Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby.

"Turkish frigates TCG Barbaros and TCG Burgazada have conducted maritime training with American destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill in the eastern Mediterranean on 26 August," the defence ministry announced in a tweet.

The ministry also released photos of three warships, two of them Turkish and one flying the Turkish and US flags.

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It did not specify the military drills' location or other details.

The Turkish announcement came in the heat of an escalating row over maritime borders and rights to large natural gas reserves that has pitted Turkey against its old rival Greece and the rest of the European Union.

Greece began three days of exercises with France, Italy and Cyprus on Wednesday in an area south of Crete.

Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby.

Turkey said Wednesday it had conducted exercises with a US navy destroyer in the eastern Mediterranean, hours after its rival Greece began war games with France and EU allies nearby. "Turkish frigates TCG Barbaros and TCG Burgazada have conducted maritime training with American destroyer USS Winston S. Churchill in the eastern Mediterranean on 26 August," the defence ministry announced in a tweet. The ministry also released photos of three warships, two of them Turkish and one flying the Turkish and US flags. × It did not specify the military drills' location or other details. The Turkish announcement came in the heat of an escalating row over maritime borders and rights to large natural gas reserves that has pitted Turkey against its old rival Greece and the rest of the European Union. Greece began three days of exercises with France, Italy and Cyprus on Wednesday in an area south of Crete.

Turkey says conducted Mediterranean exercise with US

Pence also made a surprise appearance at Charlotte where the roll call vote was done. He will deliver his formal acceptance speech on Wednesday.

Mike Pence formally renominated for Vice President at RNC 2020

Former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley was among the opening speakers of the 2020 Republican National Convention.

Republicans were in attack mode on the very first night. From racism to economy to the American dream and China,the Republicans came prepared — and countered the Democrats on every aspect.

The daughter of an Indian immigrant herself, Nikki Haley did not hesitate to invoke her Indian heritage — she argued about a constructive way of uniting America.

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&nbsp; 
She called herself a 'brown girl' in a black and white world that was not racist at all.

&nbsp;

Twice elected as the Governor of South Carolina, Haley said, “In much of the Democratic Party, it’s now fashionable to say that America is racist. That is a lie. America is not a racist country."

“This is personal for me. I am the proud daughter of Indian immigrants. They came to America and settled in a small southern town. My father wore a turban. My mother wore a sari. I was a brown girl in a black and white world,” she said on Monday at the mostly-virtual four-day convention during which she fully backed President Trump and his policies.

Born as Nimrata Randhawa in South Carolina, she is the daughter of Ajit Singh Randhawa and Raj Kaur Randhawa, who emigrated from Amritsar in Punjab.

Haley said her family faced discrimination and hardship but her parents never gave in to grievance and hate.

"My mom built a successful business. My dad taught 30 years at a historically Black college. And the people of South Carolina chose me as their first minority and first female governor,” Haley said.

“America is a story that’s a work in progress. Now is the time to build on that progress, and make America even freer, fairer, and better for everyone. That’s why it’s tragic to see so much of the Democratic Party turn a blind eye toward riots and rage,” she said, in a speech that sent her already-intense 2024 presidential primary buzz off the charts.

Haley said the American people know they can do better.

"And of course we know that every single black life is valuable. The black cops who’ve been shot in the line of duty – they matter. The black small business owners who’ve watched their life’s work go up in flames – they matter," she said.

"The black kids who’ve been gunned down on the playground – their lives matter too. And their lives are being ruined and stolen by the violence on our streets,” she said.

She said things were not like this five years back.

“It doesn’t have to be like this. It wasn’t like this in South Carolina five years ago. Our state came face-to-face with evil. A white supremacist walked into Mother Emanuel Church during Bible Study," she said, referring to the 2015 Charleston church shooting, in which nine African Americans were killed.

"Twelve African Americans pulled up a chair and prayed with him for an hour. Then he began to shoot,” she said.

“After that horrific tragedy, we didn’t turn against each other. We came together – black and white, Democrat and Republican. Together, we made the hard choices needed to heal – and removed a divisive symbol, peacefully and respectfully," she added.

What happened then should give us hope now, Haley said.

"America isn’t perfect. But the principles we hold dear are perfect. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that even on our worst day, we are blessed to live in America,” Haley said.

“It’s time to keep that blessing alive for the next generation. This President, and this Party, are committed to that noble task. We seek a nation that rises together, not falls apart in anarchy and anger. We know that the only way to overcome America’s challenges is to embrace America’s strengths,” she said.

"We must choose the only candidate who has and who will continue delivering on that vision," she said, strongly backing President Trump for re-election in the November 3 presidential election.

Meanwhile, US media reports said Haley's speech at the convention was an important symbolic moment for the Republican Party. She invoked her immigrant heritage and election as South Carolina's governor despite her "Brown skin" as a validation of the American Dream and the country's racial progress.

Haley's speech very well may position her as a front-runner for president in 2024, the reports said. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley was among the opening speakers of the 2020 Republican National Convention. Republicans were in attack mode on the very first night.

Former South Carolina Governor and UN Ambassador Nikki Haley was among the opening speakers of the 2020 Republican National Convention. Republicans were in attack mode on the very first night. From racism to economy to the American dream and China,the Republicans came prepared — and countered the Democrats on every aspect. The daughter of an Indian immigrant herself, Nikki Haley did not hesitate to invoke her Indian heritage — she argued about a constructive way of uniting America. She called herself a 'brown girl' in a black and white world that was not racist at all. Twice elected as the Governor of South Carolina, Haley said, “In much of the Democratic Party, it’s now fashionable to say that America is racist. That is a lie. America is not a racist country." “This is personal for me. I am the proud daughter of Indian immigrants. They came to America and settled in a small southern town. My father wore a turban. My mother wore a sari. I was a brown girl in a black and white world,” she said on Monday at the mostly-virtual four-day convention during which she fully backed President Trump and his policies. Born as Nimrata Randhawa in South Carolina, she is the daughter of Ajit Singh Randhawa and Raj Kaur Randhawa, who emigrated from Amritsar in Punjab. Haley said her family faced discrimination and hardship but her parents never gave in to grievance and hate. "My mom built a successful business. My dad taught 30 years at a historically Black college. And the people of South Carolina chose me as their first minority and first female governor,” Haley said. “America is a story that’s a work in progress. Now is the time to build on that progress, and make America even freer, fairer, and better for everyone. That’s why it’s tragic to see so much of the Democratic Party turn a blind eye toward riots and rage,” she said, in a speech that sent her already-intense 2024 presidential primary buzz off the charts. Haley said the American people know they can do better. "And of course we know that every single black life is valuable. The black cops who’ve been shot in the line of duty – they matter. The black small business owners who’ve watched their life’s work go up in flames – they matter," she said. "The black kids who’ve been gunned down on the playground – their lives matter too. And their lives are being ruined and stolen by the violence on our streets,” she said. She said things were not like this five years back. “It doesn’t have to be like this. It wasn’t like this in South Carolina five years ago. Our state came face-to-face with evil. A white supremacist walked into Mother Emanuel Church during Bible Study," she said, referring to the 2015 Charleston church shooting, in which nine African Americans were killed. "Twelve African Americans pulled up a chair and prayed with him for an hour. Then he began to shoot,” she said. “After that horrific tragedy, we didn’t turn against each other. We came together – black and white, Democrat and Republican. Together, we made the hard choices needed to heal – and removed a divisive symbol, peacefully and respectfully," she added. What happened then should give us hope now, Haley said. "America isn’t perfect. But the principles we hold dear are perfect. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that even on our worst day, we are blessed to live in America,” Haley said. “It’s time to keep that blessing alive for the next generation. This President, and this Party, are committed to that noble task. We seek a nation that rises together, not falls apart in anarchy and anger. We know that the only way to overcome America’s challenges is to embrace America’s strengths,” she said. "We must choose the only candidate who has and who will continue delivering on that vision," she said, strongly backing President Trump for re-election in the November 3 presidential election. Meanwhile, US media reports said Haley's speech at the convention was an important symbolic moment for the Republican Party. She invoked her immigrant heritage and election as South Carolina's governor despite her "Brown skin" as a validation of the American Dream and the country's racial progress. Haley's speech very well may position her as a front-runner for president in 2024, the reports said. (With inputs from agencies)

America is not a racist country, asserts Indian-American politician Nikki Haley

US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang. The remarks were made at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism with all three countries advising Bejing not to use "counterterrorism" as a pretext to silence political dissent.

US permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Kelly Craft said," We are deeply concerned by the situation in Xinjiang, where more than one million Uighurs and other Muslims have been detained under the false guise of counterterrorism."

Adding, "Counterterrorism and countering violent extremism should never be used as a pretext to silence political dissent or freedom of expression or to violate religious freedom or repress minority groups."

UK's envoy to UN James Roscoe echoed the sentiments saying, "We remain deeply concerned about systematic, egregious human rights violations against Uighurs &amp; other ethnic minorities."

"Counter-terrorism measures must never serve as a pretext for human rights violations", Germany said at the meeting.

Envoy Günter Sautter explained, "Regarding Xinjiang, the internment of large parts of the population is, in our view, unjustified. In the long run, it is prone not to reduce but rather to increase the risk emanating of terrorist organizations."

Earlier this year, Hong Kong was raised at UNSC's closed-door meet for the first time over the new security law irking Bejing.

US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang.

US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang. The remarks were made at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism with all three countries advising Bejing not to use "counterterrorism" as a pretext to silence political dissent. US permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Kelly Craft said," We are deeply concerned by the situation in Xinjiang, where more than one million Uighurs and other Muslims have been detained under the false guise of counterterrorism." Adding, "Counterterrorism and countering violent extremism should never be used as a pretext to silence political dissent or freedom of expression or to violate religious freedom or repress minority groups." UK's envoy to UN James Roscoe echoed the sentiments saying, "We remain deeply concerned about systematic, egregious human rights violations against Uighurs & other ethnic minorities." "Counter-terrorism measures must never serve as a pretext for human rights violations", Germany said at the meeting. Envoy Günter Sautter explained, "Regarding Xinjiang, the internment of large parts of the population is, in our view, unjustified. In the long run, it is prone not to reduce but rather to increase the risk emanating of terrorist organizations." Earlier this year, Hong Kong was raised at UNSC's closed-door meet for the first time over the new security law irking Bejing.

Uighur situation: US, UK and Germany corner China at UNSC

Facebook on Tuesday said it is speeding up plans to go international with a news tab feature that involves paying publishers for stories delivered through the leading social network.

A Facebook News section that debuted late last year in the US will be expanded in the next six months or so to more countries, with top contenders said to be Brazil, Britain, France, Germany, and India.

"In each country, we'll pay news publishers to ensure their content is available in the new product," Facebook global news partnerships vice president Campbell Brown said in a blog post.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/after-block-new-facebook-group-critical-of-thai-monarchy-gains-500000-members-323118">Also read:&nbsp;After block, new Facebook group critical of Thai monarchy gains 500,000 members</a>

"We will keep building new products and making global investments to help the news industry build long-lasting business models."

Facebook News is off to a "strong start" in the US, driving a significant amount of online traffic to publishers, according to Brown.

"Based on this progress, we are accelerating our plans to expand internationally," Brown said.

News agencies have struggled to make money as ad revenue and people's attention have shifted online, where stories are available free of charge in a dynamic criticized by publishers.

"Innovation is critical to building a sustainable news ecosystem," Brown said.

Facebook on Tuesday said it is speeding up plans to go international with a news tab feature that involves paying publishers for stories delivered through the leading social network.

Facebook on Tuesday said it is speeding up plans to go international with a news tab feature that involves paying publishers for stories delivered through the leading social network. A Facebook News section that debuted late last year in the US will be expanded in the next six months or so to more countries, with top contenders said to be Brazil, Britain, France, Germany, and India. "In each country, we'll pay news publishers to ensure their content is available in the new product," Facebook global news partnerships vice president Campbell Brown said in a blog post. Also read: After block, new Facebook group critical of Thai monarchy gains 500,000 members "We will keep building new products and making global investments to help the news industry build long-lasting business models." Facebook News is off to a "strong start" in the US, driving a significant amount of online traffic to publishers, according to Brown. "Based on this progress, we are accelerating our plans to expand internationally," Brown said. News agencies have struggled to make money as ad revenue and people's attention have shifted online, where stories are available free of charge in a dynamic criticized by publishers. "Innovation is critical to building a sustainable news ecosystem," Brown said.

Facebook News feature to expand in India, Brazil, UK and other countries

Top Chinese and US negotiators spoke on the phone Tuesday and agreed to "push forward" their phase one economic deal amid intense bilateral trade war since years. The proposal seems optimistic as both nations confirms holding a 'Constructive Dialogue'.

US-China trade talks back on track; Agree to push forward phase-1 deal

Donald Trump Jr. delivered a forceful endorsement for his father's reelection on the opening night of the Republican National Convention.

Donald Trump Jr. speech at Republican National Convention 2020

Authorities in Kenosha, Wisconsin, on Tuesday were readying for a third night of unrest after arsonists torched much of the city's Black business district following the shooting of a Black man in the back by police.

US: Wisconsin city braces for third night of protests over shooting of Black man

“This is the most important election in the history of our country,” Trump said before remarking on the “special evening” that was the 2016 election.

'We were more divided under Obama', says Trump at Republican convention

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will speak to the Republican National Convention this week. Despite having told U.S. diplomats that presidential and political appointees may not take part in any such political activity.

Republican National Convention: Mike Pompeo to address the event this week violating his own orders

Two of the three largest wildfires ever recorded in California have scorched through more than 1m acres, displaced more than 100,000 people

California wildfire death toll up to seven; Scorched over 1 Mn acres

Day one of the Republican National Convention has wrapped up. The event included prominent as well as divisive speakers. Nikki Haley & Former Footballer Herschel Walker defended Donald Trump over the racism. Donald Trump Jr. wants 'Beijing Biden' to win.

Day one of RNC: Nikki Haley & Former Footballer defended Trump on racism

The various R.N.C. committees must meet to complete the formal paperwork to nominate Mr. Trump by the coming deadlines.

Republicans gear up to re-nominate Trump

A United States-led military coalition in Iraq has said its troops have withdrawn from Camp Taji military base and handed it over to Iraqi security forces.

US army hands over camp Taji to Iraqi security forces

Haiti was hammered by heavy rain on Sunday from Tropical Storm Laura, as a second tropical storm, named Marco, was forecast to strengthen into a hurricane and hit the US state of Louisiana on Monday.

The US National Hurricane Center said Storm Laura was "bringing torrential rainfall and life-threatening flooding" to Haiti, which shares Hispaniola island with the Dominican Republic.

It added that Storm Marco in the central Gulf of Mexico was "forecast to become a hurricane later today and be at hurricane strength when it approaches the northern Gulf Coast on Monday."

A 10-year-old girl died on Sunday morning in Haiti when a tree fell on a house, according to authorities, who added some homes were flooded and evacuations were underway. The storm earlier passed over Puerto Rico.

The Atlantic storm season, which runs through November, could be one of the busiest ever this year, with the Hurricane Center predicting as many as 25 named storms.&nbsp;Laura is the 12th so far.

Haiti, a country of 11 million, has seen a relatively low incidence of COVID-19 -- with just over 8,000 cases and around 200 deaths to date -- but authorities urged caution to prevent further spread in the aftermath of Storm Laura.

"Wear your masks and respect distances, especially in temporary shelters," Interior Minister Audain Fils Bernadel said at a briefing. "With COVID, we have considerably less capacity in our shelters."

Storms pose a serious risk to Haiti every year from June to November. Even a heavy rainfall can threaten the country's poorest residents, many of them living in at-risk zones, near canals or ravines that can be obstructed by debris and quickly overflow.

After reaching hurricane-strength, Storm Marco is predicted to weaken rapidly after moving inland across Louisiana on Monday and Tuesday.

Haiti was hammered by heavy rain on Sunday from Tropical Storm Laura, as a second tropical storm, named Marco, was forecast to strengthen into a hurricane and hit the US state of Louisiana on Monday.

Haiti was hammered by heavy rain on Sunday from Tropical Storm Laura, as a second tropical storm, named Marco, was forecast to strengthen into a hurricane and hit the US state of Louisiana on Monday. The US National Hurricane Center said Storm Laura was "bringing torrential rainfall and life-threatening flooding" to Haiti, which shares Hispaniola island with the Dominican Republic. It added that Storm Marco in the central Gulf of Mexico was "forecast to become a hurricane later today and be at hurricane strength when it approaches the northern Gulf Coast on Monday." A 10-year-old girl died on Sunday morning in Haiti when a tree fell on a house, according to authorities, who added some homes were flooded and evacuations were underway. The storm earlier passed over Puerto Rico. The Atlantic storm season, which runs through November, could be one of the busiest ever this year, with the Hurricane Center predicting as many as 25 named storms. Laura is the 12th so far. Haiti, a country of 11 million, has seen a relatively low incidence of COVID-19 -- with just over 8,000 cases and around 200 deaths to date -- but authorities urged caution to prevent further spread in the aftermath of Storm Laura. "Wear your masks and respect distances, especially in temporary shelters," Interior Minister Audain Fils Bernadel said at a briefing. "With COVID, we have considerably less capacity in our shelters." Storms pose a serious risk to Haiti every year from June to November. Even a heavy rainfall can threaten the country's poorest residents, many of them living in at-risk zones, near canals or ravines that can be obstructed by debris and quickly overflow. After reaching hurricane-strength, Storm Marco is predicted to weaken rapidly after moving inland across Louisiana on Monday and Tuesday.

Storm Laura hits Haiti, with Marco forecast to slam US as hurricane

In UN Security Council vote on Friday, Washington received support from the Dominican Republic for its proposal to extend it indefinitely, leaving it far short of the minimum of nine "yes" votes required for adoption.

UN Security Council once again rejects US bid to extend Iran arms embargo

Peter Rafael Dzibinski Debbins, a former US Forces officer, has been arrested and charged with spying for Moscow on Friday.

Debbins was a former officer for&nbsp;US Special Forces Green Berets, but was also working as a spy for Russia, the Justice Deprtment revealed.

"The facts alleged in this case are a shocking betrayal by a former Army officer of his fellow soldiers and his country," said FBI senior counterintelligence official Alan Kohler in a statement. Debbins will be facing a sentenced to prison for life, according to the charges filed.

Son of Russia

The former officer started working for Russia back in 1996, even before he joined the special forces. Russia is native home for Debbins' mother due to which he had taken several trips there, where he was then recruited.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lori-loughlin-and-husband-sentenced-to-jail-for-college-fraud-322313">Also read:&nbsp;Lori Loughlin and husband sentenced to jail for college fraud</a>

Investigations have revealed that Debbins met with Russian agents in&nbsp;Chelyabinsk while he was still finishing his university, and was approached as he was seen to be "pro-Russian" politics.

After being approached by the Russian agents, Debbins married his Russian girlfriend and joined the US milotary with the help of his father-in-law who was also in the military.

Termed as "Son of Russia", Debbins' Russian code name was&nbsp;Ikar Lesnikov.

When Debbins exoressed his desire to quit the military, he faced pressure from his Russian bosses and was instead pushed into joining the US Special Forces due to which he travelled to germany and later&nbsp;Azerbaijan.

However, the ties, reportedly, ended rather quickly later in 2011 when Debbins moved back to the US and started a graduate course. On the date of arrest, Debbins is reported to be a professor at the&nbsp;Wisconsin International University in Ukraine.

The FBI has denoucned the double agent and has called his actions to be an act of betrayal to his country and fellow soldiers.

Peter Rafael Dzibinski Debbins, a former US Forces officer, has been arrested and charged with spying for Moscow on Friday. Debbins was a former officer for US Special Forces Green Berets, but was also working as a spy for Russia, the Justice Deprtment revealed.

Peter Rafael Dzibinski Debbins, a former US Forces officer, has been arrested and charged with spying for Moscow on Friday. Debbins was a former officer for US Special Forces Green Berets, but was also working as a spy for Russia, the Justice Deprtment revealed. "The facts alleged in this case are a shocking betrayal by a former Army officer of his fellow soldiers and his country," said FBI senior counterintelligence official Alan Kohler in a statement. Debbins will be facing a sentenced to prison for life, according to the charges filed. Son of Russia The former officer started working for Russia back in 1996, even before he joined the special forces. Russia is native home for Debbins' mother due to which he had taken several trips there, where he was then recruited. Also read: Lori Loughlin and husband sentenced to jail for college fraud Investigations have revealed that Debbins met with Russian agents in Chelyabinsk while he was still finishing his university, and was approached as he was seen to be "pro-Russian" politics. After being approached by the Russian agents, Debbins married his Russian girlfriend and joined the US milotary with the help of his father-in-law who was also in the military. Termed as "Son of Russia", Debbins' Russian code name was Ikar Lesnikov. When Debbins exoressed his desire to quit the military, he faced pressure from his Russian bosses and was instead pushed into joining the US Special Forces due to which he travelled to germany and later Azerbaijan. However, the ties, reportedly, ended rather quickly later in 2011 when Debbins moved back to the US and started a graduate course. On the date of arrest, Debbins is reported to be a professor at the Wisconsin International University in Ukraine. The FBI has denoucned the double agent and has called his actions to be an act of betrayal to his country and fellow soldiers.

Former US Special Forces soldier charged with spying for Russia

The United States of America has officially asked the UNSC to reimpose sanctions, including an arms embargo on Iran. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo submitted a letter to the UNSC president arguing that Iran had violated the terms of the 2015 nuclear agreement.

US-Iran tensions: Mike Pompeo writes to UNSC president to reimpose sanctions on Iran

There is proposed legislation in the United States and it aims to drop the title of "President" for China's Xi Jinping in all official US documents. Watch report.

Redesignating Xi Jinping: US bill to designate Xi as a party chief

As the LNU Lightning Complex fire near Vacaville, California, expanded rapidly overnight. There were 10,489 lightning strikes in California in the last 72 hours. More than 100,000 evacuated in Vacaville.

LNU lightning complex fire spreads across California

Facebook's executives are fielding questions from the US Federal Trade Commission on an antitrust fact-finding mission. CEO Mark Zuckerberg answered FTC queries under oath remotely over the course of two days this week, news website Politico reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the case.

"We are committed to cooperating with the US Federal Trade Commission's inquiry and answering the questions the agency may have," a Facebook spokesperson said, declining to confirm whether Zuckerberg gave testimony, on Thursday.

FTC investigations do no always lead to lawsuits.

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Last month Zuckerberg plus CEOs Tim Cook of Apple, Jeff Bezos of Amazon and Sundar Pichai of Google were grilled for more than five hours in an unprecedented joint appearance -- by video -- before a House of Representatives panel investigating market dominance.

The head of a US congressional antitrust committee contended that the companies are too powerful and will likely emerge from the coronavirus pandemic even stronger.

Whether it's through self-preferencing, predatory pricing, or requiring users to buy additional products, the dominant platforms have wielded their power in destructive, harmful ways in order to expand, he said.

Facebook's executives are fielding questions from the US Federal Trade Commission on an antitrust fact-finding mission. CEO Mark Zuckerberg answered FTC queries under oath remotely over the course of two days this week, news website Politico reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the case.

Facebook's executives are fielding questions from the US Federal Trade Commission on an antitrust fact-finding mission. CEO Mark Zuckerberg answered FTC queries under oath remotely over the course of two days this week, news website Politico reported, citing unnamed people familiar with the case. "We are committed to cooperating with the US Federal Trade Commission's inquiry and answering the questions the agency may have," a Facebook spokesperson said, declining to confirm whether Zuckerberg gave testimony, on Thursday. FTC investigations do no always lead to lawsuits. × Last month Zuckerberg plus CEOs Tim Cook of Apple, Jeff Bezos of Amazon and Sundar Pichai of Google were grilled for more than five hours in an unprecedented joint appearance -- by video -- before a House of Representatives panel investigating market dominance. The head of a US congressional antitrust committee contended that the companies are too powerful and will likely emerge from the coronavirus pandemic even stronger. Whether it's through self-preferencing, predatory pricing, or requiring users to buy additional products, the dominant platforms have wielded their power in destructive, harmful ways in order to expand, he said.

Facebook says it's fielding questions by US regulators

The effect of the new national-security law that China imposed on Hong Kong is extending far beyond the territory to American college campuses.

Your Story: American college campuses now in Beijing's reach

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).

Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters.

He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi.

In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation.&nbsp;

ALSO WATCH:&nbsp;Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision?

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Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month.

As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club.

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

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Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29).

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, has named his son Sheikh Khaled as the crown prince of Abu Dhabi, the nation's capital and an important player in the region and the Gulf Arab state that is a member of OPEC, state media reported on Wednesday (March 29). Sheikh Mohammed, who is also the ruler of Abu Dhabi and is known by his initials MBZ, named Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan to serve as vice president of the UAE alongside Dubai's ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reported Reuters. He designated Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan as deputy rulers of Abu Dhabi. In May, upon the death of his half-brother, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed, who had ruled Abu Dhabi, MBZ assumed control of the emirate and assumed the presidency of the UAE, which unites the seven rulers of the UAE federation. ALSO WATCH: Gravitas: Will Saudi Arabia pull out of the Yemen War? Is China behind the big decision? Years of MBZ's power behind the scenes resulted in a new anti-Iran axis with Israel and a reconfiguration of the Middle East. Abu Dhabi, which oversees a number of sovereign wealth funds and is one of the richest state investors in the world, announced a leadership change for its two largest state funds earlier this month. As chairman of Mubadala, Abu Dhabi's second-largest sovereign wealth fund, MBZ was also replaced by Sheikh Mansour, owner of Manchester City football club. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Weekly US jobless claims rise more than expected to 1.1 mn

The United States will demand Thursday that all United Nations sanctions be reimposed against Iran.

U.S seeks return of sanctions on Iran

Backing the latest bid of US-tech giant Oracle for Chinese shot video app TikTok. President of US Donald Trump has said that oracle is a good company and could take over TikTok.

Oracle's co-founder is Trump's supporter: Oracle could take over TikTok

South Korea and the United States began annual military exercises on Tuesday following a coronavirus delay, with the drills likely to infuriate the North which has long considered them rehearsals for invasion.

The drills come as tensions remain high between Seoul and Pyongyang after the North blew up an inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border in June and threatened military measures.

The nuclear-armed North — which attacked its neighbour in 1950, triggering the Korean War — has regularly been angered by military exercises between the US and the South.

The Combined Command Post Training will run until August 28 and "focus on the maintenance of the combined defence posture" between the two countries, the US Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-announces-increase-in-military-spending-320201">Also read:&nbsp;Taiwan announces increase in military spending</a>

The decision to proceed was made "after taking into consideration related circumstances, such as the COVID-19 situation, comprehensively," it added.

Seoul and Washington had initially planned to start the exercises Sunday but pushed back the date due to the coronavirus pandemic, as a burst of new cases in the South sparks fears of a major second wave.

The South reported 246 new infections on Tuesday, taking its total to 15,761, the fifth consecutive day of triple-digit increases after several weeks with numbers generally in the 30s and 40s.

Relations between the two Koreas have been at a standstill since the collapse of a summit last year between the North and the United States in Hanoi over sanctions relief and what Pyongyang would be willing to give up in return.

South Korea and the United States began annual military exercises on Tuesday following a coronavirus delay, with the drills likely to infuriate the North which has long considered them rehearsals for invasion.

South Korea and the United States began annual military exercises on Tuesday following a coronavirus delay, with the drills likely to infuriate the North which has long considered them rehearsals for invasion. The drills come as tensions remain high between Seoul and Pyongyang after the North blew up an inter-Korean liaison office on its side of the border in June and threatened military measures. The nuclear-armed North — which attacked its neighbour in 1950, triggering the Korean War — has regularly been angered by military exercises between the US and the South. The Combined Command Post Training will run until August 28 and "focus on the maintenance of the combined defence posture" between the two countries, the US Joint Chiefs of Staff said in a statement. Also read: Taiwan announces increase in military spending The decision to proceed was made "after taking into consideration related circumstances, such as the COVID-19 situation, comprehensively," it added. Seoul and Washington had initially planned to start the exercises Sunday but pushed back the date due to the coronavirus pandemic, as a burst of new cases in the South sparks fears of a major second wave. The South reported 246 new infections on Tuesday, taking its total to 15,761, the fifth consecutive day of triple-digit increases after several weeks with numbers generally in the 30s and 40s. Relations between the two Koreas have been at a standstill since the collapse of a summit last year between the North and the United States in Hanoi over sanctions relief and what Pyongyang would be willing to give up in return.

US, South Korea begin joint military drills after virus delay

New Zealand Prime Minister&nbsp;Jacinda Ardern has snapped back at the US President Donald Trump for calling the new found coronavirus cluster in New Zealand a "huge surge".

"Anyone who is following&nbsp;will quite easily see that New Zealand's nine cases in a day does not compare to the United States' tens of thousands," she said. "Obviously, it's patently wrong."

Her remarks came after Trump, during an election rally in Minnesota, talked about a "big surge in New Zealand".

"They beat it; they beat it. It was like front page (news), they beat it because they wanted to show me something."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-jacinda-ardern-delays-election-after-coronavirus-return-321027">Also read:&nbsp;New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern delays election after coronavirus return</a>

He further added,&nbsp;"It's terrible. We don't want that." He also added that all his critics who held New Zealand as an example were wrong.

Ardern was successful in handling the spread of coronavirus and celebrated 100 days without the novel coronavirus. However, few days after the 100-day milestone, a new cluster was found in Auckland.&nbsp;

New Zealand, with a population of five million, has around 1,300 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began. However, the US has reported more than five million coronavirus cases and more than&nbsp;170,000 deaths.

The two leaders, who have rarely clashed, are both gearing up for major elections later this year. Trump is contesting against Joe Biden for Presidential elections scheduled on November 03, and Ardern will be contesting against&nbsp;Judith Collins.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has snapped back at the US President Donald Trump for calling the new found coronavirus cluster in New Zealand a "huge surge".

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern has snapped back at the US President Donald Trump for calling the new found coronavirus cluster in New Zealand a "huge surge". "Anyone who is following will quite easily see that New Zealand's nine cases in a day does not compare to the United States' tens of thousands," she said. "Obviously, it's patently wrong." Her remarks came after Trump, during an election rally in Minnesota, talked about a "big surge in New Zealand". "They beat it; they beat it. It was like front page (news), they beat it because they wanted to show me something." Also read: New Zealand PM Jacinda Ardern delays election after coronavirus return He further added, "It's terrible. We don't want that." He also added that all his critics who held New Zealand as an example were wrong. Ardern was successful in handling the spread of coronavirus and celebrated 100 days without the novel coronavirus. However, few days after the 100-day milestone, a new cluster was found in Auckland. New Zealand, with a population of five million, has around 1,300 coronavirus cases since the pandemic began. However, the US has reported more than five million coronavirus cases and more than 170,000 deaths. The two leaders, who have rarely clashed, are both gearing up for major elections later this year. Trump is contesting against Joe Biden for Presidential elections scheduled on November 03, and Ardern will be contesting against Judith Collins.

It's patently wrong: Jacinda Ardern snaps back at Trump's coronavirus remarks

Chinese state media on Tuesday reported that Beijing had unveiled a new weapons system amid&nbsp;growing tensions with Taiwan and the US.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-finalizes-purchase-of-66-f-16-fighter-jets-in-biggest-arms-deal-with-us-321434" hreflang="en">Taiwan finalizes purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets in biggest arms deal with US</a>

According to China's state media, the country&nbsp;has come up with a 500kg precision-guided munitions dispenser and air-to-surface missile called the "Tianlei 500", which translates to "Sky Thunder". A senior engineer in the report said that the&nbsp;weapon can carry six types of submunitions and attack different targets.

The announcement comes after heightened tensions with Taiwan and the US over Hong Kong and the escalating&nbsp;South China Sea dispute.&nbsp;

The Taiwanese government on Monday had said that it was stepping up its efforts to cross-check new arrivals from the city of Hong Kong in order to prevent Chinese spies from entering the country.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-cia-officer-arrested-for-giving-classified-information-to-china-321365">Former CIA officer arrested for giving classified information to China</a>

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council had said that it was “strengthening the management” of Hong Kong and Macau residents who are originally from mainland China, or who are the current or previous party, government or military officials, and aimed to prevent them from “carrying out infiltration, united front, disturbance or spying activities”.&nbsp;

The highest-level meeting between the US and Taiwan in four decades angered Beijing. China warned the US not to “play with fire”.

Recently, Taiwan finalized its purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets from American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin in the biggest arms sale to the island country in years.&nbsp;

Chinese state media on Tuesday reported that Beijing had unveiled a new weapons system amid growing tensions with Taiwan and the US. Also read: Taiwan finalizes purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets in biggest arms deal with US According to China's state media, the country has come up with a 500kg precision-guided munitions dispenser and air-to-surface missile called the "Tianlei 500", which translates to "Sky Thunder".

Chinese state media on Tuesday reported that Beijing had unveiled a new weapons system amid growing tensions with Taiwan and the US. Also read: Taiwan finalizes purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets in biggest arms deal with US According to China's state media, the country has come up with a 500kg precision-guided munitions dispenser and air-to-surface missile called the "Tianlei 500", which translates to "Sky Thunder". A senior engineer in the report said that the weapon can carry six types of submunitions and attack different targets. The announcement comes after heightened tensions with Taiwan and the US over Hong Kong and the escalating South China Sea dispute. The Taiwanese government on Monday had said that it was stepping up its efforts to cross-check new arrivals from the city of Hong Kong in order to prevent Chinese spies from entering the country. Also read: Former CIA officer arrested for giving classified information to China Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council had said that it was “strengthening the management” of Hong Kong and Macau residents who are originally from mainland China, or who are the current or previous party, government or military officials, and aimed to prevent them from “carrying out infiltration, united front, disturbance or spying activities”. The highest-level meeting between the US and Taiwan in four decades angered Beijing. China warned the US not to “play with fire”. Recently, Taiwan finalized its purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets from American aircraft manufacturer Lockheed Martin in the biggest arms sale to the island country in years.

China unveils new weapons system 'Sky Thunder' amid tensions with Taiwan: Report

Uber Technologies said it would continue operating its revenue-generating food delivery business Uber Eats even if its ride-hail business should be forced shut in California at the end of this week following a court order.

California: Uber to continue food delivery services despite rides business forced shut

“Data is the new gold”;&nbsp;these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so.

Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating&nbsp;the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

"Locate X"

A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company.&nbsp;The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act.

Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/google-sued-over-tracking-in-apps-even-when-users-opted-out-313354" hreflang="en">Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out</a>

Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns.

In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate.&nbsp;Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018.&nbsp;This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/apple-and-google-decide-to-ban-location-tracking-in-their-contact-tracing-apps-296868" hreflang="en">Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps</a>

Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol.&nbsp;

“Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act.

Law of land?

In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/technology/facebook-agrees-to-pay-650m-to-settle-facial-recognition-lawsuit-317458" hreflang="en">Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit</a>

Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps.

All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details.

“Data is the new gold”; these words are echoed commonly in contemporary times, and aptly so. Turns out, the United States law enforcement agencies have been buying data which includes one’s phone location, effectively terminating the need to issue a warrant to obtain such sensitive user details. "Locate X" A document recently released by Secret Service shows that the Secret Service purchased “Locate X” from Babel Street, a social media surveillance company. The details were divulged after “Motherboard” filed a request under the US Freedom of Information Act. Locate X is a sophisticated tool which can effectively track a user’s locations and its real-time movements. The data which is collected by various apps on one’s phones is used by Locate X to ascertain a user’s location. Also read: Google sued over tracking in apps even when users opted out Locate X allows government agencies to trace the movement of users not only in real time, but in any specific team period. In essence, it is a repository of all user data corresponding to the places they have visited and their movement patterns. In fact, using Locate X, the Secret Service could track a user’s movement months before or after a certain event which they want to investigate. Reportedly, an internal document has revealed how the Secret Service paid $36,000 for a year-long subscription to the Locate X service, from September 27, 2017 upto the same date in 2018. This was part of a bigger $2 million deal with Babel Street to conduct surveillance on social media. Also read: Apple and Google decide to ban location tracking in their contact tracing apps Earlier in March, “Protocol” had reported that Locate X was being used by US Customs and Border Patrol. “Mashable” reported that the existence of Locate X is “confidential information”, implying it became public knowledge only after the request under the Act. Law of land? In an ideal situation in conjunction with law of land, law enforcement agencies in the US would require a warrant or at least a court order to track somebody’s movements so brazenly. If the information divulged after a request made under the Act is true, it means that authorities simply discarded protocol by buying a surveillance product. Also read: Facebook agrees to pay $650M to settle facial recognition lawsuit Many applications that don’t need access to one’s location demand it and store it. Most of this data is sold to third party companies to use as they please. Big companies like Facebook, Twitter claim that such data is used to provide a personalised advertising experience on their apps. All this comes in the middle of US government openly accusing Chinese app TikTok of sharing data with the Chinese government. The company had hit back at the US saying local American companies like Facebook store more data than any Chinese company, implying the dangers enmeshed in such vast data collection.

US law enforcement bought 'Locate X' to track user's phone location data without permit

TikTok, the video&nbsp;sharing app, has come forward and denied all accusations made by the US President Donald Trump and has labelled it as&nbsp;"rumors and misinformation".

After Donald Trump gave the company 90 days to divest or face a ban, TikTok has come out with a statement saying that all claims made in Washington about ByteDance-owned company&nbsp;being used by Chinese intelligence are "unfounded and blatantly false".

"TikTok is not available in China. Its US user data is stored in Virginia with a back-up in Singapore and strict controls on employee access. TikTok has never provided any US user data to the Chinese government, nor would it do so if asked," a statement on a webpage titled 'The Last Sunny Corner of the Internet: Setting the Record Straight' read.

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TikTok is the daily destination for millions of people to express themselves creatively. We have launched a new information hub to shine a light on the facts, and serve as a source of truth to address the misinformation about TikTok. <a href="https://t.co/3dfEibdNsB">https://t.co/3dfEibdNsB</a>
— TikTok_Comms (@tiktok_comms) <a href="https://twitter.com/tiktok_comms/status/1295399800557502465?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The social media giant also launched a new Twitter account "@tiktok_comms" for clear and faster communication with the audience. "To address rumors and misinformation about TikTok, we've built a new information hub to serve as a source of truth. We also launched a Twitter account that's dedicated to sharing company news in real time," the statement read.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alibaba-next-trump-is-looking-at-pressuring-other-chinese-companies-after-bytedance-320915">Also read:&nbsp;Alibaba next? Trump is looking at pressuring other Chinese companies after Bytedance</a>

The company claims they have set up the information hub and the Twitter account as a step further in maintaining transparency, accountability and a 'security first' promise. "Transparency is at our core, and we're committed to leading the industry in security and accountability. Today, we're taking another step to continue to build trust with our TikTok community by delivering the facts – in our own words and in the words of leading experts across cybersecurity, media, and academia – because we neither support nor stand for the spread of misinformation on our platform, or about our platform."

Musical.ly controversy

This statement was released as a reaction to Trump's accusation&nbsp;especially after, on Friday, Trump signed a separate executive order for ByteDance to sell its interest in Musical.ly, the app it bought and merged with TikTok in 2017, citing national security.

TikTok said the US action "risks undermining global businesses' trust in the United States' commitment to the rule of law, which has served as a magnet for investment and spurred decades of American economic growth."

China, too, called this a "digital gunboat diplomacy" by the US. The two countries have been at verbal and diplomatic war for the last few months.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-blasts-us-digital-gunboat-diplomacy-over-tiktok-321175">Also read:&nbsp;China blasts US 'digital gunboat diplomacy' over TikTok</a>

New partnership

Despite the trouble in the US, TikTok, on Monday, announced a new&nbsp;partnership and integration with&nbsp;music distribution platform UnitedMasters.

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TikTok's new partnership and integration with <a href="https://twitter.com/unitedmasters?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@unitedmasters</a> will make it even easier for artists and creators on TikTok to translate trending activity into career success. <a href="https://t.co/gWTvtnxFN8">https://t.co/gWTvtnxFN8</a>
— TikTok_Comms (@tiktok_comms) <a href="https://twitter.com/tiktok_comms/status/1295426862739595265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Already known for propelling unknown artists to success, TikTok's new partnership with United Masters provides a turn-key platform for aspiring stars to fast-track their careers," a statement read on TikTok's new information hub. This is the first time a&nbsp;music distribution company will be integrated with TikTok.

“If you are a musical artist, TikTok is the best place for your music to go viral and UnitedMasters is the best place to sustain it while retaining full ownership of your work," says Steve Stoute, CEO and Founder of UnitedMasters. "By combining the two, we create the platform for tomorrow's stars who will be famous, fiercely independent and wealthy."

(With inputs from agencies)

TikTok, the video sharing app, has come forward and denied all accusations made by the US President Donald Trump and has labelled it as "rumors and misinformation".

TikTok, the video sharing app, has come forward and denied all accusations made by the US President Donald Trump and has labelled it as "rumors and misinformation". After Donald Trump gave the company 90 days to divest or face a ban, TikTok has come out with a statement saying that all claims made in Washington about ByteDance-owned company being used by Chinese intelligence are "unfounded and blatantly false". "TikTok is not available in China. Its US user data is stored in Virginia with a back-up in Singapore and strict controls on employee access. TikTok has never provided any US user data to the Chinese government, nor would it do so if asked," a statement on a webpage titled 'The Last Sunny Corner of the Internet: Setting the Record Straight' read. TikTok is the daily destination for millions of people to express themselves creatively. We have launched a new information hub to shine a light on the facts, and serve as a source of truth to address the misinformation about TikTok. https://t.co/3dfEibdNsB — TikTok_Comms (@tiktok_comms) August 17, 2020 × The social media giant also launched a new Twitter account "@tiktok_comms" for clear and faster communication with the audience. "To address rumors and misinformation about TikTok, we've built a new information hub to serve as a source of truth. We also launched a Twitter account that's dedicated to sharing company news in real time," the statement read. Also read: Alibaba next? Trump is looking at pressuring other Chinese companies after Bytedance The company claims they have set up the information hub and the Twitter account as a step further in maintaining transparency, accountability and a 'security first' promise. "Transparency is at our core, and we're committed to leading the industry in security and accountability. Today, we're taking another step to continue to build trust with our TikTok community by delivering the facts – in our own words and in the words of leading experts across cybersecurity, media, and academia – because we neither support nor stand for the spread of misinformation on our platform, or about our platform." Musical.ly controversy This statement was released as a reaction to Trump's accusation especially after, on Friday, Trump signed a separate executive order for ByteDance to sell its interest in Musical.ly, the app it bought and merged with TikTok in 2017, citing national security. TikTok said the US action "risks undermining global businesses' trust in the United States' commitment to the rule of law, which has served as a magnet for investment and spurred decades of American economic growth." China, too, called this a "digital gunboat diplomacy" by the US. The two countries have been at verbal and diplomatic war for the last few months. Also read: China blasts US 'digital gunboat diplomacy' over TikTok New partnership Despite the trouble in the US, TikTok, on Monday, announced a new partnership and integration with music distribution platform UnitedMasters. TikTok's new partnership and integration with @unitedmasters will make it even easier for artists and creators on TikTok to translate trending activity into career success. https://t.co/gWTvtnxFN8 — TikTok_Comms (@tiktok_comms) August 17, 2020 × "Already known for propelling unknown artists to success, TikTok's new partnership with United Masters provides a turn-key platform for aspiring stars to fast-track their careers," a statement read on TikTok's new information hub. This is the first time a music distribution company will be integrated with TikTok. “If you are a musical artist, TikTok is the best place for your music to go viral and UnitedMasters is the best place to sustain it while retaining full ownership of your work," says Steve Stoute, CEO and Founder of UnitedMasters. "By combining the two, we create the platform for tomorrow's stars who will be famous, fiercely independent and wealthy." (With inputs from agencies)

Setting the record straight: TikTok denies Trump's accusations

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