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WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, June 1st 2019

Civil aviation regulators from around the world failed to make a determination Thursday on when Boeing's popular 737 MAX aircraft can return to the skies after being grounded following two deadly crashes.

"The only timetable is to make sure the aircraft is safe to fly," Daniel Elwell, acting head of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/faa-bans-low-flights-over-venezuelas-airspace-citing-political-instability-215037">US Federal Aviation Administration</a>, said at the conclusion of the day-long meeting in Texas.

There was "enthusiastic agreement to continue the dialogue," he said, but acknowledged that "each country has to make its own decision."

"If they unground relatively close to when we unground I think it would help with public confidence," Elwell said while adding that: "We can't be driven by some arbitrary timeline."

Until the 737 MAX crashes in Ethiopia in March and Indonesia in October which left a combined 346 people dead, the common practice was that air regulators would follow the assessment of the agency overseeing the model, in this case, the FAA.

On Wednesday, Elwell threw cold water on hopes of a speedy resolution, after revealing that Boeing had held off submitting a proposed software fix for review after his agency raised additional questions.

Investigators have focused on the MAX's anti-stall Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System in inquiries into the two deadly crashes.

Boeing last week said the MCAS update was ready for the certification process, and US airlines were hoping the planes could be back in the skies in time for part of the summer travel season.

But Elwell on Thursday said the process could take one month, two months or longer.

"It is all determined by what we find in our analysis of the application," he said on CNBC.

Once Boeing has submitted all documentation, the FAA will conduct a test flight and detailed analysis to evaluate the safety of the software.

Richard Aboulafia, an aviation analyst at Teal Group, said Boeing wants to avoid having to repeat the process.

"There's a lot at stake in terms of the first impression by the world's regulators," he told AFP.

US air carriers that operate the 737 MAX, including American Airlines, Southwest and United, have said they hope to have the planes flying again by mid-August at the latest.

But the FAA's reputation has taken a beating since the March crash and faced accusations of an overly cosy relationship with the aviation giant. Other aviation authorities now appear less likely to follow the US agency.

Michel Merluzeau of Air Insight Research said American officials could end the 737 MAX's grounding toward the end of summer, with authorities in other countries following suit "several months" later.

"We're headed for a return to service that could drag on in time," he said.

'Frank discussion'&nbsp;

Elwell said regulators also have yet to decide on changes to pilot training once the adjustments have been approved.

The United States has differed with a number of countries on this issue, including Canada. Washington believes training on computers or tablets is sufficient for seasoned pilots but Ottawa wants to require training on flight simulators.

The European Aviation Safety Agency, Canada and Brazil are among countries saying they will conduct their own evaluations of the MCAS fix.

What China, the first country to ground the 737 MAX, will do is also an unknown given the flare-up in trade frictions with the United States.

About five dozen representatives from 33 countries accepted the FAA's invitation to attend the regulators' conference in Texas.&nbsp;

Elwell said the closed-door meeting involved "frank questions and a frank discussion," adding that his counterparts wanted "clarifications" on US procedures.

Regaining public trust will take time, according to opinion polls conducted by Southwest showing that many passengers are not yet ready to get back aboard a 737 MAX jet. And pilots also have qualms.

"Before the Boeing MAX's return to service, we need answers and transparency," the European Cockpit Association said Thursday in a statement.

The organization, which represents 38,000 pilots from 36 countries, said it was "deeply disturbing" that the FAA and Boeing were considering a return to service while not disclosing "the many challenging questions prompted by the MAX design philosophy."

Beyond Boeing's reputation, the 737 MAX crisis comes at a major financial cost, given that the plane represented 80 per cent of the company's order backlog as of the end of last month.

The company, which has suspended deliveries, is only paid at the moment of delivery and will have to indemnify air carriers for losses.

Civil aviation regulators from around the world failed to make a determination Thursday on when Boeing's popular 737 MAX aircraft can return to the skies after being grounded following two deadly crashes.

Civil aviation regulators from around the world failed to make a determination Thursday on when Boeing's popular 737 MAX aircraft can return to the skies after being grounded following two deadly crashes. "The only timetable is to make sure the aircraft is safe to fly," Daniel Elwell, acting head of the US Federal Aviation Administration, said at the conclusion of the day-long meeting in Texas. There was "enthusiastic agreement to continue the dialogue," he said, but acknowledged that "each country has to make its own decision." "If they unground relatively close to when we unground I think it would help with public confidence," Elwell said while adding that: "We can't be driven by some arbitrary timeline." Until the 737 MAX crashes in Ethiopia in March and Indonesia in October which left a combined 346 people dead, the common practice was that air regulators would follow the assessment of the agency overseeing the model, in this case, the FAA. On Wednesday, Elwell threw cold water on hopes of a speedy resolution, after revealing that Boeing had held off submitting a proposed software fix for review after his agency raised additional questions. Investigators have focused on the MAX's anti-stall Maneuvering Characteristics Augmentation System in inquiries into the two deadly crashes. Boeing last week said the MCAS update was ready for the certification process, and US airlines were hoping the planes could be back in the skies in time for part of the summer travel season. But Elwell on Thursday said the process could take one month, two months or longer. "It is all determined by what we find in our analysis of the application," he said on CNBC. Once Boeing has submitted all documentation, the FAA will conduct a test flight and detailed analysis to evaluate the safety of the software. Richard Aboulafia, an aviation analyst at Teal Group, said Boeing wants to avoid having to repeat the process. "There's a lot at stake in terms of the first impression by the world's regulators," he told AFP. US air carriers that operate the 737 MAX, including American Airlines, Southwest and United, have said they hope to have the planes flying again by mid-August at the latest. But the FAA's reputation has taken a beating since the March crash and faced accusations of an overly cosy relationship with the aviation giant. Other aviation authorities now appear less likely to follow the US agency. Michel Merluzeau of Air Insight Research said American officials could end the 737 MAX's grounding toward the end of summer, with authorities in other countries following suit "several months" later. "We're headed for a return to service that could drag on in time," he said. 'Frank discussion' Elwell said regulators also have yet to decide on changes to pilot training once the adjustments have been approved. The United States has differed with a number of countries on this issue, including Canada. Washington believes training on computers or tablets is sufficient for seasoned pilots but Ottawa wants to require training on flight simulators. The European Aviation Safety Agency, Canada and Brazil are among countries saying they will conduct their own evaluations of the MCAS fix. What China, the first country to ground the 737 MAX, will do is also an unknown given the flare-up in trade frictions with the United States. About five dozen representatives from 33 countries accepted the FAA's invitation to attend the regulators' conference in Texas. Elwell said the closed-door meeting involved "frank questions and a frank discussion," adding that his counterparts wanted "clarifications" on US procedures. Regaining public trust will take time, according to opinion polls conducted by Southwest showing that many passengers are not yet ready to get back aboard a 737 MAX jet. And pilots also have qualms. "Before the Boeing MAX's return to service, we need answers and transparency," the European Cockpit Association said Thursday in a statement. The organization, which represents 38,000 pilots from 36 countries, said it was "deeply disturbing" that the FAA and Boeing were considering a return to service while not disclosing "the many challenging questions prompted by the MAX design philosophy." Beyond Boeing's reputation, the 737 MAX crisis comes at a major financial cost, given that the plane represented 80 per cent of the company's order backlog as of the end of last month. The company, which has suspended deliveries, is only paid at the moment of delivery and will have to indemnify air carriers for losses.

Regulators fail to set date for 737 MAX return to service

"The war in Vietnam was not lost in the field, nor was it lost on the front pages of the New York Times or the college campuses. It was lost in Washington, D.C.”

H R McMaster wrote that statement in his 1997 scathing critique of the Vietnam War, "Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to Vietnam." He was a major in the Army at that time. Now, he is a retired lieutenant general and former national security advisor to President Donald Trump.

It is indeed ironic that McMaster eventually contributed to what many people thought to be impossible by repeating the mistakes of Vietnam and losing the Afghanistan war—both in the field and in Washington, DC.

The real tragedy is that America’s leaders, in particular, its military leaders, long knew that the war in Afghanistan could not be won having chosen to fight it in a manner that was alien to its nature, thus wasting both treasure and precious lives.

For over seventeen years we have wrongly applied counterinsurgency doctrine to a proxy war waged by Pakistan against the United States and Afghanistan. At the same time, we supplied Pakistan with generous aid packages to bribe them from pursuing a course of action opposed to our own, which they considered in their national interest.

Counterinsurgency was never a winning strategy as long as Pakistan controlled the supply of our troops in landlocked Afghanistan and regulated the operational tempo through its proxy army, the Taliban, which has maintained an extensive recruiting, training and financial support infrastructure inside Pakistan, where it has been immune to attack.

In essence, our leaders, through a combination of incompetence and indifference, allowed the United States to be defeated by Pakistan and paid them to do it.

Pakistan’s objectives for Afghanistan have always been different than those of the United States. Not only has Pakistan not helped the United States in Afghanistan, but from the very beginning through its support of the Taliban, Pakistan has actively worked against our interests and is responsible for the prolongation of the war and the deaths and maiming of thousands of Americans and Afghans.

For example, Jalaluddin Haqqani, then the leader of the Haqqani Network, controlled the Khost region of eastern Afghanistan, which is where most of Osama bin Laden’s training camps and supporters were, was a CIA asset in the 1980s and met with US officials soon after 9/11.

Journalist Steve Coll wrote, “There was always a question about whether Haqqani was really Taliban, because he hadn’t come out of Kandahar; he wasn’t part of the core group. And it was quite reasonable to believe after 9/11 that maybe he could be flipped.”

In early October 2001, Haqqani made a secret trip to Pakistan, where Lt Gen Mahmood Ahmed, a religious hardliner and then director of Pakistan’s notorious intelligence agency, the ISI, advised him to hold out and not defect, promising that he would receive help.

Subsequently, Haqqani decided to stay with the Taliban and the Haqqani Network continues to be a threat and a source of instability in Afghanistan.

The United States was aware of Pakistan’s duplicity early on. Gary Berntsen, one of the first CIA operatives to arrive in Afghanistan, said, “I assumed from the beginning of the conflict that ISI advisers were supporting the Taliban with expertise and material and, no doubt, sending a steady stream of intelligence back to [Pakistan].”

The same pattern of duplicitous behaviour by Pakistan has continued over the last seventeen years.

Late last year, during a Taliban attack on the Afghan provincial capital of Ghazni, large numbers of Pakistani nationals were found among the dead, presumably fighting with the Taliban. The bodies were subsequently returned to Pakistan.

In a recently released video, Al Qaeda emphasises its unity with Taliban and its role within the Taliban insurgency, as the jihadists, including Pakistanis, fight together to resurrect the Taliban’s Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan.

And yet American political leaders and senior military officers have done nothing, preferring to remain puzzled or indifferent as to why we have not won in Afghanistan.

Pakistanis openly brag that they have defeated the United States.

Shortly before his death in 2015, Lt. Gen. Hamid Gul, the former head of Pakistan’s ISI, a committed Islamist and known as the “godfather of the Taliban,” said in an Urdu language television interview:

“One day, history will say that the ISI drove the Soviet Union out of Afghanistan with the help of USA and another sentence will be recorded that says the ISI drove the USA out of Afghanistan with the help of the USA.”

The Pakistani audience roared with laughter and applauded in approval.

The problem of Pakistan as the actual instigator of the Afghan conflict was never adequately addressed and Taliban safe havens in Pakistan remained largely untouched.

The pressure was never applied to Pakistan’s pain points, its moribund economy and financial insolvency and the existential threat of ethnic separatism, in particular among Pakistan’s Baloch and Pashtun populations.

On the ground in Afghanistan, the war effort has been a programme on automatic pilot, where everyone has been constantly reassured that everything was going according to plan and “progress was being made,” a phrase I heard endlessly during my own 2010 tenure at International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Headquarters in Kabul. If the effectiveness of the strategy was ever questioned within the military chain of command, then it had no obvious effect.

Lacking any new ideas or even a recognition of reality, we chose to continue pursuing a proven inappropriate counterinsurgency approach in Afghanistan, which has now forced the United States into direct negotiations with the Taliban, a concession we had previously refused to consider.

Yet, an American withdrawal will only become a humiliating defeat, if the United States is forced into strategic retreat from South Asia because we do not have a plan in place to address the changing regional conditions in a post–US Afghanistan.

The only bargaining chip the United States has in peace negotiations is our presence in Afghanistan, which has been the primary target of the Taliban negotiators, insisting that the United States announce a six-month withdrawal plan.

The American “presence” argument is tenuous at best. The United States should be identifying new forms of leverage to bolster our negotiating position in the short term and, longer term, provide a basis for a new South Asian strategy.

The recently-announced effort to strengthen military ties with India is a step in the right direction.

The United States should also include measures to thwart plans by the China-Pakistan Axis for regional hegemony. Beijing intends to extend its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) throughout South Asia, including Afghanistan, and follow it with the establishment of military facilities, such as Chinese naval bases on the Arabian Sea.

The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is the flagship of BRI. Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan is CPEC’s centre of gravity and the location of a festering independence insurgency. Just recently, the Balochistan Liberation Army made a daring and high-profile attack on the Pearl Continental Hotel in the heart of the Chinese-run port of Gwadar, CPEC’s centrepiece project.

An independent Balochistan could fulfill a number of US strategic interests in the region, for example: providing Afghanistan a friendly neighbor and access to the sea; eliminating a major area of Pakistan’s terrorist infrastructure; placing additional pressure on Iran, which has its own restive Baloch population; and blocking Chinese ambitions for economic and military dominance of South Asia.

The foundations of a new US strategy in South Asia should include burden shifting and, when necessary, strategic disruption of our adversaries. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

"The war in Vietnam was not lost in the field, nor was it lost on the front pages of the New York Times or the college campuses. It was lost in Washington, D.C.” H R McMaster wrote that statement in his 1997 scathing critique of the Vietnam War, "Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to Vietnam.

"The war in Vietnam was not lost in the field, nor was it lost on the front pages of the New York Times or the college campuses. It was lost in Washington, D.C.” H R McMaster wrote that statement in his 1997 scathing critique of the Vietnam War, "Dereliction of Duty: Lyndon Johnson, Robert McNamara, the Joint Chiefs of Staff, and the Lies That Led to Vietnam." He was a major in the Army at that time. Now, he is a retired lieutenant general and former national security advisor to President Donald Trump. It is indeed ironic that McMaster eventually contributed to what many people thought to be impossible by repeating the mistakes of Vietnam and losing the Afghanistan war—both in the field and in Washington, DC. The real tragedy is that America’s leaders, in particular, its military leaders, long knew that the war in Afghanistan could not be won having chosen to fight it in a manner that was alien to its nature, thus wasting both treasure and precious lives. For over seventeen years we have wrongly applied counterinsurgency doctrine to a proxy war waged by Pakistan against the United States and Afghanistan. At the same time, we supplied Pakistan with generous aid packages to bribe them from pursuing a course of action opposed to our own, which they considered in their national interest. Counterinsurgency was never a winning strategy as long as Pakistan controlled the supply of our troops in landlocked Afghanistan and regulated the operational tempo through its proxy army, the Taliban, which has maintained an extensive recruiting, training and financial support infrastructure inside Pakistan, where it has been immune to attack. In essence, our leaders, through a combination of incompetence and indifference, allowed the United States to be defeated by Pakistan and paid them to do it. Pakistan’s objectives for Afghanistan have always been different than those of the United States. Not only has Pakistan not helped the United States in Afghanistan, but from the very beginning through its support of the Taliban, Pakistan has actively worked against our interests and is responsible for the prolongation of the war and the deaths and maiming of thousands of Americans and Afghans. For example, Jalaluddin Haqqani, then the leader of the Haqqani Network, controlled the Khost region of eastern Afghanistan, which is where most of Osama bin Laden’s training camps and supporters were, was a CIA asset in the 1980s and met with US officials soon after 9/11. Journalist Steve Coll wrote, “There was always a question about whether Haqqani was really Taliban, because he hadn’t come out of Kandahar; he wasn’t part of the core group. And it was quite reasonable to believe after 9/11 that maybe he could be flipped.” In early October 2001, Haqqani made a secret trip to Pakistan, where Lt Gen Mahmood Ahmed, a religious hardliner and then director of Pakistan’s notorious intelligence agency, the ISI, advised him to hold out and not defect, promising that he would receive help. Subsequently, Haqqani decided to stay with the Taliban and the Haqqani Network continues to be a threat and a source of instability in Afghanistan. The United States was aware of Pakistan’s duplicity early on. Gary Berntsen, one of the first CIA operatives to arrive in Afghanistan, said, “I assumed from the beginning of the conflict that ISI advisers were supporting the Taliban with expertise and material and, no doubt, sending a steady stream of intelligence back to [Pakistan].” The same pattern of duplicitous behaviour by Pakistan has continued over the last seventeen years. Late last year, during a Taliban attack on the Afghan provincial capital of Ghazni, large numbers of Pakistani nationals were found among the dead, presumably fighting with the Taliban. The bodies were subsequently returned to Pakistan. In a recently released video, Al Qaeda emphasises its unity with Taliban and its role within the Taliban insurgency, as the jihadists, including Pakistanis, fight together to resurrect the Taliban’s Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan. And yet American political leaders and senior military officers have done nothing, preferring to remain puzzled or indifferent as to why we have not won in Afghanistan. Pakistanis openly brag that they have defeated the United States. Shortly before his death in 2015, Lt. Gen. Hamid Gul, the former head of Pakistan’s ISI, a committed Islamist and known as the “godfather of the Taliban,” said in an Urdu language television interview: “One day, history will say that the ISI drove the Soviet Union out of Afghanistan with the help of USA and another sentence will be recorded that says the ISI drove the USA out of Afghanistan with the help of the USA.” The Pakistani audience roared with laughter and applauded in approval. The problem of Pakistan as the actual instigator of the Afghan conflict was never adequately addressed and Taliban safe havens in Pakistan remained largely untouched. The pressure was never applied to Pakistan’s pain points, its moribund economy and financial insolvency and the existential threat of ethnic separatism, in particular among Pakistan’s Baloch and Pashtun populations. On the ground in Afghanistan, the war effort has been a programme on automatic pilot, where everyone has been constantly reassured that everything was going according to plan and “progress was being made,” a phrase I heard endlessly during my own 2010 tenure at International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) Headquarters in Kabul. If the effectiveness of the strategy was ever questioned within the military chain of command, then it had no obvious effect. Lacking any new ideas or even a recognition of reality, we chose to continue pursuing a proven inappropriate counterinsurgency approach in Afghanistan, which has now forced the United States into direct negotiations with the Taliban, a concession we had previously refused to consider. Yet, an American withdrawal will only become a humiliating defeat, if the United States is forced into strategic retreat from South Asia because we do not have a plan in place to address the changing regional conditions in a post–US Afghanistan. The only bargaining chip the United States has in peace negotiations is our presence in Afghanistan, which has been the primary target of the Taliban negotiators, insisting that the United States announce a six-month withdrawal plan. The American “presence” argument is tenuous at best. The United States should be identifying new forms of leverage to bolster our negotiating position in the short term and, longer term, provide a basis for a new South Asian strategy. The recently-announced effort to strengthen military ties with India is a step in the right direction. The United States should also include measures to thwart plans by the China-Pakistan Axis for regional hegemony. Beijing intends to extend its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) throughout South Asia, including Afghanistan, and follow it with the establishment of military facilities, such as Chinese naval bases on the Arabian Sea. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) is the flagship of BRI. Pakistan’s southwestern province of Balochistan is CPEC’s centre of gravity and the location of a festering independence insurgency. Just recently, the Balochistan Liberation Army made a daring and high-profile attack on the Pearl Continental Hotel in the heart of the Chinese-run port of Gwadar, CPEC’s centrepiece project. An independent Balochistan could fulfill a number of US strategic interests in the region, for example: providing Afghanistan a friendly neighbor and access to the sea; eliminating a major area of Pakistan’s terrorist infrastructure; placing additional pressure on Iran, which has its own restive Baloch population; and blocking Chinese ambitions for economic and military dominance of South Asia. The foundations of a new US strategy in South Asia should include burden shifting and, when necessary, strategic disruption of our adversaries. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Pakistan's duplicity caused the United States to lose in Afghanistan

Last month marked the 70th anniversary of the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Formed post-World War II, it is a political, military and a diplomatic alliance between the United States and its allies — primarily European nations.&nbsp;

The need for such a grouping arose in the backdrop of the Cold War, where the US and its allies wanted to protect their interests from aggression and expansionism of the Soviet bloc.

The NATO treaty was signed on April 4, 1949 by the US, Canada, Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom, wherein Article 5 outlined the NATO’s motto — ‘Collective Defense’. It stated that an attack on any one of its members would be considered an attack on all the NATO members.&nbsp;

That, effectively, puts West Europe under the US’s ‘nuclear umbrella’. The collective strength of NATO has been unmatched by any other military grouping in the last seven decades, including the Warsaw Pact, which was created by the Soviet bloc as a response to NATO.

NATO’s deterrence has also been formidable as no country or group of countries possess the wherewithal and capability to challenge its collective might.&nbsp;

However, NATO has faced serious challenges while fighting non-state actors, especially post-Cold War. After the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991, NATO had to redefine its aims and goals since there was no Soviet Union left to contain. Therefore, the NATO alliance shifted its focus towards countering terrorism.

In this context, the 9/11 terror attacks became a watershed moment in NATO’s seven-decade history, as it was the only time when Article 5 of the treaty was invoked. The US and its allies decided to retaliate collectively in the US-led military campaign (2001) in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

While the fight against terrorism has got NATO much praise, it has also been seriously criticised by human rights groups after the NATO bombings of Yugoslavia where hundreds of civilians were killed due to air strikes.&nbsp;

The collective, however, justified its actions by hiding behind Article 4 of the NATO charter, under which its member countries can bring any issue of concern to the North Atlantic Council for discussion, particularly those related to their security. &nbsp;

Over the last seven decades, NATO has been instrumental in its commitment to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law. This makes NATO a key cog in the trans-Atlantic security dynamics in particular, and international security in general.&nbsp;

At present, NATO’s relevance in international security dynamics is still intact. However, the resurgence of Russia and a rising China is posing serious challenges to it once again.&nbsp;

The steep decline in US-Russia relations over the last couple of years have reached alarming levels, which is comparable to Cold War years, thereby making NATO’s role in safeguarding the interests of US and its allies even more paramount.&nbsp;

However, the US — especially under the Trump administration — has been extremely critical of NATO in the context of sharing the financial burden of its operation, making it an existential threat to NATO’s functioning. &nbsp;

Trump’s stand on funding NATO has made it a headache for US allies, as well the opponents of Trump within the US, who find this problematic for the smooth functioning of this group.&nbsp;

The other big trouble is Trump’s reluctance to criticise President Vladimir Putin, under whom a resurgent Russia is posing a serious challenge to NATO’s supremacy. The Kremlin already considers NATO as a security threat in Eastern Europe and is therefore regarded as a hostile military bloc by Russia.

In this context, the US presidential elections scheduled for next year becomes even more important as it could well decide NATO’s future. US allies will therefore keep a close eye on these elections as the stakes are much higher for them this time.

While NATO began as a political and military alliance designed to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area, it has grown as an institution in itself whose future seems very enduring and robust. 
&nbsp;

&nbsp;(This article was originally published on The DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-russia-s-resurgence-and-china-s-rise-will-test-nato-2749888">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;

Last month marked the 70th anniversary of the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Formed post-World War II, it is a political, military and a diplomatic alliance between the United States and its allies — primarily European nations.

Last month marked the 70th anniversary of the formation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Formed post-World War II, it is a political, military and a diplomatic alliance between the United States and its allies — primarily European nations. The need for such a grouping arose in the backdrop of the Cold War, where the US and its allies wanted to protect their interests from aggression and expansionism of the Soviet bloc. The NATO treaty was signed on April 4, 1949 by the US, Canada, Belgium, Denmark, France, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Portugal and the United Kingdom, wherein Article 5 outlined the NATO’s motto — ‘Collective Defense’. It stated that an attack on any one of its members would be considered an attack on all the NATO members. That, effectively, puts West Europe under the US’s ‘nuclear umbrella’. The collective strength of NATO has been unmatched by any other military grouping in the last seven decades, including the Warsaw Pact, which was created by the Soviet bloc as a response to NATO. NATO’s deterrence has also been formidable as no country or group of countries possess the wherewithal and capability to challenge its collective might. However, NATO has faced serious challenges while fighting non-state actors, especially post-Cold War. After the break-up of the Soviet Union in 1991, NATO had to redefine its aims and goals since there was no Soviet Union left to contain. Therefore, the NATO alliance shifted its focus towards countering terrorism. In this context, the 9/11 terror attacks became a watershed moment in NATO’s seven-decade history, as it was the only time when Article 5 of the treaty was invoked. The US and its allies decided to retaliate collectively in the US-led military campaign (2001) in Afghanistan. While the fight against terrorism has got NATO much praise, it has also been seriously criticised by human rights groups after the NATO bombings of Yugoslavia where hundreds of civilians were killed due to air strikes. The collective, however, justified its actions by hiding behind Article 4 of the NATO charter, under which its member countries can bring any issue of concern to the North Atlantic Council for discussion, particularly those related to their security. Over the last seven decades, NATO has been instrumental in its commitment to safeguard the freedom, common heritage and civilisation of their peoples, founded on the principles of democracy, individual liberty and the rule of law. This makes NATO a key cog in the trans-Atlantic security dynamics in particular, and international security in general. At present, NATO’s relevance in international security dynamics is still intact. However, the resurgence of Russia and a rising China is posing serious challenges to it once again. The steep decline in US-Russia relations over the last couple of years have reached alarming levels, which is comparable to Cold War years, thereby making NATO’s role in safeguarding the interests of US and its allies even more paramount. However, the US — especially under the Trump administration — has been extremely critical of NATO in the context of sharing the financial burden of its operation, making it an existential threat to NATO’s functioning. Trump’s stand on funding NATO has made it a headache for US allies, as well the opponents of Trump within the US, who find this problematic for the smooth functioning of this group. The other big trouble is Trump’s reluctance to criticise President Vladimir Putin, under whom a resurgent Russia is posing a serious challenge to NATO’s supremacy. The Kremlin already considers NATO as a security threat in Eastern Europe and is therefore regarded as a hostile military bloc by Russia. In this context, the US presidential elections scheduled for next year becomes even more important as it could well decide NATO’s future. US allies will therefore keep a close eye on these elections as the stakes are much higher for them this time. While NATO began as a political and military alliance designed to restore and maintain the security of the North Atlantic area, it has grown as an institution in itself whose future seems very enduring and robust. (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.)

Russia’s resurgence and China’s rise will test NATO

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 17th 2019

American citizens traveling in Austria who find themselves in distress and can enter as of May 15, 2019 in any McDonald's in Austria, and staff will assist them in making contact with the U.S. Embassy for consular services. Watch this video to know more.

WION Wallet: U.S. Embassy signs agreement with McD Austria

Huawei can no longer buy US parts

WION Speed News: Watch top national and international news of the morning, May 16th 2019

U.S President Donald Trump orders new sanctions on Iran. Watch this video to know.

U.S President orders new sanctions on Iran

A <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/about-200-us-companies-seeking-to-move-manufacturing-base-from-china-to-india-usispf-213845&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0sYOSkvfhAhVz6XMBHfnxD4YQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3r0_1uAhbyPzb0s4HFlgmy">US</a>&nbsp;combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday.

Mark Steven Domingo, 26, a <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-places-india-china-among-others-on-priority-watch-list-for-ip-rights-violations-213493&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj0sYOSkvfhAhVz6XMBHfnxD4YQFjAHegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2UlTtNJHwiMwIGDO_4mIuC">US&nbsp;</a>Army infantryman who recently converted to Islam, was taken into custody on Friday after undercover FBI operatives furnished him with what he thought were live bombs to be used in the attack, law enforcement officials said.

Authorities said Domingo, who had no prior criminal record, came to their attention because of a series of violent extremist messages he posted in online chat rooms, one of which called for "retribution" for the massacre of 50 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, by a gunman in March.

"Often we are asked what keeps us up at night. This is a case that keeps us up at night," Ryan Young, special agent in charge of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, told a news conference in Los Angeles.

Domingo, who had purchased several hundred long nails to serve as shrapnel in the homemade pressure-cooker bombs, had also suggested attacks on Jews, police officers, churches, a military facility, Southern California freeways and the Santa Monica Pier during internet conversations with the FBI operatives, Young said.

He was charged in a federal criminal complaint with providing material support to terrorists and was ordered held without bond during a brief initial appearance in US&nbsp;District Court in Los Angeles on Monday.

“This investigation successfully disrupted a very real threat posed by a trained combat soldier who repeatedly stated he wanted to cause the maximum number of casualties,” US Attorney Nick Hanna said in a statement.

According to the criminal complaint, an FBI operative established contact with Domingo in a private online chat room in March, leading to discussions in which Domingo expressed support for Islamic militants and the desire to seek revenge for attacks on Muslims.

'VIOLENT JIHAD'

In one of his earliest posts, he suggested that "America needs another Vegas event," an apparent reference to the 2017 mass shooting at a country music concert in Las Vegas where a lone gunman perched in a nearby hotel killed 58 people and wounded hundreds, the complaint alleged.

Domingo, who said he wanted to become a martyr, also made reference to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, according to the complaint.

During one meeting in person with an FBI operative, he arrived carrying an AK 47-style assault rifle, telling the informant: "I just wanted to show you that I'm serious."

According to a law enforcement database, Domingo is the registered owner of three semi-automatic rifles.

An FBI spokeswoman said received a less-than-honourable discharge from the Army.

Prosecutors say Domingo contemplated drive-by shootings and detonating a bomb at the Santa Monica pier before deciding to bomb a rally scheduled for Sunday, April 28, in the Los Angeles suburb of Long Beach that he believed was organized by white nationalists.

Domingo and two FBI informants visited the planned site of the rally to scout the best location to place explosives to cause the greatest casualties, authorities said, agreeing that they would leave the scene separately to throw off suspicion.

He was arrested shortly after placing one of the mock bombs into the vehicle of an informant.

The white nationalist rally ended up not happening, although a number of counterdemonstrators assembled at the site, the Los Angeles City News Service said.

The announcement of Domingo's arrest came two days after a gunman opened fire in a San Diego-area synagogue, killing one woman and wounding three others, including the rabbi. John Earnest, 19, was arrested.

There was no indication the two incidents were connected.

A US combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday.

A US combat veteran of the war in Afghanistan who prosecutors say plotted to detonate multiple nail bombs at a Los Angeles-area white nationalist rally, seeking to cause mass casualties, was arrested in an FBI sting operation, federal prosecutors said on Monday. Mark Steven Domingo, 26, a US Army infantryman who recently converted to Islam, was taken into custody on Friday after undercover FBI operatives furnished him with what he thought were live bombs to be used in the attack, law enforcement officials said. Authorities said Domingo, who had no prior criminal record, came to their attention because of a series of violent extremist messages he posted in online chat rooms, one of which called for "retribution" for the massacre of 50 people at mosques in Christchurch, New Zealand, by a gunman in March. "Often we are asked what keeps us up at night. This is a case that keeps us up at night," Ryan Young, special agent in charge of the FBI's Joint Terrorism Task Force, told a news conference in Los Angeles. Domingo, who had purchased several hundred long nails to serve as shrapnel in the homemade pressure-cooker bombs, had also suggested attacks on Jews, police officers, churches, a military facility, Southern California freeways and the Santa Monica Pier during internet conversations with the FBI operatives, Young said. He was charged in a federal criminal complaint with providing material support to terrorists and was ordered held without bond during a brief initial appearance in US District Court in Los Angeles on Monday. “This investigation successfully disrupted a very real threat posed by a trained combat soldier who repeatedly stated he wanted to cause the maximum number of casualties,” US Attorney Nick Hanna said in a statement. According to the criminal complaint, an FBI operative established contact with Domingo in a private online chat room in March, leading to discussions in which Domingo expressed support for Islamic militants and the desire to seek revenge for attacks on Muslims. 'VIOLENT JIHAD' In one of his earliest posts, he suggested that "America needs another Vegas event," an apparent reference to the 2017 mass shooting at a country music concert in Las Vegas where a lone gunman perched in a nearby hotel killed 58 people and wounded hundreds, the complaint alleged. Domingo, who said he wanted to become a martyr, also made reference to the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing, according to the complaint. During one meeting in person with an FBI operative, he arrived carrying an AK 47-style assault rifle, telling the informant: "I just wanted to show you that I'm serious." According to a law enforcement database, Domingo is the registered owner of three semi-automatic rifles. An FBI spokeswoman said received a less-than-honourable discharge from the Army. Prosecutors say Domingo contemplated drive-by shootings and detonating a bomb at the Santa Monica pier before deciding to bomb a rally scheduled for Sunday, April 28, in the Los Angeles suburb of Long Beach that he believed was organized by white nationalists. Domingo and two FBI informants visited the planned site of the rally to scout the best location to place explosives to cause the greatest casualties, authorities said, agreeing that they would leave the scene separately to throw off suspicion. He was arrested shortly after placing one of the mock bombs into the vehicle of an informant. The white nationalist rally ended up not happening, although a number of counterdemonstrators assembled at the site, the Los Angeles City News Service said. The announcement of Domingo's arrest came two days after a gunman opened fire in a San Diego-area synagogue, killing one woman and wounding three others, including the rabbi. John Earnest, 19, was arrested. There was no indication the two incidents were connected.

US Army veteran charged with plotting to bomb white nationalist rally

Almost a week after Sri Lanka Easter massacre, the threat still continues to loom over Sri Lanka, U.S has issued its second travel advisory for those who are considering travelling to Sri Lanka. Watch this video to know more.

Sri Lanka blasts: Tourists in Lanka asked to stay alert

Ride-hailing company <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/uber-lands-1-billion-from-softbank-toyota-for-self-driving-unit-211646&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwj3_5eKi-3hAhUk7HMBHbKyDhEQFjAJegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0tPfbIuxVyBuXdciCH0Yex">Uber Technologies Inc</a> will unveil terms for its initial public offering on Friday, telling investors it will seek to be valued at between $80 billion and $90 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

The valuation sought is less than the $120 billion valuation that investment bankers told Uber last year it could fetch, and closer to the $76 billion valuation it attained in its last private fundraising round last year.

Uber's moderation of valuation expectations reflects the poor stock performance of its smaller rival Lyft Inc following its IPO last month.

Lyft shares ended trading on Thursday down 22 percent from their IPO price amid investor scepticism over its path to profitability.

Uber will unveil on Friday an IPO price range of between $44 and $50 per share, based on which it would raise between $8 billion and $9 billion, the sources said.

This would rank it as the largest IPO since that of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd in 2014.

In addition, some Uber insiders will also sell their own shares in the IPO, the sources said.

Reuters reported earlier this month that all the Uber shares sold in the IPO could be worth around $10 billion.

Uber also plans to unveil on Friday its last sale of stock as a private company, the sources said.

The identity of the investor involved in the private placement could not immediately be learned.

PayPal Holdings Inc plans to invest $500 million in a concurrent private placement at Uber's IPO price, Refinitiv IFR reported, citing sources.

Uber and PayPal were not immediately available to comment on the IFR report.

The investor roadshow will kick off in earnest on Monday, setting the stage for Uber to debut on the New York Stock Exchange in early May.

For the roadshow, Uber's top executives will travel the United States and make a stop in London to drum up investor interest in the IPO, sources said.

The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential.

Uber declined to comment. The price range was reported earlier by Bloomberg News.

Two other IPOs this month, those of online scrapbook company Pinterest Inc and video conferencing company Zoom Video Communications Inc, have performed much more strongly than Lyft.

Uber, however, has chosen to still value itself conservatively.

"People are more cautious than they were 4 weeks ago," said Duncan Davidson, general partner at Bullpen Capital, an early-stage venture capital investment firm.

Uber operates in more than 70 countries. In addition to ride-hailing, its business includes bike and scooter rentals, freight hauling, food delivery, and an expensive self-driving car division.

The ride-hailing startup has disclosed it has 91 million users, but growth is slowing and it may never make a profit.

Uber in 2018 had $11.3 billion in revenue, up around 42 per cent over 2017, but below the 106 per cent growth the prior year.

During the IPO roadshow, Uber's chief executive, Dara Khosrowshahi, will be tasked with convincing investors that he has successfully changed the company's culture and business practices after a series of embarrassing scandals over the last two years.

Those have included sexual harassment allegations, a massive data breach that was concealed from regulators, use of illicit software to evade authorities and allegations of bribery overseas.

Uber is reserving some shares in the IPO for drivers who have completed 2,500 trips among other criteria.

AUTONOMOUS DRIVING

Last week, Uber's autonomous vehicle unit raised $1 billion privately from a consortium of investors, including top Uber shareholder SoftBank Group Corp, giving the company a much-needed funding boost for its self-driving ambitions.

Last year, Uber settled a legal dispute over trade secrets with Alphabet Inc's Waymo self-driving vehicle unit.

Waymo, in its lawsuit, had said one of its former engineers who became chief of Uber's self-driving car project took with him thousands of confidential documents.

One advantage Uber will likely seek to play up to investors is that it is the largest player in many of the markets in which it operates.

Analysts consider building scale crucial for Uber's business model to become profitable.

Lyft, which was valued at $24.3 billion in its IPO, has focused only in the U.S. and Canadian markets.

"Investors are now asking for more clarity on how ride-sharing companies will monetize data they are collecting and if this is a scalable business," said Jordan Stuart, a client portfolio manager for Federated Kaufmann funds who often purchase stock in IPOs.

Ride-hailing company Uber Technologies Inc will unveil terms for its initial public offering on Friday, telling investors it will seek to be valued at between $80 billion and $90 billion, according to people familiar with the matter.

Ride-hailing company Uber Technologies Inc will unveil terms for its initial public offering on Friday, telling investors it will seek to be valued at between $80 billion and $90 billion, according to people familiar with the matter. The valuation sought is less than the $120 billion valuation that investment bankers told Uber last year it could fetch, and closer to the $76 billion valuation it attained in its last private fundraising round last year. Uber's moderation of valuation expectations reflects the poor stock performance of its smaller rival Lyft Inc following its IPO last month. Lyft shares ended trading on Thursday down 22 percent from their IPO price amid investor scepticism over its path to profitability. Uber will unveil on Friday an IPO price range of between $44 and $50 per share, based on which it would raise between $8 billion and $9 billion, the sources said. This would rank it as the largest IPO since that of Chinese e-commerce giant Alibaba Group Holding Ltd in 2014. In addition, some Uber insiders will also sell their own shares in the IPO, the sources said. Reuters reported earlier this month that all the Uber shares sold in the IPO could be worth around $10 billion. Uber also plans to unveil on Friday its last sale of stock as a private company, the sources said. The identity of the investor involved in the private placement could not immediately be learned. PayPal Holdings Inc plans to invest $500 million in a concurrent private placement at Uber's IPO price, Refinitiv IFR reported, citing sources. Uber and PayPal were not immediately available to comment on the IFR report. The investor roadshow will kick off in earnest on Monday, setting the stage for Uber to debut on the New York Stock Exchange in early May. For the roadshow, Uber's top executives will travel the United States and make a stop in London to drum up investor interest in the IPO, sources said. The sources asked not to be identified because the matter is confidential. Uber declined to comment. The price range was reported earlier by Bloomberg News. Two other IPOs this month, those of online scrapbook company Pinterest Inc and video conferencing company Zoom Video Communications Inc, have performed much more strongly than Lyft. Uber, however, has chosen to still value itself conservatively. "People are more cautious than they were 4 weeks ago," said Duncan Davidson, general partner at Bullpen Capital, an early-stage venture capital investment firm. Uber operates in more than 70 countries. In addition to ride-hailing, its business includes bike and scooter rentals, freight hauling, food delivery, and an expensive self-driving car division. The ride-hailing startup has disclosed it has 91 million users, but growth is slowing and it may never make a profit. Uber in 2018 had $11.3 billion in revenue, up around 42 per cent over 2017, but below the 106 per cent growth the prior year. During the IPO roadshow, Uber's chief executive, Dara Khosrowshahi, will be tasked with convincing investors that he has successfully changed the company's culture and business practices after a series of embarrassing scandals over the last two years. Those have included sexual harassment allegations, a massive data breach that was concealed from regulators, use of illicit software to evade authorities and allegations of bribery overseas. Uber is reserving some shares in the IPO for drivers who have completed 2,500 trips among other criteria. AUTONOMOUS DRIVING Last week, Uber's autonomous vehicle unit raised $1 billion privately from a consortium of investors, including top Uber shareholder SoftBank Group Corp, giving the company a much-needed funding boost for its self-driving ambitions. Last year, Uber settled a legal dispute over trade secrets with Alphabet Inc's Waymo self-driving vehicle unit. Waymo, in its lawsuit, had said one of its former engineers who became chief of Uber's self-driving car project took with him thousands of confidential documents. One advantage Uber will likely seek to play up to investors is that it is the largest player in many of the markets in which it operates. Analysts consider building scale crucial for Uber's business model to become profitable. Lyft, which was valued at $24.3 billion in its IPO, has focused only in the U.S. and Canadian markets. "Investors are now asking for more clarity on how ride-sharing companies will monetize data they are collecting and if this is a scalable business," said Jordan Stuart, a client portfolio manager for Federated Kaufmann funds who often purchase stock in IPOs.

Uber to kick off investor road show with IPO terms on Friday

All you need to know about China's Belt and Road Initiative

The world's biggest advertising company WPP reported an 8.5 per cent slump in first-quarter underlying sales in North America, its biggest market, due to the loss of clients.

WPP, being led by company veteran Mark Read following last year's departure of founder Martin Sorrell, said its overall organic revenue was down 2.8 percent, compared with a full-year forecast of a fall of between 1.5 to 2 per cent.

The British company reaffirmed its full-year outlook, including the forecast that the first half of the year would be more difficult than the second.

"As anticipated, our first-quarter trading update reflects the impact of certain significant client losses in 2018, in particular in the United States," Chief Executive Mark Read said.

WPP, the owner of agencies including JWT, Finsbury and Ogilvy, is in the middle of an overhaul launched by Read following several profit warnings in 2017 and 2018.

The group has been particularly hard hit in the US, where it has lost work from clients including its biggest, Ford, and others in the pharmaceutical and consumer goods sector.

Read has responded by merging several of its biggest agencies, appointing new leaders in the US&nbsp;and launching a hunt for new creative talent.

To help fund the turnaround WPP has put its data analytics business Kantar up for sale, looking for a partner to take a majority stake. It said on Friday it was pleased with the level of interest.

The world's biggest advertising company WPP reported an 8.5 per cent slump in first-quarter underlying sales in North America, its biggest market, due to the loss of clients.

The world's biggest advertising company WPP reported an 8.5 per cent slump in first-quarter underlying sales in North America, its biggest market, due to the loss of clients. WPP, being led by company veteran Mark Read following last year's departure of founder Martin Sorrell, said its overall organic revenue was down 2.8 percent, compared with a full-year forecast of a fall of between 1.5 to 2 per cent. The British company reaffirmed its full-year outlook, including the forecast that the first half of the year would be more difficult than the second. "As anticipated, our first-quarter trading update reflects the impact of certain significant client losses in 2018, in particular in the United States," Chief Executive Mark Read said. WPP, the owner of agencies including JWT, Finsbury and Ogilvy, is in the middle of an overhaul launched by Read following several profit warnings in 2017 and 2018. The group has been particularly hard hit in the US, where it has lost work from clients including its biggest, Ford, and others in the pharmaceutical and consumer goods sector. Read has responded by merging several of its biggest agencies, appointing new leaders in the US and launching a hunt for new creative talent. To help fund the turnaround WPP has put its data analytics business Kantar up for sale, looking for a partner to take a majority stake. It said on Friday it was pleased with the level of interest.

Client losses hit ad group WPP in North America; 8.5% slump in first-quarter reported

The United States has confirmed 695 <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/global-measles-cases-up-300-percent-year-on-year-who-210766&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjP2svjn-vhAhVdk3AKHQRDArYQFjAAegQIBxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2CbrYg0HwDuq6xXfAxFk-d">measles cases</a> so far this year, the highest level since the country declared it had eliminated the virus in 2000, the US&nbsp;Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday.

The resurgence, which public health officials blamed in part on the spread of misinformation about the safety of vaccines, has been concentrated mainly in Washington state and New York with outbreaks that began late last year.&nbsp;

"The longer these outbreaks continue, the greater the chance measles will again get a sustained foothold in the United States," the CDC warned in a statement. It said outbreaks can spread out of control in communities with lower-than-normal vaccination rates.

Although the disease was eliminated from the country in 2000, meaning the virus was no longer continually present year-round, outbreaks still happen via travellers coming from countries where measles is still common, the CDC says.

As of Wednesday, the number of measles cases so far this year exceeds the 667 cases reported in all of 2014, which had been the highest annual number recorded since the elimination in 2000.

The virus has been recorded in 22 states so far in 2019, the CDC said.

The virus can lead to deadly complications, but no measles deaths have been reported in the latest outbreaks.

Responding to the new figures, US&nbsp;Health Secretary Alex Azar urged greater vaccination, saying in a statement that the vaccine`s "safety has been firmly established over many years."

"The United States is seeing a resurgence of measles, a disease that had once been effectively eliminated from our country," he said.

Measles has been on the rise globally.

More than 110,000 cases were reported in the first three months of 2019, according to the World Health Organisation, based on provisional data.

That is a 300 per cent increase compared with the same period the previous year.&nbsp;

"A PREVENTABLE OCCURRENCE"

The largest outbreak has been in New York City where officials said at least 390 cases have been recorded since October, mostly among children in Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn, making it the city`s worst outbreak since 1991.

That total included 61 cases recorded in the last six days, of which two were pregnant women, the city`s health department said on Wednesday.

The CDC echoed city health officials in saying this outbreak was fuelled by the misinformation being spread about the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine.

A vocal fringe of parents opposes vaccines, believing, contrary to scientific studies, that ingredients in them can cause autism.

Nationwide, the number of children getting vaccinated has remained "high and stable" for several years, the CDC said.

New York City`s Health Department took the unusual step earlier this month of issuing an emergency order requiring unvaccinated people in affected neighbourhoods to get the MMR vaccine unless they could otherwise show they had immunity.

It has issued civil summonses to 12 people it said have defied the order.

They will each face a fine of up to $1,000 if found to be noncompliant at a hearing.

Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease expert with the Johns Hopkins Centre for Health Security, called the resurgence a "completely preventable occurrence."

"We are fighting a disease now in 2019 that should have been off the table in the 1960s with the development of the vaccine," he said.

"It should be viewed as an embarrassment that so many Americans have turned away from vaccines that we are having a record year for measles." 
&nbsp;

The United States has confirmed 695 measles cases so far this year, the highest level since the country declared it had eliminated the virus in 2000, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday.

The United States has confirmed 695 measles cases so far this year, the highest level since the country declared it had eliminated the virus in 2000, the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention said on Wednesday. The resurgence, which public health officials blamed in part on the spread of misinformation about the safety of vaccines, has been concentrated mainly in Washington state and New York with outbreaks that began late last year. "The longer these outbreaks continue, the greater the chance measles will again get a sustained foothold in the United States," the CDC warned in a statement. It said outbreaks can spread out of control in communities with lower-than-normal vaccination rates. Although the disease was eliminated from the country in 2000, meaning the virus was no longer continually present year-round, outbreaks still happen via travellers coming from countries where measles is still common, the CDC says. As of Wednesday, the number of measles cases so far this year exceeds the 667 cases reported in all of 2014, which had been the highest annual number recorded since the elimination in 2000. The virus has been recorded in 22 states so far in 2019, the CDC said. The virus can lead to deadly complications, but no measles deaths have been reported in the latest outbreaks. Responding to the new figures, US Health Secretary Alex Azar urged greater vaccination, saying in a statement that the vaccine`s "safety has been firmly established over many years." "The United States is seeing a resurgence of measles, a disease that had once been effectively eliminated from our country," he said. Measles has been on the rise globally. More than 110,000 cases were reported in the first three months of 2019, according to the World Health Organisation, based on provisional data. That is a 300 per cent increase compared with the same period the previous year. "A PREVENTABLE OCCURRENCE" The largest outbreak has been in New York City where officials said at least 390 cases have been recorded since October, mostly among children in Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn, making it the city`s worst outbreak since 1991. That total included 61 cases recorded in the last six days, of which two were pregnant women, the city`s health department said on Wednesday. The CDC echoed city health officials in saying this outbreak was fuelled by the misinformation being spread about the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccine. A vocal fringe of parents opposes vaccines, believing, contrary to scientific studies, that ingredients in them can cause autism. Nationwide, the number of children getting vaccinated has remained "high and stable" for several years, the CDC said. New York City`s Health Department took the unusual step earlier this month of issuing an emergency order requiring unvaccinated people in affected neighbourhoods to get the MMR vaccine unless they could otherwise show they had immunity. It has issued civil summonses to 12 people it said have defied the order. They will each face a fine of up to $1,000 if found to be noncompliant at a hearing. Dr. Amesh Adalja, an infectious disease expert with the Johns Hopkins Centre for Health Security, called the resurgence a "completely preventable occurrence." "We are fighting a disease now in 2019 that should have been off the table in the 1960s with the development of the vaccine," he said. "It should be viewed as an embarrassment that so many Americans have turned away from vaccines that we are having a record year for measles."

US measles cases hit highest level since eradication in 2000

A white supremacist convicted of killing James Byrd Jr. in 1998 by dragging the 49-year-old black man behind a truck in one of the most notorious US&nbsp;hate crimes of modern times was executed in Texas on Wednesday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/white-supremacist-to-be-executed-in-texas-for-dragging-death-of-black-man-213279&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjkrJn0mevhAhXKKY8KHZDABo8QFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2CMXCpH-L3lcpN6C1BdaWM">John William "Bill" King</a>, 44, was put to death by lethal injection and pronounced dead at 7:08 p.m. (0008 GMT Thursday) at the state’s death chamber in Huntsville, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice said in a statement.&nbsp;

The department said King wrote the last statement that read: "Capital Punishment: Them without the capital get the punishment."

King, along with Shawn Berry and Lawrence Brewer, was accused of kidnapping Byrd while he hitchhiked in Jasper, Texas, on June 7, 1998.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said the men dragged him behind their 1982 Ford pickup truck for 3 miles (5 km) before dumping his body in front of an African-American church.

A "KKK" engraved lighter was among the evidence police found at the scene, court documents showed.&nbsp;

Brewer, also a white supremacist, was executed in 2011.

Berry was sentenced to life in prison for the crime.

King always maintained his innocence, saying that he left the two other men before Byrd was killed.

The gruesome killing spurred the passing of the James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Act, strengthening punishments for hate crimes in Texas.

The murder, along with that of Matthew Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student who was beaten and left to die tied to a fence, was also the genesis of the federal hate crimes prevention act passed in 2009.&nbsp;

Byrd`s sister Carla Taylor read from a family statement after she, another of his sisters and his niece witnessed the execution.

King`s "execution tonight was just punishment for his actions," she said, noting that Byrd had three children and four grandchildren.

"James` legacy continues to be of peace and nonviolence."

King was found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to death in 1999.

He was a member of a white supremacist gang and spoke of starting a race war while in prison for a previous crime.

He also talked about initiating new members by having them kidnap and murder black people, court documents showed.&nbsp;

King was the third inmate in Texas and the fourth in the United States to be executed in 2019, according to the Death Penalty Information Centre.

A white supremacist convicted of killing James Byrd Jr. in 1998 by dragging the 49-year-old black man behind a truck in one of the most notorious US hate crimes of modern times was executed in Texas on Wednesday.

A white supremacist convicted of killing James Byrd Jr. in 1998 by dragging the 49-year-old black man behind a truck in one of the most notorious US hate crimes of modern times was executed in Texas on Wednesday. John William "Bill" King, 44, was put to death by lethal injection and pronounced dead at 7:08 p.m. (0008 GMT Thursday) at the state’s death chamber in Huntsville, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice said in a statement. The department said King wrote the last statement that read: "Capital Punishment: Them without the capital get the punishment." King, along with Shawn Berry and Lawrence Brewer, was accused of kidnapping Byrd while he hitchhiked in Jasper, Texas, on June 7, 1998. Prosecutors said the men dragged him behind their 1982 Ford pickup truck for 3 miles (5 km) before dumping his body in front of an African-American church. A "KKK" engraved lighter was among the evidence police found at the scene, court documents showed. Brewer, also a white supremacist, was executed in 2011. Berry was sentenced to life in prison for the crime. King always maintained his innocence, saying that he left the two other men before Byrd was killed. The gruesome killing spurred the passing of the James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Act, strengthening punishments for hate crimes in Texas. The murder, along with that of Matthew Shepard, a gay University of Wyoming student who was beaten and left to die tied to a fence, was also the genesis of the federal hate crimes prevention act passed in 2009. Byrd`s sister Carla Taylor read from a family statement after she, another of his sisters and his niece witnessed the execution. King`s "execution tonight was just punishment for his actions," she said, noting that Byrd had three children and four grandchildren. "James` legacy continues to be of peace and nonviolence." King was found guilty of capital murder and sentenced to death in 1999. He was a member of a white supremacist gang and spoke of starting a race war while in prison for a previous crime. He also talked about initiating new members by having them kidnap and murder black people, court documents showed. King was the third inmate in Texas and the fourth in the United States to be executed in 2019, according to the Death Penalty Information Centre.

White supremacist executed in Texas for dragging death of black man

The Democratic chairman of the US&nbsp;House Oversight Committee on Wednesday accused President <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-report-inconclusive-on-trumps-obstruction-of-justice-charge-211626&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiklZ7wouvhAhXCX3wKHUkGC4UQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2TiiwXeTLHLjV8I2yg40-F">Donald Trump </a>of an "unprecedented, and growing pattern of obstruction" after he ordered federal employees not to comply with congressional investigations.

The Republican president ordered officials not to obey legal requests from the Democratic-led House of Representatives, which is carrying out multiple investigations of his administration, including his tax returns, White House security clearances and the probe of Russian interference in US&nbsp;politics.

"President Trump and Attorney General (William) Barr are now openly ordering federal employees to ignore congressional subpoenas and simply not show up - without any assertion of a valid legal privilege," Representative Elijah Cummings, who chairs the House Oversight Committee, said in a statement.

"This is a massive, unprecedented, and growing pattern of obstruction," Cummings added, warning federal employees to "think very carefully about their own legal interests" in refusing to comply with the panel`s requests.

The president vowed to resist every subpoena from House Democrats investigating his administration and to fight any effort by them to impeach him.

Trump`s removal from office is most unlikely barring a change of heart by his fellow Republicans, who hold a majority in the US&nbsp;Senate.

Trump filed a lawsuit earlier this week to prevent material from being turned over to lawmakers, and on Wednesday the Justice Department rebuffed a House committee`s request for an interview with an official involved in the administration’s decision to put a citizenship question on the 2020 census.

The department said John Gore, a deputy assistant attorney general in the Civil Rights Division, would not participate in a deposition scheduled for Thursday if he could not have a Justice Department lawyer at his side. The committee had offered to allow a lawyer to sit in a different room.

Cummings said the committee would gather to hear Gore`s deposition on Thursday and suggested he "should be well aware of his constitutional, legal and ethical obligations to comply with a duly authorized subpoena" from Congress.

A Department of Justice (DOJ) official said the committee had provided "no legitimate or constitutional basis for excluding a DOJ lawyer from assisting at the deposition."

"If a DOJ lawyer may appear to protect privileged subjects, then the Attorney General will allow the deposition to go forward," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity.

BE "FAIR AND FEARLESS"

"We`re fighting all the subpoenas," Trump told reporters at the White House.

Trump promised to fight all the way to the Supreme Court against any effort by congressional Democrats to impeach him, even though the US&nbsp;Constitution gives Congress complete authority over the impeachment process.

Under the Constitution, Congress is a co-equal branch of government alongside the executive branch and the judiciary.

But Trump has increasingly accused Democrats of conducting the Russia investigation for purely political purposes ahead of the 2020 election.

He has stepped up those accusations since the release of Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s report on his probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election.

Democrats remain divided on whether to proceed with the impeachment of Trump after the Russia inquiry. Trump defiantly proclaimed on Twitter that the investigation "didn`t lay a glove on me."

"If the partisan Dems ever tried to Impeach, I would first head to the US&nbsp;Supreme Court," the Republican president, who is seeking re-election next year, said on Twitter without offering details about what legal action he envisioned.

In an opinion piece in the Washington Post, Hillary Clinton, the Democrat whom Trump defeated in 2016, urged members of both parties to follow the facts, whether they lead to "the eventual filing of articles of impeachment, or not."

"Either way, the nation`s interests will be best served by putting party and political considerations aside and being deliberate, fair and fearless," Clinton wrote.

Mueller`s findings, released in a redacted report last week, detailed how Trump often tried to impede the inquiry but it stopped short of concluding he had committed the crime of obstruction of justice.

The report said Congress could address whether the president violated the law.

Mueller separately found insufficient evidence to conclude that Trump`s campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Russia in the 2016 presidential race.&nbsp;

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders have remained cautious over launching impeachment proceedings against Trump ahead of the 2020 election, although they have left the door open to such action.

Others in the party`s more liberal wing have demanded impeachment proceedings.

But Democrats have vowed to move ahead full steam with their investigations of Trump, which could produce more evidence that could be used in an impeachment proceeding.

The Constitution empowers Congress to remove a president from office for "treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanours."

The House is given the power to impeach a president - bring formal charges - and the Senate then convenes a trial, with the senators as jurors.

A two-thirds vote is needed to convict a president and remove him from office.&nbsp;

The Constitution gives no role to the Supreme Court in impeachment, though it does assign the chief justice the task of presiding over the Senate trial. Conservative John Roberts currently serves as chief justice.

That would not preclude Trump from proceeding with litigation to tie up the issue in the courts, despite Supreme Court precedent upholding congressional impeachment power.

In 1993, the nation`s top court ruled 9-0 in a case involving an impeached U.S. judge that the judiciary has no role in the impeachment process.

Laurence Tribe, a constitutional law professor at Harvard who has been critical of Trump, said the U.S. founding fathers had considered but ultimately scrapped the idea of allowing the Supreme Court to have any role in the impeachment process.

"Not even a SCOTUS filled with Trump appointees would get in the way of the House or Senate," Tribe said in a series of tweets on Wednesday. 
&nbsp;

The Democratic chairman of the US House Oversight Committee on Wednesday accused President Donald Trump of an "unprecedented, and growing pattern of obstruction" after he ordered federal employees not to comply with congressional investigations.

The Democratic chairman of the US House Oversight Committee on Wednesday accused President Donald Trump of an "unprecedented, and growing pattern of obstruction" after he ordered federal employees not to comply with congressional investigations. The Republican president ordered officials not to obey legal requests from the Democratic-led House of Representatives, which is carrying out multiple investigations of his administration, including his tax returns, White House security clearances and the probe of Russian interference in US politics. "President Trump and Attorney General (William) Barr are now openly ordering federal employees to ignore congressional subpoenas and simply not show up - without any assertion of a valid legal privilege," Representative Elijah Cummings, who chairs the House Oversight Committee, said in a statement. "This is a massive, unprecedented, and growing pattern of obstruction," Cummings added, warning federal employees to "think very carefully about their own legal interests" in refusing to comply with the panel`s requests. The president vowed to resist every subpoena from House Democrats investigating his administration and to fight any effort by them to impeach him. Trump`s removal from office is most unlikely barring a change of heart by his fellow Republicans, who hold a majority in the US Senate. Trump filed a lawsuit earlier this week to prevent material from being turned over to lawmakers, and on Wednesday the Justice Department rebuffed a House committee`s request for an interview with an official involved in the administration’s decision to put a citizenship question on the 2020 census. The department said John Gore, a deputy assistant attorney general in the Civil Rights Division, would not participate in a deposition scheduled for Thursday if he could not have a Justice Department lawyer at his side. The committee had offered to allow a lawyer to sit in a different room. Cummings said the committee would gather to hear Gore`s deposition on Thursday and suggested he "should be well aware of his constitutional, legal and ethical obligations to comply with a duly authorized subpoena" from Congress. A Department of Justice (DOJ) official said the committee had provided "no legitimate or constitutional basis for excluding a DOJ lawyer from assisting at the deposition." "If a DOJ lawyer may appear to protect privileged subjects, then the Attorney General will allow the deposition to go forward," the official said, speaking on condition of anonymity. BE "FAIR AND FEARLESS" "We`re fighting all the subpoenas," Trump told reporters at the White House. Trump promised to fight all the way to the Supreme Court against any effort by congressional Democrats to impeach him, even though the US Constitution gives Congress complete authority over the impeachment process. Under the Constitution, Congress is a co-equal branch of government alongside the executive branch and the judiciary. But Trump has increasingly accused Democrats of conducting the Russia investigation for purely political purposes ahead of the 2020 election. He has stepped up those accusations since the release of Special Counsel Robert Mueller`s report on his probe into Russian interference in the 2016 election. Democrats remain divided on whether to proceed with the impeachment of Trump after the Russia inquiry. Trump defiantly proclaimed on Twitter that the investigation "didn`t lay a glove on me." "If the partisan Dems ever tried to Impeach, I would first head to the US Supreme Court," the Republican president, who is seeking re-election next year, said on Twitter without offering details about what legal action he envisioned. In an opinion piece in the Washington Post, Hillary Clinton, the Democrat whom Trump defeated in 2016, urged members of both parties to follow the facts, whether they lead to "the eventual filing of articles of impeachment, or not." "Either way, the nation`s interests will be best served by putting party and political considerations aside and being deliberate, fair and fearless," Clinton wrote. Mueller`s findings, released in a redacted report last week, detailed how Trump often tried to impede the inquiry but it stopped short of concluding he had committed the crime of obstruction of justice. The report said Congress could address whether the president violated the law. Mueller separately found insufficient evidence to conclude that Trump`s campaign engaged in a criminal conspiracy with Russia in the 2016 presidential race. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democratic leaders have remained cautious over launching impeachment proceedings against Trump ahead of the 2020 election, although they have left the door open to such action. Others in the party`s more liberal wing have demanded impeachment proceedings. But Democrats have vowed to move ahead full steam with their investigations of Trump, which could produce more evidence that could be used in an impeachment proceeding. The Constitution empowers Congress to remove a president from office for "treason, bribery or other high crimes and misdemeanours." The House is given the power to impeach a president - bring formal charges - and the Senate then convenes a trial, with the senators as jurors. A two-thirds vote is needed to convict a president and remove him from office. The Constitution gives no role to the Supreme Court in impeachment, though it does assign the chief justice the task of presiding over the Senate trial. Conservative John Roberts currently serves as chief justice. That would not preclude Trump from proceeding with litigation to tie up the issue in the courts, despite Supreme Court precedent upholding congressional impeachment power. In 1993, the nation`s top court ruled 9-0 in a case involving an impeached U.S. judge that the judiciary has no role in the impeachment process. Laurence Tribe, a constitutional law professor at Harvard who has been critical of Trump, said the U.S. founding fathers had considered but ultimately scrapped the idea of allowing the Supreme Court to have any role in the impeachment process. "Not even a SCOTUS filled with Trump appointees would get in the way of the House or Senate," Tribe said in a series of tweets on Wednesday.

House panel chair accuses Trump of 'massive' obstruction; Trump vows to fight

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/iran-has-suffered-from-terrorists-operating-from-pakistan-imran-khan-to-president-rouhani-212892&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiRwfm0s-vhAhXJuY8KHet6BtcQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2dGht5GN8_qZ3zmEetgk6i">Iran</a> on Wednesday criticized US talks with the Taliban on ending the Afghanistan war, saying Washington was elevating the role of the militants.

Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif acknowledged that Iran had also opened a dialogue with the Taliban but said that the US push for a deal with the extremists was "seriously wrong."

"An attempt to exclude everybody and just talk to the Taliban has alienated the government, has alienated the region, has alienated everybody else and it achieved nothing, as you've seen from the statement that came from the Taliban," Zarif said, apparently referring to the militants' announcement of a new spring offensive.

"I was the first to say that in any peace in Afghanistan, the Taliban cannot be set aside or isolated," Zarif said at the Asia Society in New York, which he was visiting to take part in a UN session.

"But you cannot negotiate the future of Afghanistan with the Taliban.

The Taliban only represent a segment of Afghan society, not all of it," he said.

President Donald Trump has voiced impatience at ending the longest-ever US war, launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States.

US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is set shortly to hold a fresh round of talks in Qatar with the Taliban, with early indications saying Washington will agree to pull troops and that the militants will promise not to allow foreign extremists on their soil.

But the Taliban have refused to negotiate with President Ashraf Ghani's internationally recognized government, with a would-be breakthrough meeting recently collapsing in a dispute over the delegation list.

Despite its tense relations with the United States, Iran had quietly backed the initial US invasion that ousted the Taliban, Sunni Muslims who imposed an austere interpretation of Islam over Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001.

Iran, led by Shiite clerics, nearly went to war with the Taliban in 1998 after an attack on its consulate in the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif killed nine Iranian diplomats and a journalist.

But Iran has more recently sought to build relations with the Taliban, mindful of preserving interests in the neighbouring country.

Iran on Wednesday criticized US talks with the Taliban on ending the Afghanistan war, saying Washington was elevating the role of the militants. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif acknowledged that Iran had also opened a dialogue with the Taliban but said that the US push for a deal with the extremists was "seriously wrong.

Iran on Wednesday criticized US talks with the Taliban on ending the Afghanistan war, saying Washington was elevating the role of the militants. Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif acknowledged that Iran had also opened a dialogue with the Taliban but said that the US push for a deal with the extremists was "seriously wrong." "An attempt to exclude everybody and just talk to the Taliban has alienated the government, has alienated the region, has alienated everybody else and it achieved nothing, as you've seen from the statement that came from the Taliban," Zarif said, apparently referring to the militants' announcement of a new spring offensive. "I was the first to say that in any peace in Afghanistan, the Taliban cannot be set aside or isolated," Zarif said at the Asia Society in New York, which he was visiting to take part in a UN session. "But you cannot negotiate the future of Afghanistan with the Taliban. The Taliban only represent a segment of Afghan society, not all of it," he said. President Donald Trump has voiced impatience at ending the longest-ever US war, launched after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. US envoy Zalmay Khalilzad is set shortly to hold a fresh round of talks in Qatar with the Taliban, with early indications saying Washington will agree to pull troops and that the militants will promise not to allow foreign extremists on their soil. But the Taliban have refused to negotiate with President Ashraf Ghani's internationally recognized government, with a would-be breakthrough meeting recently collapsing in a dispute over the delegation list. Despite its tense relations with the United States, Iran had quietly backed the initial US invasion that ousted the Taliban, Sunni Muslims who imposed an austere interpretation of Islam over Afghanistan from 1996 to 2001. Iran, led by Shiite clerics, nearly went to war with the Taliban in 1998 after an attack on its consulate in the Afghan city of Mazar-i-Sharif killed nine Iranian diplomats and a journalist. But Iran has more recently sought to build relations with the Taliban, mindful of preserving interests in the neighbouring country.

Iran denounces US talks with Taliban on ending Afghanistan war

A merit-based immigration proposal being put together by White House senior adviser Jared Kushner could lead to an increase in US visas for highly skilled workers, sources familiar with the effort said on Wednesday.

Kushner is expected to present the comprehensive plan next week to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/mueller-report-inconclusive-on-trumps-obstruction-of-justice-charge-211626&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjmj9SPq-vhAhUv6XMBHXd2A2wQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1S0qF8jZvYevvRyNi0-ttv">President Donald Trump</a>, who will decide whether to adopt it as his official position or send it back for changes, the sources said.

The plan does not propose ways to address young people who came to the United States illegally as children who were protected by President Barack Obama in the 2014 programme known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), or those people who have Temporary Protected Status, the sources said.

Democrats, whose support the White House would need to advance any kind of immigration legislation through Congress, have insisted that the DACA recipients be protected.

Kushner has held about 50 listening sessions with conservative groups on immigration, a senior administration official said.

He has been working with White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett and policy adviser Stephen Miller on the plan and the sources said there has been some intense behind-the-scenes jockeying about the plan.

At a Time magazine forum in New York on Tuesday, Kushner said he was working well with Miller, an immigration hawk, on the topic.

The two men are both long-time Trump advisers.

"Stephen and I haven`t had any fights," he said with a smile.

That drew scepticism from immigration advocate Marshall Fitz of the Emerson Collective, who gave Kushner credit for advancing criminal justice reform but said immigration was a dramatically different issue that Miller was dominating at the White House.

"It`s impossible to see how Kushner could navigate an issue this freighted with history and central to the president`s re-election strategy in a way that would actually move the ball forward," Fitz said.

As a White House candidate in 2016 and throughout his presidency, Trump has advocated a hard-line policy on immigration, pushing for a wall to be built on the US-Mexico border and using bruising rhetoric to describe people who have fled Central American countries to enter the United States.

Republicans have largely supported his immigration proposals, but the latest White House plan aims to bring them together on a broader basis.

Some in the US&nbsp;business community has asked that the number of highly skilled visas be raised to attract more employees from abroad for specialised jobs amid a booming US&nbsp;economy.

Trump himself has talked of the need to bring in more skilled workers.

The immigration plan would either leave the number of highly skilled visas each year at the same level or raise it slightly, the sources said.

The overall goal is to reshape the visa programme into a more merit-based system, a key Trump goal. Officials working on the plan have been reviewing the systems used by Canada and Australia as possible models for the Trump effort.

The group has been working on a guest-worker programme as part of the proposal to address the US&nbsp;agriculture community`s need for seasonal labour while not hurting American workers, but nothing has been finalised, the sources said.

Trump has sought to court farmers in key battleground states to boost his chances of re-election in 2020.

The proposal will include recommendations for modernizing ports of entry along the US&nbsp;border to ensure safe trade while preventing illegal activity.

It will also address asylum laws to take account of Trump`s desire to reduce the number of people who overstay their visas, the sources said.

Kushner, who is Trump`s son-in-law, is also the main architect of a Middle East peace proposal that the president is expected to unveil this summer.

His objective on the immigration plan at the very least is to have a document that represents the president`s immigration policy and provide something that Republicans can rally around. 
&nbsp;

A merit-based immigration proposal being put together by White House senior adviser Jared Kushner could lead to an increase in US visas for highly skilled workers, sources familiar with the effort said on Wednesday.

A merit-based immigration proposal being put together by White House senior adviser Jared Kushner could lead to an increase in US visas for highly skilled workers, sources familiar with the effort said on Wednesday. Kushner is expected to present the comprehensive plan next week to President Donald Trump, who will decide whether to adopt it as his official position or send it back for changes, the sources said. The plan does not propose ways to address young people who came to the United States illegally as children who were protected by President Barack Obama in the 2014 programme known as Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), or those people who have Temporary Protected Status, the sources said. Democrats, whose support the White House would need to advance any kind of immigration legislation through Congress, have insisted that the DACA recipients be protected. Kushner has held about 50 listening sessions with conservative groups on immigration, a senior administration official said. He has been working with White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett and policy adviser Stephen Miller on the plan and the sources said there has been some intense behind-the-scenes jockeying about the plan. At a Time magazine forum in New York on Tuesday, Kushner said he was working well with Miller, an immigration hawk, on the topic. The two men are both long-time Trump advisers. "Stephen and I haven`t had any fights," he said with a smile. That drew scepticism from immigration advocate Marshall Fitz of the Emerson Collective, who gave Kushner credit for advancing criminal justice reform but said immigration was a dramatically different issue that Miller was dominating at the White House. "It`s impossible to see how Kushner could navigate an issue this freighted with history and central to the president`s re-election strategy in a way that would actually move the ball forward," Fitz said. As a White House candidate in 2016 and throughout his presidency, Trump has advocated a hard-line policy on immigration, pushing for a wall to be built on the US-Mexico border and using bruising rhetoric to describe people who have fled Central American countries to enter the United States. Republicans have largely supported his immigration proposals, but the latest White House plan aims to bring them together on a broader basis. Some in the US business community has asked that the number of highly skilled visas be raised to attract more employees from abroad for specialised jobs amid a booming US economy. Trump himself has talked of the need to bring in more skilled workers. The immigration plan would either leave the number of highly skilled visas each year at the same level or raise it slightly, the sources said. The overall goal is to reshape the visa programme into a more merit-based system, a key Trump goal. Officials working on the plan have been reviewing the systems used by Canada and Australia as possible models for the Trump effort. The group has been working on a guest-worker programme as part of the proposal to address the US agriculture community`s need for seasonal labour while not hurting American workers, but nothing has been finalised, the sources said. Trump has sought to court farmers in key battleground states to boost his chances of re-election in 2020. The proposal will include recommendations for modernizing ports of entry along the US border to ensure safe trade while preventing illegal activity. It will also address asylum laws to take account of Trump`s desire to reduce the number of people who overstay their visas, the sources said. Kushner, who is Trump`s son-in-law, is also the main architect of a Middle East peace proposal that the president is expected to unveil this summer. His objective on the immigration plan at the very least is to have a document that represents the president`s immigration policy and provide something that Republicans can rally around.

New Trump immigration plan may increase visas for highly-skilled workers

The United States on Wednesday sealed one-day international status for the first time with a third straight victory at the World Cricket League Division Two event in Namibia.

The Americans, whose only previous experience of ODI cricket was at the 2004 Champions Trophy, thrashed Hong Kong by 84 runs to wrap up a top-four place in the six-team competition.

There will be 20 ODI nations after the end of the tournament, with the top four sides to join Scotland, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal and the Netherlands in having temporary status.

After an opening loss to Oman, the US beat Namibia and Papua New Guinea to leave themselves one win away from their target.

Former West Indies batsman Xavier Marshall hit 100 as the Americans made 280-8 batting first on Wednesday, with Hong Kong managing just 196-7 in their run chase.

Oman have also secured their ODI status, leaving Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Canada and Hong Kong to fight it out for the remaining two places.

The United States on Wednesday sealed one-day international status for the first time with a third straight victory at the World Cricket League Division Two event in Namibia.

The United States on Wednesday sealed one-day international status for the first time with a third straight victory at the World Cricket League Division Two event in Namibia. The Americans, whose only previous experience of ODI cricket was at the 2004 Champions Trophy, thrashed Hong Kong by 84 runs to wrap up a top-four place in the six-team competition. There will be 20 ODI nations after the end of the tournament, with the top four sides to join Scotland, the United Arab Emirates, Nepal and the Netherlands in having temporary status. After an opening loss to Oman, the US beat Namibia and Papua New Guinea to leave themselves one win away from their target. Former West Indies batsman Xavier Marshall hit 100 as the Americans made 280-8 batting first on Wednesday, with Hong Kong managing just 196-7 in their run chase. Oman have also secured their ODI status, leaving Namibia, Papua New Guinea, Canada and Hong Kong to fight it out for the remaining two places.

USA secure ODI status for first time

Oil prices fell on Wednesday after a report allayed concerns about tightening supply, ending a rally that took <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/oil-prices-hit-highest-since-november-as-us-to-tighten-iran-sanctions-212879/amp&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiRgKK3vOjhAhUUknAKHb0NCLoQFggaMAc&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw24jA3hkoQCpXSVi94iqTVt">prices to their highest since early November</a> on concerns that OPEC output cuts and sanctions would take too much oil out of the market.

The International Energy Agency (IEA), a watchdog for oil-consuming countries, said in a statement on Tuesday that markets are "adequately supplied" and that "global spare production capacity remains at comfortable levels."

Also weighing on prices, US&nbsp;crude stocks rose by 6.9 million barrels last week, more than expected, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute showed on Tuesday.

EIA stocks data is due later on Wednesday.

Brent crude futures were at $74.18 per barrel at 0848 GMT, down 33 cents from their last close.

It was the benchmark's first fall after three days of rises, but it is still set for its fifth consecutive weekly gain.

US&nbsp;West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $65.89 per barrel, down 41 cents from their previous settlement - not enough to steer them away from what is set to be their eighth week of gains.

Crude oil prices for spot delivery rallied after the United States said on Monday it would end all exemptions for sanctions against Iran, demanding countries halt oil imports from Tehran from May or face punitive action from Washington.

China, Iran's biggest oil customer, has formally complained about the move.

The spot price surge has put the Brent forward curve into steep backwardation, in which prices for later delivery are cheaper than for prompt dispatch.

The United States has said it saw Saudi Arabia as a partner to balance oil markets.

"The (Saudi) kingdom will be relied upon to work with other producers to keep markets adequately supplied," PVM said in a note.

But some analysts say the market was still fundamentally bullish.

"The factors that could lead to higher prices are overwhelming," said Carsten Fritsch at Commerzbank, adding a push towards $80 a barrel was more likely than a fall below $70.

Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said on Wednesday its production in May will not vary greatly from previous months.

He added that Saudi Arabia will aim to stick to its output quota fixed in a deal by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Russia and others, but that June numbers will be determined in a couple of weeks depending on customers' needs.

Oil prices fell on Wednesday after a report allayed concerns about tightening supply, ending a rally that took prices to their highest since early November on concerns that OPEC output cuts and sanctions would take too much oil out of the market.

Oil prices fell on Wednesday after a report allayed concerns about tightening supply, ending a rally that took prices to their highest since early November on concerns that OPEC output cuts and sanctions would take too much oil out of the market. The International Energy Agency (IEA), a watchdog for oil-consuming countries, said in a statement on Tuesday that markets are "adequately supplied" and that "global spare production capacity remains at comfortable levels." Also weighing on prices, US crude stocks rose by 6.9 million barrels last week, more than expected, data from industry group the American Petroleum Institute showed on Tuesday. EIA stocks data is due later on Wednesday. Brent crude futures were at $74.18 per barrel at 0848 GMT, down 33 cents from their last close. It was the benchmark's first fall after three days of rises, but it is still set for its fifth consecutive weekly gain. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures were at $65.89 per barrel, down 41 cents from their previous settlement - not enough to steer them away from what is set to be their eighth week of gains. Crude oil prices for spot delivery rallied after the United States said on Monday it would end all exemptions for sanctions against Iran, demanding countries halt oil imports from Tehran from May or face punitive action from Washington. China, Iran's biggest oil customer, has formally complained about the move. The spot price surge has put the Brent forward curve into steep backwardation, in which prices for later delivery are cheaper than for prompt dispatch. The United States has said it saw Saudi Arabia as a partner to balance oil markets. "The (Saudi) kingdom will be relied upon to work with other producers to keep markets adequately supplied," PVM said in a note. But some analysts say the market was still fundamentally bullish. "The factors that could lead to higher prices are overwhelming," said Carsten Fritsch at Commerzbank, adding a push towards $80 a barrel was more likely than a fall below $70. Saudi Energy Minister Khalid al-Falih said on Wednesday its production in May will not vary greatly from previous months. He added that Saudi Arabia will aim to stick to its output quota fixed in a deal by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), Russia and others, but that June numbers will be determined in a couple of weeks depending on customers' needs.

Oil prices fall from a six-month high on signs the market not as tight as feared

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson.

Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

"So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate."

The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley.&nbsp;

He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium.

Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China.

Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues.

In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU.

The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand.

The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said.

"We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said.

Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock.

The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data."

Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker.

US President Donald Trump threatened retribution on Europe Tuesday over tariffs that have bruised profitability at iconic US motorcycle company Harley-Davidson. Trump cited commentary from Fox Business News anchor Maria Bartiromo, who pointed to the drag from European Union tariffs as a key factor in falling sales by the iconic US motorcycle maker. "So unfair to US," Trump said on Twitter. "We will reciprocate." The commentary was a pivot of sorts from the US president, in targeting Brussels rather than Wisconsin-based Harley. He previously lashed out at the 116-year-old company after it announced plans last summer to shift some US manufacturing overseas as a way to circumvent the EU tariffs, which were imposed on key American goods in March 2018 in retaliation for Trump's tariffs on steel and aluminium. Trump's latest threat comes as Washington and Brussels are close to the start of formal trade talks, now that the US leader has moved closer to settling a months-long fight with China. Harley-Davidson reported a $21 million hit from tariffs in the first quarter, which contributed to the 26.8 per cent drop in profits to $127.9 million amid lower revenues. In June, Harley-Davidson announced it was shifting some manufacturing capacity overseas as "the only sustainable option" following punitive import duties of 31 per cent in the EU. The motorcycle manufacturer in January 2018 announced it would close a Missouri factory and consolidate jobs into Pennsylvania at the same time it was building a new factory in Thailand. The Thailand operation is part of Harley's "tariff mitigation" strategy aimed at the growing Southeast Asian market, the company said. "We're acting with agility and discipline to take full advantage of rapidly evolving global markets," Chief Executive Matt Levatich said. Harley also is focused on building up a new generation of riders to make up for declines in the older population that has been its bedrock. The company said it found 278,000 "new riders" in the US in 2018 and that "this group is the most diverse across age, ethnicity and gender in all the years Harley-Davidson has tracked this data." Shares of Harley-Davidson fell 2.1 per cent to $38.90 in pre-market trading, but was down just 0.35 per cent in early trading.

Donald Trump vows to hit back at European Union as tariffs bite Harley-Davidson

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-koreas-kim-oversees-new-guided-weapon-test-state-media-211283">tested a new type of tactical weapon</a>.

Wednesday's weapons test, which was supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was the first one carried since a February summit with US president Donald Trump in Hanoi ended without an agreement on the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program.

"I'm not going to go into the detail of the intelligence but the way I'd characterize it is, it's not like a ballistic missile, okay?" Shanahan said before welcoming the Albanian Minister of Defense, Olta Xhacka, to the Pentagon.

"There's no change to our posture or our operations," towards North Korea, Shanahan added.

"The test or the launch - depending on how you want to characterize it - was not a ballistic missile," he insisted.

A ballistic missile, which can carry nuclear warheads, follows a predefined trajectory after launching before falling unguided and under gravity onto its target.

The North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced on Thursday that Kim Jong-un had overseen the testing of a new tactical guided weapon - a short-range battlefield weapon designed for use in combat scenarios.

As is usual for the North Korean regime, the location of the test was not specified, and the report merely said that it was a "new type of guided tactical weapon" and that "the design indexes of the ... weapon whose advantages are appreciated for the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead were perfectly verified at the test-fire."

News of Wednesday's test raised concerns around the world due to the fact that Pyongyang announced last month that it was considering breaking off negotiations with Washington and resuming its ballistic missiles tests after 15 months.

On March&nbsp;15, North Korea's Vice-Foreign Minister, Choe Son-Hui, said that her country has "no intention to yield to the US demands (at the Hanoi summit) in any form" nor are they willing " to engage in negotiations of this kind" and noted that it was up to Kim to end the moratorium on weapons testing.

US President Donald Trump and Kim have met on two occasions, and although both leaders have stressed how amicable their relationship is, their last meeting in Hanoi ended abruptly without a deal.

The failure to reach an agreement at the summit revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would lift in return.

Washington wanted North Korea to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting any concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of most of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient.

On Thursday, Pyongyang also urged Washington to replace secretary of state Mike Pompeo with a "more careful and mature" negotiator, foreign ministry official Kwon Jong-gun said, according to KCNA.

He said talks could become complicated if Pompeo was involved in the discussions, adding that whenever he "pokes his nose in, talks between the two countries go wrong, without any results."&nbsp;

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly tested a new type of tactical weapon.

Acting Secretary of Defense of the United States, Patrick Shanahan, said Thursday that neither the Pentagon's "posture" nor its operations with respect to the nuclear disarmament of North Korea have changed after Pyongyang reportedly tested a new type of tactical weapon. Wednesday's weapons test, which was supervised by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, was the first one carried since a February summit with US president Donald Trump in Hanoi ended without an agreement on the dismantling of Pyongyang's nuclear program. "I'm not going to go into the detail of the intelligence but the way I'd characterize it is, it's not like a ballistic missile, okay?" Shanahan said before welcoming the Albanian Minister of Defense, Olta Xhacka, to the Pentagon. "There's no change to our posture or our operations," towards North Korea, Shanahan added. "The test or the launch - depending on how you want to characterize it - was not a ballistic missile," he insisted. A ballistic missile, which can carry nuclear warheads, follows a predefined trajectory after launching before falling unguided and under gravity onto its target. The North Korean Central News Agency (KCNA) announced on Thursday that Kim Jong-un had overseen the testing of a new tactical guided weapon - a short-range battlefield weapon designed for use in combat scenarios. As is usual for the North Korean regime, the location of the test was not specified, and the report merely said that it was a "new type of guided tactical weapon" and that "the design indexes of the ... weapon whose advantages are appreciated for the peculiar mode of guiding flight and the load of a powerful warhead were perfectly verified at the test-fire." News of Wednesday's test raised concerns around the world due to the fact that Pyongyang announced last month that it was considering breaking off negotiations with Washington and resuming its ballistic missiles tests after 15 months. On March 15, North Korea's Vice-Foreign Minister, Choe Son-Hui, said that her country has "no intention to yield to the US demands (at the Hanoi summit) in any form" nor are they willing " to engage in negotiations of this kind" and noted that it was up to Kim to end the moratorium on weapons testing. US President Donald Trump and Kim have met on two occasions, and although both leaders have stressed how amicable their relationship is, their last meeting in Hanoi ended abruptly without a deal. The failure to reach an agreement at the summit revolved around the number of North Korean nuclear assets to be dismantled against the volume of sanctions that the US would lift in return. Washington wanted North Korea to dismantle its missiles and chemical and biological weapons (in addition to nuclear weapons) programs before granting any concessions, while Pyongyang called for the lifting of most of the sanctions in exchange for dismantling its Yongbyon nuclear facility, which the US considered insufficient. On Thursday, Pyongyang also urged Washington to replace secretary of state Mike Pompeo with a "more careful and mature" negotiator, foreign ministry official Kwon Jong-gun said, according to KCNA. He said talks could become complicated if Pompeo was involved in the discussions, adding that whenever he "pokes his nose in, talks between the two countries go wrong, without any results."

No change to US stance on North Korea after new weapons test: Pentagon

At least 32 people have been killed and around 50 wounded in Libya. Watch this video to know more.

Fighting intensifies in the Libyan Capital

American victim's family sues boeing

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday he will probably talk to Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping about the crisis in Venezuela.

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday.

The United States has yet to request a phone call with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss the situation in Venezuela, the Kremlin was quoted as saying by TASS news agency on Saturday. US President Donald Trump said on Friday he will probably talk to Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping about the crisis in Venezuela.

US has not requested phone call on Venezuela with Putin: Kremlin

The United States is "focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil" and is "working with others in the international community to achieve this goal" in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, a senior US State Department official noted.

The statement also comes following<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/willing-to-hold-more-talks-with-india-on-blacklisting-masood-azhar-china-203655"> China blocking a proposal </a>- for the fourth time - in the UN Security Council to list JeM chief Masood Azhar under the UN sanctions committee.

"The events of the past few weeks have underscored that the US-India relationship is a global and long-term partnership, that we will stand by each other in times of crisis, and that we are working diligently to expand our habits of cooperation...We stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions, and communicate directly," the official said.

"Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official added.

Talking about Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Washington, the official outlined that the visit "demonstrated the transformation of our strategic relationship".

"My overarching conclusion from the visit is that US-India strategic interests are broadly aligned, structural, and deep; that our relationship will continue to thrive; and that commitment to this relationship transcends party lines both here and in New Delhi. We see eye to eye on Indo-Pacific issues, the pressing need to confront terrorism, and the critical importance of the growing US-India defence relationship," the official mentioned.

The official stated the outcomes from Gokhale`s meeting with US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo. "The Foreign Secretary’s visit started with a meeting with Secretary Pompeo, who emphasised that the United States stands with India in the fight against terrorism and that we are committed to assisting India in bringing those responsible for the reprehensible Pulwama attack to justice. The two also discussed expanding our defence and economic partnership, our complementary visions for the Indo-Pacific, and our appreciation for India’s contributions in Afghanistan, as well as continued support for the mission of Special Representative Khalilzad," the senior official said.

"We then held the Foreign Office Consultations, led by Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale on our side, reinvigorating an important mechanism in which the United States and India get together to compare notes on global issues and talk about our cooperation throughout the world. This year’s consultations included discussion of developments in the DPRK (North Korea), Iran, and Venezuela. It was clear in these conversations that we have many joint goals and priorities," the official stated.

"Foreign Secretary Gokhale also co-chaired the Strategic Security Dialogue with Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson; and members of his delegation held the India-US Space Dialogue with Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance Yleem Poblete.

These discussions focused on some of the most pressing global threats and reaffirmed our commitment to working together to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, and confronting threats in space. Our consultations with India on these issues are of the same nature as those with our closest allies, demonstrating the level of trust and cooperation between our two governments.

And, as was the case throughout Foreign Secretary Gokhale’s visit, these conversations were frank, substantive, and strategic," the official mentioned.

The official also outlined the meeting of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) this week, co-chaired by US Under Secretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment, Ellen Lord, and Indian Secretary of Defense Production, Ajay Kumar, "which focused on encouraging US and Indian industry to work together and develop next-generation technologies".

"DTTI included updates on ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities in land, naval, air, and aircraft carrier technologies; a meeting with US and Indian industry representatives; a visit to Norfolk Naval Station to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyer USS Bainbridge; and a visit to a US defence company. I...wanted to mention this to further underscore the multifaceted nature of our partnership with India as captured by just one week’s worth of meetings," the official stated.

Speaking on the economic front, the official said,"The United States is proud to be India’s largest export market and most important economic partner, but we have struggled with regulatory issues that get in the way of the ease of doing business and market access for American companies and products. And despite intensive engagement with the Government of India for nearly a year, India did not assure the United States that it would provide equitable and reasonable access to its market, which led to its termination from the Generalized System of Preferences program."

"While we were pleased that growing US exports to India, largely crude oil and LNG, led to a 7.1 per cent reduction in our bilateral goods trade deficit last year, many structural challenges in our trade relationship have yet to be resolved. Trade has frankly been an area of frustration in the relationship, but the door is open if India is prepared to bring a serious proposal to the table," they stated.

The official also appreciated the Ambassador of India to the USA, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, before concluding.

"I want to note that I attended a dinner last night at which Indian Ambassador Shringla spoke eloquently and in great detail about the value and positive trajectory of our bilateral relationship. Only here for less than two months, Ambassador Shringla has already made an extraordinary impression here in DC, and we look forward to working with him in the months and years to come," the official mentioned.

The United States is "focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil" and is "working with others in the international community to achieve this goal" in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, a senior US State Department official noted.

The United States is "focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil" and is "working with others in the international community to achieve this goal" in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed, a senior US State Department official noted. The statement also comes following China blocking a proposal - for the fourth time - in the UN Security Council to list JeM chief Masood Azhar under the UN sanctions committee. "The events of the past few weeks have underscored that the US-India relationship is a global and long-term partnership, that we will stand by each other in times of crisis, and that we are working diligently to expand our habits of cooperation...We stood publicly and resolutely with India in its response to the attack, as you saw in our statements while joining the international community in encouraging both sides to avoid military escalation, de-escalate tensions, and communicate directly," the official said. "Now we are focused on pressing Pakistan to take sustained, irreversible action on terrorist groups operating on its soil, and we are working with others in the international community to achieve this goal," the official added. Talking about Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale's recent visit to Washington, the official outlined that the visit "demonstrated the transformation of our strategic relationship". "My overarching conclusion from the visit is that US-India strategic interests are broadly aligned, structural, and deep; that our relationship will continue to thrive; and that commitment to this relationship transcends party lines both here and in New Delhi. We see eye to eye on Indo-Pacific issues, the pressing need to confront terrorism, and the critical importance of the growing US-India defence relationship," the official mentioned. The official stated the outcomes from Gokhale`s meeting with US Secretary of State Michael Pompeo. "The Foreign Secretary’s visit started with a meeting with Secretary Pompeo, who emphasised that the United States stands with India in the fight against terrorism and that we are committed to assisting India in bringing those responsible for the reprehensible Pulwama attack to justice. The two also discussed expanding our defence and economic partnership, our complementary visions for the Indo-Pacific, and our appreciation for India’s contributions in Afghanistan, as well as continued support for the mission of Special Representative Khalilzad," the senior official said. "We then held the Foreign Office Consultations, led by Under Secretary for Political Affairs David Hale on our side, reinvigorating an important mechanism in which the United States and India get together to compare notes on global issues and talk about our cooperation throughout the world. This year’s consultations included discussion of developments in the DPRK (North Korea), Iran, and Venezuela. It was clear in these conversations that we have many joint goals and priorities," the official stated. "Foreign Secretary Gokhale also co-chaired the Strategic Security Dialogue with Under Secretary for Arms Control and International Security Andrea Thompson; and members of his delegation held the India-US Space Dialogue with Assistant Secretary for Arms Control, Verification, and Compliance Yleem Poblete. These discussions focused on some of the most pressing global threats and reaffirmed our commitment to working together to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and their means of delivery, and confronting threats in space. Our consultations with India on these issues are of the same nature as those with our closest allies, demonstrating the level of trust and cooperation between our two governments. And, as was the case throughout Foreign Secretary Gokhale’s visit, these conversations were frank, substantive, and strategic," the official mentioned. The official also outlined the meeting of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) this week, co-chaired by US Under Secretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment, Ellen Lord, and Indian Secretary of Defense Production, Ajay Kumar, "which focused on encouraging US and Indian industry to work together and develop next-generation technologies". "DTTI included updates on ongoing projects and collaborative opportunities in land, naval, air, and aircraft carrier technologies; a meeting with US and Indian industry representatives; a visit to Norfolk Naval Station to tour the aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln and destroyer USS Bainbridge; and a visit to a US defence company. I...wanted to mention this to further underscore the multifaceted nature of our partnership with India as captured by just one week’s worth of meetings," the official stated. Speaking on the economic front, the official said,"The United States is proud to be India’s largest export market and most important economic partner, but we have struggled with regulatory issues that get in the way of the ease of doing business and market access for American companies and products. And despite intensive engagement with the Government of India for nearly a year, India did not assure the United States that it would provide equitable and reasonable access to its market, which led to its termination from the Generalized System of Preferences program." "While we were pleased that growing US exports to India, largely crude oil and LNG, led to a 7.1 per cent reduction in our bilateral goods trade deficit last year, many structural challenges in our trade relationship have yet to be resolved. Trade has frankly been an area of frustration in the relationship, but the door is open if India is prepared to bring a serious proposal to the table," they stated. The official also appreciated the Ambassador of India to the USA, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, before concluding. "I want to note that I attended a dinner last night at which Indian Ambassador Shringla spoke eloquently and in great detail about the value and positive trajectory of our bilateral relationship. Only here for less than two months, Ambassador Shringla has already made an extraordinary impression here in DC, and we look forward to working with him in the months and years to come," the official mentioned.

Focused on pressing Pak to take sustained, irreversible action against terrorist groups on its soil: US

Trump's vision for North Korea: US aims for complete denuclearisation by 2021

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