Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-envoy-in-interview-does-not-rule-out-israeli-annexation-in-west-bank-225577"> Israel having the right to annex</a> at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue.

In a statement late Saturday in response to US ambassador to Israel David Friedman's comments in a New York Times interview, a Palestinian government spokesman said some leading US policy on the issue were "extremists" lacking in "political maturity."

The Palestinian foreign ministry said it was looking into filing a complaint with the International Criminal Court on the issue.

Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary general Saeb Erekat on Twitter called Friedman an "extreme ambassador of the settlers."

"Their vision is about the annexation of occupied territory, a war crime under international law," he said.

Erekat also renewed a Palestinian call for countries to boycott a June 25-26 conference in Bahrain to discuss economic aspects of a peace deal the White House has been working on.

In the interview published Saturday, Friedman said some degree of the annexation of the West Bank would be legitimate.

"Under certain circumstances, I think Israel has the right to retain some, but unlikely all, of the West Bank," he said.

Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Six-Day War and its construction of settlements there is viewed as a major stumbling block to peace as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

Friedman has in the past been a supporter of Israeli settlements as has the family of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser leading efforts to put together the peace deal.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged ahead of April elections to begin annexing West Bank settlements.

Bringing settlements under Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale could end any remaining hopes for a two-state solution to Israel's conflict with the Palestinians.

More than 600,000 Jewish settlers now live in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem among some three million Palestinians.

On the long-delayed peace plan, Friedman said it was aimed at improving the quality of life for Palestinians but would fall well short of a "permanent resolution to the conflict".

Publication of the plan looks set to be further delayed after the Israeli parliament called a snap general election for September, the second this year.

The plan is regarded as too sensitive to release during the campaign.

The Palestinian leadership has already rejected the plan, saying Trump's moves so far show him to be blatantly biased in favour of Israel.

Those moves include recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cutting hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to the Palestinians.

Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on Israel having the right to annex at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue.

Palestinian leaders say a US envoy's comments on Israel having the right to annex at least parts of the occupied West Bank show "extremists" are involved in White House policy on the issue. In a statement late Saturday in response to US ambassador to Israel David Friedman's comments in a New York Times interview, a Palestinian government spokesman said some leading US policy on the issue were "extremists" lacking in "political maturity." The Palestinian foreign ministry said it was looking into filing a complaint with the International Criminal Court on the issue. Palestine Liberation Organisation secretary general Saeb Erekat on Twitter called Friedman an "extreme ambassador of the settlers." "Their vision is about the annexation of occupied territory, a war crime under international law," he said. Erekat also renewed a Palestinian call for countries to boycott a June 25-26 conference in Bahrain to discuss economic aspects of a peace deal the White House has been working on. In the interview published Saturday, Friedman said some degree of the annexation of the West Bank would be legitimate. "Under certain circumstances, I think Israel has the right to retain some, but unlikely all, of the West Bank," he said. Israel occupied the West Bank in the 1967 Six-Day War and its construction of settlements there is viewed as a major stumbling block to peace as they are built on land the Palestinians see as part of their future state. Friedman has in the past been a supporter of Israeli settlements as has the family of Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and adviser leading efforts to put together the peace deal. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu pledged ahead of April elections to begin annexing West Bank settlements. Bringing settlements under Israeli sovereignty on a large-scale could end any remaining hopes for a two-state solution to Israel's conflict with the Palestinians. More than 600,000 Jewish settlers now live in the West Bank and annexed east Jerusalem among some three million Palestinians. On the long-delayed peace plan, Friedman said it was aimed at improving the quality of life for Palestinians but would fall well short of a "permanent resolution to the conflict". Publication of the plan looks set to be further delayed after the Israeli parliament called a snap general election for September, the second this year. The plan is regarded as too sensitive to release during the campaign. The Palestinian leadership has already rejected the plan, saying Trump's moves so far show him to be blatantly biased in favour of Israel. Those moves include recognising the disputed city of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and cutting hundreds of thousands of dollars in aid to the Palestinians.

US envoy's annexation comments show 'extremist' approach: Palestinian leaders

Understanding US-Mexico immigration deal and what drives Central American families to migrate

Mexico will take "unprecedented steps" to stem the flow of Central American migrants transiting the country to the United States, including by deploying National Guard troops, the countries said in a joint statement Friday.

The announcement came as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-reaches-deal-with-us-on-migration-averting-tariff-war-trump-225346">US and Mexico hammered out a deal on migration</a> to avoid punishing tariffs on all Mexican imports that US President Donald Trump had threatened to put into effect on Monday.

"Mexico will take unprecedented steps to increase enforcement to curb irregular migration, to include the deployment of its National Guard throughout Mexico, giving priority to its southern border," the statement said.

Mexico would also target human smuggling and trafficking groups, the statement said.

Watch: Donald Trump calls off tariffs as US and Mexico reach deal on immigration

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Meanwhile, measures on the US side will include sending migrants who had applied for asylum back to Mexico to wait while their claims were being processed.

&nbsp;

Mexico will take "unprecedented steps" to stem the flow of Central American migrants transiting the country to the United States, including by deploying National Guard troops, the countries said in a joint statement Friday.

Mexico will take "unprecedented steps" to stem the flow of Central American migrants transiting the country to the United States, including by deploying National Guard troops, the countries said in a joint statement Friday. The announcement came as the US and Mexico hammered out a deal on migration to avoid punishing tariffs on all Mexican imports that US President Donald Trump had threatened to put into effect on Monday. "Mexico will take unprecedented steps to increase enforcement to curb irregular migration, to include the deployment of its National Guard throughout Mexico, giving priority to its southern border," the statement said. Mexico would also target human smuggling and trafficking groups, the statement said. Watch: Donald Trump calls off tariffs as US and Mexico reach deal on immigration × Meanwhile, measures on the US side will include sending migrants who had applied for asylum back to Mexico to wait while their claims were being processed.

Mexico promises 'unprecedented steps' to curb migration in US deal: Joint statement

The United States on Friday raised the stakes in its standoff with Turkey over Ankara's deal to acquire a Russian air defence system, laying out a plan to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-suspend-training-of-turkish-pilots-for-f-35-jets-over-russia-missile-deal-222455">remove the NATO ally from the F-35 fighter jet program</a> that includes immediately halting any new training for Turkish pilots on the advanced aircraft.

Acting US&nbsp;Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan sent a letter to his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-says-to-produce-s-500s-with-russia-after-s-400-missile-deal-219729">Turkish </a>counterpart, seen by Reuters on Friday, that outlined how Turkey would be pulled out the program -- unless Ankara changes course.

Reuters on Thursday first reported the decision to stop accepting more Turkish pilots for training in the United States, in one of the most concrete signs that the dispute between Washington and Ankara is reaching a breaking point.

The United States says Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 air defence system poses a threat to the Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealthy fighters, which Turkey also plans to buy. The United States says Turkey cannot have both.

Shanahan's letter explicitly states there will be "no new F-35 training." It says there were 34 students scheduled for F-35 training later this year.

"This training will not occur because we are suspending Turkey from the F-35 program; there are no longer requirements to gain proficiencies on the systems," according to an attachment to the letter that is titled, "Unwinding Turkey's Participation in the F-35 Program."

Turkish personnel already in the United States will see their training on the F-35 discontinued at the end of July.

In his letter, Shanahan also warned Ankara that its deal with Moscow risked undermining its ties to NATO, hurting the Turkish economy and creating over-dependence on Russia.

"You still have the option to change course on the S-400," Shanahan wrote.

The Turkish lira declined as much as 1.5 per cent&nbsp;on Friday before recovering some losses. The currency has shed nearly 10 per cent&nbsp;of its value against the dollar this year in part on fraying diplomatic ties and the risk of US&nbsp;sanctions if Turkey accepts delivery of the S-400s.

Graceful exit?

Turkey is one of the core partners in the F-35 program and expressed an interest in buying 100 of the fighters, which would have a total value of $9 billion at current prices.

Turkish companies produce some 937 parts of the F-35, largely for the aircraft's landing gear and centre fuselage, the Pentagon says. The United States is now planning to move that production elsewhere, ending Turkey's manufacturing role by early next year.

The Pentagon believes that it can minimise the impact on the broader program if Turkey abides by the US timeline.

"What we are doing is working to do a very disciplined and graceful wind down," Ellen Lord, an undersecretary of defence, told reporters at the Pentagon.

She noted that nothing done to date was "irreversible."

But if Turkey were removed from the F-35 program, the ramifications would be felt far beyond the Turkish air force. It would be one of the most significant ruptures in recent history in the relationship with the United States, experts said.

Strains in ties between the United States and Ankara already extend beyond the F-35 to include conflicting strategy in Syria, Iran sanctions and the detention of US consular staff in Turkey.

Still, Turkey seems to be moving ahead with the S-400 purchase, regardless of the US warnings. President Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday it was "out of the question" for Turkey to back away from its deal with Moscow.

Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on May 22 that Turkish military personnel were receiving training in Russia to use the S-400, and that Russian personnel may go to Turkey.

The head of Russian state conglomerate Rostec, Sergei Chemezov, was quoted as saying on Friday that the country would start delivering S-400 missile systems to Turkey in two months.

Erdogan said the United States had not "given us an offer as good as the S-400s."

Still, Lord held out hope for Turkey, noting that none of the US decisions so far were irreversible.

"We're hopeful that they will stop the acquisition of the S-400. We would very much like them to stay in the (F-35) program," Lord said.

The United States on Friday raised the stakes in its standoff with Turkey over Ankara's deal to acquire a Russian air defence system, laying out a plan to remove the NATO ally from the F-35 fighter jet program that includes immediately halting any new training for Turkish pilots on the advanced aircraft.

The United States on Friday raised the stakes in its standoff with Turkey over Ankara's deal to acquire a Russian air defence system, laying out a plan to remove the NATO ally from the F-35 fighter jet program that includes immediately halting any new training for Turkish pilots on the advanced aircraft. Acting US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan sent a letter to his Turkish counterpart, seen by Reuters on Friday, that outlined how Turkey would be pulled out the program -- unless Ankara changes course. Reuters on Thursday first reported the decision to stop accepting more Turkish pilots for training in the United States, in one of the most concrete signs that the dispute between Washington and Ankara is reaching a breaking point. The United States says Turkey's acquisition of Russia's S-400 air defence system poses a threat to the Lockheed Martin Corp F-35 stealthy fighters, which Turkey also plans to buy. The United States says Turkey cannot have both. Shanahan's letter explicitly states there will be "no new F-35 training." It says there were 34 students scheduled for F-35 training later this year. "This training will not occur because we are suspending Turkey from the F-35 program; there are no longer requirements to gain proficiencies on the systems," according to an attachment to the letter that is titled, "Unwinding Turkey's Participation in the F-35 Program." Turkish personnel already in the United States will see their training on the F-35 discontinued at the end of July. In his letter, Shanahan also warned Ankara that its deal with Moscow risked undermining its ties to NATO, hurting the Turkish economy and creating over-dependence on Russia. "You still have the option to change course on the S-400," Shanahan wrote. The Turkish lira declined as much as 1.5 per cent on Friday before recovering some losses. The currency has shed nearly 10 per cent of its value against the dollar this year in part on fraying diplomatic ties and the risk of US sanctions if Turkey accepts delivery of the S-400s. Graceful exit? Turkey is one of the core partners in the F-35 program and expressed an interest in buying 100 of the fighters, which would have a total value of $9 billion at current prices. Turkish companies produce some 937 parts of the F-35, largely for the aircraft's landing gear and centre fuselage, the Pentagon says. The United States is now planning to move that production elsewhere, ending Turkey's manufacturing role by early next year. The Pentagon believes that it can minimise the impact on the broader program if Turkey abides by the US timeline. "What we are doing is working to do a very disciplined and graceful wind down," Ellen Lord, an undersecretary of defence, told reporters at the Pentagon. She noted that nothing done to date was "irreversible." But if Turkey were removed from the F-35 program, the ramifications would be felt far beyond the Turkish air force. It would be one of the most significant ruptures in recent history in the relationship with the United States, experts said. Strains in ties between the United States and Ankara already extend beyond the F-35 to include conflicting strategy in Syria, Iran sanctions and the detention of US consular staff in Turkey. Still, Turkey seems to be moving ahead with the S-400 purchase, regardless of the US warnings. President Tayyip Erdogan said on Tuesday it was "out of the question" for Turkey to back away from its deal with Moscow. Defence Minister Hulusi Akar said on May 22 that Turkish military personnel were receiving training in Russia to use the S-400, and that Russian personnel may go to Turkey. The head of Russian state conglomerate Rostec, Sergei Chemezov, was quoted as saying on Friday that the country would start delivering S-400 missile systems to Turkey in two months. Erdogan said the United States had not "given us an offer as good as the S-400s." Still, Lord held out hope for Turkey, noting that none of the US decisions so far were irreversible. "We're hopeful that they will stop the acquisition of the S-400. We would very much like them to stay in the (F-35) program," Lord said.

US starts 'unwinding' Turkey from F-35 program over Russia defence deal

US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Saturday he would discuss trade issues with People's Bank of China Governor Yi Gang, but the main progress in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-tensions-very-negative-influence-on-global-economy-australia-pm-scott-morrison-225234">US-China trade dispute</a> would take place later this month at a meeting between <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-criticises-nasa-moon-mission-after-promoting-it-earlier-225364">President Donald Trump</a> and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Mnuchin told reporters on the sidelines of the G20 finance leaders meeting in Japan that the Trump-Xi meeting was the "next important meeting" in the trade dispute.

The Treasury chief likened the meeting, unconfirmed by China, to a Trump-Xi meeting last December in Buenos Aires, which paved the way for five months of negotiations to try to resolve the issue.

Watch: US-China Trade War - Advantage For India?

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Mnuchin said he did not have specific goals for his discussions on Sunday with Yi, a key member of China's trade negotiating team. He said the two finance leaders would discuss economic and finance issues as part of their normal G20 interactions and also discuss trade issues, but no announcement was expected.

"This is not a negotiating meeting," Mnuchin said.

Mnuchin said the United States and China were about 90 percent of the way toward reaching "an historic agreement" before China backtracked on certain commitments. He said that if China wants to resume the negotiations on the basis of the texts prior to an early May breakdown of talks, the US&nbsp;side is ready to engage.

"If we can get the right agreement, that's great. If we can't get the right agreement, we will proceed with tariffs," Mnuchin said.

The Trump administration is taking steps to impose 25% tariffs on the remaining $300 billion worth of Chinese imports so far untouched by the trade war between the world's two largest economies. These tariffs could be ready for activation around the end of June, when the Osaka G20 summit take place.

Mnuchin said that the United States wants free, fair and balanced trade with China, in part to close a gaping US&nbsp;trade deficit with China.

"If we can't have that, the end result will be that my expectation is that many companies will move their production out of China to other locations," due to tariffs, Mnuchin said.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Saturday he would discuss trade issues with People's Bank of China Governor Yi Gang, but the main progress in the US-China trade dispute would take place later this month at a meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Saturday he would discuss trade issues with People's Bank of China Governor Yi Gang, but the main progress in the US-China trade dispute would take place later this month at a meeting between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Mnuchin told reporters on the sidelines of the G20 finance leaders meeting in Japan that the Trump-Xi meeting was the "next important meeting" in the trade dispute. The Treasury chief likened the meeting, unconfirmed by China, to a Trump-Xi meeting last December in Buenos Aires, which paved the way for five months of negotiations to try to resolve the issue. Watch: US-China Trade War - Advantage For India? Mnuchin said he did not have specific goals for his discussions on Sunday with Yi, a key member of China's trade negotiating team. He said the two finance leaders would discuss economic and finance issues as part of their normal G20 interactions and also discuss trade issues, but no announcement was expected. "This is not a negotiating meeting," Mnuchin said. Mnuchin said the United States and China were about 90 percent of the way toward reaching "an historic agreement" before China backtracked on certain commitments. He said that if China wants to resume the negotiations on the basis of the texts prior to an early May breakdown of talks, the US side is ready to engage. "If we can get the right agreement, that's great. If we can't get the right agreement, we will proceed with tariffs," Mnuchin said. The Trump administration is taking steps to impose 25% tariffs on the remaining $300 billion worth of Chinese imports so far untouched by the trade war between the world's two largest economies. These tariffs could be ready for activation around the end of June, when the Osaka G20 summit take place. Mnuchin said that the United States wants free, fair and balanced trade with China, in part to close a gaping US trade deficit with China. "If we can't have that, the end result will be that my expectation is that many companies will move their production out of China to other locations," due to tariffs, Mnuchin said.

Main progress on US-China trade to be at Trump-Xi summit: US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin

US job growth slowed sharply in May and wages rose less than expected, raising fears that a loss of momentum in economic activity could be spreading to the labour market, which could put pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates this year.

The broad cool-off in hiring reported by the Labour Department on Friday was before a recent escalation in trade tensions between the United States and two of its major trading partners, China and Mexico. Analysts have warned the trade fights could undermine the economy, which will celebrate 10 years of expansion next month, the longest on record.

Adding a sting to the closely watched employment report, far fewer jobs were created in March and April than previously reported, indicating that hiring had shifted into a lower gear. The labour market thus far has been largely resilient to the trade war with China.

"Today's report makes a cut more likely, and supports our view that the trade tensions will ultimately slow growth enough for the Fed to respond in September and December with cuts," said Joseph Song, an economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in New York.

Nonfarm payrolls increased by 75,000 jobs last month, the government said. It was the second time this year that job gains dropped below 100,000. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast payrolls rising by 185,000 jobs last month. Job growth in March and April was revised down by 75,000.

President Donald Trump in early May slapped additional tariffs of up to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese goods, which prompted retaliation by Beijing. Last week, Trump said he would impose a tariff on all goods from Mexico to force authorities in that country to stop immigrants from Central America from crossing the border into the United States.

Talks to prevent the duties from kicking in at 5% on June 10 continue. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said on Tuesday the U.S. central bank was closely monitoring the implications of the trade tensions on the economy and would "act as appropriate to sustain the expansion."

Trump, who has routinely tweeted about the strong labour market, made no comment about May's weak hiring, but defended duties on Chinese goods. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett told Fox Business Network that bad weather in the Midwest was to blame and described the meagre job gains as "a little bit of a blip down."

Economists, however, said there was nothing to suggest the weather was the culprit.

"The weakness in job growth was broadly experienced across industry groups and not obviously driven by distortions such as weather or strikes," said Michael Feroli, an economist at JPMorgan in New York.

U.S. House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said the employment report was "a disturbing sign that the administration's disastrous special interest agenda is hollowing out our economy."

Following the report financial markets priced in a rate cut as early as July and two more later this year. Economists, however, believe the Fed will probably wait for more signs of labour market weakness and clarity on the trade issues before easing monetary policy. Fed officials are due to meet on June 18-19.

"Fed officials are likely to remain cautious at the June meeting and keep all their options open," said Michael Hanson, head of global macro strategy at TD Securities in New York.

The dollar fell to a 2-1/2-month low against a basket of currencies, while U.S. Treasury prices rose. Stocks on Wall Street were trading higher.

WORKER SHORTAGES

Last month's slowdown in job gains, however, probably understates the labour market's health as layoffs remain low.

Employment gains over the last three months have averaged 151,000, above the roughly 100,000 needed per month to keep up with growth in the working-age population. In the four months since the first hiccup in hiring appeared in February, however, monthly payrolls gains have averaged just 127,000, the slowest pace over a comparable stretch in nearly seven years.

Some of the weakness in hiring could be because of worker shortages, especially in the construction, transportation and manufacturing sectors. But the worker shortage argument is somewhat undercut by moderate wage growth.

Average hourly earnings grew just 3.1% year-over-year, the slowest annual increase since September. Just three months earlier, wages had been rising at their fastest rate in a decade but gains have moderated since.

The tepid employment report added to soft data on consumer spending, business investment, manufacturing and homes sales in suggesting the economy was losing momentum in the second quarter following a temporary boost from exports, inventory accumulation and defence spending. Growth is cooling as the massive stimulus from last year's tax cuts and spending increases fades.

The Atlanta Fed is forecasting gross domestic product rising at a 1.4% annualised rate in the second quarter. The economy grew at a 3.1% pace in the first quarter.

The unemployment rate remained near a 50-year low of 3.6% in May. A broader measure of unemployment, which includes people who want to work but have given up searching and those working part-time because they cannot find full-time employment, dropped to 7.1% last month, the lowest since December 2000.

Hiring slowed across all sectors in May, with the share of industries showing job gains during the month the smallest since July 2016.

Manufacturing payrolls increased by 3,000 last month, after gaining 5,000 positions in April. The sector is struggling with an inventory overhang that has resulted in businesses placing fewer orders at factories.

Employers in the construction sector hired 4,000 workers in May after adding 30,000 jobs to payrolls in April. Professional and business services employment rose by 33,000. Transportation and warehousing payrolls fell as did retail employment. Government shed 15,000 jobs, the most in 16 months.

US job growth slowed sharply in May and wages rose less than expected, raising fears that a loss of momentum in economic activity could be spreading to the labour market, which could put pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates this year.

US job growth slowed sharply in May and wages rose less than expected, raising fears that a loss of momentum in economic activity could be spreading to the labour market, which could put pressure on the Federal Reserve to cut interest rates this year. The broad cool-off in hiring reported by the Labour Department on Friday was before a recent escalation in trade tensions between the United States and two of its major trading partners, China and Mexico. Analysts have warned the trade fights could undermine the economy, which will celebrate 10 years of expansion next month, the longest on record. Adding a sting to the closely watched employment report, far fewer jobs were created in March and April than previously reported, indicating that hiring had shifted into a lower gear. The labour market thus far has been largely resilient to the trade war with China. "Today's report makes a cut more likely, and supports our view that the trade tensions will ultimately slow growth enough for the Fed to respond in September and December with cuts," said Joseph Song, an economist at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in New York. Nonfarm payrolls increased by 75,000 jobs last month, the government said. It was the second time this year that job gains dropped below 100,000. Economists polled by Reuters had forecast payrolls rising by 185,000 jobs last month. Job growth in March and April was revised down by 75,000. President Donald Trump in early May slapped additional tariffs of up to 25% on $200 billion of Chinese goods, which prompted retaliation by Beijing. Last week, Trump said he would impose a tariff on all goods from Mexico to force authorities in that country to stop immigrants from Central America from crossing the border into the United States. Talks to prevent the duties from kicking in at 5% on June 10 continue. Fed Chairman Jerome Powell said on Tuesday the U.S. central bank was closely monitoring the implications of the trade tensions on the economy and would "act as appropriate to sustain the expansion." Trump, who has routinely tweeted about the strong labour market, made no comment about May's weak hiring, but defended duties on Chinese goods. White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett told Fox Business Network that bad weather in the Midwest was to blame and described the meagre job gains as "a little bit of a blip down." Economists, however, said there was nothing to suggest the weather was the culprit. "The weakness in job growth was broadly experienced across industry groups and not obviously driven by distortions such as weather or strikes," said Michael Feroli, an economist at JPMorgan in New York. U.S. House of Representative Speaker Nancy Pelosi, a Democrat, said the employment report was "a disturbing sign that the administration's disastrous special interest agenda is hollowing out our economy." Following the report financial markets priced in a rate cut as early as July and two more later this year. Economists, however, believe the Fed will probably wait for more signs of labour market weakness and clarity on the trade issues before easing monetary policy. Fed officials are due to meet on June 18-19. "Fed officials are likely to remain cautious at the June meeting and keep all their options open," said Michael Hanson, head of global macro strategy at TD Securities in New York. The dollar fell to a 2-1/2-month low against a basket of currencies, while U.S. Treasury prices rose. Stocks on Wall Street were trading higher. WORKER SHORTAGES Last month's slowdown in job gains, however, probably understates the labour market's health as layoffs remain low. Employment gains over the last three months have averaged 151,000, above the roughly 100,000 needed per month to keep up with growth in the working-age population. In the four months since the first hiccup in hiring appeared in February, however, monthly payrolls gains have averaged just 127,000, the slowest pace over a comparable stretch in nearly seven years. Some of the weakness in hiring could be because of worker shortages, especially in the construction, transportation and manufacturing sectors. But the worker shortage argument is somewhat undercut by moderate wage growth. Average hourly earnings grew just 3.1% year-over-year, the slowest annual increase since September. Just three months earlier, wages had been rising at their fastest rate in a decade but gains have moderated since. The tepid employment report added to soft data on consumer spending, business investment, manufacturing and homes sales in suggesting the economy was losing momentum in the second quarter following a temporary boost from exports, inventory accumulation and defence spending. Growth is cooling as the massive stimulus from last year's tax cuts and spending increases fades. The Atlanta Fed is forecasting gross domestic product rising at a 1.4% annualised rate in the second quarter. The economy grew at a 3.1% pace in the first quarter. The unemployment rate remained near a 50-year low of 3.6% in May. A broader measure of unemployment, which includes people who want to work but have given up searching and those working part-time because they cannot find full-time employment, dropped to 7.1% last month, the lowest since December 2000. Hiring slowed across all sectors in May, with the share of industries showing job gains during the month the smallest since July 2016. Manufacturing payrolls increased by 3,000 last month, after gaining 5,000 positions in April. The sector is struggling with an inventory overhang that has resulted in businesses placing fewer orders at factories. Employers in the construction sector hired 4,000 workers in May after adding 30,000 jobs to payrolls in April. Professional and business services employment rose by 33,000. Transportation and warehousing payrolls fell as did retail employment. Government shed 15,000 jobs, the most in 16 months.

Weak US employment report raises red flag on economy

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10. The meet is devised to tackle regional challenges and development in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India and the US are not part of the meeting, even though they are key stakeholders when it comes to the development in landlocked South Asian countries.&nbsp;

These are the number of processes currently underway to help stabilise Afghanistan including a Moscow-backed process which the US hasn't been keen to join.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest supporter in the region. India, through its community development scheme since 2005, has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion.&nbsp;

The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and, since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, has undertaken projects and programmes worth over $2 billion. 
&nbsp;

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10.

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10. The meet is devised to tackle regional challenges and development in Afghanistan. India and the US are not part of the meeting, even though they are key stakeholders when it comes to the development in landlocked South Asian countries. These are the number of processes currently underway to help stabilise Afghanistan including a Moscow-backed process which the US hasn't been keen to join. New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest supporter in the region. India, through its community development scheme since 2005, has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion. The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and, since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, has undertaken projects and programmes worth over $2 billion.

Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries to meet in Kabul; India, US not invited

The Joe Biden Express to the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination went a bit off track this week.

Since Biden joined the race in April, his campaign has worked to craft an aura of inevitability around the former vice president’s bid. Biden has engaged President Donald Trump more often than his Democratic rivals, while speaking in broad, thematic outlines rather pinpointing policy.

To a large extent, the strategy has succeeded. Biden enjoys a comfortable lead over his 23 competitors - drawing 31% of support from Democratic and independent voters compared to the 14% received by second-place US Senator Bernie Sanders in the Reuters/Ipsos poll this week - and remains the favourite to battle Trump in the November 2020 election.

But as Biden increasingly has to stake out policy positions, he finds himself under fire from progressives in the party — and has shown a willingness to bow to demands that could hurt him with more moderate voters.

Facing intense criticism from liberals and abortion-rights groups, Biden on Thursday suddenly reversed himself on the Hyde Amendment, a law that prohibits federal funds for most abortions. After 40 years of supporting the measure, Biden, a Roman Catholic, announced at an event in Atlanta that he now opposed it.

Earlier this week, Biden rolled out a climate-change plan that was more ambitious and far-reaching than many expected. It came after weeks of progressives openly fretting that his plan would seek some sort of “middle ground” in an attempt to mollify labour unions and other industry groups concerned about the economic impact of a massive shift away from fossil fuels.&nbsp;

In both cases, Biden was not necessarily speaking to his loyal base of supporters, the largely middle-aged and middle-of-the-road voters - many of them union members - who came out to see him in New Hampshire this week.

Instead, he was courting the groups he needs to consolidate his grip on the nomination: the activists, progressives and millennials who right now have the louder voices in the party.

Biden’s chief antagonist has been Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the first-term congresswoman from New York who is not running for president but who commands a fervent following on social media. She called out Biden on both his climate and abortion positions.&nbsp;

Shifts draws scrutiny

Biden also is being knocked around more by his fellow Democratic candidates, who finally were given an opening to distinguish themselves from the front-runner on an issue key to the party`s base. His past support of the Hyde Amendment was blasted by Senators Kamala Harris and Elizabeth Warren, among others.&nbsp;

Biden added to the confusion about where he stands on the issue during the event in Atlanta by saying he would make “no apologies for my last position” on the amendment.&nbsp;

While he cited aggressive anti-abortion laws passed in states such as Georgia for his shift, his language fuelled outrage among progressive women on Twitter who argued the law had prevented poor women from obtaining abortions for decades.&nbsp;

Campaign aides for Trump`s reelection told Reuters last month they expected Biden to be pulled leftward as the Democratic primary progressed, and they were prepared to exploit that should it occur.

On the campaign trail, Biden at times appears caught between a lifetime of centrist and often bipartisan policymaking and the pull of the progressive tide.&nbsp;

At an event on Tuesday in Concord, New Hampshire, he continued to defend the 1994 crime bill he helped craft as a senator that has been criticized by Harris and other candidates for resulting in the disproportionate jailing of African-Americans.&nbsp;

“You’ve been conditioned to say it’s a bad bill,” he told a questioner, a young woman who called herself a “civil liberties voter.”&nbsp;

Unlike several other Democratic candidates who have already called for the US House of Representatives to initiate an impeachment inquiry against Trump, Biden has held back, saying that it should only happen if Trump continues to stonewall committee probes.

“It’s a gigantic distraction from things we should be focusing on getting done,” he said.

It remains to be seen whether Biden has suffered any damage from tacking leftward on some issues.

Some voters in New Hampshire made clear they did not want Biden to cater to the party progressives.&nbsp;

“I honestly think the progressives are in many ways hijacking the Democratic Party. The 60 or 70 per cent of us who are in the middle get left out of the mix,” said Jeff Brown, 57, of Weare, New Hampshire. “And I think the vice president hears our voices, and I think he’s the one who is&nbsp;

The Joe Biden Express to the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination went a bit off track this week. Since Biden joined the race in April, his campaign has worked to craft an aura of inevitability around the former vice president’s bid.

The Joe Biden Express to the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination went a bit off track this week. Since Biden joined the race in April, his campaign has worked to craft an aura of inevitability around the former vice president’s bid. Biden has engaged President Donald Trump more often than his Democratic rivals, while speaking in broad, thematic outlines rather pinpointing policy. To a large extent, the strategy has succeeded. Biden enjoys a comfortable lead over his 23 competitors - drawing 31% of support from Democratic and independent voters compared to the 14% received by second-place US Senator Bernie Sanders in the Reuters/Ipsos poll this week - and remains the favourite to battle Trump in the November 2020 election. But as Biden increasingly has to stake out policy positions, he finds himself under fire from progressives in the party — and has shown a willingness to bow to demands that could hurt him with more moderate voters. Facing intense criticism from liberals and abortion-rights groups, Biden on Thursday suddenly reversed himself on the Hyde Amendment, a law that prohibits federal funds for most abortions. After 40 years of supporting the measure, Biden, a Roman Catholic, announced at an event in Atlanta that he now opposed it. Earlier this week, Biden rolled out a climate-change plan that was more ambitious and far-reaching than many expected. It came after weeks of progressives openly fretting that his plan would seek some sort of “middle ground” in an attempt to mollify labour unions and other industry groups concerned about the economic impact of a massive shift away from fossil fuels. In both cases, Biden was not necessarily speaking to his loyal base of supporters, the largely middle-aged and middle-of-the-road voters - many of them union members - who came out to see him in New Hampshire this week. Instead, he was courting the groups he needs to consolidate his grip on the nomination: the activists, progressives and millennials who right now have the louder voices in the party. Biden’s chief antagonist has been Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, the first-term congresswoman from New York who is not running for president but who commands a fervent following on social media. She called out Biden on both his climate and abortion positions. Shifts draws scrutiny Biden also is being knocked around more by his fellow Democratic candidates, who finally were given an opening to distinguish themselves from the front-runner on an issue key to the party`s base. His past support of the Hyde Amendment was blasted by Senators Kamala Harris and Elizabeth Warren, among others. Biden added to the confusion about where he stands on the issue during the event in Atlanta by saying he would make “no apologies for my last position” on the amendment. While he cited aggressive anti-abortion laws passed in states such as Georgia for his shift, his language fuelled outrage among progressive women on Twitter who argued the law had prevented poor women from obtaining abortions for decades. Campaign aides for Trump`s reelection told Reuters last month they expected Biden to be pulled leftward as the Democratic primary progressed, and they were prepared to exploit that should it occur. On the campaign trail, Biden at times appears caught between a lifetime of centrist and often bipartisan policymaking and the pull of the progressive tide. At an event on Tuesday in Concord, New Hampshire, he continued to defend the 1994 crime bill he helped craft as a senator that has been criticized by Harris and other candidates for resulting in the disproportionate jailing of African-Americans. “You’ve been conditioned to say it’s a bad bill,” he told a questioner, a young woman who called herself a “civil liberties voter.” Unlike several other Democratic candidates who have already called for the US House of Representatives to initiate an impeachment inquiry against Trump, Biden has held back, saying that it should only happen if Trump continues to stonewall committee probes. “It’s a gigantic distraction from things we should be focusing on getting done,” he said. It remains to be seen whether Biden has suffered any damage from tacking leftward on some issues. Some voters in New Hampshire made clear they did not want Biden to cater to the party progressives. “I honestly think the progressives are in many ways hijacking the Democratic Party. The 60 or 70 per cent of us who are in the middle get left out of the mix,” said Jeff Brown, 57, of Weare, New Hampshire. “And I think the vice president hears our voices, and I think he’s the one who is

Under pressure, Biden drifts leftward on abortion, climate change

This segment of WION brings to you top stories of the morning from across the globe. Watch this video to get updated with the latest information.

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 07th, 2019

In talks with the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mulling-over-declaring-new-emergency-for-imposing-tariffs-on-mexico-225116">United States</a>, Mexico has offered to send up to 6,000 members of its national guard to secure its southern border with Guatemala in order <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-eyes-steps-to-cut-immigrant-flows-to-us-border-official-223382">to contain migrant flows</a>, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.

The news was first reported by the Washington Post.

Mexico has sent a delegation of officials to Washington to try to avert US President Donald Trump`s threats to impose import tariffs on Mexican goods if the country does not do more to halt the flow of migrants to the United States.

During the talks, the United States proposed deporting undocumented Guatemalan migrants to Mexico as part of a deal, but there has been no agreement on this point, according to a Mexican source familiar with the process.&nbsp;

In talks with the United States, Mexico has offered to send up to 6,000 members of its national guard to secure its southern border with Guatemala in order to contain migrant flows, according to two people with knowledge of the matter.

In talks with the United States, Mexico has offered to send up to 6,000 members of its national guard to secure its southern border with Guatemala in order to contain migrant flows, according to two people with knowledge of the matter. The news was first reported by the Washington Post. Mexico has sent a delegation of officials to Washington to try to avert US President Donald Trump`s threats to impose import tariffs on Mexican goods if the country does not do more to halt the flow of migrants to the United States. During the talks, the United States proposed deporting undocumented Guatemalan migrants to Mexico as part of a deal, but there has been no agreement on this point, according to a Mexican source familiar with the process.

Mexico offers to send national guard to Guatemala to stem migration: Sources

US President Donald Trump has made immigration a central theme of his administration but has grown increasingly frustrated with the ballooning numbers of mostly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mulling-over-declaring-new-emergency-for-imposing-tariffs-on-mexico-225116">Central American families crossing the US-Mexico border </a>and turning themselves in to US authorities.

A threat of across-the-board tariffs on Mexican goods starting on Monday unless Mexico does more to stop migrants from reaching the United States has led to high-stakes negotiations between the two governments.

Trump has often described the situation as an "invasion" and an "onslaught," blaming it for crime and drugs entering the United States. But the issue of migration on the southwest border is complex and has evolved over the years. Here are answers to some commonly raised questions:&nbsp;

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE CROSSING THE BORDER?&nbsp;

In May, 132,887 people were apprehended at the southwest border, up 30% from April and 229% from May last year. The percentage of people crossing as families has risen even more dramatically.

IS IT REALLY A RECORD?

May was the highest monthly level of crossings since March 2006, but crossings are lower than at previous points in history. The main shift is in demographics. More than 63% of those apprehended in May were children and people travelling as families.

Until this year, arrests for illegal entry at the southwest border had been below half a million annually since 2009, the first time it was that low since 1973, according to government data.&nbsp;

WHY ARE OFFICIALS TALKING ABOUT AN `UNPRECEDENTED CRISIS`?

Previous peaks in illegal border crossings were driven by mainly single, adult Mexicans, and US authorities could return them quickly to Mexico with the use of relatively few resources.&nbsp;

The current surge is primarily families from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Many seek US asylum, which can take months or years because of crushing backlogs in the US immigration court system.&nbsp;

US authorities are limited by law to detaining children for 20 days, and the government lacks family detention space, so many are released into the United States. Since March 19, more than 75,000 family units have been released by Border Patrol.&nbsp;

But before they are released, Border Patrol has to process the families, and officials say their facilities are overwhelmed. A US government watchdog reported "dangerous" overcrowding at one border patrol facility in El Paso, Texas.&nbsp;

At least six minors have died while in US custody or shortly after being released within the past year.&nbsp;

WHAT IS DRIVING CENTRAL AMERICAN FAMILIES TO MIGRATE?

Migrants are fleeing violence, political turmoil and economic distress in their home countries. US officials say word has spread that the United States is releasing families.&nbsp;

Democrats in Washington have criticized Trump for cutting aid to the region in apparent retaliation for the flows of migrants, which they say exacerbates the problems and spurs people to flee.&nbsp;

In Guatemala, for example, one US assistance program under threat was established to keep farmers from abandoning the land and migrating north. 
&nbsp; 
WHAT EFFECT HAVE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION POLICIES HAD?

Shortly after Trump took office in 2017 after a campaign focused on curbing illegal immigration, border apprehensions dropped dramatically, but they ticked back up by the end of the year.

Since then, many of the Trump administration policies aimed at reducing illegal entrants have run into legal hurdles.

The administration`s most divisive policy, "zero tolerance," was aimed at discouraging families by separating detained parents from their children. Worldwide condemnation forced the administration to quickly ditch the policy.

The administration has also tried to discourage migrants by making it more difficult to apply for asylum, but some measures have been blocked in the courts.

In January, the administration began a policy of sending some asylum seekers back to Mexico to wait out their US court hearings. While a judge found the policy likely violated immigration law, it remains in place while the administration appeals the ruling.

Trump declared a national emergency to redirect $6.7 billion from the military and the Treasury to extend a border wall, but a federal judge blocked the initial funds.

HOW DOES TRUMP RESPONSE COMPARE WITH PAST ADMINISTRATIONS?

Trump has said Congress needs to act to update immigration laws that have been on the books through many administrations.

Prior administrations sought to boost assistance to migrants` countries of origin and also constructed barriers along the border.&nbsp;

Former officials have said Trump could adopt measures used by past administrations, including constructing temporary tent housing and beefing up technology. Where past administrations bolstered Border Patrol, resources are now needed in immigration courts, healthcare for migrants, logistics and to improve communication and coordination among agencies.

US President Donald Trump has made immigration a central theme of his administration but has grown increasingly frustrated with the ballooning numbers of mostly Central American families crossing the US-Mexico border and turning themselves in to US authorities.

US President Donald Trump has made immigration a central theme of his administration but has grown increasingly frustrated with the ballooning numbers of mostly Central American families crossing the US-Mexico border and turning themselves in to US authorities. A threat of across-the-board tariffs on Mexican goods starting on Monday unless Mexico does more to stop migrants from reaching the United States has led to high-stakes negotiations between the two governments. Trump has often described the situation as an "invasion" and an "onslaught," blaming it for crime and drugs entering the United States. But the issue of migration on the southwest border is complex and has evolved over the years. Here are answers to some commonly raised questions: HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE CROSSING THE BORDER? In May, 132,887 people were apprehended at the southwest border, up 30% from April and 229% from May last year. The percentage of people crossing as families has risen even more dramatically. IS IT REALLY A RECORD? May was the highest monthly level of crossings since March 2006, but crossings are lower than at previous points in history. The main shift is in demographics. More than 63% of those apprehended in May were children and people travelling as families. Until this year, arrests for illegal entry at the southwest border had been below half a million annually since 2009, the first time it was that low since 1973, according to government data. WHY ARE OFFICIALS TALKING ABOUT AN `UNPRECEDENTED CRISIS`? Previous peaks in illegal border crossings were driven by mainly single, adult Mexicans, and US authorities could return them quickly to Mexico with the use of relatively few resources. The current surge is primarily families from Guatemala, El Salvador and Honduras. Many seek US asylum, which can take months or years because of crushing backlogs in the US immigration court system. US authorities are limited by law to detaining children for 20 days, and the government lacks family detention space, so many are released into the United States. Since March 19, more than 75,000 family units have been released by Border Patrol. But before they are released, Border Patrol has to process the families, and officials say their facilities are overwhelmed. A US government watchdog reported "dangerous" overcrowding at one border patrol facility in El Paso, Texas. At least six minors have died while in US custody or shortly after being released within the past year. WHAT IS DRIVING CENTRAL AMERICAN FAMILIES TO MIGRATE? Migrants are fleeing violence, political turmoil and economic distress in their home countries. US officials say word has spread that the United States is releasing families. Democrats in Washington have criticized Trump for cutting aid to the region in apparent retaliation for the flows of migrants, which they say exacerbates the problems and spurs people to flee. In Guatemala, for example, one US assistance program under threat was established to keep farmers from abandoning the land and migrating north. WHAT EFFECT HAVE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION POLICIES HAD? Shortly after Trump took office in 2017 after a campaign focused on curbing illegal immigration, border apprehensions dropped dramatically, but they ticked back up by the end of the year. Since then, many of the Trump administration policies aimed at reducing illegal entrants have run into legal hurdles. The administration`s most divisive policy, "zero tolerance," was aimed at discouraging families by separating detained parents from their children. Worldwide condemnation forced the administration to quickly ditch the policy. The administration has also tried to discourage migrants by making it more difficult to apply for asylum, but some measures have been blocked in the courts. In January, the administration began a policy of sending some asylum seekers back to Mexico to wait out their US court hearings. While a judge found the policy likely violated immigration law, it remains in place while the administration appeals the ruling. Trump declared a national emergency to redirect $6.7 billion from the military and the Treasury to extend a border wall, but a federal judge blocked the initial funds. HOW DOES TRUMP RESPONSE COMPARE WITH PAST ADMINISTRATIONS? Trump has said Congress needs to act to update immigration laws that have been on the books through many administrations. Prior administrations sought to boost assistance to migrants` countries of origin and also constructed barriers along the border. Former officials have said Trump could adopt measures used by past administrations, including constructing temporary tent housing and beefing up technology. Where past administrations bolstered Border Patrol, resources are now needed in immigration courts, healthcare for migrants, logistics and to improve communication and coordination among agencies.

Explainer: How does the situation on the US-Mexico border compare with the past?

US congressional Democrats moved closer on Thursday to suing in federal court for access to the unredacted Mueller report on Russian election meddling, and its underlying evidence, taking a step bound to intensify their clash with President Donald Trump.

After months of stonewalling by Trump of their many investigations of him and his presidency, Democrats unveiled a resolution that authorizes the House Judiciary Committee to seek a court order to enforce its subpoenas against US Attorney General William Barr and former White House Counsel Don McGahn.

Both have refused to cooperate with the Judiciary Committee, which wants the unredacted report by US Special Counsel Robert Mueller on his probe into Russian election meddling and possible obstruction of the probe by Trump, and documents related to the investigation, as well as testimony from McGahn, a major player in the Mueller inquiry.

The resolution, which the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives is expected to consider on Tuesday, replaces an earlier plan by House lawmakers to vote formally on whether to hold Barr and McGahn in contempt of Congress, aides said.

Introduced by the House Rules Committee, the measure also sets out terms for possible court action by other House committees that are investigating the president and authorizes the Judiciary Committee to petition a federal judge for access to Mueller`s grand jury evidence.

The House Ways and Means Committee is similarly poised to file a federal lawsuit to enforce subpoenas of Trump`s individual and business tax returns.

Congressional committees already have the authority to seek court remedies. But Democratic aides said Tuesday`s vote is intended to reaffirm congressional authority to enforce subpoenas against White House efforts to stymie investigations by six separate House committees.

"We will not allow this president and his administration to turn a blind eye to the rule of law," Rules Committee Chairman James McGovern, who will take up the measure on Monday, said in a statement.

"The Trump administration is waging an unprecedented campaign of stonewalling and obstruction ... This resolution will allow Congress to hold the president accountable."

Justice Department officials were not immediately available to comment on the resolution.&nbsp;

The measure follows through on House Democrats` plans to go to court in their quest for an unredacted copy of Mueller`s report. Democrats say they are confident of swift court victories after decisive court rulings against Trump`s efforts to block subpoenas of his financial records issued by three other House panels.

Barr released a redacted version of the 448-page report on April 18. He later disregarded a House Judiciary Committee subpoena demanding release of the full report, along with the underlying evidence that Mueller relied on.

The House Judiciary panel voted on May 8 to cite Barr for contempt of Congress. The House Oversight Committee is also weighing contempt citations against Barr and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross for failing to comply with subpoenas in its probe of their handling of the US Census.

The Oversight panel had set a Thursday deadline for Barr and Ross to produce the requested documents.

In a letter to Cummings on Thursday, the Justice Department called a contempt vote "entirely premature" and declined to hand over the specific documents demanded, saying they were protected by attorney-client privilege and other doctrines. It said it was still working to produce other papers the committee requested.

The White House has asserted the seldom-used principle of executive privilege to try to keep the full Mueller report under wraps, even though Trump allowed aides to speak with Mueller during his investigation.

House Judiciary also subpoenaed McGahn, seeking his testimony, which he refused to provide in line with a pattern of stonewalling by Trump of Democrats` inquiries.

Lawmakers have said they would vote to hold Barr and McGahn in contempt. But on Thursday, aides said a formal contempt vote would have referred the case for criminal prosecution, a move unlikely to succeed with Barr at the helm of the Justice Department. Lawmakers instead opted for the new resolution.

US congressional Democrats moved closer on Thursday to suing in federal court for access to the unredacted Mueller report on Russian election meddling, and its underlying evidence, taking a step bound to intensify their clash with President Donald Trump.

US congressional Democrats moved closer on Thursday to suing in federal court for access to the unredacted Mueller report on Russian election meddling, and its underlying evidence, taking a step bound to intensify their clash with President Donald Trump. After months of stonewalling by Trump of their many investigations of him and his presidency, Democrats unveiled a resolution that authorizes the House Judiciary Committee to seek a court order to enforce its subpoenas against US Attorney General William Barr and former White House Counsel Don McGahn. Both have refused to cooperate with the Judiciary Committee, which wants the unredacted report by US Special Counsel Robert Mueller on his probe into Russian election meddling and possible obstruction of the probe by Trump, and documents related to the investigation, as well as testimony from McGahn, a major player in the Mueller inquiry. The resolution, which the Democratic-controlled House of Representatives is expected to consider on Tuesday, replaces an earlier plan by House lawmakers to vote formally on whether to hold Barr and McGahn in contempt of Congress, aides said. Introduced by the House Rules Committee, the measure also sets out terms for possible court action by other House committees that are investigating the president and authorizes the Judiciary Committee to petition a federal judge for access to Mueller`s grand jury evidence. The House Ways and Means Committee is similarly poised to file a federal lawsuit to enforce subpoenas of Trump`s individual and business tax returns. Congressional committees already have the authority to seek court remedies. But Democratic aides said Tuesday`s vote is intended to reaffirm congressional authority to enforce subpoenas against White House efforts to stymie investigations by six separate House committees. "We will not allow this president and his administration to turn a blind eye to the rule of law," Rules Committee Chairman James McGovern, who will take up the measure on Monday, said in a statement. "The Trump administration is waging an unprecedented campaign of stonewalling and obstruction ... This resolution will allow Congress to hold the president accountable." Justice Department officials were not immediately available to comment on the resolution. The measure follows through on House Democrats` plans to go to court in their quest for an unredacted copy of Mueller`s report. Democrats say they are confident of swift court victories after decisive court rulings against Trump`s efforts to block subpoenas of his financial records issued by three other House panels. Barr released a redacted version of the 448-page report on April 18. He later disregarded a House Judiciary Committee subpoena demanding release of the full report, along with the underlying evidence that Mueller relied on. The House Judiciary panel voted on May 8 to cite Barr for contempt of Congress. The House Oversight Committee is also weighing contempt citations against Barr and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross for failing to comply with subpoenas in its probe of their handling of the US Census. The Oversight panel had set a Thursday deadline for Barr and Ross to produce the requested documents. In a letter to Cummings on Thursday, the Justice Department called a contempt vote "entirely premature" and declined to hand over the specific documents demanded, saying they were protected by attorney-client privilege and other doctrines. It said it was still working to produce other papers the committee requested. The White House has asserted the seldom-used principle of executive privilege to try to keep the full Mueller report under wraps, even though Trump allowed aides to speak with Mueller during his investigation. House Judiciary also subpoenaed McGahn, seeking his testimony, which he refused to provide in line with a pattern of stonewalling by Trump of Democrats` inquiries. Lawmakers have said they would vote to hold Barr and McGahn in contempt. But on Thursday, aides said a formal contempt vote would have referred the case for criminal prosecution, a move unlikely to succeed with Barr at the helm of the Justice Department. Lawmakers instead opted for the new resolution.

US House Democrats move to fight Trump's stonewalling in court

US has banned it's firms from supplying Technologies to Huawei. After this some experts said that this could force Huawei to be self-reliant.We discussed this with WION Correspondent Nina Maria Potts from Washington D.C.

After Google, Now FB moves against Huawei

U.S. President Pats Queen On Her Back During His Visit To United Kingdom. Traditional Brits Accuse Him Of Breaking Tradition

Gravitas: Royal protocol - is it relevant?

The escalating trade war between the United States and China has gone beyond tariffs as the countries increase pressure on each other to cede ground.

Beijing has said it would retaliate after President Donald Trump blacklisted Chinese telecom giant Huawei and the United States extended tariffs to cover almost all Chinese imports.&nbsp;

Chinese state media has warned that Beijing could use rare earths for its next strike in the trade war. The United States relies on China for supplies of the rare earths to make a host of high-tech products, from satellites to electric car batteries.&nbsp;

Here are some other possible pressure points for each side.

POTENTIAL CHINESE RESPONSES 
HIKING TARIFFS FURTHER&nbsp;

China could impose tariffs on around $10 billion of US goods that as yet carry no retaliatory tariffs.&nbsp;

Beijing removed some tariffs on US car imports in December, and could reimpose them.

China could raise tariffs from 25 per cent on some US goods such as soybeans. China was the top US buyer of soybeans until the trade war, which came close to halting the flow altogether. If it raises tariffs again, Chinese soy importers will seek more supplies from Brazil and elsewhere, as they did in 2018, which would hurt US farmers. These are targeted tariffs, aimed at the US farming community that supported Trump`s 2016 presidential election victory.

High-tech items, such as semi-conductor manufacturing equipment and chips, would be unlikely to feature on a list for higher tariffs, because China cannot easily find alternatives.

China has so far spared Boeing passenger jets, its single most valuable US import, from tariffs. Chinese carriers are expanding rapidly to meet rising demand, so tariffs on Boeing could slow development of the domestic travel industry.

China could buy more aircraft from France`s Airbus instead of Boeing, which would make it more reliant on Europe for a few years until it completes development of homegrown commercial aircraft, COMAC`s C919. 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
DUMPING TREASURIES

China is the biggest holder of US government debt, with about $1.12 trillion in US Treasuries. Beijing buys Treasuries as a safe-haven for foreign exchange reserves.

The editor-in-chief of China`s influential Global Times tweeted in May that "many Chinese scholars are discussing the possibility of dumping U.S. Treasuries and how to do it specifically."

A selloff would hurt US markets, driving up interest rates and pushing up borrowing costs. The US central bank could lower its benchmark interest rate or buy debt to counter the move.

China sold the most long-dated US Treasuries in almost 2-1/2 years in March. But most China experts say Beijing is unlikely to undertake a big selloff because that would lower the value of China`s foreign exchange reserves. The Chinese would be hard-pressed to find a safe alternative investment with a good yield. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
DEVALUATION

Some analysts have floated the idea of a one-off devaluation of the Chinese currency to make the country`s exports more competitive despite US tariffs. But that would spook foreign and domestic investors and give the United States ammunition to sanction the country for currency manipulation.&nbsp;

"That is not retaliation. That is escalation of the trade war," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow and trade expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics.&nbsp;

The Chinese currency has weakened nearly 4 per cent since July 2018, when US authorities began collecting the first China-specific tariffs. That has absorbed some of the impact of tariffs on Chinese exporters.

HARASSING US COMPANIES OR SLOWING VISA APPROVALS

China`s Commerce Ministry said on Friday it will draft a list of foreign companies, organisations and individuals that it deems "unreliable" for harming Chinese companies, state-run China National Radio reported.

The move does not single out any countries or companies, but the report cited a ministry spokesman as saying the "unreliable entities list" will apply to those that flout market rules and the spirit of contracts, block supplies to Chinese companies for non-commercial reasons and "seriously harm the legitimate rights and interests" of Chinese companies.&nbsp;

China could target high-profile US companies such as Apple , although that could backfire as millions of Chinese people depend on the tech firm for their jobs.

Goldman Sachs estimates that banning Apple products could slash profits of the iPhone maker by almost a third. Apple and other US firms are also vulnerable to consumer boycotts in China. There is precedent for this: South Korean companies faced boycotts when deployment of a US anti-missile system angered China`s government.

Beijing could make life difficult for American banks, restaurant chains such as Starbucks , courier companies such as Fedex and commodity suppliers by opening tax inquiries, withholding licenses and other similar bureaucratic moves.

Big US businesses, however, have been among those pushing for a more moderate stance in Washington, so it would not help Beijing`s case to alienate them. Many American brands in China have joint ventures with Chinese partners, and these would also be hurt by government pressure.

Both sides have already slowed visa approvals for academics; authorities could do the same for executives and government officials.&nbsp;

DIPLOMATIC RECALCITRANCE AND MILITARY POSTURING

Beijing could reduce cooperation with the United States on thorny international issues, such as North Korea and Iran. It could also step up military gestures in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, an unofficial US ally.&nbsp;

RARE EARTH METALS&nbsp;

President Xi Jinping visited a rare earth firm in Southern China earlier in May, fuelling speculation China could cut off supplies of the metals, a key ingredient in high-technology consumer electronics and military equipment, to the United States as part of the trade war. China supplies 80 per cent of US rare earths.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
&nbsp;US RETALIATION AGAINST CHINA HIGHER TARIFFS

The United States could increase tariffs on Chinese imports. Authority for that rests with Trump, who has described himself as tariff-man. 
One option would be to raise levies on $50 billion worth of Chinese technology goods, including machinery, semiconductors, autos aircraft parts and intermediate electronic components on which tariffs were imposed last July and August. The products, taxed at a 25 per cent rate, were selected to avoid hitting US consumers and to hamper China`s technology development.

SANCTIONS AGAINST SPECIFIC COMPANIES

The United States could sanction additional Chinese companies flagged for a host of issues, from alleged intellectual property theft to sanctions violations or human rights concerns.

One option would be placing more companies on a blacklist that bars US suppliers from selling to them without special permits, as the Trump administration did with Huawei Technologies last month. &nbsp;

Washington is already considering sanctions for Chinese video surveillance firm Hikvision and equipment maker Zhejiang Dahua Technology. They are involved in surveillance at Chinese detention centres for ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims. &nbsp;

The downside would be hurting US companies that do business with the targeted firm.

Administration officials could further increase pressure on foreign governments to exclude Huawei from their 5G networks. 
&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
JUSTICE DEPARTMENT CRACKDOWN

The Justice Department is likely to continue to crack down on Chinese spies and hackers for stealing technology and trade secrets from American corporations, as part of its China initiative to counter Chinese economic and security threats.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; 
FOREIGN POLICY AND DEFENSE LEVERS?&nbsp;

Tension has already risen as the United States undertakes freedom of navigation operations through the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. China has been increasingly assertive about its sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considers Chinese territory to be brought under Beijing`s control by force if needed.

US warships have sailed through the Taiwan Strait at least once a month since the start of this year. The United States restarted such missions on a regular basis last July.&nbsp;

Trump`s government could impose sanctions on prominent Chinese officials seen as complicit in human rights violations of the Uighur population. Congress has urged Trump to impose such sanctions.

Washington could also deepen a crackdown on Chinese companies that fund or supply North Korea`s nuclear programs.&nbsp;

The escalating trade war between the United States and China has gone beyond tariffs as the countries increase pressure on each other to cede ground. Beijing has said it would retaliate after President Donald Trump blacklisted Chinese telecom giant Huawei and the United States extended tariffs to cover almost all Chinese imports.

The escalating trade war between the United States and China has gone beyond tariffs as the countries increase pressure on each other to cede ground. Beijing has said it would retaliate after President Donald Trump blacklisted Chinese telecom giant Huawei and the United States extended tariffs to cover almost all Chinese imports. Chinese state media has warned that Beijing could use rare earths for its next strike in the trade war. The United States relies on China for supplies of the rare earths to make a host of high-tech products, from satellites to electric car batteries. Here are some other possible pressure points for each side. POTENTIAL CHINESE RESPONSES HIKING TARIFFS FURTHER China could impose tariffs on around $10 billion of US goods that as yet carry no retaliatory tariffs. Beijing removed some tariffs on US car imports in December, and could reimpose them. China could raise tariffs from 25 per cent on some US goods such as soybeans. China was the top US buyer of soybeans until the trade war, which came close to halting the flow altogether. If it raises tariffs again, Chinese soy importers will seek more supplies from Brazil and elsewhere, as they did in 2018, which would hurt US farmers. These are targeted tariffs, aimed at the US farming community that supported Trump`s 2016 presidential election victory. High-tech items, such as semi-conductor manufacturing equipment and chips, would be unlikely to feature on a list for higher tariffs, because China cannot easily find alternatives. China has so far spared Boeing passenger jets, its single most valuable US import, from tariffs. Chinese carriers are expanding rapidly to meet rising demand, so tariffs on Boeing could slow development of the domestic travel industry. China could buy more aircraft from France`s Airbus instead of Boeing, which would make it more reliant on Europe for a few years until it completes development of homegrown commercial aircraft, COMAC`s C919. DUMPING TREASURIES China is the biggest holder of US government debt, with about $1.12 trillion in US Treasuries. Beijing buys Treasuries as a safe-haven for foreign exchange reserves. The editor-in-chief of China`s influential Global Times tweeted in May that "many Chinese scholars are discussing the possibility of dumping U.S. Treasuries and how to do it specifically." A selloff would hurt US markets, driving up interest rates and pushing up borrowing costs. The US central bank could lower its benchmark interest rate or buy debt to counter the move. China sold the most long-dated US Treasuries in almost 2-1/2 years in March. But most China experts say Beijing is unlikely to undertake a big selloff because that would lower the value of China`s foreign exchange reserves. The Chinese would be hard-pressed to find a safe alternative investment with a good yield. DEVALUATION Some analysts have floated the idea of a one-off devaluation of the Chinese currency to make the country`s exports more competitive despite US tariffs. But that would spook foreign and domestic investors and give the United States ammunition to sanction the country for currency manipulation. "That is not retaliation. That is escalation of the trade war," said Gary Hufbauer, a senior fellow and trade expert at the Peterson Institute for International Economics. The Chinese currency has weakened nearly 4 per cent since July 2018, when US authorities began collecting the first China-specific tariffs. That has absorbed some of the impact of tariffs on Chinese exporters. HARASSING US COMPANIES OR SLOWING VISA APPROVALS China`s Commerce Ministry said on Friday it will draft a list of foreign companies, organisations and individuals that it deems "unreliable" for harming Chinese companies, state-run China National Radio reported. The move does not single out any countries or companies, but the report cited a ministry spokesman as saying the "unreliable entities list" will apply to those that flout market rules and the spirit of contracts, block supplies to Chinese companies for non-commercial reasons and "seriously harm the legitimate rights and interests" of Chinese companies. China could target high-profile US companies such as Apple , although that could backfire as millions of Chinese people depend on the tech firm for their jobs. Goldman Sachs estimates that banning Apple products could slash profits of the iPhone maker by almost a third. Apple and other US firms are also vulnerable to consumer boycotts in China. There is precedent for this: South Korean companies faced boycotts when deployment of a US anti-missile system angered China`s government. Beijing could make life difficult for American banks, restaurant chains such as Starbucks , courier companies such as Fedex and commodity suppliers by opening tax inquiries, withholding licenses and other similar bureaucratic moves. Big US businesses, however, have been among those pushing for a more moderate stance in Washington, so it would not help Beijing`s case to alienate them. Many American brands in China have joint ventures with Chinese partners, and these would also be hurt by government pressure. Both sides have already slowed visa approvals for academics; authorities could do the same for executives and government officials. DIPLOMATIC RECALCITRANCE AND MILITARY POSTURING Beijing could reduce cooperation with the United States on thorny international issues, such as North Korea and Iran. It could also step up military gestures in the South China Sea and around Taiwan, an unofficial US ally. RARE EARTH METALS President Xi Jinping visited a rare earth firm in Southern China earlier in May, fuelling speculation China could cut off supplies of the metals, a key ingredient in high-technology consumer electronics and military equipment, to the United States as part of the trade war. China supplies 80 per cent of US rare earths. US RETALIATION AGAINST CHINA HIGHER TARIFFS The United States could increase tariffs on Chinese imports. Authority for that rests with Trump, who has described himself as tariff-man. One option would be to raise levies on $50 billion worth of Chinese technology goods, including machinery, semiconductors, autos aircraft parts and intermediate electronic components on which tariffs were imposed last July and August. The products, taxed at a 25 per cent rate, were selected to avoid hitting US consumers and to hamper China`s technology development. SANCTIONS AGAINST SPECIFIC COMPANIES The United States could sanction additional Chinese companies flagged for a host of issues, from alleged intellectual property theft to sanctions violations or human rights concerns. One option would be placing more companies on a blacklist that bars US suppliers from selling to them without special permits, as the Trump administration did with Huawei Technologies last month. Washington is already considering sanctions for Chinese video surveillance firm Hikvision and equipment maker Zhejiang Dahua Technology. They are involved in surveillance at Chinese detention centres for ethnic Uighurs and other Muslims. The downside would be hurting US companies that do business with the targeted firm. Administration officials could further increase pressure on foreign governments to exclude Huawei from their 5G networks. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT CRACKDOWN The Justice Department is likely to continue to crack down on Chinese spies and hackers for stealing technology and trade secrets from American corporations, as part of its China initiative to counter Chinese economic and security threats. FOREIGN POLICY AND DEFENSE LEVERS? Tension has already risen as the United States undertakes freedom of navigation operations through the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea. China has been increasingly assertive about its sovereignty over Taiwan, which it considers Chinese territory to be brought under Beijing`s control by force if needed. US warships have sailed through the Taiwan Strait at least once a month since the start of this year. The United States restarted such missions on a regular basis last July. Trump`s government could impose sanctions on prominent Chinese officials seen as complicit in human rights violations of the Uighur population. Congress has urged Trump to impose such sanctions. Washington could also deepen a crackdown on Chinese companies that fund or supply North Korea`s nuclear programs.

US-China trade war: The levers they can pull

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning - June 06th, 2019

The International Monetary Fund does not see the threat of a global recession brought on by a widening US-China trade war and potential US tariffs on Mexican goods and autos, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Lagarde told Reuters in an interview, however, that such escalating tariff threats were sapping business and market confidence, and could slow growth that is currently expected to improve next year.

"We don`t see a recession," Lagarde said when asked whether US President Donald Trump`s threatened tariff actions could turn global growth negative. "Decelerating growth, but growth nonetheless -- 3.3 per cent at the end of this year, and certainly a strong US economy. We do not see at the moment, in our baseline, a recession."

Earlier on Wednesday, the IMF said current and threatened US-China tariffs could cut 2020 global gross domestic product by 0.5%, or about $455 billion -- a loss larger than G20 member South Africa`s annual economic output.

The estimate includes a recent US tariff increase to 25% on a $200 billion list of Chinese imports as well as Trump`s threat to tax another $300 billion worth of consumer imports, representing nearly all trade between the world`s two largest economies.&nbsp;

MEXICO TARIFFS&nbsp;

The IMF`s estimate does not include Trump`s threatened 5 per cent tariffs on goods from Mexico starting on Monday over immigration issues and ratcheting up monthly. Mexico has overtaken China this year as the largest US trading partner.

Lagarde called such actions "self-inflicted wounds" that must be avoided, a message she will take to a G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Fukuoka, Japan this weekend.

"One more tariff here, one more threat there, one more negotiation that has not yet started, add to a global uncertainty which is not conducive to additional growth," she told Reuters.

In a briefing note for G20 finance leaders, the IMF said that US tariffs and Chinese retaliatory measures currently in place could cut 2020 output 0.3 per cent, with more than half of that impact coming from negative effects on business confidence and financial market sentiment.

The IMF also on Wednesday cut its China growth forecasts for 2019 and 2020 due to the growing trade tensions. The Fund is due to release preliminary findings of its annual assessment of the US economy on Thursday.&nbsp; 
The IMF is predicting 3.6 per cent global growth for 2020, but said this outlook is vulnerable to trade tensions, uncertainty over Britain`s exit from the European Union, and uncertain recoveries in some stressed economies such as Argentina and Turkey. &nbsp;

FIGHTING WITH FACTS

Asked whether the IMF needed to take a tougher stance against US tariff actions, Lagarde said the Fund had to keep presenting facts and economic research to tell leaders: "If you go in that direction, these are the consequences. It`s for political leaders and for policymakers to decide what is in their interest."&nbsp;

Lagarde said she would discuss the IMF review of its quotas and other financial resources with G20 policymakers in Fukuoka this weekend.

While the United States is opposed to increasing the Fund`s quotas, or voting shares, Lagarde said she has had good dialogues with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin about the need to maintain the IMF`s total lending war chest of about $1 trillion.&nbsp;

"Having gone through the crisis 10 years ago and knowing the power of the fire powder that you can commit, I think it`s critically important to give a signal that the capacity to commit $1 trillion today if there is a multiple-country crisis should actually be preserved," Lagarde said, adding she was confident that the IMF will find ways to maintain its crisis lending fund by an October deadline.&nbsp;

The International Monetary Fund does not see the threat of a global recession brought on by a widening US-China trade war and potential US tariffs on Mexican goods and autos, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said on Wednesday.

The International Monetary Fund does not see the threat of a global recession brought on by a widening US-China trade war and potential US tariffs on Mexican goods and autos, IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde said on Wednesday. Lagarde told Reuters in an interview, however, that such escalating tariff threats were sapping business and market confidence, and could slow growth that is currently expected to improve next year. "We don`t see a recession," Lagarde said when asked whether US President Donald Trump`s threatened tariff actions could turn global growth negative. "Decelerating growth, but growth nonetheless -- 3.3 per cent at the end of this year, and certainly a strong US economy. We do not see at the moment, in our baseline, a recession." Earlier on Wednesday, the IMF said current and threatened US-China tariffs could cut 2020 global gross domestic product by 0.5%, or about $455 billion -- a loss larger than G20 member South Africa`s annual economic output. The estimate includes a recent US tariff increase to 25% on a $200 billion list of Chinese imports as well as Trump`s threat to tax another $300 billion worth of consumer imports, representing nearly all trade between the world`s two largest economies. MEXICO TARIFFS The IMF`s estimate does not include Trump`s threatened 5 per cent tariffs on goods from Mexico starting on Monday over immigration issues and ratcheting up monthly. Mexico has overtaken China this year as the largest US trading partner. Lagarde called such actions "self-inflicted wounds" that must be avoided, a message she will take to a G20 finance ministers and central bank governors meeting in Fukuoka, Japan this weekend. "One more tariff here, one more threat there, one more negotiation that has not yet started, add to a global uncertainty which is not conducive to additional growth," she told Reuters. In a briefing note for G20 finance leaders, the IMF said that US tariffs and Chinese retaliatory measures currently in place could cut 2020 output 0.3 per cent, with more than half of that impact coming from negative effects on business confidence and financial market sentiment. The IMF also on Wednesday cut its China growth forecasts for 2019 and 2020 due to the growing trade tensions. The Fund is due to release preliminary findings of its annual assessment of the US economy on Thursday. The IMF is predicting 3.6 per cent global growth for 2020, but said this outlook is vulnerable to trade tensions, uncertainty over Britain`s exit from the European Union, and uncertain recoveries in some stressed economies such as Argentina and Turkey. FIGHTING WITH FACTS Asked whether the IMF needed to take a tougher stance against US tariff actions, Lagarde said the Fund had to keep presenting facts and economic research to tell leaders: "If you go in that direction, these are the consequences. It`s for political leaders and for policymakers to decide what is in their interest." Lagarde said she would discuss the IMF review of its quotas and other financial resources with G20 policymakers in Fukuoka this weekend. While the United States is opposed to increasing the Fund`s quotas, or voting shares, Lagarde said she has had good dialogues with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin about the need to maintain the IMF`s total lending war chest of about $1 trillion. "Having gone through the crisis 10 years ago and knowing the power of the fire powder that you can commit, I think it`s critically important to give a signal that the capacity to commit $1 trillion today if there is a multiple-country crisis should actually be preserved," Lagarde said, adding she was confident that the IMF will find ways to maintain its crisis lending fund by an October deadline.

IMF's Lagarde warns US-China tariffs to slash global growth in 2020

The US&nbsp;House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation to end the threat of deportation that has long hung over undocumented immigrants known as "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-the-american-dream-for-8000-indian-dreamers-19919">Dreamers</a>" who entered the United States when they were children.&nbsp;

By a vote of 237-187, the Democratic-controlled House approved the legislation despite opposition from the White House, which said the move would "reward illegal immigration."

Only seven Republicans voted for the bill.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-no-amnesty-for-dreamers-signals-support-in-broader-deal-191666">Trump says no amnesty for 'Dreamers,' signals support in broader deal</a>

There have been no signs that the Republican-controlled Senate would consider the House bill, likely leaving this Democratic initiative to be fought over during the 2020 presidential and congressional election campaigns.

Earlier in his administration, Republican President Donald Trump said he wanted to help Dreamers, many of whom were very young when they arrived in the United States with their parents.

But following a series of failed negotiations, Trump mainly has focused on clamping down on immigration and building a wall along the US-Mexico border to keep out undocumented immigrants from Central America and other countries.

The Democratic bill would shield an estimated 2 million Dreamers from deportation if they meet certain criteria, and put them on a path to US citizenship. 
Some of these immigrants have had temporary protections under a program put in place in 2012 by President Barack Obama. Trump`s move to end that program is being challenged in court.

Referring to the young immigrants, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said during debate of the bill,&nbsp;"Many did not even know they were not born here and were not American citizens until they found they could not get a drivers license or in-state tuition rates for college."

The House bill also would protect from deportation another 460,000 immigrants who have been legally staying in the United States under a temporary protection program aimed at countries suffering from natural disasters, wars and other traumas.

Trump has been phasing out this program.

In its statement threatening a presidential veto, the White House said that legislation to protect Dreamers would have to be coupled with other immigration provisions. These include tightening US asylum law, providing money to build a border wall, and encouraging the immigration of high-skilled workers rather than relatives of immigrants already in the United States.

Those ideas have drawn opposition from many Democrats and immigration advocacy groups.

The US House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation to end the threat of deportation that has long hung over undocumented immigrants known as "Dreamers" who entered the United States when they were children.

The US House of Representatives on Tuesday passed legislation to end the threat of deportation that has long hung over undocumented immigrants known as "Dreamers" who entered the United States when they were children. By a vote of 237-187, the Democratic-controlled House approved the legislation despite opposition from the White House, which said the move would "reward illegal immigration." Only seven Republicans voted for the bill. Also read: Trump says no amnesty for 'Dreamers,' signals support in broader deal There have been no signs that the Republican-controlled Senate would consider the House bill, likely leaving this Democratic initiative to be fought over during the 2020 presidential and congressional election campaigns. Earlier in his administration, Republican President Donald Trump said he wanted to help Dreamers, many of whom were very young when they arrived in the United States with their parents. But following a series of failed negotiations, Trump mainly has focused on clamping down on immigration and building a wall along the US-Mexico border to keep out undocumented immigrants from Central America and other countries. The Democratic bill would shield an estimated 2 million Dreamers from deportation if they meet certain criteria, and put them on a path to US citizenship. Some of these immigrants have had temporary protections under a program put in place in 2012 by President Barack Obama. Trump`s move to end that program is being challenged in court. Referring to the young immigrants, House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jerrold Nadler said during debate of the bill, "Many did not even know they were not born here and were not American citizens until they found they could not get a drivers license or in-state tuition rates for college." The House bill also would protect from deportation another 460,000 immigrants who have been legally staying in the United States under a temporary protection program aimed at countries suffering from natural disasters, wars and other traumas. Trump has been phasing out this program. In its statement threatening a presidential veto, the White House said that legislation to protect Dreamers would have to be coupled with other immigration provisions. These include tightening US asylum law, providing money to build a border wall, and encouraging the immigration of high-skilled workers rather than relatives of immigrants already in the United States. Those ideas have drawn opposition from many Democrats and immigration advocacy groups.

US House votes to protect 'Dreamer' immigrants amid White House opposition

Members of the US Congress, including some of President Donald Trump`s fellow Republicans as well as Democrats, are preparing legislation seeking to block his plan for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/defying-congress-trump-sets-8-billion-plus-in-weapons-sales-to-saudi-arabia-uae-221419">$8 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia</a>, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, congressional aides and lawmakers said on Tuesday.&nbsp;

The first measures could be introduced within days, congressional aides said.

Declaring a national emergency because of tensions with Iran, the Trump administration informed congressional committees on May 24 that it was going ahead with the 22 military deals, circumventing a long-standing precedent for lawmakers to review major weapons sales.

The decision angered members of both parties, who worried that Trump`s decision to blow through the "holds" process would eliminate Congress` ability to prevent not just Trump but future presidents from selling weapons where they liked.

The array of military products cleared for sale by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo included offensive equipment like precision-guided munitions, mortars and fighter jet engines, some of which would take many months to be produced and shipped, which lawmakers said belied the administration`s contention that it was addressing an emergency.

Some of the licenses would allow US defence contractors like Raytheon Co and Boeing Co to run production lines in Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

In the House of Representatives, which is controlled by Democrats, lawmakers were considering a bill that would require the 22 licenses approved by the administration to be pulled back and resubmitted through the regular notification procedure, including a 30-day congressional review, Democratic congressional aides said.

House members also may seek to rewrite the Arms Export Control Act of 1976 to impose tighter restrictions on the use of the "emergency authority" provision, tightening the loophole the Trump administration used to justify the sale so it could only be used for "true emergencies," aides said.

BIPARTISAN SUPPORT

House members said they expected any measure would have support from members of both parties.

"There`s a bipartisan resolve that we need to re-evaluate our relationship with Saudi Arabia, most especially the weapons that we sell them," Representative Joaquin Castro, a Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Reuters.

Members of Congress had been blocking sales of offensive military equipment to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for months, angry about the huge civilian toll from their air campaign in Yemen, as well as human rights abuses such as the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey.

When Pompeo announced the sales in May, Representative Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the Foreign Affairs panel, called the action "unfortunate" and likely to damage future White House interactions with Congress.

In the Senate, congressional aides said, lawmakers planned to file "resolutions of disapproval," setting up votes on each of the weapons deals approved by the Trump administration.

Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Trump`s, told the Washington Post that they would work together to introduce 22 resolutions.

The Arms Export Control Act gives Congress the right to vote on whether to stop major weapons sales by passing a resolution of disapproval.

Opponents of the weapons sale plan said strong bipartisan support for such resolutions would send a strong message to the administration - as well as defence contractors and the three countries - that Congress was unhappy about the process.

Backers of the plan also said it was possible, given the level of congressional anger over Trump`s use of the emergency declaration, that some of the resolutions would garner the two-thirds majorities in the Senate and House needed to override a Trump veto.

Lawmakers could also include legislation related to the weapons sale in a must-pass bill such as the annual National Defence Authorization Act, a massive defence policy measure currently making its way through Congress.

The US military has cited what it sees as a threat of potential attack by Iran to deploy hundreds of troops to the Middle East, in addition to Patriot missiles, bombers and the accelerated movement of a carrier strike group.

However, administration officials have also sought to reassure members of Congress, and the public, that they are not rushing to war with the Islamic republic.

Members of the US Congress, including some of President Donald Trump`s fellow Republicans as well as Democrats, are preparing legislation seeking to block his plan for $8 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, congressional aides and lawmakers said on Tuesday.

Members of the US Congress, including some of President Donald Trump`s fellow Republicans as well as Democrats, are preparing legislation seeking to block his plan for $8 billion in weapons sales to Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Jordan, congressional aides and lawmakers said on Tuesday. The first measures could be introduced within days, congressional aides said. Declaring a national emergency because of tensions with Iran, the Trump administration informed congressional committees on May 24 that it was going ahead with the 22 military deals, circumventing a long-standing precedent for lawmakers to review major weapons sales. The decision angered members of both parties, who worried that Trump`s decision to blow through the "holds" process would eliminate Congress` ability to prevent not just Trump but future presidents from selling weapons where they liked. The array of military products cleared for sale by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo included offensive equipment like precision-guided munitions, mortars and fighter jet engines, some of which would take many months to be produced and shipped, which lawmakers said belied the administration`s contention that it was addressing an emergency. Some of the licenses would allow US defence contractors like Raytheon Co and Boeing Co to run production lines in Saudi Arabia. In the House of Representatives, which is controlled by Democrats, lawmakers were considering a bill that would require the 22 licenses approved by the administration to be pulled back and resubmitted through the regular notification procedure, including a 30-day congressional review, Democratic congressional aides said. House members also may seek to rewrite the Arms Export Control Act of 1976 to impose tighter restrictions on the use of the "emergency authority" provision, tightening the loophole the Trump administration used to justify the sale so it could only be used for "true emergencies," aides said. BIPARTISAN SUPPORT House members said they expected any measure would have support from members of both parties. "There`s a bipartisan resolve that we need to re-evaluate our relationship with Saudi Arabia, most especially the weapons that we sell them," Representative Joaquin Castro, a Democratic member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, told Reuters. Members of Congress had been blocking sales of offensive military equipment to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates for months, angry about the huge civilian toll from their air campaign in Yemen, as well as human rights abuses such as the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at a Saudi consulate in Turkey. When Pompeo announced the sales in May, Representative Mike McCaul, the top Republican on the Foreign Affairs panel, called the action "unfortunate" and likely to damage future White House interactions with Congress. In the Senate, congressional aides said, lawmakers planned to file "resolutions of disapproval," setting up votes on each of the weapons deals approved by the Trump administration. Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, and Republican Senator Lindsey Graham, a close ally of Trump`s, told the Washington Post that they would work together to introduce 22 resolutions. The Arms Export Control Act gives Congress the right to vote on whether to stop major weapons sales by passing a resolution of disapproval. Opponents of the weapons sale plan said strong bipartisan support for such resolutions would send a strong message to the administration - as well as defence contractors and the three countries - that Congress was unhappy about the process. Backers of the plan also said it was possible, given the level of congressional anger over Trump`s use of the emergency declaration, that some of the resolutions would garner the two-thirds majorities in the Senate and House needed to override a Trump veto. Lawmakers could also include legislation related to the weapons sale in a must-pass bill such as the annual National Defence Authorization Act, a massive defence policy measure currently making its way through Congress. The US military has cited what it sees as a threat of potential attack by Iran to deploy hundreds of troops to the Middle East, in addition to Patriot missiles, bombers and the accelerated movement of a carrier strike group. However, administration officials have also sought to reassure members of Congress, and the public, that they are not rushing to war with the Islamic republic.

US lawmakers to push back against Trump on Saudi weapons sales

In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-lawyer-tells-us-jury-spelling-errors-video-shows-rival-stole-trade-secrets-224361">Huawei</a>`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

"We are willing to sign a no-spy agreement with the US," The Hill quoted Huawei`s Chairman Liang Hua, as saying.

"The US has not bought from us, is not buying from us and doesn't have plans to buy from us. So, I don`t know if there`s an opportunity to sign such an agreement."

The Chinese tech giant has offered similar agreements to the UK and Germany, in consideration to the fact that the US has been urging its allies, including the said countries to sever its ties with the company.

Last week, Huawei filed a "motion for summary judgement" in its lawsuit that challenges the constitutionality of the US law banning federal agencies from buying its products.

The new motion requests the court to overturn a portion of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which specifically forbids government agencies from using technology from Huawei and its smaller Chinese rival, ZTE.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump had signed the NDAA last year, alleging that Huawei`s products posed a risk to national security, as they could be used by Chinese Intelligence agencies to spy on Americans.&nbsp;

Calling a portion of the act "unconstitutional", the Chinese tech giant had sued the US government in March.

Huawei is the world`s largest telecommunications company and its smartphones compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung.

In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up.

In response to years of allegations by the United States and its allies that Huawei`s products could be accessed by Chinese Intelligence Agencies for spying, the company said on Tuesday that it is willing to sign a "no-spy agreement" with the US government if the opportunity opens up. "We are willing to sign a no-spy agreement with the US," The Hill quoted Huawei`s Chairman Liang Hua, as saying. "The US has not bought from us, is not buying from us and doesn't have plans to buy from us. So, I don`t know if there`s an opportunity to sign such an agreement." The Chinese tech giant has offered similar agreements to the UK and Germany, in consideration to the fact that the US has been urging its allies, including the said countries to sever its ties with the company. Last week, Huawei filed a "motion for summary judgement" in its lawsuit that challenges the constitutionality of the US law banning federal agencies from buying its products. The new motion requests the court to overturn a portion of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) which specifically forbids government agencies from using technology from Huawei and its smaller Chinese rival, ZTE. US President Donald Trump had signed the NDAA last year, alleging that Huawei`s products posed a risk to national security, as they could be used by Chinese Intelligence agencies to spy on Americans. Calling a portion of the act "unconstitutional", the Chinese tech giant had sued the US government in March. Huawei is the world`s largest telecommunications company and its smartphones compete with the likes of Apple and Samsung.

Huawei willing to sign 'no-spy agreement' with US government: Chairman Liang Hua

A rise in tensions in the Middle East owing to US pressure on Iran is worrying and all parties need to exercise restraint, Chinese President Xi Jinping told Russian media ahead of a visit to the country.

Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated in the past month, a year after the United States pulled out of a deal between Iran and global powers to curb Tehran`s nuclear programme in return for lifting sanctions.

Washington reimposed sanctions last year and tightened them sharply at the start of last month, ordering all countries to halt imports of Iranian oil. It has also hinted at military confrontation, sending extra forces to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats.

Xi told TASS news agency and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspaper that because of the "extreme pressure" Washington has put on Tehran and the unilateral sanctions, tensions have continued to rise in the Middle East.

"The development of the situation is worrying," Xi said, according to a transcript published by China`s Foreign Ministry ahead of his arrival in Russia on Wednesday.&nbsp;

The Iran nuclear deal should be fully implemented and respected, as it is of crucial importance for peace and stability in the Middle East and non-proliferation, Xi added.&nbsp;

"China and Russia`s views and positions on the Iran nuclear issue are highly aligned, and both hope that all relevant parties remain rational and exercise restraint, step up dialogue and consultations and lower the temperature on the present tense situation," he said.

China has been angered by US threats against countries and companies that violate US sanctions by importing Iranian oil. China and Iran have close energy ties.

Xi did not directly address the oil sanctions issue, but appeared to allude to them by saying, "China will continue to firmly safeguard its own legitimate and lawful rights and interests".

A rise in tensions in the Middle East owing to US pressure on Iran is worrying and all parties need to exercise restraint, Chinese President Xi Jinping told Russian media ahead of a visit to the country.

A rise in tensions in the Middle East owing to US pressure on Iran is worrying and all parties need to exercise restraint, Chinese President Xi Jinping told Russian media ahead of a visit to the country. Tensions between Iran and the United States have escalated in the past month, a year after the United States pulled out of a deal between Iran and global powers to curb Tehran`s nuclear programme in return for lifting sanctions. Washington reimposed sanctions last year and tightened them sharply at the start of last month, ordering all countries to halt imports of Iranian oil. It has also hinted at military confrontation, sending extra forces to the region to counter what it describes as Iranian threats. Xi told TASS news agency and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspaper that because of the "extreme pressure" Washington has put on Tehran and the unilateral sanctions, tensions have continued to rise in the Middle East. "The development of the situation is worrying," Xi said, according to a transcript published by China`s Foreign Ministry ahead of his arrival in Russia on Wednesday. The Iran nuclear deal should be fully implemented and respected, as it is of crucial importance for peace and stability in the Middle East and non-proliferation, Xi added. "China and Russia`s views and positions on the Iran nuclear issue are highly aligned, and both hope that all relevant parties remain rational and exercise restraint, step up dialogue and consultations and lower the temperature on the present tense situation," he said. China has been angered by US threats against countries and companies that violate US sanctions by importing Iranian oil. China and Iran have close energy ties. Xi did not directly address the oil sanctions issue, but appeared to allude to them by saying, "China will continue to firmly safeguard its own legitimate and lawful rights and interests".

China's Xi says Iran tensions worrying, calls for restraint

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the country's economy is stable, healthy and well placed to meet all <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-take-unprecedented-action-to-ensure-supply-of-rare-earths-critical-to-tech-military-us-224397">risks and challenges</a>, according to a transcript published by the Xinhua news agency.

Xi made the remarks to the TASS Russian News Agency and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspaper on Tuesday ahead of his state visit to Russia where he will attend a major Russian investor forum in St Petersburg. The transcript of that interview was published by Xinhua on Wednesday.

Xi did not mention <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rare-earths-the-latest-weapon-in-the-us-china-trade-war-222578">China`s trade war with the United States</a>, which escalated last month after Washington and Beijing slapped new tit-for-tat tariffs on each other.&nbsp;

"Looking into the future, China`s economy bears the supporting conditions for stable, healthy and sustainable growth," he said.

Xi noted China had ample room to manoeuvre in the macroeconomic policy space and that the country`s economy got off to a good start in 2019 as key indicators were kept in a reasonable range.

China`s economy grew at a steady 6.4 per cent pace in the first quarter, defying expectations for a further slowdown, as industrial production jumped sharply and consumer demand showed signs of improvement.

However, it reported surprisingly weaker growth in retail sales and industrial output for April, putting pressure on Beijing to roll out more stimulus as the trade war with the United States escalates.&nbsp;

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the country's economy is stable, healthy and well placed to meet all risks and challenges, according to a transcript published by the Xinhua news agency.

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the country's economy is stable, healthy and well placed to meet all risks and challenges, according to a transcript published by the Xinhua news agency. Xi made the remarks to the TASS Russian News Agency and Rossiyskaya Gazeta newspaper on Tuesday ahead of his state visit to Russia where he will attend a major Russian investor forum in St Petersburg. The transcript of that interview was published by Xinhua on Wednesday. Xi did not mention China`s trade war with the United States, which escalated last month after Washington and Beijing slapped new tit-for-tat tariffs on each other. "Looking into the future, China`s economy bears the supporting conditions for stable, healthy and sustainable growth," he said. Xi noted China had ample room to manoeuvre in the macroeconomic policy space and that the country`s economy got off to a good start in 2019 as key indicators were kept in a reasonable range. China`s economy grew at a steady 6.4 per cent pace in the first quarter, defying expectations for a further slowdown, as industrial production jumped sharply and consumer demand showed signs of improvement. However, it reported surprisingly weaker growth in retail sales and industrial output for April, putting pressure on Beijing to roll out more stimulus as the trade war with the United States escalates.

Xi Jinping says China's economy positioned to meet all challenges: Report

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On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal.&nbsp;

Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and&nbsp;added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States".&nbsp;Trump said everything is on the table in UK trade talks.

Earlier in the day, Trump touted a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-promises-uk-pm-theresa-may-very-substantial-trade-deal-after-brexit-224218">very, very substantial trade deal</a>" between the United States and Britain after Brexit.&nbsp;He met May at her Downing Street residence, earlier in the day, as part of his state visit to Britain.

"I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding, "We're going to get it done."

Watch:&nbsp;Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/thousands-protesting-against-donald-trumps-uk-state-visit-224040/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Both the leaders also expressed similar views on Iran. "We have similar goals on Iran," said May, adding that the UK and the US will "work together to strengthen our alliance".

The US President also slipped out his intentions with respect to neighbouring Mexico stating that the "US will most likely impose tariffs on Mexico".&nbsp;

On Brexit, Trump said that he thinks that it will happen and "it probably should happen".&nbsp;

"I would think it will happen and it probably should happen. This is a great, great country and it wants its own identity, it wants to have its own borders, it wants to run its own affairs. This is a very, very special place," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-turns-to-brexit-and-huawei-as-protesters-mock-with-a-blimp-224195">On Huawei</a>, Trump said that there is going to be an agreement on the same.

"We are going to have absolutely an agreement on Huawei and everything else. We have an incredible intelligence relationship and we are going to be able to work out any differences. We did discuss it. I see absolutely no limitations, we have never (had) limitations, this is a truly great ally and partner and we will have no problem with that," news agency Reuters reported.&nbsp;

Trump's UK visit is marred by protests.&nbsp;Protesters shouted, banged drums and waved placards at what organisers called a "Carnival of Resistance" at Trafalgar Square.

(With inputs from agencies)

On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal. Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States".

On the second day of his visit to Britain, US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said that he sees "tremendous potential" in US-UK trade deal. Addressing a joint press conference, outgoing Prime Minister Theresa May also resounded Trump's sentiments and added that the UK is "committed to a trade deal with the United States". Trump said everything is on the table in UK trade talks. Earlier in the day, Trump touted a "very, very substantial trade deal" between the United States and Britain after Brexit. He met May at her Downing Street residence, earlier in the day, as part of his state visit to Britain. "I think we will have a very very substantial trade deal. It will be a very fair deal," he told her at a meeting with business leaders and ministers, adding, "We're going to get it done." Watch: Thousands protesting against Donald Trump's UK state visit Both the leaders also expressed similar views on Iran. "We have similar goals on Iran," said May, adding that the UK and the US will "work together to strengthen our alliance". The US President also slipped out his intentions with respect to neighbouring Mexico stating that the "US will most likely impose tariffs on Mexico". On Brexit, Trump said that he thinks that it will happen and "it probably should happen". "I would think it will happen and it probably should happen. This is a great, great country and it wants its own identity, it wants to have its own borders, it wants to run its own affairs. This is a very, very special place," he said. On Huawei, Trump said that there is going to be an agreement on the same. "We are going to have absolutely an agreement on Huawei and everything else. We have an incredible intelligence relationship and we are going to be able to work out any differences. We did discuss it. I see absolutely no limitations, we have never (had) limitations, this is a truly great ally and partner and we will have no problem with that," news agency Reuters reported. Trump's UK visit is marred by protests. Protesters shouted, banged drums and waved placards at what organisers called a "Carnival of Resistance" at Trafalgar Square. (With inputs from agencies)

Donald Trump, Theresa May reiterate commitment for US-UK trade deal

Theresa May said, We are committed to trade deal with US after Brexit. She also said, We will work together to strengthen our alliance. Watch this complete video to know more.

Trump & May Hold Joint Press Conference

By Janos Besenyo

Russia has never had an African colony. It stayed out of the scramble for Africa, only engaging with African states in the 19th Century. In 1869, for instance, the Russians gave Ethiopia military support to threaten the position of the British in their quest to control the Suez Canal. They did this because Britain was one of their main European rivals.

It wasn’t until the Cold War started in 1947 that Russia began to develop diplomatic relations with several African countries. This was a way to counter the influence of its rivals such as the US.

The Cold War dictated the former USSR’s relations with many African countries for decades. This was followed by a period of relative inactivity. But more recently, relations have become increasingly important for Russia as well as some African countries.

The result is that some African countries no longer need to choose between the American and the Chinese way of development.

Ostensibly, China has the most pragmatic engagement with Africa. Its policy is not to interfere with the internal workings of nation states or play geopolitics by pitting countries against each other. But it has become increasingly difficult for the country to resist using its military power to protect its economic interests.

For its part, the US’s ultimate aim is to tip the regional balance of power in its favour while also gaining access to Africa’s resources.

My research explores Russia’s current relationship with the continent. The research examines Russian President Vladimir Putin’s strategy to redress the global balance of power by countering America’s influence in Africa and trying to match China’s large economic footprint on the continent.

I conclude that Russia’s primary goal is the political influence. This is achieved by gaining control of natural resources and providing military support and intelligence. Yet, despite making massive inroads, the Russian Federation is still less influential than the US and China on the continent.

From the African point of view, Russia offers a strategic alternative to America’s global hegemony, China’s economic diplomacy, and the lingering influence of Africa’s former colonial masters.

The history

During the Cold War the Russians provided diplomatic, economic, military, and educational support for numerous African liberation movements. These included Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Madagascar, Sao Tome &amp; Principe, and Tanzania. As a result, many young Africans were educated in Moscow.

Russia began to trade and interact with these states routinely. It sent in military intelligence officers to establish a strong presence and ensure that Africa was not purely influenced by the West. The Russians developed relations with Africa so intensely that for the 10 years between 1950 and 1960 it surpassed the influence of colonising powers.

That influence would remain more or less intact until the Boris Yeltsin era. Between 1990 and 1999 Russia’s impact on the continent was spectacularly lowered. Nine embassies and three consulates were closed. The number of personnel subordinated to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs was drastically reduced. Russian cultural institutions were closed, and economic relations were unilaterally terminated. Previously generous aid programmes were scrapped.

This all changed when Putin came to power in 1999. Under his leadership Russia has started to regain its economic and political clout in Africa. Putin has jumpstarted Russia’s diplomatic, economic, and military ties with its former African allies.

Russian interests in Africa

From my research I can conclude that Russia’s primary intent is to build political alliances by supporting nation states economically and militarily while remaining non-judgemental about their internal governance structures.

Its long-term goal is to become a political, economic and military mediator that can stand behind Africa’s global interests and count on the continent’s support in return. Here are some of the areas where Russia are mainly active:

Economic interests: Russia is now seeking to exploit conventional gas and oil fields in Africa and elsewhere. Part of its long term energy strategy is to use Russian companies to create new streams of energy supply. For example, Russian companies have made significant investments in Algeria’s oil and gas industries. They have also invested in Libya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast and Egypt.

Russia is also expanding its African interests in minerals. Uranium – which is key to the nuclear power industry – is at the top of its list.

In addition, Russian companies are producing aluminium in Nigeria, and have constructed hydropower stations in Angola, Namibia, Botswana.

Russia is also on track to build nuclear plants in Egypt, Nigeria and Algeria. These investments are a means to becoming an integral part of Africa’s energy sector.

Russia has also improved its commercial relations with its African partners. In 2009, it established the Coordinating Committee for Economic Cooperation with sub-Saharan Africa to assist in promoting Russian business interests.

Defence interests: Russia has traditionally been one of Africa’s main arms suppliers. During the Cold War many armed liberation organisations and African countries – among them Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Guinea –bought military equipment from Russia. More recently Russia has made significant arms deals with Angola and Algeria. Egypt, Tanzania, Somalia, Mali, Sudan and Libya have also bought arms from Russia. The Russians also provide military training and support.

Aid: Under Putin Russia has made sizeable aid donations to a variety of African countries averaging about $400 million per year. Around 60% of Russian aid is delivered through international organisations; global humanitarian organisations like the World Food Programme and the UN refugee agency. The remaining 40 per cent gets to Africa in a framework of bilateral cooperation. It also makes donations to support education, health care, agriculture, environment and energy.

The danger for Moscow is that, the more progress it makes with African governments, the more likely it is that its interests will collide with those of either China or the US – or both.

 
(Janos Besenyo is Associate Professor, Óbuda University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/russia-in-africa-can-it-offer-an-alternative-to-the-us-and-china-117764">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

By Janos Besenyo Russia has never had an African colony. It stayed out of the scramble for Africa, only engaging with African states in the 19th Century. In 1869, for instance, the Russians gave Ethiopia military support to threaten the position of the British in their quest to control the Suez Canal.

By Janos Besenyo Russia has never had an African colony. It stayed out of the scramble for Africa, only engaging with African states in the 19th Century. In 1869, for instance, the Russians gave Ethiopia military support to threaten the position of the British in their quest to control the Suez Canal. They did this because Britain was one of their main European rivals. It wasn’t until the Cold War started in 1947 that Russia began to develop diplomatic relations with several African countries. This was a way to counter the influence of its rivals such as the US. The Cold War dictated the former USSR’s relations with many African countries for decades. This was followed by a period of relative inactivity. But more recently, relations have become increasingly important for Russia as well as some African countries. The result is that some African countries no longer need to choose between the American and the Chinese way of development. Ostensibly, China has the most pragmatic engagement with Africa. Its policy is not to interfere with the internal workings of nation states or play geopolitics by pitting countries against each other. But it has become increasingly difficult for the country to resist using its military power to protect its economic interests. For its part, the US’s ultimate aim is to tip the regional balance of power in its favour while also gaining access to Africa’s resources. My research explores Russia’s current relationship with the continent. The research examines Russian President Vladimir Putin’s strategy to redress the global balance of power by countering America’s influence in Africa and trying to match China’s large economic footprint on the continent. I conclude that Russia’s primary goal is the political influence. This is achieved by gaining control of natural resources and providing military support and intelligence. Yet, despite making massive inroads, the Russian Federation is still less influential than the US and China on the continent. From the African point of view, Russia offers a strategic alternative to America’s global hegemony, China’s economic diplomacy, and the lingering influence of Africa’s former colonial masters. The history During the Cold War the Russians provided diplomatic, economic, military, and educational support for numerous African liberation movements. These included Algeria, Angola, Cape Verde, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Guinea, Madagascar, Sao Tome & Principe, and Tanzania. As a result, many young Africans were educated in Moscow. Russia began to trade and interact with these states routinely. It sent in military intelligence officers to establish a strong presence and ensure that Africa was not purely influenced by the West. The Russians developed relations with Africa so intensely that for the 10 years between 1950 and 1960 it surpassed the influence of colonising powers. That influence would remain more or less intact until the Boris Yeltsin era. Between 1990 and 1999 Russia’s impact on the continent was spectacularly lowered. Nine embassies and three consulates were closed. The number of personnel subordinated to the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs was drastically reduced. Russian cultural institutions were closed, and economic relations were unilaterally terminated. Previously generous aid programmes were scrapped. This all changed when Putin came to power in 1999. Under his leadership Russia has started to regain its economic and political clout in Africa. Putin has jumpstarted Russia’s diplomatic, economic, and military ties with its former African allies. Russian interests in Africa From my research I can conclude that Russia’s primary intent is to build political alliances by supporting nation states economically and militarily while remaining non-judgemental about their internal governance structures. Its long-term goal is to become a political, economic and military mediator that can stand behind Africa’s global interests and count on the continent’s support in return. Here are some of the areas where Russia are mainly active: Economic interests: Russia is now seeking to exploit conventional gas and oil fields in Africa and elsewhere. Part of its long term energy strategy is to use Russian companies to create new streams of energy supply. For example, Russian companies have made significant investments in Algeria’s oil and gas industries. They have also invested in Libya, Nigeria, Ghana, Ivory Coast and Egypt. Russia is also expanding its African interests in minerals. Uranium – which is key to the nuclear power industry – is at the top of its list. In addition, Russian companies are producing aluminium in Nigeria, and have constructed hydropower stations in Angola, Namibia, Botswana. Russia is also on track to build nuclear plants in Egypt, Nigeria and Algeria. These investments are a means to becoming an integral part of Africa’s energy sector. Russia has also improved its commercial relations with its African partners. In 2009, it established the Coordinating Committee for Economic Cooperation with sub-Saharan Africa to assist in promoting Russian business interests. Defence interests: Russia has traditionally been one of Africa’s main arms suppliers. During the Cold War many armed liberation organisations and African countries – among them Angola, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Zambia and Guinea –bought military equipment from Russia. More recently Russia has made significant arms deals with Angola and Algeria. Egypt, Tanzania, Somalia, Mali, Sudan and Libya have also bought arms from Russia. The Russians also provide military training and support. Aid: Under Putin Russia has made sizeable aid donations to a variety of African countries averaging about $400 million per year. Around 60% of Russian aid is delivered through international organisations; global humanitarian organisations like the World Food Programme and the UN refugee agency. The remaining 40 per cent gets to Africa in a framework of bilateral cooperation. It also makes donations to support education, health care, agriculture, environment and energy. The danger for Moscow is that, the more progress it makes with African governments, the more likely it is that its interests will collide with those of either China or the US – or both. (Janos Besenyo is Associate Professor, Óbuda University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Russia in Africa: Can it offer an alternative to the US and China?

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