy John Kerry is on an Asia visit and has arrived in New Delhi after visiting UAE. Kerry will be holding talks with the Indian Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday.

US Climate Envoy in India: Kerry to hold talks with Indian Environment Minister

The US climate envoy John Kerry has arrived in New Delhi after visiting UAE. Kerry will be holding talks with the Indian Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar on Tuesday.

US Climate Envoy John Kerry visits India before Biden summit

U.S. diplomats are trying to build on parts of the peace deal made with the Taliban last year, specifically the classified portions that outlined what military actions — on both sides — were supposed to be prohibited under the signed agreement, according to American, Afghan and Taliban officials.

The negotiations, which have been quietly underway for months, have morphed into the Biden administration’s last-ditch diplomatic effort to achieve a reduction in violence, which could enable the United States to still exit the country should broader peace talks fail to yield progress in the coming weeks.

If these discussions and the separate talks between the Afghan government and Taliban falter, the United States will likely find itself with thousands of troops in Afghanistan beyond May 1. That is the deadline by which all U.S. military forces are meant to withdraw from the country under the 2020 agreement with the Taliban and would come at a time when the insurgent group likely will have begun its spring offensive against the beleaguered Afghan security forces.

Both of these conditions would almost certainly set back any progress made in the past months toward a political settlement, despite both the Trump and the Biden administrations’ fervent attempts to end the U.S.’ longest-running war.

“Time is really running out for the Biden administration,” said Asfandyar Mir, an analyst at the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University. “If there is no breakthrough in the next two to three weeks, Biden will have scored his first major foreign policy failure.”

The proposed agreement specific to two annexes of the 2020 deal, which were deemed classified by the Trump administration, is intended to stave off an insurgent victory on the battlefield during the peace talks by limiting Taliban military operations against Afghan forces, according to U.S. officials and others familiar with the negotiations. In return, the United States would push for the release of all Taliban prisoners still imprisoned by the Afghan government and the lifting of United Nations sanctions against the Taliban — two goals outlined in the original deal.

These new negotiations, which exclude representatives from the Afghan government, are being carried out amid a contentious logjam between the Taliban and the Afghans, despite pressure from international and regional actors on both sides to commit to some form of a path forward.

With May 1 just a few weeks away, there is a growing sense of urgency and uncertainty looming over all sides.

The United States currently has around 3,500 troops in the country, alongside thousands of contractors and international forces still on the ground. Withdrawing those forces and all their equipment by May 1 is, at this point, almost logistically impossible, experts and officials said.

The U.S.’ unilateral negotiations with the Taliban have drawn ire from Afghan negotiators, who see the side discussions as a distraction from the broader peace talks. Even if the United States and the Taliban reach a deal to reduce violence, it is not likely to result in a full cease-fire, said one of the Afghan government negotiators, who spoke on the condition of anonymity.

Specifically, the United States is pushing for three months of reduced violence and has been for some time — though U.S. diplomats hope that timeline could be extended.

But in recent months, the Taliban submitted their own proposal, first reported by Tolo News, with requests that were not fully accepted by the U.S. negotiators and included severe restrictions on U.S. air power.

Many of the delays in securing a new deal to reduce violence stem from the original February 2020 agreement.

That deal loosely called for the Taliban to stop suicide attacks and large-scale offensives in exchange for the U.S. forces scaling back drone strikes and raids, among other types of military assaults. But both sides interpreted those terms differently, officials said, and both have accused one another of violating the deal. The Taliban are also supposed to cut ties with al-Qaida and other terrorist groups, but the U.S. intelligence community has seen little movement toward that goal.

Under the current arrangement, U.S. forces can defend their Afghan allies if they are being attacked, but the Taliban said U.S. airstrikes have been carried out against their fighters who were not attacking Afghan forces.

Digital spreadsheets maintained by the Taliban and viewed by The New York Times detail hundreds of purported U.S. violations. They record in detail the group’s wounded and killed, along with civilian casualties and property damage. However, the Taliban often do not distinguish between offensive operations carried out by Afghan security forces from those by U.S. forces, and several of the events the Times was able to independently verify from June 2020 did not involve U.S. troops.

The new terms for a reduction in violence have been a serious point of contention during the past several months, during meetings frequently held at the Sharq Village and Spa, a luxurious resort in Doha, Qatar.

Meetings between U.S. officials and the Taliban in Doha — including with high-level officials like then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in November and the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, in December — attempted to scale back Taliban attacks and stop the bloody assassination campaign wreaking havoc across the country but made little headway.

With time running out, the Biden administration is hoping for more success, though these discussions continue to hit roadblocks.

Negotiations between the Afghans and the Taliban, which began in September, have practically come to a halt as the insurgent group has remained reluctant to discuss any future government or power-sharing deal while the United States remains noncommittal about whether it will withdraw from Afghanistan by May 1.

The Biden administration’s recent push for talks in Turkey could be promising, officials and experts said, but the Taliban have yet to agree to attend.

The insurgent group thinks Biden’s negotiators are manipulating the proposed agreement to reduce violence by asking for “extreme” measures, such as halting the use of roadside bombs and pausing attacks on checkpoints, according to people close to the negotiations.

Taliban negotiators say they believe the U.S.' requests equate to a cease-fire, while U.S. military officials say that if certain parameters are not clearly outlined, then the Taliban will shift their tactics to exploit any loopholes they can find — like they have done in the past.

Some of the more striking episodes happened in the past week when CIA-backed militia forces were accused of killing more than a dozen civilians in a Taliban-controlled village in Khost province in southeastern Afghanistan.

In retaliation, the Taliban authorized their fighters to attack the U.S. military and CIA base there and publicly took responsibility for the rocket attack that followed: a first for the insurgent group since it has mostly stopped, or refused to acknowledge, attacks against U.S. bases and troops, per the terms of the 2020 deal.

Some Taliban officials believe the CIA-backed forces should be disbanded and their operations stopped if the insurgent group agrees to any further reduction in violence, according to people close to the negotiations, but it is unclear if the insurgent group has raised those concerns directly. Regardless, any such request is likely to fall on deaf ears, as the U.S. military and intelligence community views these forces as some of the Afghans’ most effective, despite the litany of human rights abuses leveled against them.

The Khost incident highlights the difficulty of reaching an understanding when it comes to decreasing the intensity of the war, and the need for an international third-party monitoring body, such as the United Nations, in any future cease-fires or agreements to reduce violence, experts said.

It is unlikely the United States and Taliban will reach a new deal before May 1, analysts say, unless U.S. officials are willing to make serious concessions to prevent a violent offensive this spring, one that seems to already have started given the series of large attacks and assassinations by the Taliban in recent days.

Some experts have criticized the U.S.’ narrow focus on a short-term reduction of violence as a distraction from the larger effort of reaching a political settlement between the Afghan government and the Taliban.

“I am hard-pressed to see what payoff there’s been for the amount of effort that has been put into trying to get limited violence reduction front-loaded in the peace process,” said Laurel Miller, a former top State Department official who worked on Afghanistan and Pakistan diplomacy under the previous two administrations. “It might be helpful for political optics in covering for an American withdrawal. But what’s going to make this stick afterward if there isn’t a real settlement? Nothing.”

U.S. diplomats are trying to build on parts of the peace deal made with the Taliban last year, specifically the classified portions that outlined what military actions — on both sides — were supposed to be prohibited under the signed agreement, according to American, Afghan and Taliban officials.

U.S. diplomats are trying to build on parts of the peace deal made with the Taliban last year, specifically the classified portions that outlined what military actions — on both sides — were supposed to be prohibited under the signed agreement, according to American, Afghan and Taliban officials. The negotiations, which have been quietly underway for months, have morphed into the Biden administration’s last-ditch diplomatic effort to achieve a reduction in violence, which could enable the United States to still exit the country should broader peace talks fail to yield progress in the coming weeks. If these discussions and the separate talks between the Afghan government and Taliban falter, the United States will likely find itself with thousands of troops in Afghanistan beyond May 1. That is the deadline by which all U.S. military forces are meant to withdraw from the country under the 2020 agreement with the Taliban and would come at a time when the insurgent group likely will have begun its spring offensive against the beleaguered Afghan security forces. Both of these conditions would almost certainly set back any progress made in the past months toward a political settlement, despite both the Trump and the Biden administrations’ fervent attempts to end the U.S.’ longest-running war. “Time is really running out for the Biden administration,” said Asfandyar Mir, an analyst at the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University. “If there is no breakthrough in the next two to three weeks, Biden will have scored his first major foreign policy failure.” The proposed agreement specific to two annexes of the 2020 deal, which were deemed classified by the Trump administration, is intended to stave off an insurgent victory on the battlefield during the peace talks by limiting Taliban military operations against Afghan forces, according to U.S. officials and others familiar with the negotiations. In return, the United States would push for the release of all Taliban prisoners still imprisoned by the Afghan government and the lifting of United Nations sanctions against the Taliban — two goals outlined in the original deal. These new negotiations, which exclude representatives from the Afghan government, are being carried out amid a contentious logjam between the Taliban and the Afghans, despite pressure from international and regional actors on both sides to commit to some form of a path forward. With May 1 just a few weeks away, there is a growing sense of urgency and uncertainty looming over all sides. The United States currently has around 3,500 troops in the country, alongside thousands of contractors and international forces still on the ground. Withdrawing those forces and all their equipment by May 1 is, at this point, almost logistically impossible, experts and officials said. The U.S.’ unilateral negotiations with the Taliban have drawn ire from Afghan negotiators, who see the side discussions as a distraction from the broader peace talks. Even if the United States and the Taliban reach a deal to reduce violence, it is not likely to result in a full cease-fire, said one of the Afghan government negotiators, who spoke on the condition of anonymity. Specifically, the United States is pushing for three months of reduced violence and has been for some time — though U.S. diplomats hope that timeline could be extended. But in recent months, the Taliban submitted their own proposal, first reported by Tolo News, with requests that were not fully accepted by the U.S. negotiators and included severe restrictions on U.S. air power. Many of the delays in securing a new deal to reduce violence stem from the original February 2020 agreement. That deal loosely called for the Taliban to stop suicide attacks and large-scale offensives in exchange for the U.S. forces scaling back drone strikes and raids, among other types of military assaults. But both sides interpreted those terms differently, officials said, and both have accused one another of violating the deal. The Taliban are also supposed to cut ties with al-Qaida and other terrorist groups, but the U.S. intelligence community has seen little movement toward that goal. Under the current arrangement, U.S. forces can defend their Afghan allies if they are being attacked, but the Taliban said U.S. airstrikes have been carried out against their fighters who were not attacking Afghan forces. Digital spreadsheets maintained by the Taliban and viewed by The New York Times detail hundreds of purported U.S. violations. They record in detail the group’s wounded and killed, along with civilian casualties and property damage. However, the Taliban often do not distinguish between offensive operations carried out by Afghan security forces from those by U.S. forces, and several of the events the Times was able to independently verify from June 2020 did not involve U.S. troops. The new terms for a reduction in violence have been a serious point of contention during the past several months, during meetings frequently held at the Sharq Village and Spa, a luxurious resort in Doha, Qatar. Meetings between U.S. officials and the Taliban in Doha — including with high-level officials like then-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in November and the chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Gen. Mark Milley, in December — attempted to scale back Taliban attacks and stop the bloody assassination campaign wreaking havoc across the country but made little headway. With time running out, the Biden administration is hoping for more success, though these discussions continue to hit roadblocks. Negotiations between the Afghans and the Taliban, which began in September, have practically come to a halt as the insurgent group has remained reluctant to discuss any future government or power-sharing deal while the United States remains noncommittal about whether it will withdraw from Afghanistan by May 1. The Biden administration’s recent push for talks in Turkey could be promising, officials and experts said, but the Taliban have yet to agree to attend. The insurgent group thinks Biden’s negotiators are manipulating the proposed agreement to reduce violence by asking for “extreme” measures, such as halting the use of roadside bombs and pausing attacks on checkpoints, according to people close to the negotiations. Taliban negotiators say they believe the U.S.' requests equate to a cease-fire, while U.S. military officials say that if certain parameters are not clearly outlined, then the Taliban will shift their tactics to exploit any loopholes they can find — like they have done in the past. Some of the more striking episodes happened in the past week when CIA-backed militia forces were accused of killing more than a dozen civilians in a Taliban-controlled village in Khost province in southeastern Afghanistan. In retaliation, the Taliban authorized their fighters to attack the U.S. military and CIA base there and publicly took responsibility for the rocket attack that followed: a first for the insurgent group since it has mostly stopped, or refused to acknowledge, attacks against U.S. bases and troops, per the terms of the 2020 deal. Some Taliban officials believe the CIA-backed forces should be disbanded and their operations stopped if the insurgent group agrees to any further reduction in violence, according to people close to the negotiations, but it is unclear if the insurgent group has raised those concerns directly. Regardless, any such request is likely to fall on deaf ears, as the U.S. military and intelligence community views these forces as some of the Afghans’ most effective, despite the litany of human rights abuses leveled against them. The Khost incident highlights the difficulty of reaching an understanding when it comes to decreasing the intensity of the war, and the need for an international third-party monitoring body, such as the United Nations, in any future cease-fires or agreements to reduce violence, experts said. It is unlikely the United States and Taliban will reach a new deal before May 1, analysts say, unless U.S. officials are willing to make serious concessions to prevent a violent offensive this spring, one that seems to already have started given the series of large attacks and assassinations by the Taliban in recent days. Some experts have criticized the U.S.’ narrow focus on a short-term reduction of violence as a distraction from the larger effort of reaching a political settlement between the Afghan government and the Taliban. “I am hard-pressed to see what payoff there’s been for the amount of effort that has been put into trying to get limited violence reduction front-loaded in the peace process,” said Laurel Miller, a former top State Department official who worked on Afghanistan and Pakistan diplomacy under the previous two administrations. “It might be helpful for political optics in covering for an American withdrawal. But what’s going to make this stick afterward if there isn’t a real settlement? Nothing.”

U.S. looks to build on secret portions of Taliban deal to reduce violence

The United States climate envoy John Kerry will hold talks with Indian leaders during an Asian tour starting on Thursday in an effort to narrow differences on climate change goals to slow global warming.

US climate envoy heads to India to lift 'climate ambition'

India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States.

At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.7 billion in China, 6 billion in South Korea, 5.2 billion in Thailand, followed by the United Kingdom with 2.8 billion transactions.

US barely made it to the top 10 list at number 9 nine with 1.2 billion transactions.

For instant payments, India’s volume share was 15.6 per cent. For other electronic payments, it stood at 22.9 per cent, based on the report released by ACI Worldwide, a UK-based payments system company. Even then, paper-based payments remain important in India, with a 61.4 per cent share.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/following-china-and-eu-japan-set-to-issue-digital-vaccine-passports-373795" hreflang="en">Following China and EU, Japan set to issue digital vaccine passports</a>

But predictions suggest that this will change by 2025. Instant payments volume is set to increase to over 37 per cent, while the share of other electronic payments is likely to grow to over 34 per cent.

Naturally, the share of paper-based transactions is set to decline below 28 per cent. Real-time payments’ share is expected to exceed 50 per cent by 2024.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/digital-artwork-by-humanoid-robot-sophia-sells-at-auction-for-nearly-700000-373064" hreflang="en">Digital artwork by humanoid robot Sophia sells at auction for nearly $700,000</a>

Pre-Paid Instruments (PPI) and the Universal Payment Interface (UPI) have helped make digitisation mainstream in India.

UPI transactions have continued to grow in the country on a month-on-month basis. In March 2021, the value was up to INR 4.25 lakh crore from INR 4.25 lakh crore in February, based on data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States. At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.

India witnessed the highest number of real-time online transactions in 2020, trumping China and United States. At least 25.5 billion real-time transactions were recorded in India over the last year, followed by 15.7 billion in China, 6 billion in South Korea, 5.2 billion in Thailand, followed by the United Kingdom with 2.8 billion transactions. US barely made it to the top 10 list at number 9 nine with 1.2 billion transactions. For instant payments, India’s volume share was 15.6 per cent. For other electronic payments, it stood at 22.9 per cent, based on the report released by ACI Worldwide, a UK-based payments system company. Even then, paper-based payments remain important in India, with a 61.4 per cent share. Also read: Following China and EU, Japan set to issue digital vaccine passports But predictions suggest that this will change by 2025. Instant payments volume is set to increase to over 37 per cent, while the share of other electronic payments is likely to grow to over 34 per cent. Naturally, the share of paper-based transactions is set to decline below 28 per cent. Real-time payments’ share is expected to exceed 50 per cent by 2024. Also read: Digital artwork by humanoid robot Sophia sells at auction for nearly $700,000 Pre-Paid Instruments (PPI) and the Universal Payment Interface (UPI) have helped make digitisation mainstream in India. UPI transactions have continued to grow in the country on a month-on-month basis. In March 2021, the value was up to INR 4.25 lakh crore from INR 4.25 lakh crore in February, based on data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

India trumps China, US with over 25 billion digital transactions in 2020

Israel's legal and political dramas converged Monday as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced court in his corruption trial while his bid to form a government after another inconclusive election reached a critical phase. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry on Monday reported a new incursion by China’s air force into the island’s air defence identification zone, made up of eight fighter jets and two other aircraft, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry on Monday reported a new incursion by China’s air force into the island’s air defence identification zone, made up of eight fighter jets and two other aircraft, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News brief.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prime-minister-benjamin-netanyahu-faces-court-in-corruption-trial-375515">Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces court in corruption trial</a>

<img alt="Israel" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6fd1ee7e-b309-4ce1-9e43-a5ca61688a2f" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%202.jpg" />

The 71-year-old veteran premier -- who last month contested his fourth election in less than two years -- arrived at the Jerusalem courthouse where he was met by supporters but also opponents who called him Israel's "crime minister".

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-reports-new-incursion-by-chinas-air-force-into-defence-zone-375512">Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone</a>

<img alt="Taiwan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ad46134-2381-4ce7-ad42-d707efb91e96" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%203.jpg" />

Chinese-claimed Taiwan has complained over the last few months of repeated missions by China’s air force near the island, concentrated in the southwestern part its air defence zone near the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/police-communities-across-us-fight-back-against-anti-asian-hate-crimes-375520">Police, communities across US fight back against anti-Asian hate crimes</a>

<img alt="US" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="2ab9c909-8ced-4272-ae09-7b4a0f9789fe" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%204.jpg" />

The officers walked through the arcade of hair and nail salons, restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine, and herbal medicine shops on Saturday, talking to business owners and patrons

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-extends-deadline-for-twitter-to-remove-banned-content-375503">Russia extends deadline for Twitter to remove 'banned' content</a>

<img alt="Russia" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6f130269-f2fb-4644-897e-5c82d0cd514d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%205.jpg" />

State telecommunications watchdog Roskomnadzor imposed slowdowns on Twitter's services in mid-March, accusing it of failing to remove banned content

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-shuts-secret-guantanamo-prison-unit-moves-prisoners-to-another-nearby-camp-375521">US shuts secret Guantanamo prison unit, moves prisoners to another nearby camp</a>

<img alt="Guantamo" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="58ddfb38-31f4-46fc-a1fc-3dd99f0425fa" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%206.jpg" />

Biden's Democratic predecessor Obama had pitched for closing the camps but could not reach a deal with Congress when Biden was his vice-president.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-to-announce-new-rules-to-restart-international-travel-375522">UK to announce new rules to restart international travel</a>

<img alt="UK" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d8250a17-004f-4b42-bfe4-acf28147e620" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%207.jpg" />

Travel destinations will be categorised as red, amber or green based on the virus risk.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-chief-of-chinese-defence-giant-norinco-being-probed-for-corruption-375495">Former chief of Chinese defence giant Norinco being probed for corruption</a>

<img alt="CHina" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cd0e4e40-1661-497e-9ba5-fe396cb9b869" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%208.jpg" />

Yin was at the helm of the company’s leadership between 2013-2018, and is among many being probed from the defence industry

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jordans-prince-hamzah-refuses-to-obey-restrictions-on-movements-amid-coup-allegations-375489">Jordan's Prince Hamzah refuses to obey restrictions on movements amid 'coup' allegations</a>

<img alt="Jordan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7e5cd50e-3389-450d-8585-ace6994ad582" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%209.jpg" />

The government has accused Hamzah of involvement in a seditious conspiracy to "destabilise the kingdom's security", placed him under house arrest and detained at least 16 more people.

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-extends-easter-wishes-especially-to-radical-left-crazies-375487">Donald Trump extends Easter wishes, especially to 'Radical Left CRAZIES'</a>

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3452439-13f0-42e8-b5f3-fa8258c6de87" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%2010.jpg" />

After being banned from Twitter and Facebook in the aftermath of the Capitol riot, Trump has been assessing other ways to get his word out

 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/over-100-nabbed-10-officers-injured-in-londons-kill-the-bill-protests-375484">Over 100 nabbed, 10 officers injured in London's 'Kill the Bill' protests</a>

<img alt="London" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8a3b6158-8c03-4d0e-b460-f172648632e2" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Top%2010%20-%20Final%20-%2011.jpg" />

Earlier on Sunday, London police said that 10 officers were left with minor injuries after police and protesters clashed in central London on Saturday

Israel's legal and political dramas converged Monday as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced court in his corruption trial while his bid to form a government after another inconclusive election reached a critical phase.

Israel's legal and political dramas converged Monday as Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faced court in his corruption trial while his bid to form a government after another inconclusive election reached a critical phase. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry on Monday reported a new incursion by China’s air force into the island’s air defence identification zone, made up of eight fighter jets and two other aircraft, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel. Taiwan’s Defence Ministry on Monday reported a new incursion by China’s air force into the island’s air defence identification zone, made up of eight fighter jets and two other aircraft, one of which flew through the strategic Bashi Channel. Read this and more in our Top 10 World News brief. Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu faces court in corruption trial The 71-year-old veteran premier -- who last month contested his fourth election in less than two years -- arrived at the Jerusalem courthouse where he was met by supporters but also opponents who called him Israel's "crime minister". Taiwan reports new incursion by China’s Air Force into defence zone Chinese-claimed Taiwan has complained over the last few months of repeated missions by China’s air force near the island, concentrated in the southwestern part its air defence zone near the Taiwan-controlled Pratas Islands Police, communities across US fight back against anti-Asian hate crimes The officers walked through the arcade of hair and nail salons, restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine, and herbal medicine shops on Saturday, talking to business owners and patrons Russia extends deadline for Twitter to remove 'banned' content State telecommunications watchdog Roskomnadzor imposed slowdowns on Twitter's services in mid-March, accusing it of failing to remove banned content US shuts secret Guantanamo prison unit, moves prisoners to another nearby camp Biden's Democratic predecessor Obama had pitched for closing the camps but could not reach a deal with Congress when Biden was his vice-president. UK to announce new rules to restart international travel Travel destinations will be categorised as red, amber or green based on the virus risk. Former chief of Chinese defence giant Norinco being probed for corruption Yin was at the helm of the company’s leadership between 2013-2018, and is among many being probed from the defence industry Jordan's Prince Hamzah refuses to obey restrictions on movements amid 'coup' allegations The government has accused Hamzah of involvement in a seditious conspiracy to "destabilise the kingdom's security", placed him under house arrest and detained at least 16 more people. Donald Trump extends Easter wishes, especially to 'Radical Left CRAZIES' After being banned from Twitter and Facebook in the aftermath of the Capitol riot, Trump has been assessing other ways to get his word out Over 100 nabbed, 10 officers injured in London's 'Kill the Bill' protests Earlier on Sunday, London police said that 10 officers were left with minor injuries after police and protesters clashed in central London on Saturday

Top 10 World News: Netanyahu faces court, Taiwan reports incursion, and more

More than a dozen San Jose, California, police officers walked through the white arches of the Grand Century Mall in ‘Little Saigon’ to reassure a Vietnamese-American community fearful over the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes in the United States.&nbsp;

The officers walked through the arcade of hair and nail salons, restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine, and herbal medicine shops on Saturday, talking to business owners and patrons. They then conducted a similar tour of San Jose’s Japantown, where a citizen patrol group was formed following the deadly attacks on Asian spas in the Atlanta area on March 16.

"We know that there is a lot of angst, fear with our Asian community," said San Jose’s police chief, Anthony Mata, during his visit to Little Saigon. "It’s important for us to have that dialogue, engage with them and see how we can help."

Across the United States, law enforcement agencies are scrambling to better protect Asian communities amid a wave of violence targeting them since lockdowns to cope with the coronavirus pandemic began about a year ago. A recent report by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, showed that while hate crimes overall in the United States had fallen slightly in 2020, crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) had jumped by 145%.

A vicious assault last week in which a man kicked a 65-year-old immigrant from the Philippines in New York City multiple times was captured on video and went viral, further stoking fears about anti-Asian hate crimes.

New York City has deployed a team of undercover Asian police officers. Other major cities, from San Jose to Chicago, have boosted patrols in Asian neighborhoods and sought to forge closer ties with communities, some of which have sought to fill gaps the police can’t fill.

Leanna Louie, who has organised residents to patrol San Francisco’s Chinatown, said the city’s police force of about 2,000 doesn’t have the resources. "It’s impossible," she said.&nbsp;

Paul Luu, chief executive officer of the Chinese American Service League, welcomed the ‘revved up’ police presence in Chicago’s Chinatown, which he said built on an already supportive relationship that includes Chinese-speaking officers on the beat. His group is focused on educating the community on hate crimes and encouraging victims, many reluctant due to language barriers or wariness of the police, to come forward.

(With inputs from agencies)

More than a dozen San Jose, California, police officers walked through the white arches of the Grand Century Mall in ‘Little Saigon’ to reassure a Vietnamese-American community fearful over the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes in the United States.

More than a dozen San Jose, California, police officers walked through the white arches of the Grand Century Mall in ‘Little Saigon’ to reassure a Vietnamese-American community fearful over the rise in anti-Asian hate crimes in the United States. The officers walked through the arcade of hair and nail salons, restaurants serving Vietnamese cuisine, and herbal medicine shops on Saturday, talking to business owners and patrons. They then conducted a similar tour of San Jose’s Japantown, where a citizen patrol group was formed following the deadly attacks on Asian spas in the Atlanta area on March 16. "We know that there is a lot of angst, fear with our Asian community," said San Jose’s police chief, Anthony Mata, during his visit to Little Saigon. "It’s important for us to have that dialogue, engage with them and see how we can help." Across the United States, law enforcement agencies are scrambling to better protect Asian communities amid a wave of violence targeting them since lockdowns to cope with the coronavirus pandemic began about a year ago. A recent report by the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University, San Bernardino, showed that while hate crimes overall in the United States had fallen slightly in 2020, crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (AAPI) had jumped by 145%. A vicious assault last week in which a man kicked a 65-year-old immigrant from the Philippines in New York City multiple times was captured on video and went viral, further stoking fears about anti-Asian hate crimes. New York City has deployed a team of undercover Asian police officers. Other major cities, from San Jose to Chicago, have boosted patrols in Asian neighborhoods and sought to forge closer ties with communities, some of which have sought to fill gaps the police can’t fill. Leanna Louie, who has organised residents to patrol San Francisco’s Chinatown, said the city’s police force of about 2,000 doesn’t have the resources. "It’s impossible," she said. Paul Luu, chief executive officer of the Chinese American Service League, welcomed the ‘revved up’ police presence in Chicago’s Chinatown, which he said built on an already supportive relationship that includes Chinese-speaking officers on the beat. His group is focused on educating the community on hate crimes and encouraging victims, many reluctant due to language barriers or wariness of the police, to come forward. (With inputs from agencies)

Police, communities across US fight back against anti-Asian hate crimes

Despite long-standing disagreements that have affected the bilateral relationship, United States is 'hopeful working with China' to tackle climate change.

Climate Change: US to work with China despite disagreements

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will put forward a three-phase peace roadmap for Afghanistan during a proposed meeting in Turkey, seeking an agreement with the Taliban and a ceasefire before elections, a document shows.

Washington is pushing for a conference to be hosted by Turkey, with UN involvement, this month to finalise a peace deal between the government and the Taliban as a May 1 deadline looms for the withdrawal of all foreign troops.

Ghani’s plan will be presented as a counter to proposals put forward by Washington, rejected by the Afghan government, that envisage immediately drawing up a new legal system for an interim administration to include Taliban representatives.&nbsp;

The document shows Ghani’s ‘Reaching an Endstate’ proposal will include, in the first phase, a consensus on a political settlement and an internationally monitored ceasefire.

The second phase will be holding a presidential election and the establishment of a ‘government of peace’ and implementation arrangements for moving towards the new political system.

The third phase will involve building a ‘constitutional framework, reintegration of refugees and development’ for Afghanistan moving forward.

A senior government official said Ghani has already shared his roadmap with foreign capitals.&nbsp;

A date for the Turkey meeting is yet to be decided, but multiple sources said it could take place in two weeks’ time.

The Afghan government and a number of politicians said they would have to agree on an agenda with the Taliban before the meeting.

In a statement last month, the Taliban threatened to resume hostilities against foreign troops in Afghanistan if they did not meet the May 1 deadline envisaged in an agreement between the insurgents and the Trump administration last year.

US President Joe Biden said this month it would be ‘hard’ to withdraw the last US troops from Afghanistan by May 1 ‘just in terms of tactical reasons’, but he said he did not think they still would be there next year.

A senior government official said the Taliban was willing to extend the May 1 dateline and would not resume attacks against foreign forces in exchange for the release of thousands of their prisoners held by the Kabul authorities.&nbsp;

Mohammad Naeem, a Taliban spokesman in Qatar, said no such offer had been made.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will put forward a three-phase peace roadmap for Afghanistan during a proposed meeting in Turkey, seeking an agreement with the Taliban and a ceasefire before elections, a document shows.

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani will put forward a three-phase peace roadmap for Afghanistan during a proposed meeting in Turkey, seeking an agreement with the Taliban and a ceasefire before elections, a document shows. Washington is pushing for a conference to be hosted by Turkey, with UN involvement, this month to finalise a peace deal between the government and the Taliban as a May 1 deadline looms for the withdrawal of all foreign troops. Ghani’s plan will be presented as a counter to proposals put forward by Washington, rejected by the Afghan government, that envisage immediately drawing up a new legal system for an interim administration to include Taliban representatives. The document shows Ghani’s ‘Reaching an Endstate’ proposal will include, in the first phase, a consensus on a political settlement and an internationally monitored ceasefire. The second phase will be holding a presidential election and the establishment of a ‘government of peace’ and implementation arrangements for moving towards the new political system. The third phase will involve building a ‘constitutional framework, reintegration of refugees and development’ for Afghanistan moving forward. A senior government official said Ghani has already shared his roadmap with foreign capitals. A date for the Turkey meeting is yet to be decided, but multiple sources said it could take place in two weeks’ time. The Afghan government and a number of politicians said they would have to agree on an agenda with the Taliban before the meeting. In a statement last month, the Taliban threatened to resume hostilities against foreign troops in Afghanistan if they did not meet the May 1 deadline envisaged in an agreement between the insurgents and the Trump administration last year. US President Joe Biden said this month it would be ‘hard’ to withdraw the last US troops from Afghanistan by May 1 ‘just in terms of tactical reasons’, but he said he did not think they still would be there next year. A senior government official said the Taliban was willing to extend the May 1 dateline and would not resume attacks against foreign forces in exchange for the release of thousands of their prisoners held by the Kabul authorities. Mohammad Naeem, a Taliban spokesman in Qatar, said no such offer had been made. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan President proposes peace roadmap in three phases, says document

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry said the United States was hopeful it could work with China to tackle climate change, despite longstanding disagreements that have affected the bilateral relationship.&nbsp;

"Our hope is that we’re going to be able to deal with yes, China," Kerry told reporters during a visit to the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi on Saturday. "President Biden has made it clear and I’ve made it clear: none of the other issues we have with China -- and there are issues -- is held hostage to or is engaged in a trade for what we need to do on climate."

Sino-US relations have been strained in recent years by disagreements about trade, China’s treatment of its Uighur minority, as well as China’s actions in Taiwan and Hong Kong.

China has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2060 while US President Joe Biden’s administration is expected to announce a new target for reducing emissions at a global climate summit on April 22.

Kerry will take part in a climate dialogue for the Middle East and North Africa hosted by Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The UAE said the dialogue would focus on national and regional preparations ahead of a United Nations climate summit to be held in Glasgow in November.

Kerry said the countries would discuss how to reduce a reliance on coal, as well as how to ‘raise ambitions’ on climate change ahead of November’s conference.

"I think the next generations are screaming at us to fulfill our promise," he added.

(With inputs from agencies)

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry said the United States was hopeful it could work with China to tackle climate change, despite longstanding disagreements that have affected the bilateral relationship.

US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry said the United States was hopeful it could work with China to tackle climate change, despite longstanding disagreements that have affected the bilateral relationship. "Our hope is that we’re going to be able to deal with yes, China," Kerry told reporters during a visit to the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi on Saturday. "President Biden has made it clear and I’ve made it clear: none of the other issues we have with China -- and there are issues -- is held hostage to or is engaged in a trade for what we need to do on climate." Sino-US relations have been strained in recent years by disagreements about trade, China’s treatment of its Uighur minority, as well as China’s actions in Taiwan and Hong Kong. China has pledged to become carbon neutral by 2060 while US President Joe Biden’s administration is expected to announce a new target for reducing emissions at a global climate summit on April 22. Kerry will take part in a climate dialogue for the Middle East and North Africa hosted by Abu Dhabi on Sunday. The UAE said the dialogue would focus on national and regional preparations ahead of a United Nations climate summit to be held in Glasgow in November. Kerry said the countries would discuss how to reduce a reliance on coal, as well as how to ‘raise ambitions’ on climate change ahead of November’s conference. "I think the next generations are screaming at us to fulfill our promise," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Kerry: US 'hopeful' to work with China to tackle climate change

The Russian government approved extending an agreement on cooperation in space with the United States until December 2030, news agencies cited the cabinet’s press service as saying on Saturday.

Moscow’s ties with Washington are at a post-Cold War low, with US President Joe Biden saying he believes his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is a killer, who deserves to be hit with sanctions for meddling in US politics, charges the Kremlin denies.

"The agreement ...on cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes will be in place until December 31, 2030," the cabinet said in a statement carried by agencies.&nbsp;

The US Commerce Department last month said it was tightening sanctions on some exports to Russia, but was partially excluding certain items, such as those related to aviation and space.

Meanwhile, Russia and China unveiled plans earlier for a joint lunar space station, as Moscow seeks to recapture the glory of its space pioneering days of Soviet times, and Beijing gears up its own extraterrestrial ambitions.

Though Moscow was once at the forefront of space travel -- it sent the first man into space -- its cosmic ambitions have dimmed thanks to poor financing and endemic corruption.&nbsp;

It has been eclipsed by China and the United States, which have both clocked major wins in space exploration and research in recent years.&nbsp;

The Russian space agency Roscomos said in a statement that it had signed an agreement with China's National Space Administration (CNSA) to develop a ‘complex of experimental research facilities created on the surface and/or in the orbit of the Moon’.

The CNSA, for its part, said that the project was ‘open to all interested countries and international partners’ in what experts said would be China's biggest international space cooperation project to date.

Moscow is seeking to re-take the lead in the space race.&nbsp;

This year, it celebrates the 60th anniversary of Russia's first-ever manned space flight -- it sent Yuri Gagarin into space in April 1961, followed by the first woman, Valentina Tereshkova, two years later.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

The Russian government approved extending an agreement on cooperation in space with the United States until December 2030, news agencies cited the cabinet’s press service as saying on Saturday.

The Russian government approved extending an agreement on cooperation in space with the United States until December 2030, news agencies cited the cabinet’s press service as saying on Saturday. Moscow’s ties with Washington are at a post-Cold War low, with US President Joe Biden saying he believes his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is a killer, who deserves to be hit with sanctions for meddling in US politics, charges the Kremlin denies. "The agreement ...on cooperation in the exploration and use of outer space for peaceful purposes will be in place until December 31, 2030," the cabinet said in a statement carried by agencies. The US Commerce Department last month said it was tightening sanctions on some exports to Russia, but was partially excluding certain items, such as those related to aviation and space. Meanwhile, Russia and China unveiled plans earlier for a joint lunar space station, as Moscow seeks to recapture the glory of its space pioneering days of Soviet times, and Beijing gears up its own extraterrestrial ambitions. Though Moscow was once at the forefront of space travel -- it sent the first man into space -- its cosmic ambitions have dimmed thanks to poor financing and endemic corruption. It has been eclipsed by China and the United States, which have both clocked major wins in space exploration and research in recent years. The Russian space agency Roscomos said in a statement that it had signed an agreement with China's National Space Administration (CNSA) to develop a ‘complex of experimental research facilities created on the surface and/or in the orbit of the Moon’. The CNSA, for its part, said that the project was ‘open to all interested countries and international partners’ in what experts said would be China's biggest international space cooperation project to date. Moscow is seeking to re-take the lead in the space race. This year, it celebrates the 60th anniversary of Russia's first-ever manned space flight -- it sent Yuri Gagarin into space in April 1961, followed by the first woman, Valentina Tereshkova, two years later. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia backs extending space cooperation deal with US to 2030: Report

The migrant crisis in United States is intensifying with Biden administration is struggling to come up with a practical alternative humanitarian challenge.

US Migrant Crisis: United States witnesses constant influx of migrants

This is the age of change and the US Navy is leading the way to racial and gender equality.

For the first time, four women of colour will be commanding warships for the US Navy officers, at the same time.

Kimberly Jones, LaDonna Simpson, Kristel O’Cañas, and Kathryn Wijnaldum&nbsp;have been chosen to break the barriers in the white, male-dominated field.

Based out of Norfolk Naval Station, in Virginia, the four women are “Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers”, which is sought to be an “extremely competitive” position to obtain in the US Navy.

The four women “have spent a considerable amount of their time serving aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and in nuclear-related shore duty billets,” the US Navy said in a statement.

Also watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-us-navy-sings-hindi-song-from-hit-bollywood-movie-swades-373878">US Navy sings Hindi song from hit Bollywood movie 'Swades'</a>

The US Navy “looks different in the fact that as an ensign, I looked around and at that time, there were not many senior female officers that I could necessarily go to for gender-specific questions,” said Kimberly Jones in an interview with People magazine.

“I may not have felt comfortable asking my male boss,” said Jones, who has been serving in the US Navy for the past 20 years. “Now, to their credit, they were phenomenal leaders. However, when it came time [for] some of those more intimate conversations on how to plan your career with a family, as a mom, that did not exist.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/shah-rukh-khan-gets-nostalgic-after-us-navy-members-sing-yeh-jo-des-hai-tera-374159">Shah Rukh Khan gets nostalgic after US Navy members sing 'Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera'</a>

“And I was overseas, so the population was slightly smaller. And now walking this waterfront, there are leaders, there are role models, at every rank...That is something that I hope ensigns, young sailors, gravitate towards and take advantage of,” she added.

This is the age of change and the US Navy is leading the way to racial and gender equality. For the first time, four women of colour will be commanding warships for the US Navy officers, at the same time.

This is the age of change and the US Navy is leading the way to racial and gender equality. For the first time, four women of colour will be commanding warships for the US Navy officers, at the same time. Kimberly Jones, LaDonna Simpson, Kristel O’Cañas, and Kathryn Wijnaldum have been chosen to break the barriers in the white, male-dominated field. Based out of Norfolk Naval Station, in Virginia, the four women are “Nuclear Surface Warfare Officers”, which is sought to be an “extremely competitive” position to obtain in the US Navy. The four women “have spent a considerable amount of their time serving aboard nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and in nuclear-related shore duty billets,” the US Navy said in a statement. Also watch | US Navy sings Hindi song from hit Bollywood movie 'Swades' The US Navy “looks different in the fact that as an ensign, I looked around and at that time, there were not many senior female officers that I could necessarily go to for gender-specific questions,” said Kimberly Jones in an interview with People magazine. “I may not have felt comfortable asking my male boss,” said Jones, who has been serving in the US Navy for the past 20 years. “Now, to their credit, they were phenomenal leaders. However, when it came time [for] some of those more intimate conversations on how to plan your career with a family, as a mom, that did not exist.” Also read | Shah Rukh Khan gets nostalgic after US Navy members sing 'Yeh Jo Des Hai Tera' “And I was overseas, so the population was slightly smaller. And now walking this waterfront, there are leaders, there are role models, at every rank...That is something that I hope ensigns, young sailors, gravitate towards and take advantage of,” she added.

Breaking barriers: Four women of colour to command warships for US Navy

After announcing a new $2 trillion infrastructure plan US President Joe Biden on Thursday signed five Cabinet secretaries to serve as his messengers in working with Congress and engaging with the public on the administration's infrastructure proposal.

US: Joe Biden assigns 5 secretaries to new 'job cabinet'

A measure of US manufacturing activity soared to its highest level in more than 37 years in March, driven by strong growth in new orders, the clearest sign yet that a much anticipated economic boom was probably underway.

World Business Watch: US manufacturing sector index races to 37-year high in March

Senior officials from the United States and the Philippines discussed their concerns over ongoing Chinese activities in the disputed South China Sea. The Philippines spotted as many as 200 Chinese militia ships at the Whitson reef which lies within the country's economic zone.

US, Philippines discuss Chinese 'militia' swarming in South China Sea

The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) released a video showing smugglers bringing the children to the border barrier on the Mexico side and dropping from the top of a 14-foot wall marking the US-Mexican border.

Authorities release video of smugglers dropping children over US border barrier

George Floyd’s girlfriend told the Derek Chauvin murder trial that the couple shared addiction to opioid painkillers that they struggled to overcome in the weeks before his death.

George Floyd Murder Trial Day 3: Floyd’s girlfriend details their opioid addiction

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US & Iran hold indirect talks in Vienna on reviving nuclear deal

White House aiming to create legal ways for Central Americans to migrate

World Business Watch: US bankruptcies increased in March, overall commercial filings also increased

Biden looks to raise US corporate taxes, says higher corporate tax won’t hurt economy

US-Iran to hold indirect nuclear talks in Vienna today

US envoy Kerry says India is ‘getting job done’ on climate

US & Iran direct meet over Nuclear deal highly unlikely

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Iran, US begin indirect talks to bring nuclear deal to life

US Climate Envoy John Kerry holds talks with Indian Environment Minister Javadekar

US Climate Envoy John Kerry holds talks with Indian Environment Minister

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U.S. looks to build on secret portions of Taliban deal to reduce violence

US climate envoy heads to India to lift 'climate ambition'

India trumps China, US with over 25 billion digital transactions in 2020

US climate envoy heads to India to lift 'climate ambition'

Top 10 World News: Netanyahu faces court, Taiwan reports incursion, and more

Police, communities across US fight back against anti-Asian hate crimes

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Afghan President proposes peace roadmap in three phases, says document

Kerry: US 'hopeful' to work with China to tackle climate change

Russia backs extending space cooperation deal with US to 2030: Report