US Democrat from Minnesota,&nbsp;Angie Craig, was assaulted on Thursday in the elevator of her apartment building in Washington, her office confirmed in a statement.&nbsp;According to the police complaint, the assailant allegedly hit the legislator in the chin and held her by the neck. Craig then defended herself by hurling hot coffee at the assailant before he ran away.

Her chief of staff, Nick Coe, commented on the incident and stated that the congresswoman had bruises but was otherwise "physically OK." Coe said that there was no evidence to support a political motivation for the attack. Coe said that the attack took place in the morning and&nbsp;the US Congreewoman&nbsp; "defended herself"&nbsp;from the aggressor.&nbsp;Her office further stated that the assaulter ran away.

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"Rep. Craig is grateful to the DC Metropolitan Police Department for their quick response and asks for privacy at this time," the chief of staff added.

Watch | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-aftermath-of-chinas-spy-balloon-560414">US: Aftermath of China's spy balloon</a>

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A police report states that the congressman observed the attacker "acting erratic" and that he appeared to be under the influence of an unknown substance.

Democratic governor of Minnesota Tim Walz claimed to have spoken to Craig and learned that she was doing well.&nbsp;Democratic Leader in the House Hakeem Jeffries called the event a "terrifying assault."

(With inputs from agencies)

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US Democrat from Minnesota, Angie Craig, was assaulted on Thursday in the elevator of her apartment building in Washington, her office confirmed in a statement. According to the police complaint, the assailant allegedly hit the legislator in the chin and held her by the neck.

US Democrat from Minnesota, Angie Craig, was assaulted on Thursday in the elevator of her apartment building in Washington, her office confirmed in a statement. According to the police complaint, the assailant allegedly hit the legislator in the chin and held her by the neck. Craig then defended herself by hurling hot coffee at the assailant before he ran away. Her chief of staff, Nick Coe, commented on the incident and stated that the congresswoman had bruises but was otherwise "physically OK." Coe said that there was no evidence to support a political motivation for the attack. Coe said that the attack took place in the morning and the US Congreewoman "defended herself" from the aggressor. Her office further stated that the assaulter ran away. Also Read | South African president declares 'state of disaster' amid worst power crisis. What is it about? "Rep. Craig is grateful to the DC Metropolitan Police Department for their quick response and asks for privacy at this time," the chief of staff added. Watch | US: Aftermath of China's spy balloon A police report states that the congressman observed the attacker "acting erratic" and that he appeared to be under the influence of an unknown substance. Democratic governor of Minnesota Tim Walz claimed to have spoken to Craig and learned that she was doing well. Democratic Leader in the House Hakeem Jeffries called the event a "terrifying assault." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US Democrat from Minnesota, Angie Craig, assaulted in her Washington apartment elevator

Differences between Washington and Beijing are on their path to getting worse. The 'spy balloon' incident has prompted US Secretary of State Antony Blinken to postpone his trip to China as the latter claimed the responsibility of it.

Soaring balloon, sinking ties? US' Blinken puts China visit on hold over 'spy balloon'

India and the U.S. have come together to counter military challenge from China. New Delhi and Washington are fleshing out ways to share technology at the highest level, including building jet engines together. Molly Gambhir tells you.

Gravitas: India, U.S. unite to counter military challenge from China

US President Joe Biden's National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval met with some senior officials in Washington DC to launch India-US initiative on critical and emerging technologies.

WION Fineprint: Doval, Sullivan meet in Washington; US, India collaborate on major interests

India's NSA Ajit Doval on 3-day visit to US meets counterpart Jake Sullivan in Washington

Tesla CEO Elon Musk met two top White House officials in Washington. The motive behind the meeting was to discuss how the car maker and Democratic President Joe Biden could work together to advance electric vehicle production. Watch further to know more.

Elon Musk meets two White House officials in Washington

The head of Russia's paramilitary organisation Wagner Group has published a letter to the White House asking about what crime is his company accused of? This comes after Washington announces new sanctions on the group of Friday.

Russia: Wagner Chief writes to White House, demands clarification on accusations

Thousands of abortion opponents rallied in Washington for the 50th annual "March for Life," marking a new chapter for a movement that has organized for decades around overturning Roe v. Wade, the landmark ruling that recognized a women's right to an abortion.

Abortion opponents call for stricter bans at first post-Roe Washington march

The US imposed visa restrictions on 25 Belarusians including lawmakers for “undermining democracy” on Tuesday (January 17) over the trial in absentia of exiled democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The announcement was made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken who called the trial “politically motivated”.

Tsikhanouskaya, the 40-year-old leader of the opposition fled the country after running against incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko in 2020 which was followed by mass protests over alleged voter fraud.&nbsp;

In a statement, Blinken said, “These politically motivated trials are the latest examples of the Lukashenko regime’s efforts to intimidate and repress those who seek justice, respect for human rights, and a democratic Belarus.”&nbsp;

He added, “We will not stand by as this regime continues to harass and repress peaceful protesters, the democratic opposition, journalists, unionists, activists, human rights defenders, and everyday Belarusians”.&nbsp;

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The Lukashenka regime's politically motivated trial in absentia of democratic opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya is illustrative of its repression. We've taken steps to impose visa restrictions on 25 regime officials who passed legislation to repress pro-democracy actors.
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Additionally, among the 25 people targeted by Washington are lawmakers and members of the National Assembly of Belarus who played a role in passing legislation to authorise the death penalty for people convicted of “attempted acts of terrorism,” a charge that Blinken says has been used to quash the opposition in Belarus. &nbsp;

Furthermore, some of these individuals have also supported laws that revoke citizenship from those outside the country charged with “extremism” and confiscating property for taking “unfriendly actions towards Belarus,” said Blinken.

Lukashenko has been in power since 1994 and declared himself the winner of the 2020 presidential election in Belarus which the long-time outspoken critic and leader of the opposition denounced.&nbsp;

Tsikhanouskaya, who now lives in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, told Reuters on the sidelines of the ongoing World Economic Forum, “In Belarus there are no honest trials. We live in absolute lawlessness in our country so tomorrow's trial will be a farce and a show but not real justice.”

According to the BelTa state news agency, Tsikhanouskaya and several others will be tried on charges of treason and attempting to seize power.&nbsp;

The opposition leader of Belarus is on trial along with other pro-democracy leaders, including Volha Kavalkova, head of the Coordination Council, who was in charge of Belarus’ democratic transition, said the US official.&nbsp;

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The US imposed visa restrictions on 25 Belarusians including lawmakers for “undermining democracy” on Tuesday (January 17) over the trial in absentia of exiled democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya.

The US imposed visa restrictions on 25 Belarusians including lawmakers for “undermining democracy” on Tuesday (January 17) over the trial in absentia of exiled democratic opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya. The announcement was made by Secretary of State Antony Blinken who called the trial “politically motivated”. Tsikhanouskaya, the 40-year-old leader of the opposition fled the country after running against incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko in 2020 which was followed by mass protests over alleged voter fraud. In a statement, Blinken said, “These politically motivated trials are the latest examples of the Lukashenko regime’s efforts to intimidate and repress those who seek justice, respect for human rights, and a democratic Belarus.” He added, “We will not stand by as this regime continues to harass and repress peaceful protesters, the democratic opposition, journalists, unionists, activists, human rights defenders, and everyday Belarusians”. The Lukashenka regime's politically motivated trial in absentia of democratic opposition leader Svyatlana Tsikhanouskaya is illustrative of its repression. We've taken steps to impose visa restrictions on 25 regime officials who passed legislation to repress pro-democracy actors. — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) January 17, 2023 × Additionally, among the 25 people targeted by Washington are lawmakers and members of the National Assembly of Belarus who played a role in passing legislation to authorise the death penalty for people convicted of “attempted acts of terrorism,” a charge that Blinken says has been used to quash the opposition in Belarus. Furthermore, some of these individuals have also supported laws that revoke citizenship from those outside the country charged with “extremism” and confiscating property for taking “unfriendly actions towards Belarus,” said Blinken. Lukashenko has been in power since 1994 and declared himself the winner of the 2020 presidential election in Belarus which the long-time outspoken critic and leader of the opposition denounced. Tsikhanouskaya, who now lives in the Lithuanian capital of Vilnius, told Reuters on the sidelines of the ongoing World Economic Forum, “In Belarus there are no honest trials. We live in absolute lawlessness in our country so tomorrow's trial will be a farce and a show but not real justice.” According to the BelTa state news agency, Tsikhanouskaya and several others will be tried on charges of treason and attempting to seize power. The opposition leader of Belarus is on trial along with other pro-democracy leaders, including Volha Kavalkova, head of the Coordination Council, who was in charge of Belarus’ democratic transition, said the US official. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

US imposes visa restrictions on 25 people in Belarus including lawmakers over ‘politically motivated trial’

The United States and Japan held 'Two plus Two' security talks in Washington. During the meeting, the two countries discussed their shared vision of a modernized alliance and tackling the 21st-century challenges in Indo-Pacific and also around the world.

Japan and U.S. hold 'Two plus Two' talks in Washington

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is in the U.S.. He will meet President Biden, address the U.S. Congress and head back within hours with more aid and weapons. Priyanka Sharma gets you more.

Gravitas: Ukrainian President to address U.S. Congress

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed that he will visit Washington on Wednesday, where he will held talks with US President Joe Biden. He is also scheduled to address a joint session of the US Senate and House of Representatives at Capitol Hill.

Zelensky to meet US President Joe Biden, address Congress as war rages on

The three-day US-Africa summit has concluded in Washington DC. Are there any major takeaways from the forum? Watch this to know.

U.S. efforts to court Africa though Washington Summit

President Joe Biden welcomed 49 leaders from Africa on Wednesday for US-Africa Leaders Summit. Biden told African leaders that the United States is "all in on Africa’s future".

President Joe Biden welcomes African leaders for US-Africa leaders summit in Washington

After the US and Russia, China is the new space power. Beijing is steadily working to conquer the final frontier and Washington is wary of the Chinese plans. The head of the US space command said, "China is building capabilities that put most US assets at risk".

China's 'heavenly palace' space station; US space command says 'Our space assets at risk'

Is Russia changing its nuclear doctrine amid the ongoing Ukraine war President Putin mulls adopting a 'Washington-like' concept. In this video, have a look at the US & its policy of 'calculated ambiguity'.

What is Russia's 'Nuclear Doctrine'? How is Russia's strategy different than US?

The era of the Boeing 747 aircraft has come to an end. The last one took flight from Boeing's u.S. Factory in Washington state. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

Gravitas: Last Boeing 747 rolls off the production line

French President Emmanuel Macron has warned that the subsidies paid to the US companies under a green energy plan could split the West. The remarks came at a time when Macron is on a state visit to the United States. In a speech at the French embassy in Washington, Macron voice support for the environmental goals of President Biden's key policies.

French President Emmanuel Macron blasts US trade subsidies, says 'it may split the West'

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.&nbsp;

Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing."

Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation.&nbsp;

Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-more-than-300-dead-in-protests-sparked-by-aminis-death-says-irgc-general-538527">Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general</a>

He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation."

The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US&nbsp;official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters.&nbsp;

(with inputs from agencies)

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Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing.

Sergei Ryabkov, Russia's deputy foreign minister, stated on Tuesday that Moscow is attempting to convince the United States that the risks associated with Washington's expanding engagement in the Ukraine war are increasing. Moscow has frequently protested that Western military assistance to Ukraine is prolonging the crisis, which is now in its 10th month and putting Russia and the West at risk of a direct conflict. Ryabkov was reported by the news agency Interfax as saying, "We are sending signals to the Americans that their line of escalation and ever deeper involvement in this conflict is fraught with dire consequences. The risks are growing." Following what they claim was Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine on February 24, the continued occupation of Ukrainian land, and veiled nuclear threats, Kyiv and the West blame Russia for any future escalation. Ryabkov was quoted as adding that although Washington and Moscow "periodically exchange signals," there is no conversation between the two. Also Read: Iran: More than 300 dead in protests sparked by Amini's death, says IRGC general He claimed he was unaware of any communication on a particular US-Russia military hotline set up at the start of what Moscow refers to as "a special military operation." The unique "deconfliction" line between the Russian and American armies has only been used once since the war began, a US official earlier on Tuesday told Reuters. (with inputs from agencies)

Washington's increasing involvement in Ukraine carries growing risks, warns Russia

African leaders have declared a ceasefire in eastern DRC starting from Friday. Declaration was issued by the leaders of Congo, Rwanda and several others.

African leaders agree on ‘immediate ceasefire’ in violence-torn eastern DRC

Moscow has extended its support to Washington's arch-rival Pyongyang. Putin's government has accused the Biden administration of testing its tacit ally Kim's patience. The statement comes after North Korea fired an intercontinental ballistic missile. Molly Gambhir brings you the details.

WION Fineprint | Russia accuses U.S. of 'testing North Korea's patience'

The upcoming American midterm elections are creating history. For the first time, the elections have LGBTQ+ candidates running in all 50 US states and the capital Washington.

US Midterm Elections 2022: LGBTQ+ candidates to contest from all 50 states

A night full of colours and music and an important social message - the US Capitol hosted a drag queen race with three pillars of the LGBTQ+ community - self expression, acceptance and high fashion. Watch the video to know more about it.

Drag queens don high heels in 35th Washington race; thousands dress to run for cause

It's been over 40 days since the death of Mahsa Amini in Iran. What started as a funeral protest has now ballooned into an anti-government movement, protesters along with Amini's family held a memorial procession wherein thousands of people were out on the streets displaying their anger.

Clashes erupt in Mahsa Amini's hometown, Washington imposes new sanctions on Iran

A woman was thrashed, taped and buried alive by her estranged husband, and was rescued as she had managed to call 911 with her Apple watch.&nbsp;The woman from Washington state was allegedly buried alive in the woods by her estranged husband, and managed to escape to safety from the shallow grave, authorities said. 
 
Thurston County Sheriff’s deputy located a frantic woman hiding behind the shed in a home’s front yard shortly before 1 a.m. on Monday, according to a declaration of probable cause filed in the county’s superior court on Wednesday. 
 
“My husband is trying to kill me,” the woman screamed, according to the court document. 
“She had duct tape still wrapped around her neck, lower face and ankles," the filing said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/worlds-dirtiest-man-dies-in-iran-months-after-first-bath-in-70-years-528359">‘World's dirtiest man’ dies in Iran, months after first bath in 70 years</a>

"There was extensive bruising to her legs, arms and head and her clothing and hair were covered in dirt.” 
 
The woman’s husband, accused Chae Kyong An, 53, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree attempted murder, first-degree kidnapping and first-degree assault, according to court documents. 
 
He was booked into the county jail on Tuesday, and during a preliminary hearing on Wednesday, a judge granted the prosecutor’s request to hold him without bail, according to the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. 
 
ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/rats-with-backpacks-may-soon-save-people-stuck-under-rubble-528160">Rats with 'backpacks' may soon save people stuck under rubble</a> 
 
Kyong An has not been formally charged yet, prosecutors said and his attorney could not be reached for comment Thursday, reported NBC News. 
 
Police in Lacey, about 60 miles southwest of Seattle, reached the woman’s home after receiving a 911 call of a woman “screaming” who sounded “gagged,” according to the probable cause document. 
 
The woman later told police she was attacked while was talking to her husband about their ongoing divorce and money. 
 
Kyong An tied his wife's hands behind her back with duct tape, and duct-taped her eyes, thighs and ankles, the court document said. She told investigators she managed to call 911 with her Apple watch and sent an emergency notification when he left the bedroom. 
He then dragged her into the garage and broke her Apple watch with a hammer, the report said. 
 
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A woman was thrashed, taped and buried alive by her estranged husband, and was rescued as she had managed to call 911 with her Apple watch. The woman from Washington state was allegedly buried alive in the woods by her estranged husband, and managed to escape to safety from the shallow grave, authorities said.

A woman was thrashed, taped and buried alive by her estranged husband, and was rescued as she had managed to call 911 with her Apple watch. The woman from Washington state was allegedly buried alive in the woods by her estranged husband, and managed to escape to safety from the shallow grave, authorities said. Thurston County Sheriff’s deputy located a frantic woman hiding behind the shed in a home’s front yard shortly before 1 a.m. on Monday, according to a declaration of probable cause filed in the county’s superior court on Wednesday. “My husband is trying to kill me,” the woman screamed, according to the court document. “She had duct tape still wrapped around her neck, lower face and ankles," the filing said. ALSO READ | ‘World's dirtiest man’ dies in Iran, months after first bath in 70 years "There was extensive bruising to her legs, arms and head and her clothing and hair were covered in dirt.” The woman’s husband, accused Chae Kyong An, 53, was arrested on suspicion of first-degree attempted murder, first-degree kidnapping and first-degree assault, according to court documents. He was booked into the county jail on Tuesday, and during a preliminary hearing on Wednesday, a judge granted the prosecutor’s request to hold him without bail, according to the Thurston County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office. ALSO READ | Rats with 'backpacks' may soon save people stuck under rubble Kyong An has not been formally charged yet, prosecutors said and his attorney could not be reached for comment Thursday, reported NBC News. Police in Lacey, about 60 miles southwest of Seattle, reached the woman’s home after receiving a 911 call of a woman “screaming” who sounded “gagged,” according to the probable cause document. The woman later told police she was attacked while was talking to her husband about their ongoing divorce and money. Kyong An tied his wife's hands behind her back with duct tape, and duct-taped her eyes, thighs and ankles, the court document said. She told investigators she managed to call 911 with her Apple watch and sent an emergency notification when he left the bedroom. He then dragged her into the garage and broke her Apple watch with a hammer, the report said. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Woman buried alive by estranged husband calls 911 using Apple watch, rescued

Washington has issued new visa curbs on the Taliban against their treatment of women and girls. But will these restrictions impact the group's senior leadership or will they add to the woes of common Afghans seeking relocation?

South Asia Diary | Decoding U.S' Visa Curbs on the Taliban

United States President Joe Biden and his government are in the midst of hosting a landmark summit at the White House with the Pacific island nations to bolster ties. However, the Solomon Islands have deferred signing the draft of the US-led agreement.&nbsp;

This comes amid weeks of negotiations on a joint agreement to strengthen ties between the Pacific Islands and the US and ahead of the high-profile presidential summit to be hosted by Washington. The summit which starts on Wednesday has also been called “unprecedented” by US officials as this would be the first time the White House would host the Pacific Island leaders.&nbsp;

According to US officials, leaders from strategic archipelagos will be attending including representatives of two French territories and the US territory of Guam. Everyone from the cabinet secretaries to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been invited including the head of the US Coast Guard which reportedly maintains a security presence in the Pacific. &nbsp;

Leaders from Fiji, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and New Caledonia, will be attending the summit, said the White House. Meanwhile, island nations Vanuatu and Nauru will be sending representatives and Australia and New Zealand are attending as observers.

This summit is partly seen as an attempt by the US to strengthen ties and intensify its presence in the Pacific countries amid China’s growing engagement in the region. Additionally, earlier this year, the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with Beijing which reportedly came as a shock to the diplomatic community in US and Australia. However, the country’s leader Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has denied the possibility of allowing China to establish a military base or presence on the island.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wont-allow-chinese-military-base-and-know-ramification-solomon-islands-467309">Won't allow Chinese military base, we know 'ramification': Solomon Islands</a>

Currently, Washington is dealing with a major blow after the Solomon Islands has reportedly deferred signing the document. The 11-point declaration between the country will provide a framework for US engagement in the region as it moves forward to increase its diplomatic, development and commercial presence in the region, the ABC reported.&nbsp;

According to the Guardian, the Solomon Islands addressed a note to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, saying that they need time to reflect and discuss and they will not be in a position to adopt the declaration this week. There is no clear indication of why the island nation has decided to hold off on signing the pact.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, other Pacific nations have welcomed the US’s engagement in the region, while asserting that it will be done on their terms, said the local media. On the other hand, the President of Federated States of Micronesia, David Panuelo, has indicated that it was a “very involved process” while speaking about the agreement.&nbsp;

According to a report by ABC, this declaration will cover topics ranging from climate change to the legacy of nuclear testing, there are also provisions for economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic, security and illegal fishing. However, government and media sources have stressed that negotiations are underway and these aspects are just a broad framework of issues discussed for intensified US engagement in the Pacific and it is likely subject to change.&nbsp;

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-expresses-commitment-to-pacific-islands-that-rejected-china-pact-483952">US expresses commitment to Pacific islands that rejected China pact</a>

According to the White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, during the summit, Biden is set to discuss, “our broadening and deepened cooperation on key issues such as climate change, pandemic and economic recovery, maritime security, environmental protection, and advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific”.&nbsp;

This draft has also been compared to the regional economic and security deal proposed by China earlier this year, which was later rejected by the 10 Pacific Island leaders. The deal was extremely detailed with committing sums of money, and programs, including the number of Chinese art troupes that will be sent for a cultural exchange program. In terms of security, Beijing would have expanded the training of police forces, and constructed labs for fingerprint testing, drugs, forensic autopsy, and so on.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

United States President Joe Biden and his government are in the midst of hosting a landmark summit at the White House with the Pacific island nations to bolster ties.

United States President Joe Biden and his government are in the midst of hosting a landmark summit at the White House with the Pacific island nations to bolster ties. However, the Solomon Islands have deferred signing the draft of the US-led agreement. This comes amid weeks of negotiations on a joint agreement to strengthen ties between the Pacific Islands and the US and ahead of the high-profile presidential summit to be hosted by Washington. The summit which starts on Wednesday has also been called “unprecedented” by US officials as this would be the first time the White House would host the Pacific Island leaders. According to US officials, leaders from strategic archipelagos will be attending including representatives of two French territories and the US territory of Guam. Everyone from the cabinet secretaries to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has been invited including the head of the US Coast Guard which reportedly maintains a security presence in the Pacific. Leaders from Fiji, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Cook Islands, French Polynesia, and New Caledonia, will be attending the summit, said the White House. Meanwhile, island nations Vanuatu and Nauru will be sending representatives and Australia and New Zealand are attending as observers. This summit is partly seen as an attempt by the US to strengthen ties and intensify its presence in the Pacific countries amid China’s growing engagement in the region. Additionally, earlier this year, the Solomon Islands signed a security agreement with Beijing which reportedly came as a shock to the diplomatic community in US and Australia. However, the country’s leader Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has denied the possibility of allowing China to establish a military base or presence on the island. ALSO READ: Won't allow Chinese military base, we know 'ramification': Solomon Islands Currently, Washington is dealing with a major blow after the Solomon Islands has reportedly deferred signing the document. The 11-point declaration between the country will provide a framework for US engagement in the region as it moves forward to increase its diplomatic, development and commercial presence in the region, the ABC reported. According to the Guardian, the Solomon Islands addressed a note to the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat, saying that they need time to reflect and discuss and they will not be in a position to adopt the declaration this week. There is no clear indication of why the island nation has decided to hold off on signing the pact. Meanwhile, other Pacific nations have welcomed the US’s engagement in the region, while asserting that it will be done on their terms, said the local media. On the other hand, the President of Federated States of Micronesia, David Panuelo, has indicated that it was a “very involved process” while speaking about the agreement. According to a report by ABC, this declaration will cover topics ranging from climate change to the legacy of nuclear testing, there are also provisions for economic recovery following the Covid-19 pandemic, security and illegal fishing. However, government and media sources have stressed that negotiations are underway and these aspects are just a broad framework of issues discussed for intensified US engagement in the Pacific and it is likely subject to change. ALSO READ: US expresses commitment to Pacific islands that rejected China pact According to the White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, during the summit, Biden is set to discuss, “our broadening and deepened cooperation on key issues such as climate change, pandemic and economic recovery, maritime security, environmental protection, and advancing a free and open Indo-Pacific”. This draft has also been compared to the regional economic and security deal proposed by China earlier this year, which was later rejected by the 10 Pacific Island leaders. The deal was extremely detailed with committing sums of money, and programs, including the number of Chinese art troupes that will be sent for a cultural exchange program. In terms of security, Beijing would have expanded the training of police forces, and constructed labs for fingerprint testing, drugs, forensic autopsy, and so on. (With inputs from agencies)

Solomon Islands defers signing of declaration amid historic US-Pacific summit, seeks more time

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken addressed a joint press conference in Washington DC. During the address, Blinken praised Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'not the time for war' comment.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar and US State Secy Antony Blinken address joint press conference

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken in a joint press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar in Washington praised PM Narendra Modi’s remark on the Ukraine war during the recent SCO summit.

Jaishankar-Blinken meet: US State Secy Blinken praises Indian PM Modi's stance on Ukraine war

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is all set to meet US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. The Indian diplomat has reached Washington and was welcomed by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

WION Dispatch: Indian EAM Jaishankar to meet US State Secretary Antony Blinken in Washington

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings.

Many of his meetings with his counterparts were bilateral ones while some of them were informal meetings.

The bilateral meetings he had with are: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Sweden foreign ministers (FM) Ann Linde, Syria FM Mekdad, Belarus FM Makei, Armenia FM, Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Russia FM Lavrov, Venezuela FM Carlos Faria, Jordan FM Hsafadi, Cyprus FM Ioannis Kasoulides, Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Australia FM Penny Wong, Madagascar FM Richard J. Randriamandrato, Morocco FM Bourita, &nbsp;Spain FM José Manuel Albares Bueno, FMs of Greece, Paraguay, Moldova, Mexico, Japan, German, Bolivia, Norway, Estonia, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Austria, Libya, Türkiye, &nbsp;Trinidad &amp; Tobago, Albania, Malta, Egypt, Indonesia, UAE, Cuba, Ethiopia, Serbia and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.

No structured bilateral meeting took place between Jaishankar and his Chinese or Pakistani counterparts given the present state of the relationship.

Jaishankar also participated in four key trilaterals at the ministerial level. These are the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA), India-France-Australia, India-Indonesia-Australia and India-France-UAE.

The IBSA meet issued a joint statement focussing on cooperation in multilateral organisations, South-South Cooperation and United Nations and Security Council reform.

India will be hosting the 6th IBSA summit on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in November 2022 even as the presidency of the grouping is handed over to Brazil.

The other three trilateral meets focused on the Indo-Pacific issue.

The Indian foreign minister attended a meeting of five grouping meetings. These are: Quad, BRICS, G4, India-Caricom, G77 and bodies such as L69, India-CELAC Quartet.

The Quad’s joint statement said the focus has been on ransomware and the announcement of a partnership on humanitarian assistance.

India will be hosting the Quad foreign ministers meeting next year, and the summit in 2024.

While the G4 meet, including India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, called for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, BRICS in a media statement saw China and Russia “reiterating the importance to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs” and expressing support to their aspiration to “play a greater role in the UN”.

The statement, a standard one, does not clarify if China is keen on India getting a seat on the UNSC.

Notably, Beijing has been putting a block on UN reforms, especially India being on the high table.

Jaishankar also addressed the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations General Assembly, where he put India's position and worldview on several issues.

The UNSC meet was on Ukraine and it was chaired by France. In the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Trajectory of the Ukraine conflict is a matter of profound concern for the entire international community" while expressing New Delhi's worries over the situation.

The UNGA speech undoubtedly was the key focus. The 17-minute-long speech saw, sending a message to both Islamabad on the issue of terrorism, and Beijing on four key counts—debt crisis, stalling UN reforms, stopping listing of terrorists at UN and stability and security of Indo-Pacific.

He said, "Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril.”

China, earlier this month, put a hold on the listing of the key mastermind of 26/11 Sajid Mir from listing at the UNSC's international terror list—the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. This was the third time that China blocked the listing of a Pakistan terrorist after Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf.

In the next leg of his visit, the Indian foreign minister will be holding talks with US Secretary of state Blinken in Washington.

On Monday evening, the US Secretary of State will host a working dinner for Jaishankar in McLean, Virginia, according to the state department schedule.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings. Many of his meetings with his counterparts were bilateral ones while some of them were informal meetings. The bilateral meetings he had with are: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Sweden foreign ministers (FM) Ann Linde, Syria FM Mekdad, Belarus FM Makei, Armenia FM, Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Russia FM Lavrov, Venezuela FM Carlos Faria, Jordan FM Hsafadi, Cyprus FM Ioannis Kasoulides, Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Australia FM Penny Wong, Madagascar FM Richard J. Randriamandrato, Morocco FM Bourita, Spain FM José Manuel Albares Bueno, FMs of Greece, Paraguay, Moldova, Mexico, Japan, German, Bolivia, Norway, Estonia, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Austria, Libya, Türkiye, Trinidad & Tobago, Albania, Malta, Egypt, Indonesia, UAE, Cuba, Ethiopia, Serbia and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. No structured bilateral meeting took place between Jaishankar and his Chinese or Pakistani counterparts given the present state of the relationship. Jaishankar also participated in four key trilaterals at the ministerial level. These are the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA), India-France-Australia, India-Indonesia-Australia and India-France-UAE. The IBSA meet issued a joint statement focussing on cooperation in multilateral organisations, South-South Cooperation and United Nations and Security Council reform. India will be hosting the 6th IBSA summit on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in November 2022 even as the presidency of the grouping is handed over to Brazil. The other three trilateral meets focused on the Indo-Pacific issue. The Indian foreign minister attended a meeting of five grouping meetings. These are: Quad, BRICS, G4, India-Caricom, G77 and bodies such as L69, India-CELAC Quartet. The Quad’s joint statement said the focus has been on ransomware and the announcement of a partnership on humanitarian assistance. India will be hosting the Quad foreign ministers meeting next year, and the summit in 2024. While the G4 meet, including India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, called for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, BRICS in a media statement saw China and Russia “reiterating the importance to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs” and expressing support to their aspiration to “play a greater role in the UN”. The statement, a standard one, does not clarify if China is keen on India getting a seat on the UNSC. Notably, Beijing has been putting a block on UN reforms, especially India being on the high table. Jaishankar also addressed the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations General Assembly, where he put India's position and worldview on several issues. The UNSC meet was on Ukraine and it was chaired by France. In the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Trajectory of the Ukraine conflict is a matter of profound concern for the entire international community" while expressing New Delhi's worries over the situation. The UNGA speech undoubtedly was the key focus. The 17-minute-long speech saw, sending a message to both Islamabad on the issue of terrorism, and Beijing on four key counts—debt crisis, stalling UN reforms, stopping listing of terrorists at UN and stability and security of Indo-Pacific. He said, "Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril.” China, earlier this month, put a hold on the listing of the key mastermind of 26/11 Sajid Mir from listing at the UNSC's international terror list—the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. This was the third time that China blocked the listing of a Pakistan terrorist after Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf. In the next leg of his visit, the Indian foreign minister will be holding talks with US Secretary of state Blinken in Washington. On Monday evening, the US Secretary of State will host a working dinner for Jaishankar in McLean, Virginia, according to the state department schedule.

India's Jaishankar concludes New York visit with over 50 meetings, focus shifts to Washington

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