The United States has told Pakistan to fulfil the commitments made during <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-little-to-cheer-in-pakistan-pm-imran-khans-first-year-238649">Prime Minister Imran Khan</a>`s recently concluded visit to Washington.

The Pakistan Prime Minister held meetings with US President Donald Trump and the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo earlier this week, during which he "vowed to urge the Taliban to negotiate with the Afghan government".

"(The July 22 White House meeting) gave the chance for the President and the Secretary to meet Prime Minister Khan, to build a personal connection and rapport. (Now) we think it`s time to make progress on the success of this first meeting," said State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus, according to Dawn.

Watch- Khan's US Visit: Much to do about nothing?

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"There was a number of issues that were discussed not only in the President`s meeting but during the Secretary`s meeting as well...Now is the time to build upon that meeting and to build upon those commitments," she added.

The United States has told Pakistan to fulfil the commitments made during Prime Minister Imran Khan`s recently concluded visit to Washington. The Pakistan Prime Minister held meetings with US President Donald Trump and the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo earlier this week, during which he "vowed to urge the Taliban to negotiate with the Afghan government".

The United States has told Pakistan to fulfil the commitments made during Prime Minister Imran Khan`s recently concluded visit to Washington. The Pakistan Prime Minister held meetings with US President Donald Trump and the US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo earlier this week, during which he "vowed to urge the Taliban to negotiate with the Afghan government". "(The July 22 White House meeting) gave the chance for the President and the Secretary to meet Prime Minister Khan, to build a personal connection and rapport. (Now) we think it`s time to make progress on the success of this first meeting," said State Department Spokesperson Morgan Ortagus, according to Dawn. Watch- Khan's US Visit: Much to do about nothing? × "There was a number of issues that were discussed not only in the President`s meeting but during the Secretary`s meeting as well...Now is the time to build upon that meeting and to build upon those commitments," she added.

US tells Pakistan to make progress on commitments of Khan-Trump meeting

Just when India and the US had begun to address the uneasiness in bilateral ties due to high tariffs imposed by the two sides, President Donald Trump saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought his help in resolving the Kashmir issue with Pakistan has increased the temperature in New Delhi.&nbsp;

Realising the impact of the false statement, US officials swung into the damage control mode, saying that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. The fact, however, remains that the damage has been done.&nbsp;

The latest statement by Trump needs to be examined in the light of his ambiguous and regressive policy towards India in recent times.&nbsp;

Sure, India has been given a preeminent position in US Indo-Pacific strategy. The Trump administration has renamed its Pacific Command as the Indo-Pacific Command, largely in recognition of India’s increasing military and economic might in the region.&nbsp;

The US has also shown interest in treating India on a par with its NATO allies, deciding to sell India an MTCT Category-1 Unmanned Aerial System, Terminal High Altitude Area Defence System (THAAD) and Patriot Missile Defence System.&nbsp;

While these initiatives point towards the Trump administration’s ardent desire to strengthen defence and security ties with India, the fact remains the offer of THAAD has been made only to prevent India from buying the S-400 missile system from Russia.&nbsp;

This and other defence offerings by the US also underscore the Trump administration’s efforts to secure a large portion of the Indian defence market. Understandably so, because India is the world’s second-largest arms buyer. &nbsp;&nbsp;

While US is keen to see India play a vital role in the Indo-Pacific region, Washington is not a bit concerned about addressing India’s security threats emanating from Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, the continued insecurity in Afghanistan and the conflict between the US and Iran, among other issues.&nbsp;

In fact, there is a sea change in the Trump administration’s South Asia policy. In 2017, Trump’s South Asia Policy mentioned that the US will deploy more troops in Afghanistan without fixing a timeline for their return. Now, the US is holding talks with Taliban terrorists to secure a respectable exit from the 18-year-long Afghan war.&nbsp;

All this is happening without Washington consulting New Delhi on the issue. This unilateral action by the US indicates that it is not interested in protecting the interests of its allies and partners.&nbsp;

This becomes further clear from Trump’s Iran policy, which has resulted in India ending all oil imports from Iran. The possibility of India facing sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) is very high because it allows the US to impose economic sanctions on countries buying Russian military weapons.&nbsp;

If these initiatives still do not give a clear picture of the direction of Trump’s policy towards India, look at the high tariffs that Washington has imposed on Indian products. While the Modi government resisted taking retaliatory measures initially, the latest move by the US finally forced India to raise the tariffs on the import of 28 US products. This, in turn, further intensified the tension between the two sides.&nbsp;

In the meantime, the massive victory of the BJP-led alliance under the leadership of Modi witnessed some positive changes in the US’ attitude.&nbsp;

Speaking at the India Ideas Summit and the 44th Annual Meeting of the US-India Business Council, secretary of state Michael Pompeo said, “Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai,” alluding to the necessity of taking concrete efforts to address each other’s concerns. Subsequently, Pompeo’s visit to India and the meeting between Modi and Trump during the G-20 in June infused fresh air into the relationship.&nbsp;

However, the recent development has once again derailed the momentum of improvement in the relationship. Now it remains to be seen how the US tries to engage with India, while attempting to chart out a new approach towards its ties with Pakistan and the Taliban terrorist group in Afghanistan.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-trump-s-attitude-towards-india-unpredictable-unreliable-2775756">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;

Just when India and the US had begun to address the uneasiness in bilateral ties due to high tariffs imposed by the two sides, President Donald Trump saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought his help in resolving the Kashmir issue with Pakistan has increased the temperature in New Delhi.

Just when India and the US had begun to address the uneasiness in bilateral ties due to high tariffs imposed by the two sides, President Donald Trump saying that Prime Minister Narendra Modi sought his help in resolving the Kashmir issue with Pakistan has increased the temperature in New Delhi. Realising the impact of the false statement, US officials swung into the damage control mode, saying that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan. The fact, however, remains that the damage has been done. The latest statement by Trump needs to be examined in the light of his ambiguous and regressive policy towards India in recent times. Sure, India has been given a preeminent position in US Indo-Pacific strategy. The Trump administration has renamed its Pacific Command as the Indo-Pacific Command, largely in recognition of India’s increasing military and economic might in the region. The US has also shown interest in treating India on a par with its NATO allies, deciding to sell India an MTCT Category-1 Unmanned Aerial System, Terminal High Altitude Area Defence System (THAAD) and Patriot Missile Defence System. While these initiatives point towards the Trump administration’s ardent desire to strengthen defence and security ties with India, the fact remains the offer of THAAD has been made only to prevent India from buying the S-400 missile system from Russia. This and other defence offerings by the US also underscore the Trump administration’s efforts to secure a large portion of the Indian defence market. Understandably so, because India is the world’s second-largest arms buyer. While US is keen to see India play a vital role in the Indo-Pacific region, Washington is not a bit concerned about addressing India’s security threats emanating from Pakistan-sponsored terrorism, the continued insecurity in Afghanistan and the conflict between the US and Iran, among other issues. In fact, there is a sea change in the Trump administration’s South Asia policy. In 2017, Trump’s South Asia Policy mentioned that the US will deploy more troops in Afghanistan without fixing a timeline for their return. Now, the US is holding talks with Taliban terrorists to secure a respectable exit from the 18-year-long Afghan war. All this is happening without Washington consulting New Delhi on the issue. This unilateral action by the US indicates that it is not interested in protecting the interests of its allies and partners. This becomes further clear from Trump’s Iran policy, which has resulted in India ending all oil imports from Iran. The possibility of India facing sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) is very high because it allows the US to impose economic sanctions on countries buying Russian military weapons. If these initiatives still do not give a clear picture of the direction of Trump’s policy towards India, look at the high tariffs that Washington has imposed on Indian products. While the Modi government resisted taking retaliatory measures initially, the latest move by the US finally forced India to raise the tariffs on the import of 28 US products. This, in turn, further intensified the tension between the two sides. In the meantime, the massive victory of the BJP-led alliance under the leadership of Modi witnessed some positive changes in the US’ attitude. Speaking at the India Ideas Summit and the 44th Annual Meeting of the US-India Business Council, secretary of state Michael Pompeo said, “Modi Hai to Mumkin Hai,” alluding to the necessity of taking concrete efforts to address each other’s concerns. Subsequently, Pompeo’s visit to India and the meeting between Modi and Trump during the G-20 in June infused fresh air into the relationship. However, the recent development has once again derailed the momentum of improvement in the relationship. Now it remains to be seen how the US tries to engage with India, while attempting to chart out a new approach towards its ties with Pakistan and the Taliban terrorist group in Afghanistan. (This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Donald Trump’s attitude towards India unpredictable, unreliable

President Donald Trump celebrated his new Secretary of Defense with pomp and pagentry at the Pentagon, Thursday. The president, along with Vice President Mike Pence and Pentagon leaders participated in a full honors welcome ceremony, including a 21-gun-salute, for Mark Esper, an Army veteran and former defense industry lobbyist who was confirmed by the Senate 90-8 and sworn in on Tuesday. In remarks at the ceremony, Trump congratulated Esper and expressed confidence he is the right person for the growing challenges of the times.

Trump celebrates new Defense Secretary Mark Esper

Tensions Escalate In Korean Peninsula As North Korea Conducts New Missile Tests North Korea conducts new missile tests, South Korea calls it a threat. This latest provocation sends a clear message to the U.S.. North Korea does not want the U.S. to hold joint military drills with South Korea. Here's a summary

Gravitas: North Korea conducts new missile tests

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported.

Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said.

A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported.

President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members.

A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday.&nbsp;

Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war.

About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.&nbsp;

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission.

The body of a Croatian soldier killed in a Taliban-claimed suicide car bomb attack in Kabul landed back in his native country on Friday, media reported. Josip Briski, 27, was a member of a Croatian contingent deployed in Afghanistan as part of a US-led mission. He was killed on Wednesday when a suicide attacker hit his convoy, injuring two other Croatian soldiers, Croatia's Defence Minister Damir Krsticevic said. A US Air Force plane brought Briski's coffin draped in the red, white and blue Croatian flag to Zagreb airport where it received military honours, Croatia's Hina news agency reported. President Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic attended the airport ceremony along with other ministers, NATO representatives and family members. A commemoration is scheduled for Friday in the capital Zagreb and the soldier's funeral will be held on Saturday. Two other Croatian soldiers were wounded in the attack in Kabul. They were said to have serious but not life-threatening injuries, Krsticevic said on Wednesday. Violence in Afghanistan has flared in recent weeks as the United States leads an effort to forge a peace deal with the Taliban after nearly 18 years of war. About 100 Croatian soldiers are deployed in Afghanistan as part of the US Resolute Support Mission. Coalition soldiers help train and advise their Afghan partners.

Croatian soldier killed in Kabul attack returns home

Democratic presidential candidate, Tulsi Gabbard sues Google for $ 50 Mn as Google suspended Gabbard's ad account briefly. Gabbard is a vocal anti-big tech crusader. Google said that the account was suspended due to payment issues. Watch this video to know more.

Presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard sues Google for $ 50 Mn

Tensions escalated in the Korean Peninsula as North Korea conducts new missile tests, While South Korea calls it a threat. This latest provocation sends a clear message to the US. North Korea does not want the U.S. to hold joint military drills with South Korea. North Korea has released pictures of Kim Jong-un watching the tests. Watch this video to know more.

North Korea: Missile tests are warning to South Korea

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-war-like-the-one-going-on-between-us-and-china-foolish-thailand-ambassador-at-wion-world-order-238434&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwij9_GHsNLjAhUbHo8KHfTpAw0QFjADegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3q6V_pmXlrHO0FOtaqNfXk">US-China trade war</a> capped gains.

Brent crude futures were up 23 cents at $63.62 per barrel at 0922 GMT, equivalent to a weekly rise of around 1.8%. They fell 6% last week.

US West Texas Intermediate crude was 25 cents higher at $56.27 a barrel, a weekly gain of 1.1%. It fell to 7.5% last week.

Tensions remained high around the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most important oil passageway, as Iran refused to release a British-flagged tanker it seized last week in the Gulf.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington had asked Japan, France, Germany, South Korea, Australia, and other nations to join a maritime security initiative in the Middle East so oil and other products can flow through the strait.

However, oil prices' reaction to the strains in the Gulf has been relatively muted. "It appears that the majority of market participants do not expect a military conflict that would hamper oil shipments," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said.

Prices also drew support from a crude inventory draw in the United States, but gains were limited as the fall appeared to have been largely anticipated. The US production in the Gulf of Mexico was still feeling the effects of Hurricane Barry.

WATCH:&nbsp;Iran-UK tanker tensions: Iran releases 9 crew members

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"Several indicators pointing to a slowdown of global oil demand growth appear to have taken over market sentiment," Jefferies analyst Jason Gammel said.

Reuters polls taken July 1-24 showed the growth outlook for nearly 90% of the more than 45 economies surveyed was downgraded or left unchanged. That applied not just to this year but also in 2020.

"Growing challenges in the macroeconomic environment have kept bullish bets in check as risk appetites remain soft over potential weakness in global fuel demand," said Benjamin Lu, commodities analyst at Singapore-based Phillip Futures.

The slowdown in global manufacturing and trade, and the associated hit to oil consumption, largely stems from a US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year.

Trade talks between the two countries broke down in May after nearing an agreement. Next week, the top US and Chinese negotiators meet for the first time since then. Any positive outcome of the meeting is expected to boost oil prices.

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the US-China trade war capped gains.

Oil prices rose on Friday and were on track for a weekly increase as geopolitical tensions over Iran remained unresolved, although flagging prospects for global economic growth amid the US-China trade war capped gains. Brent crude futures were up 23 cents at $63.62 per barrel at 0922 GMT, equivalent to a weekly rise of around 1.8%. They fell 6% last week. US West Texas Intermediate crude was 25 cents higher at $56.27 a barrel, a weekly gain of 1.1%. It fell to 7.5% last week. Tensions remained high around the Strait of Hormuz, the world's most important oil passageway, as Iran refused to release a British-flagged tanker it seized last week in the Gulf. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Washington had asked Japan, France, Germany, South Korea, Australia, and other nations to join a maritime security initiative in the Middle East so oil and other products can flow through the strait. However, oil prices' reaction to the strains in the Gulf has been relatively muted. "It appears that the majority of market participants do not expect a military conflict that would hamper oil shipments," Commerzbank analyst Carsten Fritsch said. Prices also drew support from a crude inventory draw in the United States, but gains were limited as the fall appeared to have been largely anticipated. The US production in the Gulf of Mexico was still feeling the effects of Hurricane Barry. WATCH: Iran-UK tanker tensions: Iran releases 9 crew members × "Several indicators pointing to a slowdown of global oil demand growth appear to have taken over market sentiment," Jefferies analyst Jason Gammel said. Reuters polls taken July 1-24 showed the growth outlook for nearly 90% of the more than 45 economies surveyed was downgraded or left unchanged. That applied not just to this year but also in 2020. "Growing challenges in the macroeconomic environment have kept bullish bets in check as risk appetites remain soft over potential weakness in global fuel demand," said Benjamin Lu, commodities analyst at Singapore-based Phillip Futures. The slowdown in global manufacturing and trade, and the associated hit to oil consumption, largely stems from a US-China trade war that has rumbled on over the last year. Trade talks between the two countries broke down in May after nearing an agreement. Next week, the top US and Chinese negotiators meet for the first time since then. Any positive outcome of the meeting is expected to boost oil prices.

Oil prices rise as Iran tensions remain unresolved

A resolution recently tabled by two Republican senators recommitting the US` "continuing support" to Pakistan is not only an insult to American servicemen who laid down their lives while fighting in Afghanistan but is also in contrast with goals of US national security.

In an opinion piece for Washington Examiner, Michael Rubin examines how lobbying was at play behind tabling of the resolution and underlines how Pakistan continues to harbour and support terrorists.

Senators Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas and Jim Banks of Indiana had introduced the resolution in the House of Representatives welcoming Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Washington and reiterating the US` stand to "continuing support and commitment to the long and enduring friendship between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan."

"Pakistan and the United States have a shared interest and are cooperating in efforts to establish lasting peace in Afghanistan," the resolution reads.

However, the resolution adopted is a far cry from Pakistan`s realities, considering that it continues to harbour, shield and support terror-groups operating on its soil and consistently undermining Afghanistan`s security and stability writes Rubin.

The writer of the article also recalls an open letter written by Khan in 2009. In that letter addressed to then US President Barack Obama, Khan had said that the US is an "occupying power" in Afghanistan and opined that the Taliban group is the legitimate government in the war-torn nation.

Khan also pointed fingers at Obama for a "supposed al Qaeda resurgence" in Afghanistan owing to US` presence, which ironically, came at a time when Pakistan was sheltering Al Qaeda founder chief Osama bin Laden, who was killed in a raid by US special forces at his private compound in the garrison town of Abbottabad in 2011.

When Laden was killed, Khan had claimed that Washington`s action was a breach of the UN Charter. In a fundraising visit to the US in 2012, Khan heaped praises on Taliban and justified the group`s "jihad in Afghanistan."

"Khan`s followers have worked to prevent vital resupply of US and NATO troops fighting the Taliban. Blocking NATO supply through Pakistan in contravention of a diplomatic and contractual agreement which saw aid and fees flood into Pakistani accounts was a position directed by Khan himself," Rubin notes.

''The Jackson Lee-Banks resolution urges greater investment in Pakistan, but it was again Khan who argued that taking American money made Pakistan a `stooge.` Khan may seek money, but his track record over a long career suggests that humiliating the United States and promoting its assailants is his chief goal," the author opines.

Moreover, Rubin says that Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence agency and political elites in the country have long believed that using religious radicalism as a tool of foreign policy for achieving Islamabad`s short-term goals.

"The elite bubbles in which Khan has lived his life are wrong, however. Religious radicalism may well be past the tipping point in Pakistan, and may very well be a danger that risks overwhelming more traditional Pakistani politics and moderation," the writer warns.

To embrace Khan "sycophantically" and ignoring the fact that the policies he adopted and continuing to embrace them has led to the deaths of over 2,000 American servicemen and an exponentially higher number of Afghan civilians, says Rubin.

Criticising Lee and Banks for their resolution, the author says that the duo could have spoken the truth to Khan, if they "really cared" about the country, rather than allowing Islamabad "a free pass to launder it position papers through Congress".Rubin concludes in his article, "The Jackson Lee-Banks resolution suggests a dangerous lack of strategic vision in both parties and a failure on Capitol Hill to honour the legacy and sacrifice of American troops who have made so many sacrifices to promote a better future in Afghanistan and keep al Qaeda on the run.

A resolution recently tabled by two Republican senators recommitting the US` "continuing support" to Pakistan is not only an insult to American servicemen who laid down their lives while fighting in Afghanistan but is also in contrast with goals of US national security.

A resolution recently tabled by two Republican senators recommitting the US` "continuing support" to Pakistan is not only an insult to American servicemen who laid down their lives while fighting in Afghanistan but is also in contrast with goals of US national security. In an opinion piece for Washington Examiner, Michael Rubin examines how lobbying was at play behind tabling of the resolution and underlines how Pakistan continues to harbour and support terrorists. Senators Sheila Jackson Lee of Texas and Jim Banks of Indiana had introduced the resolution in the House of Representatives welcoming Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan to Washington and reiterating the US` stand to "continuing support and commitment to the long and enduring friendship between the United States and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan." "Pakistan and the United States have a shared interest and are cooperating in efforts to establish lasting peace in Afghanistan," the resolution reads. However, the resolution adopted is a far cry from Pakistan`s realities, considering that it continues to harbour, shield and support terror-groups operating on its soil and consistently undermining Afghanistan`s security and stability writes Rubin. The writer of the article also recalls an open letter written by Khan in 2009. In that letter addressed to then US President Barack Obama, Khan had said that the US is an "occupying power" in Afghanistan and opined that the Taliban group is the legitimate government in the war-torn nation. Khan also pointed fingers at Obama for a "supposed al Qaeda resurgence" in Afghanistan owing to US` presence, which ironically, came at a time when Pakistan was sheltering Al Qaeda founder chief Osama bin Laden, who was killed in a raid by US special forces at his private compound in the garrison town of Abbottabad in 2011. When Laden was killed, Khan had claimed that Washington`s action was a breach of the UN Charter. In a fundraising visit to the US in 2012, Khan heaped praises on Taliban and justified the group`s "jihad in Afghanistan." "Khan`s followers have worked to prevent vital resupply of US and NATO troops fighting the Taliban. Blocking NATO supply through Pakistan in contravention of a diplomatic and contractual agreement which saw aid and fees flood into Pakistani accounts was a position directed by Khan himself," Rubin notes. ''The Jackson Lee-Banks resolution urges greater investment in Pakistan, but it was again Khan who argued that taking American money made Pakistan a `stooge.` Khan may seek money, but his track record over a long career suggests that humiliating the United States and promoting its assailants is his chief goal," the author opines. Moreover, Rubin says that Pakistan`s Inter-Services Intelligence agency and political elites in the country have long believed that using religious radicalism as a tool of foreign policy for achieving Islamabad`s short-term goals. "The elite bubbles in which Khan has lived his life are wrong, however. Religious radicalism may well be past the tipping point in Pakistan, and may very well be a danger that risks overwhelming more traditional Pakistani politics and moderation," the writer warns. To embrace Khan "sycophantically" and ignoring the fact that the policies he adopted and continuing to embrace them has led to the deaths of over 2,000 American servicemen and an exponentially higher number of Afghan civilians, says Rubin. Criticising Lee and Banks for their resolution, the author says that the duo could have spoken the truth to Khan, if they "really cared" about the country, rather than allowing Islamabad "a free pass to launder it position papers through Congress".Rubin concludes in his article, "The Jackson Lee-Banks resolution suggests a dangerous lack of strategic vision in both parties and a failure on Capitol Hill to honour the legacy and sacrifice of American troops who have made so many sacrifices to promote a better future in Afghanistan and keep al Qaeda on the run.

Pro-Pak congressional resolution contrary to national security, insults US servicemen

Australia said it would establish the world's first dedicated office to police <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-to-create-privacy-panel-pay-5-billion-to-us-to-settle-data-breach-allegations-238141&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj36anBpdLjAhXJrY8KHYA-CLwQFjAHegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1s3tXY3k3_9nycsyvVh1Tr">Facebook Inc</a> and <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/big-tech-faces-broad-us-justice-department-antitrust-probe-238042&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj36anBpdLjAhXJrY8KHYA-CLwQFjAGegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1uT8BUjqeLr30Z5u6gK1Kq">Google</a>&nbsp;as part of reforms designed to rein in the US technology giants, potentially setting a precedent for global lawmakers.

The move tightens the regulatory screws on the online platforms, which have governments from the United States to Europe scrambling to address concerns ranging from anti-trust issues to the spread of "fake news" and hate speech.

Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the $5 billion fine slapped on Facebook in the United States this month for privacy breaches showed regulators were now taking such issues extremely seriously.

Watch Video:

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"These companies are among the most powerful and valuable in the world," Frydenberg told reporters in Sydney after the release of a much-anticipated report on future regulation of the dominant digital platforms.

"They need to be held to account and their activities need to be more transparent."

Canberra would form a special branch of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the antitrust watchdog, to scrutinise how the companies used algorithms to match advertisements with viewers, giving them a stronghold on the main income generator of media operators.

The new office was one of 23 recommendations in the ACCC's report, including strengthening privacy laws, protections for the news media and a code of conduct requiring regulatory approval to govern how internet giants profit from users' content.

Frydenberg said the government intended to "lift the veil" on the closely guarded algorithms the firms use to collect and monetise users' data, and accepted the ACCC's "overriding conclusion that there is a need for reform".

The proposals would be subject to a 12-week public consultation process before the government acts on the report, he added.

Google and Facebook have opposed tighter regulation while traditional media owners, including Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, have backed reform.

News Corp's local executive chairman, Michael Miller, welcomed the "strength of the language and the identification of the problems", and said the publisher would work with the government to ensure "real change".

Facebook and Google said they would engage with the government during the consultation process, but had no comment on the specific recommendations.

The firms have previously rejected the need for tighter regulation and said the ACCC had underestimated the level of competition for online advertising.

ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said the regulator had five investigations of the two companies underway, and "I believe more will follow".

He said he was shocked at the amount of personal data the firms collected, often without users' knowledge.

"There needs to be a lot more transparency and oversight of Google and Facebook and their operations and practices," he said.

Among other recommendations in the report, the ACCC said it wanted privacy law updated to give people the right to erase personal data stored online, aligning Australia with some elements of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation.

"We cannot leave these issues to be dealt with by commercial entities with substantial reach and market power. It's really up to government and regulators to get up to date and stay up to date in relation to all these issues," Sims said.

While the regulator did not recommend breaking up the tech giants, Sims also did not rule it out.

"If it turns out that ... divestiture is a better approach, then that can always be recommended down the track," he said.

Australia said it would establish the world's first dedicated office to police Facebook Inc and Google as part of reforms designed to rein in the US technology giants, potentially setting a precedent for global lawmakers.

Australia said it would establish the world's first dedicated office to police Facebook Inc and Google as part of reforms designed to rein in the US technology giants, potentially setting a precedent for global lawmakers. The move tightens the regulatory screws on the online platforms, which have governments from the United States to Europe scrambling to address concerns ranging from anti-trust issues to the spread of "fake news" and hate speech. Australian Treasurer Josh Frydenberg said the $5 billion fine slapped on Facebook in the United States this month for privacy breaches showed regulators were now taking such issues extremely seriously. Watch Video: "These companies are among the most powerful and valuable in the world," Frydenberg told reporters in Sydney after the release of a much-anticipated report on future regulation of the dominant digital platforms. "They need to be held to account and their activities need to be more transparent." Canberra would form a special branch of the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), the antitrust watchdog, to scrutinise how the companies used algorithms to match advertisements with viewers, giving them a stronghold on the main income generator of media operators. The new office was one of 23 recommendations in the ACCC's report, including strengthening privacy laws, protections for the news media and a code of conduct requiring regulatory approval to govern how internet giants profit from users' content. Frydenberg said the government intended to "lift the veil" on the closely guarded algorithms the firms use to collect and monetise users' data, and accepted the ACCC's "overriding conclusion that there is a need for reform". The proposals would be subject to a 12-week public consultation process before the government acts on the report, he added. Google and Facebook have opposed tighter regulation while traditional media owners, including Rupert Murdoch's News Corp, have backed reform. News Corp's local executive chairman, Michael Miller, welcomed the "strength of the language and the identification of the problems", and said the publisher would work with the government to ensure "real change". Facebook and Google said they would engage with the government during the consultation process, but had no comment on the specific recommendations. The firms have previously rejected the need for tighter regulation and said the ACCC had underestimated the level of competition for online advertising. ACCC Chairman Rod Sims said the regulator had five investigations of the two companies underway, and "I believe more will follow". He said he was shocked at the amount of personal data the firms collected, often without users' knowledge. "There needs to be a lot more transparency and oversight of Google and Facebook and their operations and practices," he said. Among other recommendations in the report, the ACCC said it wanted privacy law updated to give people the right to erase personal data stored online, aligning Australia with some elements of the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation. "We cannot leave these issues to be dealt with by commercial entities with substantial reach and market power. It's really up to government and regulators to get up to date and stay up to date in relation to all these issues," Sims said. While the regulator did not recommend breaking up the tech giants, Sims also did not rule it out. "If it turns out that ... divestiture is a better approach, then that can always be recommended down the track," he said.

Now, Australia to 'lift veil' on Facebook, Google algorithms to protect privacy

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

"Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted.

During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added.

On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said. "Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted. During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added. On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

Mike Pompeo, Ashraf Ghani call for accelerated efforts to end Afghan war

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said.

"Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted.

&lt;blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"&gt;&lt;p lang="en" dir="ltr"&gt;Good conversation with President &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;@AshrafGhani&lt;/a&gt; yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#Afghanistan&lt;/a&gt;. All parties must lead to move the &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;#AfghanPeaceProcess&lt;/a&gt; forward.&lt;/p&gt;&amp;mdash; Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1154462263740456960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw"&gt;July 25, 2019&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/blockquote&gt; 
&lt;script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"&gt;&lt;/script&gt; 
&nbsp;

During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added.

On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani insisted that it is the time to accelerate efforts in order to end almost two decades old turmoil in war-ravaged Afghanistan, the US State Department said. "Good conversation with President @AshrafGhani yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in #Afghanistan. All parties must lead to move the #AfghanPeaceProcess forward," the State Secretary tweeted. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">Good conversation with President <a href="https://twitter.com/ashrafghani?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AshrafGhani</a> yesterday. We agreed that now is the time to accelerate efforts to reach a negotiated end to the war in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a>. All parties must lead to move the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AfghanPeaceProcess?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AfghanPeaceProcess</a> forward.&mdash; Secretary Pompeo (@SecPompeo) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo/status/1154462263740456960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 25, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> During a phone call on Wednesday, Pompeo assured Ghani that there has been no change to President Donald Trump`s South Asia strategy, including U.S. commitment to a conditions-based drawdown, the Department said in a statement. Pompeo further informed Ghani that he had sent Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Joseph Dunford and Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Ambassador Zalmay Khalilzad to Kabul to discuss in detail the next steps on the road to peace, the statement added. On his part, Ghani welcomed the Secretary`s engagement, and confirmed Afghanistan`s commitment to working side-by-side with the United States to achieve a stable, peaceful, democratic Afghanistan that is not a centre for terrorism, it read. Khalilzad is currently holding talks with the Taliban to work out an agreement for withdrawal of the US troops and participation of the group in the Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process.

Tulsi Gabbard is a democratic presidential candidate. Google suspended Gabbard's ad account briefly. Gabbard is a vocal anti-big tech crusader. Google said that the account was suspended due to payment issues. Watch this video to know more.

U.S representative Tulsi Gabbard takes on Google

North Korea fired two short-range missiles early on Thursday from its eastern coast, South Korea's military said. It is the first missile test since leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed to revive stalled denuclearisation talks. Watch this video to know more.

South Korean military: North Korea fired two missiles into sea

North Korea has conducted new missile tests, raising further tensions on the Korean peninsula. South Korea has described the launches as a security threat. Watch this video to know more.

South Korea calls North Korea missile tests as a security threat

The Taliban have justified the 9/11 attack and blamed America's policy for it. The group has released new footage. The footage was shared online by the American website Long War Journal.

Taliban justifies 9/11 attack, blames US for 9/11

President Trump offered to help mediate the long-running Kashmir conflict in a White House meeting with Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan, briefly raising the prospect of a substantial shift in the U.S. role in the conflict before India swiftly rejected it.

WION EDIT: Why US wants to keep Pak on its side?

Massive Power Outage Across Venezuela. President Maduro Blames It On The U.S. Venezuela plunges into darkness due to a massive power outage. President Maduro says that the U.S. was responsible for the outage, Maduro hints at possible cyber attacks. Is the U.S. waging an electricity war on Maduro's regime? Or is Venezuela's power grid genuinely in a bad shape? This report explores.

Gravitas: Venezuela plunges into darkness

After Trump's Kashmir Comment, Interactions Between The U.S. & Indian Diplomats Could Be Awkward Can Trump afford to anger India? How will his 'Kashmir' comments impact the U.S.' ties with India as well as Pakistan. Here's Palki looking at the road ahead for the U.S., India and Pakistan after Trump's bizarre claims

Gravitas: Can Trump afford to anger India?

Trump Projects Himself As A Deal Maker. He Has Even Written A Book On The Topic. But Is He Any Good? Is Trump any good as a deal maker? The POTUS often boasts of his abilities to stitch deals. But his tendency to flirt from one blunder to another could hurt the U.S. foreign policy. This report explores Trump's ability as a deal maker.

Gravitas: Is Trump any good as a deal maker?

Trump's Faux Pas Getting Out Of Hand? U.S. President Trump's trackrecord on facts doesn't make for pleasant reading. He has said things like Moon is part of Mars, the Continental Army took over airports (!) during American War of Independence and other 'fantastic' things. His comments on Kashmir are just the latest in the list of bloopers and bizarre claims. Palki explains

Gravitas: Trump's many blunders: A summary

US Special Counsel Robert Mueller is testifying before two congressional committees about his investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election and possible obstruction of justice by President Donald Trump. Watch full video to know more.

Mueller dismisses Trump claim of 'exoneration'

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-be-reunited-pla-will-defeat-anyone-attempting-to-separate-taiwan-national-defence-plan-238163">China's foreign ministry</a> said on Wednesday it opposed the long-arm jurisdiction of the United States amid indictments on Chinese firms.

A Chinese company, its owner and three managers have been indicted on charges of conspiring to evade US sanctions meant to stop North Korean firms from helping Pyongyang to develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the US Department of Justice said on Tuesday.

"The head of Dandong Hongxiang Limited company you mentioned is suspected of economic crimes and China's judiciary is currently dealing with this matter according to its laws," ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a daily briefing.

The US treasury department's Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on Dandong Hongxiang when the charges were announced in September 2016, the first time Washington had taken such a step against a Chinese company.

China's foreign ministry said on Wednesday it opposed the long-arm jurisdiction of the United States amid indictments on Chinese firms. A Chinese company, its owner and three managers have been indicted on charges of conspiring to evade US sanctions meant to stop North Korean firms from helping Pyongyang to develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the US Department of Justice said on Tuesday.

China's foreign ministry said on Wednesday it opposed the long-arm jurisdiction of the United States amid indictments on Chinese firms. A Chinese company, its owner and three managers have been indicted on charges of conspiring to evade US sanctions meant to stop North Korean firms from helping Pyongyang to develop nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, the US Department of Justice said on Tuesday. "The head of Dandong Hongxiang Limited company you mentioned is suspected of economic crimes and China's judiciary is currently dealing with this matter according to its laws," ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying told a daily briefing. The US treasury department's Office of Foreign Assets Control imposed sanctions on Dandong Hongxiang when the charges were announced in September 2016, the first time Washington had taken such a step against a Chinese company.

Oppose US long-arm jurisdiction of Chinese firms:  Foreign ministry

Central American migrants in the border city of Ciudad Juarez on Monday were finding it more difficult to both enter the United States and to stay in Mexico as both countries have hardened immigration policy over recent months.

'They throw us in the streets' - migrants face hardened policies on both sides of US-Mexico border

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US tells Pakistan to make progress on commitments of Khan-Trump meeting

Donald Trump’s attitude towards India unpredictable, unreliable

Trump celebrates new Defense Secretary Mark Esper

Gravitas: North Korea conducts new missile tests

Croatian soldier killed in Kabul attack returns home

Presidential candidate Tulsi Gabbard sues Google for $ 50 Mn

North Korea: Missile tests are warning to South Korea

Oil prices rise as Iran tensions remain unresolved

Pro-Pak congressional resolution contrary to national security, insults US servicemen

Now, Australia to 'lift veil' on Facebook, Google algorithms to protect privacy

Mike Pompeo, Ashraf Ghani call for accelerated efforts to end Afghan war

Mike Pompeo, Ashraf Ghani call for accelerated efforts to end Afghan war

U.S representative Tulsi Gabbard takes on Google

South Korean military: North Korea fired two missiles into sea

South Korea calls North Korea missile tests as a security threat

Taliban justifies 9/11 attack, blames US for 9/11

WION EDIT: Why US wants to keep Pak on its side?

Gravitas: Venezuela plunges into darkness

Gravitas: Can Trump afford to anger India?

Gravitas: Is Trump any good as a deal maker?

Gravitas: Trump's many blunders: A summary

Mueller dismisses Trump claim of 'exoneration'

Oppose US long-arm jurisdiction of Chinese firms: Foreign ministry

'They throw us in the streets' - migrants face hardened policies on both sides of US-Mexico border