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In a bold move, US State Secretary Marco Rubio released plans for reorganising the agency, as he stresses, the department is "bureaucratic, and unable to perform its essential diplomatic mission".&nbsp;
Rubio announced on Tuesday (April 22), in a move towards reducing what US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-ranks-sleepy-biden-as-worst-president-in-the-history-of-us-slams-his-very-dangerous-border-policy-8978304">Donald Trump</a>'s administration says is an inefficient foreign affairs operation.
The US state secretary said that the move is part of what he called an effort to reform it amid criticism from the Trump White House over the execution of US diplomacy.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-dangerously-close-to-a-weapon-us-state-secretary-rubio-warns-eu-nations-as-he-calls-for-european-sanctions-8977303">'Iran dangerously close to a weapon': Rubio warns EU nations as he calls for European sanctions</a>
&ldquo;The sprawling bureaucracy created a system more beholden to radical political ideology than advancing America&rsquo;s core national interests,&rdquo; Rubio said in a statement. &ldquo;That is why today I am announcing a comprehensive reorganization plan that will bring the Department in to the 21st Century.&rdquo;
This restructuring of the State Department will close a number of overseas missions, reduce staff and minimise offices dedicated to promoting liberal values in a stated goal to subsume them to regional bureaus.
Rubio added, &ldquo;This approach will empower the Department from the ground up, from the bureaus to the embassies."
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-state-department-urges-united-nations-to-not-move-refugees-to-transit-centers">US State Department urges United Nations to not move refugees to transit centers</a>
&ldquo;Region-specific functions will be consolidated to increase functionality, redundant offices will be removed, and non-statutory programs that are misaligned with America&rsquo;s core national interests will cease to exist.&rdquo;
The State Department will also eliminate the office of the director of the Foreign Service Institute, which provides language training and other educational support for career foreign service officers.
This comes after Trump ordered a revamp to the US Foreign Service, the country's diplomatic corps, to ensure it followed his foreign policy agenda.&nbsp;
Moreover, the US officials in March said the department was also preparing to shut down nearly one dozen consulates.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/did-us-state-department-ignored-a-grave-warning-that-could-have-saved-jfk-heres-what-the-document-reveal-8870056">Did US State Department 'ignore' a grave warning that could have saved JFK? Here's what the document reveals</a>
&nbsp;

Rubio announced on Tuesday (April 22), in a move towards reducing what US President Donald Trump's administration says is an inefficient foreign affairs operation | WORLD

In a bold move, US State Secretary Marco Rubio released plans for reorganising the agency, as he stresses, the department is "bureaucratic, and unable to perform its essential diplomatic mission". Rubio announced on Tuesday (April 22), in a move towards reducing what US President Donald Trump's administration says is an inefficient foreign affairs operation. The US state secretary said that the move is part of what he called an effort to reform it amid criticism from the Trump White House over the execution of US diplomacy. Also read: 'Iran dangerously close to a weapon': Rubio warns EU nations as he calls for European sanctions “The sprawling bureaucracy created a system more beholden to radical political ideology than advancing America’s core national interests,” Rubio said in a statement. “That is why today I am announcing a comprehensive reorganization plan that will bring the Department in to the 21st Century.” This restructuring of the State Department will close a number of overseas missions, reduce staff and minimise offices dedicated to promoting liberal values in a stated goal to subsume them to regional bureaus. Rubio added, “This approach will empower the Department from the ground up, from the bureaus to the embassies." WATCH | US State Department urges United Nations to not move refugees to transit centers “Region-specific functions will be consolidated to increase functionality, redundant offices will be removed, and non-statutory programs that are misaligned with America’s core national interests will cease to exist.” The State Department will also eliminate the office of the director of the Foreign Service Institute, which provides language training and other educational support for career foreign service officers. This comes after Trump ordered a revamp to the US Foreign Service, the country's diplomatic corps, to ensure it followed his foreign policy agenda. Moreover, the US officials in March said the department was also preparing to shut down nearly one dozen consulates. Also read: Did US State Department 'ignore' a grave warning that could have saved JFK? Here's what the document reveals

'Bloated, bureaucratic': Trump administration to reorganise US State Department - Here's what all will change

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pope-francis-life-in-photos-a-look-back-8985395" rel="dofollow">Pope Francis</a> died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. As the world mourns his death, various stories about his life have been doing the rounds on social media - one of them being his childhood love story with his neighbour. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood. Pope Francis was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina's Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936.
In conversations and books like &ldquo;On Heaven and Earth&rdquo; and &ldquo;The Name of God is Mercy,&rdquo; Pope Francis confessed to feeling emotions like love during his childhood days and also said that he wanted to start a family.
He reportedly fell in love with Amalia Demonte, who appeared in an interview with the Associated Press and recalled that Pope had sent a love letter to her before he accepted the priesthood.
Amalia shared that Jorge had written her a letter saying, "If I do not marry you, I will become a priest." She also said that he constructed a tiny wooden home with a red roof with the inscription, &ldquo;This is what I will buy when we get married.&rdquo;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-cause-of-death-revealed-pontiff-died-of-stroke-and-heart-failure-says-vatican-8987526">Pope Francis' cause of death revealed: Pontiff died of stroke and heart failure, says Vatican</a>
<h2>Pope's funeral to be held on Saturday</h2>
Meanwhile, the Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) confirmed that his&nbsp;funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. The Vatican also published <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829" rel="dofollow">a photo and video of Pope Francis</a> in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9snlgtz-sccxhnc8-1wp5i2f4">
The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONUncut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PopeFrancis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PopeFrancis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vatican?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vatican</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaticanCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaticanCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/q9pzN9kRV4">pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1914581012798902661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks. Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave.&nbsp;The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope.
India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning.&nbsp;
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/document-recording-his-life-more-whats-in-popes-casket-list-of-items-to-be-buried-with-pope-in-rome-8990733">'Document recording his life &amp; more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome</a>
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2204_POPE_6PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2204_POPE_6PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=154&amp;tags=pope, francis, wion" title="Pope&rsquo;s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says" id="PL_iframe_block-m9sng8dk-2hgpkflg-yzdmd9wm"></iframe>

World | Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood.

Pope Francis died of a stroke and irreversible heart failure on Monday at the age of 88. As the world mourns his death, various stories about his life have been doing the rounds on social media - one of them being his childhood love story with his neighbour. Reportedly, it was a heartbreak that led him to the priesthood. Pope Francis was born as Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina's Buenos Aires on December 17, 1936. In conversations and books like “On Heaven and Earth” and “The Name of God is Mercy,” Pope Francis confessed to feeling emotions like love during his childhood days and also said that he wanted to start a family. He reportedly fell in love with Amalia Demonte, who appeared in an interview with the Associated Press and recalled that Pope had sent a love letter to her before he accepted the priesthood. Amalia shared that Jorge had written her a letter saying, "If I do not marry you, I will become a priest." She also said that he constructed a tiny wooden home with a red roof with the inscription, “This is what I will buy when we get married.” Read More | Pope Francis' cause of death revealed: Pontiff died of stroke and heart failure, says Vatican Pope's funeral to be held on Saturday Meanwhile, the Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) confirmed that his funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. The Vatican also published a photo and video of Pope Francis in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand. The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .#WIONUncut #PopeFrancis #Vatican #VaticanCity pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4 — WION (@WIONews) April 22, 2025 The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks. Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave. The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope. India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning. Read More | 'Document recording his life & more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome

Pope Francis once wrote a love letter to this woman: 'If I do not marry you, I will become a priest'

The US State Department has urged its ally countries not to use Chinese satellite services, cautioning them that it could help Beijing gather sensitive intelligence and military information, a Washington-based defence media outlet has reported, citing a leaked memo. The outlet Defence One published an article on Monday stating the information was based on an undated, internal memo obtained from the State Department. The document was mainly used to provide talking points for officials, the report said. Countries dealing with the US were asked not to avail satellite services provided by &ldquo;untrusted suppliers, such as those from China&rdquo;. The report did not indicate if the memo was referring to long-term Western allies or all trading partners. Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/imf-slashes-global-growth-forecast-lowers-indias-fy26-outlook-to-62-8990819">IMF slashes global growth forecast citing tariff war, lowers India&rsquo;s FY26 outlook to 6.2%</a> Governments were asked to &ldquo;take steps to exclude untrusted satellite providers, such as those based in China, and make sure they cannot enter the market and jeopardise national security, business secrets and citizens&rsquo; privacy&rdquo;, it said. The memo said that working with China&rsquo;s space providers operating in low Earth orbit could help Beijing to advance its foreign policy goals and risk transfer of sensitive information to the Chinese government. Officials were warned that Chinese satellite companies may push out other players, potentially &ldquo;leaving your host country stuck in a monopolistic, Beijing-controlled market&rdquo;, it said.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-is-supreme-says-dhankhar-in-fresh-attack-on-judiciary-over-powers-8990154" target="_blank" rel="noopener">&lsquo;Parliament is supreme,&rsquo; says Dhankhar in fresh attack on judiciary over powers</a> The memo also had advice for officials who were asked about the Starlink satellite communications service, which is owned by Elon Musk&rsquo;s SpaceX. The Defence One article said that some observers found the mention of a specific US company &ldquo;inappropriate&rdquo;. Amid growing concerns over cross-Atlantic relations and policy uncertainty of Trump&rsquo;s administration, European Union officials are turning to French satellite company Eutelsat and other alternatives to avoid dependence on Starlink. Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-speaks-on-us-indias-shared-priorities-calls-pm-modi-most-popular-leader-president-trump-wants-india-to-grow-8989489" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Most popular leader': JD Vance praises PM Modi, says 'President Trump wants India to grow'</a> The US has the largest number of space assets, with more than 8,000 satellites currently in orbit &ndash; 12 times the Chinese total. However, China is nurturing ambitions to become a space power by 2045, and has expanded its cooperation with foreign partners in recent years. China&rsquo;s leading commercial company, Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co Ltd, mentions on its website that its latest satellite is available for sale to countries like Egypt and Pakistan. The company has been on US sanctions list since 2023 and was accused last week by the State Department of supporting attacks on American interests by Iran-backed Houthis in the Red Sea. The Chinese foreign ministry responded to the accusation by saying that China had been helping to ease the situation rather than doing the opposite.

World: Officials were warned that Chinese satellite companies may push out other players, potentially “leaving your host country stuck in a monopolistic, Beijing-controlled market”, it said.

The US State Department has urged its ally countries not to use Chinese satellite services, cautioning them that it could help Beijing gather sensitive intelligence and military information, a Washington-based defence media outlet has reported, citing a leaked memo. The outlet Defence One published an article on Monday stating the information was based on an undated, internal memo obtained from the State Department. The document was mainly used to provide talking points for officials, the report said. Countries dealing with the US were asked not to avail satellite services provided by “untrusted suppliers, such as those from China”. The report did not indicate if the memo was referring to long-term Western allies or all trading partners. Also Read | IMF slashes global growth forecast citing tariff war, lowers India’s FY26 outlook to 6.2% Governments were asked to “take steps to exclude untrusted satellite providers, such as those based in China, and make sure they cannot enter the market and jeopardise national security, business secrets and citizens’ privacy”, it said. The memo said that working with China’s space providers operating in low Earth orbit could help Beijing to advance its foreign policy goals and risk transfer of sensitive information to the Chinese government. Officials were warned that Chinese satellite companies may push out other players, potentially “leaving your host country stuck in a monopolistic, Beijing-controlled market”, it said. Also Read | ‘Parliament is supreme,’ says Dhankhar in fresh attack on judiciary over powers The memo also had advice for officials who were asked about the Starlink satellite communications service, which is owned by Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The Defence One article said that some observers found the mention of a specific US company “inappropriate”. Amid growing concerns over cross-Atlantic relations and policy uncertainty of Trump’s administration, European Union officials are turning to French satellite company Eutelsat and other alternatives to avoid dependence on Starlink. Also Read | 'Most popular leader': JD Vance praises PM Modi, says 'President Trump wants India to grow' The US has the largest number of space assets, with more than 8,000 satellites currently in orbit – 12 times the Chinese total. However, China is nurturing ambitions to become a space power by 2045, and has expanded its cooperation with foreign partners in recent years. China’s leading commercial company, Chang Guang Satellite Technology Co Ltd, mentions on its website that its latest satellite is available for sale to countries like Egypt and Pakistan. The company has been on US sanctions list since 2023 and was accused last week by the State Department of supporting attacks on American interests by Iran-backed Houthis in the Red Sea. The Chinese foreign ministry responded to the accusation by saying that China had been helping to ease the situation rather than doing the opposite.

US urges allies to ‘stay away’ from Chinese satellite services, reveals leaked memo

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has slashed the global growth forecast for this year and the next, downgrading the outlook for almost all countries in its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report for April amid the ongoing tariff war.
The IMF said in its report that the escalation of trade tensions and uncertainty are likely to impact global economic activity significantly. Under the &lsquo;reference forecast&rsquo; as of April 4, IMF has projected global growth to fall to 2.8% in 2025 and 3% in 2026&mdash;down from 3.3% for both years in the January 2025 WEO Update, with downward revisions for nearly all countries, the report said.
The post-April 9 model-based forecast incorporates the tariff hikes after April 4 and estimates that global growth in 2025 would be about 2.8% and about 2.9% in 2026.&nbsp;
Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/parliament-is-supreme-says-dhankhar-in-fresh-attack-on-judiciary-over-powers-8990154">&lsquo;Parliament is supreme,&rsquo; says Dhankhar in fresh attack on judiciary over powers</a> &ldquo;Unlike in the previous century, the global economy is now characterised by a high degree of economic and financial integration, with supply chains and financial flows crisscrossing the world, whose potential unwinding could constitute a major source of economic upheaval. For this reason, we expect that the sharp increase on April 2 in both tariffs and uncertainty will lead to a significant slowdown in global growth in the near term,&rdquo; said Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, Economic Counsellor at the IMF.
<h2>IMF pares down India growth figures</h2>
IMF has also cut India&rsquo;s FY26 and FY27 forecasts by 30 basis points (bps) and 20 bps respectively citing trade tensions and global uncertainty. It sees the Indian economy growing at 6.2% in FY26, and 6.3% in FY27.&nbsp; The growth outlook for India is relatively more stable at 6.2% in FY26 as it is supported by private consumption, particularly in rural areas, the IMF report says.
<h2>Global outlook, risks and policy priorities</h2>
The report says that growth in advanced economies is projected to be 1.4% in 2025. Growth in the US is expected to drop to 1.8%, that is 0.9% lower than projected in the January 2025 WEO update. Growth in the euro area is expected to slow by 0.2 percentage points to 0.8%, the report said.
In emerging markets and developing economies, growth is expected to slow down to 3.7% in 2025 and 3.9% in 2026, with significant downgrades for countries affected most by recent trade measures, like China.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/shakti-dubey-tops-upsc-civil-services-exam-2024-1009-candidates-qualify-8989691" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Shakti Dubey tops UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024; 1,009 candidates qualify</a>
&ldquo;The situation remains fluid and risks remain firmly tilted to the downside. The global economy showed surprising resilience during the severe shocks of the past four years and still bears significant scars. It is now being severely tested once again, especially in emerging market and developing economies with more limited buffers,&rdquo; he added.
Ratcheting up a trade war, along with even more elevated trade policy uncertainty, could further reduce near- and long-term growth, while eroded policy buffers weaken resilience to future shocks, the report pointed.
Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-speaks-on-us-indias-shared-priorities-calls-pm-modi-most-popular-leader-president-trump-wants-india-to-grow-8989489" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Most popular leader': JD Vance praises PM Modi, says 'President Trump wants India to grow'</a>
Divergent and rapidly shifting policy stances or deteriorating sentiment could trigger additional repricing of assets beyond what took place after the announcement of sweeping US tariffs on April 2 and sharp adjustments in foreign exchange rates and capital flows, especially for economies already facing debt distress.
On the upside, a de-escalation from current tariff rates and new trade agreements providing clarity and stability in policies could lift global growth, the report said.

World | Business & Economy | India News: The IMF said in its World Economic Outlook (WEO) report that the escalation of trade tensions and uncertainty are likely to impact global economic activity significantly.

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has slashed the global growth forecast for this year and the next, downgrading the outlook for almost all countries in its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) report for April amid the ongoing tariff war. The IMF said in its report that the escalation of trade tensions and uncertainty are likely to impact global economic activity significantly. Under the ‘reference forecast’ as of April 4, IMF has projected global growth to fall to 2.8% in 2025 and 3% in 2026—down from 3.3% for both years in the January 2025 WEO Update, with downward revisions for nearly all countries, the report said. The post-April 9 model-based forecast incorporates the tariff hikes after April 4 and estimates that global growth in 2025 would be about 2.8% and about 2.9% in 2026. Also Read | ‘Parliament is supreme,’ says Dhankhar in fresh attack on judiciary over powers “Unlike in the previous century, the global economy is now characterised by a high degree of economic and financial integration, with supply chains and financial flows crisscrossing the world, whose potential unwinding could constitute a major source of economic upheaval. For this reason, we expect that the sharp increase on April 2 in both tariffs and uncertainty will lead to a significant slowdown in global growth in the near term,” said Pierre-Olivier Gourinchas, Economic Counsellor at the IMF. IMF pares down India growth figures IMF has also cut India’s FY26 and FY27 forecasts by 30 basis points (bps) and 20 bps respectively citing trade tensions and global uncertainty. It sees the Indian economy growing at 6.2% in FY26, and 6.3% in FY27. The growth outlook for India is relatively more stable at 6.2% in FY26 as it is supported by private consumption, particularly in rural areas, the IMF report says. Global outlook, risks and policy priorities The report says that growth in advanced economies is projected to be 1.4% in 2025. Growth in the US is expected to drop to 1.8%, that is 0.9% lower than projected in the January 2025 WEO update. Growth in the euro area is expected to slow by 0.2 percentage points to 0.8%, the report said. In emerging markets and developing economies, growth is expected to slow down to 3.7% in 2025 and 3.9% in 2026, with significant downgrades for countries affected most by recent trade measures, like China. Also Read | Shakti Dubey tops UPSC Civil Services Exam 2024; 1,009 candidates qualify “The situation remains fluid and risks remain firmly tilted to the downside. The global economy showed surprising resilience during the severe shocks of the past four years and still bears significant scars. It is now being severely tested once again, especially in emerging market and developing economies with more limited buffers,” he added. Ratcheting up a trade war, along with even more elevated trade policy uncertainty, could further reduce near- and long-term growth, while eroded policy buffers weaken resilience to future shocks, the report pointed. Also Read | 'Most popular leader': JD Vance praises PM Modi, says 'President Trump wants India to grow' Divergent and rapidly shifting policy stances or deteriorating sentiment could trigger additional repricing of assets beyond what took place after the announcement of sweeping US tariffs on April 2 and sharp adjustments in foreign exchange rates and capital flows, especially for economies already facing debt distress. On the upside, a de-escalation from current tariff rates and new trade agreements providing clarity and stability in policies could lift global growth, the report said.

IMF slashes global growth forecast citing tariff war, lowers India’s FY26 outlook to 6.2%

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-moment-pope-francis-signed-two-bottles-of-bourbon-and-for-a-good-cause-8989327">Pope Francis</a>, the first Latin American pope, died at the age of 88 on April 21 (Monday). His funeral will take place on Saturday, as confirmed by the Vatican. The pictures of his body in an open casket were made public today.
He was seen lying in a wooden coffin, dressed in red, with a rosary placed on his hands. Also, his body will be on display for the public to pay their respects in St Peter&rsquo;s Basilica from Wednesday morning.
His death comes after a 12-year papacy. His cause of death was complications from a stroke and heart failure.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/prophecy-of-st-malachy-pope-francis-death-linked-to-this-900-year-old-prediction-is-doomsday-near-8989551">Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near?</a>
<h2>Items to be buried with Pope?&nbsp;</h2>
There are several symbolic items that will be placed in the casket. Here's the list of things that will be buried with the Pope.&nbsp;
<ul>
<li>Miter</li>
<li>Francis' hat</li>
<li>Crozier</li>
<li>Pastoral staff</li>
<li>Rosary</li>
<li>Rogito - A legal document that as records of Pope's life&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
However, a copy of the document will be kept in the Vatican's archive.&nbsp;
Generally, popes are buried holding a rosary, a death certificate and the broken fisherman&rsquo;s ring, which is a unique signet ring presented to each Pope during his papal inauguration.
It is destroyed before the burial, marking an end to the pope's reign.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-dalai-lama-cancel-meeting-with-us-vp-jd-vance-after-pope-francis-death-8989768">Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?</a>
<h2>Details of Pope's funeral</h2>
Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome.&nbsp;
The coffin will be taken inside the church, before it is taken to the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial.&nbsp;
Earlier, Francis expressed that he wanted to have a simple funeral. In an interview in 2023, he said he would be laid to rest in his town at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome&rsquo;s Esquilino neighbourhood.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/popes-funeral-to-take-place-on-april-26-in-rome-holy-see-says-8990591">Pope&rsquo;s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says</a>
&nbsp;

Pope's funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome. He died due to complications from a heart failure. WORLD

Pope Francis, the first Latin American pope, died at the age of 88 on April 21 (Monday). His funeral will take place on Saturday, as confirmed by the Vatican. The pictures of his body in an open casket were made public today. He was seen lying in a wooden coffin, dressed in red, with a rosary placed on his hands. Also, his body will be on display for the public to pay their respects in St Peter’s Basilica from Wednesday morning. His death comes after a 12-year papacy. His cause of death was complications from a stroke and heart failure. Also read: Prophecy of St Malachy: Pope Francis' death linked to this 900-year-old prediction. Is doomsday near? Items to be buried with Pope? There are several symbolic items that will be placed in the casket. Here's the list of things that will be buried with the Pope. Miter Francis' hat Crozier Pastoral staff Rosary Rogito - A legal document that as records of Pope's life However, a copy of the document will be kept in the Vatican's archive. Generally, popes are buried holding a rosary, a death certificate and the broken fisherman’s ring, which is a unique signet ring presented to each Pope during his papal inauguration. It is destroyed before the burial, marking an end to the pope's reign. Also read: Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death? Details of Pope's funeral Pope Francis' funeral will be held on Saturday at 10 am local time in the square in front of St Peter's Basilica, Rome. The coffin will be taken inside the church, before it is taken to the Roman Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore for burial. Earlier, Francis expressed that he wanted to have a simple funeral. In an interview in 2023, he said he would be laid to rest in his town at the Santa Maria Maggiore Basilica in Rome’s Esquilino neighbourhood. WATCH | Pope’s Funeral To Take Place On April 26 In Rome, Holy See Says

'Document recording his life & more': What's in Pope's casket - List of items to be buried with Pope in Rome

US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (April 22) made a big announcement, saying that India and the US have finalised terms for a trade deal.
This comes a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-jd-vance-and-pm-modi-announce-terms-of-reference-for-a-bilateral-trade-agreement-8988063">JD Vance</a> met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on April 21.&nbsp;
Today, the US vice president was speaking at an event in Jaipur, made the big announcement, stressing that it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between the two nations.
"We are especially excited to formally announce that America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation. I think this is a vital step towards realising President Trump's and PM Modi's vision, because it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between our nations. I believe there is much that America and India can accomplish together," he said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-speaks-on-us-indias-shared-priorities-calls-pm-modi-most-popular-leader-president-trump-wants-india-to-grow-8989489">'Most popular leader...tough negotiator': JD Vance praises PM Modi, asks India to ease tariffs</a>
Vance praised PM Modi, calling him a "tough negotiator".&nbsp;
"Prime Minister Modi is a tough negotiator. He drives a hard bargain,&rdquo; Vance said as the audience laughed.&nbsp;
Vance continued, "Our administration seeks trade partners on the basis of fairness and of shared national interests. We want to build relationships with our foreign partners who respect their workers, who do not suppress their wages to boost exports, but respect the value of their labour."
While saying that he is excited to be in India, Vance added that in India, America has a friend and we seek to strengthen the warm bonds our great nations already share.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jd-vance-receives-regal-welcome-by-elephants-chanda-and-pushpa-at-jaipurs-amer-fort-watch-8988967">JD Vance receives regal welcome by elephants Chanda and Pushpa at Jaipur's Amer Fort- WATCH</a>
"At our meeting yesterday, Prime Minister Modi and I made very good progress on all of those points," the US Vice President said.
<h2>'If India and US work together...'</h2>
Vance expressed hope to work with India, to see the 21st century prosper.&nbsp;
"If India and the United States work together successfully, we&rsquo;re going to see a 21st century that is prosperous and peaceful,&rdquo; he said.&nbsp;
&ldquo;But I also believe that if we fail to work together successfully, the 21st century could be a very dark time for all of humanity," the US vice president added.&nbsp;
Trump on April 2, announced to impose 26 per cent reciprocal tariffs on India. However, later, he announced a 90-day pause, bringing temporary relief to the nations that were majorly hit by Trump's trade war.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vance-in-india-pm-modi-vance-welcome-significant-progress-in-trade-pact-talks-8990061">Vance in India: PM Modi, Vance welcome 'significant progress' in trade pact talks</a>

US vice president was speaking at an event in Jaipur, made the big announcement, stressing that it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between the two nations | WORLD

US Vice President JD Vance on Tuesday (April 22) made a big announcement, saying that India and the US have finalised terms for a trade deal. This comes a day after JD Vance met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on April 21. Today, the US vice president was speaking at an event in Jaipur, made the big announcement, stressing that it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between the two nations. "We are especially excited to formally announce that America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation. I think this is a vital step towards realising President Trump's and PM Modi's vision, because it sets a roadmap towards a final deal between our nations. I believe there is much that America and India can accomplish together," he said. Also read: 'Most popular leader...tough negotiator': JD Vance praises PM Modi, asks India to ease tariffs Vance praised PM Modi, calling him a "tough negotiator". "Prime Minister Modi is a tough negotiator. He drives a hard bargain,” Vance said as the audience laughed. Vance continued, "Our administration seeks trade partners on the basis of fairness and of shared national interests. We want to build relationships with our foreign partners who respect their workers, who do not suppress their wages to boost exports, but respect the value of their labour." While saying that he is excited to be in India, Vance added that in India, America has a friend and we seek to strengthen the warm bonds our great nations already share. Also read: JD Vance receives regal welcome by elephants Chanda and Pushpa at Jaipur's Amer Fort- WATCH "At our meeting yesterday, Prime Minister Modi and I made very good progress on all of those points," the US Vice President said. 'If India and US work together...' Vance expressed hope to work with India, to see the 21st century prosper. "If India and the United States work together successfully, we’re going to see a 21st century that is prosperous and peaceful,” he said. “But I also believe that if we fail to work together successfully, the 21st century could be a very dark time for all of humanity," the US vice president added. Trump on April 2, announced to impose 26 per cent reciprocal tariffs on India. However, later, he announced a 90-day pause, bringing temporary relief to the nations that were majorly hit by Trump's trade war. WATCH | Vance in India: PM Modi, Vance welcome 'significant progress' in trade pact talks

'India-US finalise terms for trade deal': Vance's BIG ANNOUNCEMENT amid Trump tariff war

World, India News | PM Narendra Modi is on a visit to Saudi Arabia. Here's a look at the other Indian Prime Ministers who have visited Saudi Arabia during their tenure

PM Modi's 3rd visit to Saudi Arabia: How many Indian Prime Ministers visited Arabian nation since Independence

The United States Army has revealed an updated fitness test that sets the same physical standards for men and women in combat positions, dropping one of its most debated exercises in the process.
The new Army Fitness Test (AFT), announced on Monday, will take the place of the existing Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). 
According to the Army, the AFT is meant to create a force that is "physically ready" for tough and unpredictable conditions. The new test will be rolled out in stages starting from 1 June 2025, with the gender-neutral scoring system coming into effect on 1 January 2026 for active-duty soldiers and 1 June 2026 for Reserve and National Guard members.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-fire-hegseth-ex-pentagon-official-says-whiskeyleaks-may-be-replaced-as-even-bigger-bombshell-stories-coming-this-week-8987965" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming'</a>
<h2>Push for equal standards</h2>
Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stressed the importance of applying the same requirements to everyone in combat positions, regardless of gender.
&ldquo;Different standards for men and women in combat arms MOSes and jobs, that&rsquo;s not acceptable,&rdquo; he said in March. &ldquo;We need to have the same standard, male or female, in our combat roles,&rdquo; he added.
The updated requirements will apply to 21 combat-focused Military Occupational Specialties (MOSes), including infantry, Special Forces, and artillery. These roles will now be assessed using the male scoring chart.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/signal-gate-20-pentagon-chief-dismisses-reports-on-alleged-info-leak-with-wife-says-media-ruining-reputation-8987453" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Leak, deny, repeat? Pete Hegseth accused of sharing military secrets with wife; dismisses reports</a>
"For those 21 MOSes, they will all be graded on the male scale, so it will be sex neutral," said Command Sergeant Major JoAnn Naumann. 
&ldquo;The passing score for most people will be a 300 with a minimum of 60 in every event. For those in those 21 specialties, the passing score will be 350 with a minimum of 60 in every event,&rdquo; he added.
<h2>What&rsquo;s in the New AFT?</h2>
The AFT will include five events:
Three-rep max deadlift
Hand-release push-ups with Army extension
Sprint-drag-carry
Plank
Two-mile run
Combat-role soldiers will need to score at least 60 points per event and reach a total of 350 to pass. Noncombat roles will continue to use a performance-normed scoring system based on sex and age, requiring 300 points in total.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-fire-hegseth-ex-pentagon-official-says-whiskeyleaks-may-be-replaced-as-even-bigger-bombshell-stories-coming-this-week-8987965" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming'</a>
For women entering combat positions, the change marks a substantial increase in expectations. For example, under the previous test, a 17 to 21-year-old woman could pass by lifting 120 pounds. Now, she must lift 140 pounds. The sprint-drag-carry time also tightens from 3 minutes and 15 seconds to 2 minutes and 28 seconds.
Naumann made it clear, &ldquo;The one thing that&rsquo;s definite is no standard will be lowered.&rdquo;
Some have raised concerns that the new standards might affect women more. During the ACFT trials in 2019, 84% of women failed the test, compared to a 70% pass rate among men, a RAND Corporation study found. The Service Women&rsquo;s Action Network criticised the earlier rollout, calling it &ldquo;rash&rdquo; and warning that too many capable soldiers were failing.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/us-president-trump-backs-hegseth-after-reports-of-second-signal-chat-on-yemen-strikes-8989092">US President Trump backs Hegseth after reports of second Signal chat on Yemen strikes</a>

World: Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stressed the importance of applying the same requirements to everyone in combat positions, regardless of gender.

The United States Army has revealed an updated fitness test that sets the same physical standards for men and women in combat positions, dropping one of its most debated exercises in the process. The new Army Fitness Test (AFT), announced on Monday, will take the place of the existing Army Combat Fitness Test (ACFT). According to the Army, the AFT is meant to create a force that is "physically ready" for tough and unpredictable conditions. The new test will be rolled out in stages starting from 1 June 2025, with the gender-neutral scoring system coming into effect on 1 January 2026 for active-duty soldiers and 1 June 2026 for Reserve and National Guard members. Also read: Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming' Push for equal standards Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has stressed the importance of applying the same requirements to everyone in combat positions, regardless of gender. “Different standards for men and women in combat arms MOSes and jobs, that’s not acceptable,” he said in March. “We need to have the same standard, male or female, in our combat roles,” he added. The updated requirements will apply to 21 combat-focused Military Occupational Specialties (MOSes), including infantry, Special Forces, and artillery. These roles will now be assessed using the male scoring chart. Also read: Leak, deny, repeat? Pete Hegseth accused of sharing military secrets with wife; dismisses reports "For those 21 MOSes, they will all be graded on the male scale, so it will be sex neutral," said Command Sergeant Major JoAnn Naumann. “The passing score for most people will be a 300 with a minimum of 60 in every event. For those in those 21 specialties, the passing score will be 350 with a minimum of 60 in every event,” he added. What’s in the New AFT? The AFT will include five events: Three-rep max deadlift Hand-release push-ups with Army extension Sprint-drag-carry Plank Two-mile run Combat-role soldiers will need to score at least 60 points per event and reach a total of 350 to pass. Noncombat roles will continue to use a performance-normed scoring system based on sex and age, requiring 300 points in total. Also read: Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming' For women entering combat positions, the change marks a substantial increase in expectations. For example, under the previous test, a 17 to 21-year-old woman could pass by lifting 120 pounds. Now, she must lift 140 pounds. The sprint-drag-carry time also tightens from 3 minutes and 15 seconds to 2 minutes and 28 seconds. Naumann made it clear, “The one thing that’s definite is no standard will be lowered.” Some have raised concerns that the new standards might affect women more. During the ACFT trials in 2019, 84% of women failed the test, compared to a 70% pass rate among men, a RAND Corporation study found. The Service Women’s Action Network criticised the earlier rollout, calling it “rash” and warning that too many capable soldiers were failing. Watch: US President Trump backs Hegseth after reports of second Signal chat on Yemen strikes

'Sex-neutral': US Army drops gendered scoring under Pete Hegseth - Women must now pass same tests as men

Saudi Arabia's Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, also known as the "Sleeping Prince", turned 36 on April 18. However, he remains in a coma for nearly 20 years now.&nbsp;
Prince Al-Waleed was put in a coma in 2005 after he suffered a brain injury in a deadly car crash in London when he was pursuing his studies at military college.
Despite medical advice to end life support, his father declined, as he hoped for his recovery. Also, his condition improved a little over the years.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/saudi-arabia-fighter-jets-escort-pm-modis-plane-in-display-of-diplomatic-ties-watch-8989151">Saudi Arabia fighter jets escort PM Modi's plane in display of diplomatic ties-WATCH</a>
"The prince remains on life support, relying on mechanical ventilation and a feeding tube," Roya News reported.
In 2019, there were little signs of limited response, as his fingers moved and his head shifted slightly, but there has been no documented progress since.&nbsp;
Prince Al-Waleed is the great-grandson of Saudi Arabia's founder King Abdulaziz, and he still continues to receive life support in Riyadh, according to Indian media.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pm-modi-to-visit-saudi-arabia-today-india-to-push-for-revival-of-imec-8988190">PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today; India to push for revival of IMEC</a>
He is currently being treated at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh under the care of a full-time medical team.&nbsp;
As he turned 36 last week, the "Sleeping Prince" drew widespread attention on social media, as users shared his photos along with his family members.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
سعودی شہزادہ الولید بن خالد بن طلال، جو دو دہائیوں سے زائد عرصے تک کوما میں ہیں اور پوری عرب دنیا میں "Sleeping Prince" کے نام سے جانے جاتے ہیں، نے جمعہ 18 اپریل کو اپنی 36 ویں سالگرہ منائی۔ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sleepingprince?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#sleepingprince</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiPrince?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiPrince</a> <a href="https://t.co/IUX0uSN8Gq">pic.twitter.com/IUX0uSN8Gq</a>
&mdash; SirajAnas (@SirajAnas12) <a href="https://twitter.com/SirajAnas12/status/1914031857768767934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 20, 2025</a></blockquote>
"Over the past 24 hours, the prince&rsquo;s birthday has attracted widespread attention on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where thousands of users have offered their condolences and prayers for his recovery," one of the users wrote.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bilateral-ties-have-gained-significant-momentum-in-last-decade-pm-modi-embarks-on-2-day-visit-to-saudi-arabia-8988325">'Bilateral ties have gained significant momentum in last decade': PM Modi embarks on 2-day visit to Saudi Arabia</a>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
سعودی شہزادہ الولید بن خالد بن طلال، جو دو دہائیوں سے زائد عرصے سے کوما میں ہیں اور پوری عرب دنیا میں "Sleeping Prince" کے نام سے جانے جاتے ہیں، نے جمعہ 18 اپریل کو اپنی 36 ویں سالگرہ منائی۔ سعودی پرنس 2005 میں لندن میں ایک خوفناک کار حادثے کے نتیجے میں کوما میں چلے گئے تھے تاہم&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/KskdfaNkGU">pic.twitter.com/KskdfaNkGU</a>
&mdash; Mubashir Afzal (@msaad8636) <a href="https://twitter.com/msaad8636/status/1914248257062023461?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
However, no official statement was released by his family members.&nbsp;

Prince Al-Waleed was put in a coma in 2005 after he suffered a brain injury in a deadly car crash in London when he was pursuing his studies at military college | WORLD

Saudi Arabia's Prince Al-Waleed bin Khaled bin Talal, also known as the "Sleeping Prince", turned 36 on April 18. However, he remains in a coma for nearly 20 years now. Prince Al-Waleed was put in a coma in 2005 after he suffered a brain injury in a deadly car crash in London when he was pursuing his studies at military college. Despite medical advice to end life support, his father declined, as he hoped for his recovery. Also, his condition improved a little over the years. Also read: Saudi Arabia fighter jets escort PM Modi's plane in display of diplomatic ties-WATCH "The prince remains on life support, relying on mechanical ventilation and a feeding tube," Roya News reported. In 2019, there were little signs of limited response, as his fingers moved and his head shifted slightly, but there has been no documented progress since. Prince Al-Waleed is the great-grandson of Saudi Arabia's founder King Abdulaziz, and he still continues to receive life support in Riyadh, according to Indian media. WATCH | PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today; India to push for revival of IMEC He is currently being treated at King Abdulaziz Medical City in Riyadh under the care of a full-time medical team. As he turned 36 last week, the "Sleeping Prince" drew widespread attention on social media, as users shared his photos along with his family members. سعودی شہزادہ الولید بن خالد بن طلال، جو دو دہائیوں سے زائد عرصے تک کوما میں ہیں اور پوری عرب دنیا میں "Sleeping Prince" کے نام سے جانے جاتے ہیں، نے جمعہ 18 اپریل کو اپنی 36 ویں سالگرہ منائی۔ #sleepingprince #SaudiPrince pic.twitter.com/IUX0uSN8Gq — SirajAnas (@SirajAnas12) April 20, 2025 "Over the past 24 hours, the prince’s birthday has attracted widespread attention on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), where thousands of users have offered their condolences and prayers for his recovery," one of the users wrote. Also read: 'Bilateral ties have gained significant momentum in last decade': PM Modi embarks on 2-day visit to Saudi Arabia سعودی شہزادہ الولید بن خالد بن طلال، جو دو دہائیوں سے زائد عرصے سے کوما میں ہیں اور پوری عرب دنیا میں "Sleeping Prince" کے نام سے جانے جاتے ہیں، نے جمعہ 18 اپریل کو اپنی 36 ویں سالگرہ منائی۔ سعودی پرنس 2005 میں لندن میں ایک خوفناک کار حادثے کے نتیجے میں کوما میں چلے گئے تھے تاہم… pic.twitter.com/KskdfaNkGU — Mubashir Afzal (@msaad8636) April 21, 2025 However, no official statement was released by his family members.

Who is Saudi Arabia's 'Sleeping Prince'? Billionaire Prince remains unconscious for nearly 20 years

Qatari and Egyptian officials have put forward a new peace proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in Gaza, the BBC reported, citing a Hamas source.
<h2>What does the new Gaza peace plan includes?</h2>
The suggested deal includes a long-term ceasefire lasting between five and seven years, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a formal end to the war, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-francis-death-pope-francis-final-message-gaza-ceasefire-pope-last-address-8985335" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;No peace without freedom&rsquo;: Pope Francis&rsquo; final message called for Gaza ceasefire | Read his last address</a>
A high-level Hamas delegation, led by political chief Mohammed Darwish and chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, is expected to travel to Cairo for talks.
The previous ceasefire collapsed a month ago when Israel resumed its bombing campaign. Both sides have since blamed each other for the breakdown. Israel has not yet responded publicly to the proposed peace plan.
While talks are being underway, violence has continued to escalate. Since Monday evening, 22 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, according to a spokesperson from the Hamas-run health ministry.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beg-our-government-to-stop-war-families-of-hostages-take-to-gaza-border-plead-for-safe-return-of-loved-ones-8983098" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Beg our government to stop war': Families of hostages take to Gaza border, plead for safe return of loved ones</a>
The strikes reportedly hit Khan Younis, Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Gaza City, injuring 45 others. Eyewitnesses described the bombing as "extremely intense," with dozens of bulldozers and pieces of heavy machinery destroyed. These machines were being used to clear rubble, reopen roads, and carry out rescue work.
<h2>Diplomatic push amid ongoing war</h2>
The Cairo meeting follows Hamas&rsquo;s recent rejection of Israel&rsquo;s latest ceasefire offer, which included a demand for the group to disarm in return for a temporary six-week truce.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-hamas-war-envoy-to-israel-urges-hamas-to-sign-deal-so-aid-can-enter-gaza-8988500">Israel-Hamas war: Envoy to Israel urges Hamas to sign deal so aid can enter Gaza</a>
On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war would not end until Hamas was dismantled and all Israeli hostages were returned. Hamas, however, is insisting on a formal end to the war before it agrees to release hostages.
Speaking to the BBC, a Palestinian official familiar with the negotiations said Hamas had shown "unprecedented flexibility" and was prepared to hand over control of Gaza to a Palestinian body agreed upon at both the national and regional levels. This could include the Palestinian Authority (PA) or a new governing body. Netanyahu has rejected any future role for the PA in Gaza, which has been under Hamas control since 2007.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-qatars-chief-negotiator-says-frustrated-by-pace-of-gaza-talks-8982626">Israel-Hamas war: Qatar's chief negotiator says 'frustrated' by pace of Gaza talks</a>

World: The suggested deal includes a long-term ceasefire lasting between five and seven years, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners.

Qatari and Egyptian officials have put forward a new peace proposal aimed at ending the ongoing war in Gaza, the BBC reported, citing a Hamas source. What does the new Gaza peace plan includes? The suggested deal includes a long-term ceasefire lasting between five and seven years, the release of all Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, a formal end to the war, and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Also read: ‘No peace without freedom’: Pope Francis’ final message called for Gaza ceasefire | Read his last address A high-level Hamas delegation, led by political chief Mohammed Darwish and chief negotiator Khalil al-Hayya, is expected to travel to Cairo for talks. The previous ceasefire collapsed a month ago when Israel resumed its bombing campaign. Both sides have since blamed each other for the breakdown. Israel has not yet responded publicly to the proposed peace plan. While talks are being underway, violence has continued to escalate. Since Monday evening, 22 Palestinians have been killed in Israeli airstrikes across the Gaza Strip, according to a spokesperson from the Hamas-run health ministry. Also read: 'Beg our government to stop war': Families of hostages take to Gaza border, plead for safe return of loved ones The strikes reportedly hit Khan Younis, Jabalia, Beit Lahia, and Gaza City, injuring 45 others. Eyewitnesses described the bombing as "extremely intense," with dozens of bulldozers and pieces of heavy machinery destroyed. These machines were being used to clear rubble, reopen roads, and carry out rescue work. Diplomatic push amid ongoing war The Cairo meeting follows Hamas’s recent rejection of Israel’s latest ceasefire offer, which included a demand for the group to disarm in return for a temporary six-week truce. Watch: Israel-Hamas war: Envoy to Israel urges Hamas to sign deal so aid can enter Gaza On Saturday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said the war would not end until Hamas was dismantled and all Israeli hostages were returned. Hamas, however, is insisting on a formal end to the war before it agrees to release hostages. Speaking to the BBC, a Palestinian official familiar with the negotiations said Hamas had shown "unprecedented flexibility" and was prepared to hand over control of Gaza to a Palestinian body agreed upon at both the national and regional levels. This could include the Palestinian Authority (PA) or a new governing body. Netanyahu has rejected any future role for the PA in Gaza, which has been under Hamas control since 2007. Also read: Israel-Hamas war: Qatar's chief negotiator says 'frustrated' by pace of Gaza talks

Full Israeli withdrawal, 5–7 year ceasefire: Qatar, Egypt table new Gaza truce plan - Here's what it proposes

Indian American Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Kash Patel has issued a statement on the arrest of gangster-turned-terrorist&nbsp;Harpreet Singh in the United States. Singh alias Happy Passia alias Jora, wanted in connection with multiple terror attacks across Punjab, was arrested in the US on April 18 by the FBI and the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Enforcement and Removal Operations in Sacramento. Patel has assured that justice will be done. Passia is also alleged to have collaborated with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Khalistani terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI).
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jd-vance-speaks-on-us-indias-shared-priorities-calls-pm-modi-most-popular-leader-president-trump-wants-india-to-grow-8989489">'Most popular leader...tough negotiator': JD Vance praises PM Modi, asks India to ease tariffs</a>
"Excellent work from all, and justice will be done. The FBI will continue finding those who perpetrate violence no matter where they are," the first Indian-American to lead the premier law enforcement agency of the United States said in the post.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9senwxa-s1p0epnh-2aq0r6wm">
CAPTURED: HARPREET SINGH, part of an alleged foreign terrorist gang here illegally in the United States, who we believe was involved in planning multiple attacks on police stations both in India and the United States.<a href="https://twitter.com/FBISacramento?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FBISacramento</a> conducted the investigation coordinating with&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/JKB1dfjo2P">pic.twitter.com/JKB1dfjo2P</a>
&mdash; FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBIDirectorKash/status/1914394451016814623?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 21, 2025</a></blockquote>
"He had been evading capture by using untraceable burner phones and encrypted applications. This case reinforces the importance of international cooperation in apprehending those who threaten global security," FBI Sacramento said on April 18.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nias-most-wanted-happy-passia-detained-in-us-over-terror-links-8975127">NIA&rsquo;s most wanted Happy Passia detained in US over terror links</a>
<h2>Who is Happy Passia?</h2>
Hailing from the Indian state of Punjab, Singh has been accused of being part of multiple criminal activities for several years. He tops the wanted list of India in major cases such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. In January, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh ($5,869.10 USD) on gangster Harpreet.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1804_US_10AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1804_US_10AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=115&amp;tags=usa, india, happy passia, world news" title="NIA&rsquo;s most wanted Happy Passia detained in US over terror links" id="PL_iframe_block-m9sezkai-6edic71p-gx5ehr6v"></iframe>
Singh is an absconder in the case registered on October 1, 2024, in connection with the hand grenade attack carried out on a house in Sector 10/D, Chandigarh. On September 11, 2024, two youths threw a hand grenade at a house in Sector 10 in Chandigarh. Harpreet Singh was the mastermind of the attack.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-tried-to-hit-chinas-car-industry-hard-he-barely-left-a-scratch-heres-how-russia-helped-beijing-shrug-off-the-blow-8989800">Trump tried to hit China&rsquo;s car industry hard, he barely left a scratch: Here&rsquo;s how Russia helped Beijing shrug off the blow</a>
As per a report in Hindustan Times,&nbsp;Passia has 10 FIRs against him for his involvement in 16&nbsp;terror attacks&nbsp;across Punjab under the BKI terrorist group including 14 hand grenade assaults, one IED attack and one rocket propelled grenade strike between late 2024 and early 2015. Happy was initially aligned with Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang members including US based Darmanjot Singh (Darmon Khalon) and Amritpal Singh (Amrit Bal).
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fact-check-did-dalai-lama-cancel-meeting-with-us-vp-jd-vance-after-pope-francis-death-8989768">Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?</a>

World, India News | Indian American Director of the FBI Kash Patel has issued a statement on the arrest of gangster-turned-terrorist Harpreet Singh in the United States.

Indian American Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Kash Patel has issued a statement on the arrest of gangster-turned-terrorist Harpreet Singh in the United States. Singh alias Happy Passia alias Jora, wanted in connection with multiple terror attacks across Punjab, was arrested in the US on April 18 by the FBI and the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement's Enforcement and Removal Operations in Sacramento. Patel has assured that justice will be done. Passia is also alleged to have collaborated with Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Khalistani terrorist group Babbar Khalsa International (BKI). Read More | 'Most popular leader...tough negotiator': JD Vance praises PM Modi, asks India to ease tariffs "Excellent work from all, and justice will be done. The FBI will continue finding those who perpetrate violence no matter where they are," the first Indian-American to lead the premier law enforcement agency of the United States said in the post. CAPTURED: HARPREET SINGH, part of an alleged foreign terrorist gang here illegally in the United States, who we believe was involved in planning multiple attacks on police stations both in India and the United States.@FBISacramento conducted the investigation coordinating with… pic.twitter.com/JKB1dfjo2P — FBI Director Kash Patel (@FBIDirectorKash) April 21, 2025 "He had been evading capture by using untraceable burner phones and encrypted applications. This case reinforces the importance of international cooperation in apprehending those who threaten global security," FBI Sacramento said on April 18. NIA’s most wanted Happy Passia detained in US over terror links Who is Happy Passia? Hailing from the Indian state of Punjab, Singh has been accused of being part of multiple criminal activities for several years. He tops the wanted list of India in major cases such as the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Arms Act, and the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act. In January, India's National Investigation Agency (NIA) announced a cash reward of Rs 5 lakh ($5,869.10 USD) on gangster Harpreet. Singh is an absconder in the case registered on October 1, 2024, in connection with the hand grenade attack carried out on a house in Sector 10/D, Chandigarh. On September 11, 2024, two youths threw a hand grenade at a house in Sector 10 in Chandigarh. Harpreet Singh was the mastermind of the attack. Read More | Trump tried to hit China’s car industry hard, he barely left a scratch: Here’s how Russia helped Beijing shrug off the blow As per a report in Hindustan Times, Passia has 10 FIRs against him for his involvement in 16 terror attacks across Punjab under the BKI terrorist group including 14 hand grenade assaults, one IED attack and one rocket propelled grenade strike between late 2024 and early 2015. Happy was initially aligned with Jaggu Bhagwanpuria gang members including US based Darmanjot Singh (Darmon Khalon) and Amritpal Singh (Amrit Bal). Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?

FBI chief Kash Patel on arrest of NIA’s most wanted Happy Passia in US: 'Justice will be served'

After Pope Francis' death, a report emerged saying that the Buddhist leader Dalai Lama "quietly" cancelled a meeting with US President JD Vance.&nbsp;
Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure, on Monday.&nbsp;
The US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.&nbsp;
The Dalai Lama canceled his meeting with JD Vance, the Babylon Bee reported.&nbsp;
According to some sources close to the Buddhist leader, Dalai Lama cancelled simply "did not want to die".
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/watch-moment-pope-francis-signed-two-bottles-of-bourbon-and-for-a-good-cause-8989327">WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause</a>
&ldquo;Though the Dalai Lama's representatives said publicly that the timing of the cancellation was just a coincidence, sources close to the religious leader privately disclosed that the revered Tibetan Buddhist figure simply did not want to die,&rdquo; the website stated.&nbsp;
Babylon Bee further posted a &lsquo;spokesmonk&rsquo;s' message about the Dalai Lama being &lsquo;double-booked&rsquo;.
It then quickly went viral on social media, as users wrote, "Dalai Lama quietly cancels scheduled meeting with JD Vance."
They also attached a screenshot of the Babylon Bee report.&nbsp;
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-tributes-pour-in-to-honour-pope-francis-after-his-death-8989025">Global tributes pour in to honour Pope Francis after his death</a>
JD Vance met with Pope just hours before his death on Easter. Netizens started questioning the relationship between Vance's meeting and Pope's death.&nbsp;
People on social media started accusing him of being the reason the pope died. One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so."&nbsp;
Meanwhile, another asked, &ldquo;What did you do bro?&rdquo;&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-is-not-the-end-what-pope-francis-wrote-in-book-published-a-day-after-his-death-8989153">What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death</a>
<h2>Fact check</h2>
The claim made above is fake. No such meeting was scheduled between Dalai Lama and JD Vance.&nbsp;
Moreover, The Babylon Bee is a satirical news website, that sometimes post fake news as per its satirical take on events.&nbsp;
&ldquo;The Babylon Bee is the world&rsquo;s best satire site, totally inerrant in all its truth claims. We write satire about Christian stuff, political stuff, and everyday life," The Babylon Bee wrote in its About section.&nbsp;
&ldquo;If you would like to complain about something on our site, take it up with God,&rdquo; it added.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>

US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh |  WORLD

After Pope Francis' death, a report emerged saying that the Buddhist leader Dalai Lama "quietly" cancelled a meeting with US President JD Vance. Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure, on Monday. The US Vice President is currently on a four-day visit to India, from April 21 to 24. While, the Dalai Lama is at his residence in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh. The Dalai Lama canceled his meeting with JD Vance, the Babylon Bee reported. According to some sources close to the Buddhist leader, Dalai Lama cancelled simply "did not want to die". Also read: WATCH | When Pope Francis signed two bottles of bourbon AND for a good cause “Though the Dalai Lama's representatives said publicly that the timing of the cancellation was just a coincidence, sources close to the religious leader privately disclosed that the revered Tibetan Buddhist figure simply did not want to die,” the website stated. Babylon Bee further posted a ‘spokesmonk’s' message about the Dalai Lama being ‘double-booked’. It then quickly went viral on social media, as users wrote, "Dalai Lama quietly cancels scheduled meeting with JD Vance." They also attached a screenshot of the Babylon Bee report. WATCH | Global tributes pour in to honour Pope Francis after his death JD Vance met with Pope just hours before his death on Easter. Netizens started questioning the relationship between Vance's meeting and Pope's death. People on social media started accusing him of being the reason the pope died. One internet user on X wrote, "He passed away right after your visit. Coincidence? I don't think so." Meanwhile, another asked, “What did you do bro?” Also read: What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death Fact check The claim made above is fake. No such meeting was scheduled between Dalai Lama and JD Vance. Moreover, The Babylon Bee is a satirical news website, that sometimes post fake news as per its satirical take on events. “The Babylon Bee is the world’s best satire site, totally inerrant in all its truth claims. We write satire about Christian stuff, political stuff, and everyday life," The Babylon Bee wrote in its About section. “If you would like to complain about something on our site, take it up with God,” it added. Also read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday

Fact Check: Did Dalai Lama 'cancel' meeting with US VP JD Vance after Pope Francis' death?

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children, Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel, are visiting India. Vance delivered a public address during his visit to Jaipur on the&nbsp;<yt-formatted-string force-default-style="" class="style-scope ytd-watch-metadata" title="Live: Vice President JD Vance Delivers Remarks on the U.S. and India's Shared Priorities">US and India's shared priorities, shedding light on a range of topics including defence partnership, cultural growth, tariff war and more. </yt-formatted-string>
<yt-formatted-string force-default-style="" class="style-scope ytd-watch-metadata" title="Live: Vice President JD Vance Delivers Remarks on the U.S. and India's Shared Priorities">Calling PM Modi "the </yt-formatted-string>most popular leader in the democratic world" and a "tough negotiator", Vance said that, unlike other nations, the US administration under US President Donald Trump is not "preachy". "President Trump wants India to grow...he wants the United States to grow," he said. He said that New Delhi and Washington are working hard to sign a trade deal, adding that "India should consider dropping some of the non-tariff barriers." Accusing the previous US governments of treating India as a "source of low-cost labour," Vance said that America wants India to buy more American assets to expand military production as well as India's nuclear power production goals. He further offered to sell F35 fighter jets and US energy to India.&nbsp;
"India should consider dropping non-tariff barriers for market access for American companies....American ethanol can play a tremendous role in enhancing the energy partnership. There's much that we can create and do together," says US Vice President 
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jaipur | US Vice President JP Vance says, "We believe that American energy can help realize India's nuclear power production goals, and this is very important, as well as its AI ambitions, because, as the United States knows well, and I know that India knows well, there&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/NOHXXpjx2r">pic.twitter.com/NOHXXpjx2r</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914628174522048883?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Highlighting his "special" relation with PM Modi, the US vice president recalled his meeting with the PM in&nbsp;Paris meeting and also shared that his children are fond of only two leaders in the world - Trump and Modi.Vance also said that America wants India to buy more American assets, adding that "American F35s will give the Indian Air Force the power to defend airspace and protect the people of India." "If India and US work together, we will see a 21st century which is prosperous and peaceful."
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Speaking at an event in Jaipur, US Vice President JD Vance says, "I believe there is much that America and India can accomplish together.... "And on that note, I want to talk about a few areas of collaboration today, how India and the United States can work together.&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/NXnEXcoF1q">pic.twitter.com/NXnEXcoF1q</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914624090347802737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-us-vp-jd-vance-hail-significant-progress-in-india-us-trade-talks-during-vital-new-delhi-meeting-8987158">PM Modi, US VP JD Vance hail 'significant progress' in India-US trade talks during vital New Delhi meeting</a>
Vance said, "...Like you, we want to appreciate our history, our culture, our religion, we want to do commerce and strike good deals with our friends. We want to find our vision of the future upon the proud recognition of our heritage rather than self-loathing and fear. I work for a President who has long understood all of this, whether through fighting those who seek to erase American history or in support of fair and trade deals abroad. He has been consistent on these issues for decades, and as a result, under the Trump administration, America now has a government that has learned from past mistakes."
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9scz4zl-cmzac254-0gq15sq2">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jaipur | "It's fitting that India this year is hosting the QUAD leaders' summit this fall. Our interests in a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo Pacific are in full alignment...," says US Vice President JD Vance in Jaipur. <a href="https://t.co/cq7qDxZHnx">pic.twitter.com/cq7qDxZHnx</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914625066718965830?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
<h2>On tariff war</h2>
Speaking on the criticism America is facing on the ongoing tariff war, Vance said, "Now, critics have attacked my president, President Trump, for starting a trade war in an effort to bring back the jobs of the past, but nothing could be further from the truth. He seeks to rebalance global trade so that America, with friends like India, can build a future worth having for all of our people together..."
He also informed that&nbsp; America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation."&nbsp;
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Jaipur | US Vice President JD Vance says, "America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation." "I believe this is a vital step toward realising President Trump's and Prime Minister Modi's vision, because it sets a road map&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/vuheT56nCs">pic.twitter.com/vuheT56nCs</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914623117676126347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jd-vance-receives-regal-welcome-by-elephants-chanda-and-pushpa-at-jaipurs-amer-fort-watch-8988967">JD Vance receives regal welcome by elephants Chanda and Pushpa at Jaipur's Amer Fort</a>
Vance also said that PM Modi's approval rating makes him jealous. Watch video here
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | At an event in Rajasthan's Jaipur, US Vice President JD Vance says, "...Now I believe that our nations have much to offer to one another, and that's why we come to you as partners, looking to strengthen our relationship." "Now we're not here to preach that you do things&hellip; <a href="https://t.co/csaIfCPnYt">pic.twitter.com/csaIfCPnYt</a>
&mdash; ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1914620319970509303?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Earlier on Tuesday, Vance met PM Modi and the two leaders reviewed key areas of bilateral partnership, including energy, defence, and strategic technologies. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasising dialogue and diplomacy as the path forward. As per a press release, Prime Minister and Vice President Vance reviewed and positively assessed the progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation.
Read More | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-jd-vance-and-pm-modi-announce-terms-of-reference-for-a-bilateral-trade-agreement-8988063">US VP JD Vance and PM Modi announce 'Terms of Reference' for a bilateral trade agreement</a>

World | India News: US Vice President JD Vance delivered an address during his visit to Jaipur on US and India's shared priorities and praised PM Modi

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children, Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel, are visiting India. Vance delivered a public address during his visit to Jaipur on the US and India's shared priorities, shedding light on a range of topics including defence partnership, cultural growth, tariff war and more. Calling PM Modi "the most popular leader in the democratic world" and a "tough negotiator", Vance said that, unlike other nations, the US administration under US President Donald Trump is not "preachy". "President Trump wants India to grow...he wants the United States to grow," he said. He said that New Delhi and Washington are working hard to sign a trade deal, adding that "India should consider dropping some of the non-tariff barriers." Accusing the previous US governments of treating India as a "source of low-cost labour," Vance said that America wants India to buy more American assets to expand military production as well as India's nuclear power production goals. He further offered to sell F35 fighter jets and US energy to India. "India should consider dropping non-tariff barriers for market access for American companies....American ethanol can play a tremendous role in enhancing the energy partnership. There's much that we can create and do together," says US Vice President #WATCH | Jaipur | US Vice President JP Vance says, "We believe that American energy can help realize India's nuclear power production goals, and this is very important, as well as its AI ambitions, because, as the United States knows well, and I know that India knows well, there… pic.twitter.com/NOHXXpjx2r — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025 Highlighting his "special" relation with PM Modi, the US vice president recalled his meeting with the PM in Paris meeting and also shared that his children are fond of only two leaders in the world - Trump and Modi.Vance also said that America wants India to buy more American assets, adding that "American F35s will give the Indian Air Force the power to defend airspace and protect the people of India." "If India and US work together, we will see a 21st century which is prosperous and peaceful." #WATCH | Speaking at an event in Jaipur, US Vice President JD Vance says, "I believe there is much that America and India can accomplish together.... "And on that note, I want to talk about a few areas of collaboration today, how India and the United States can work together.… pic.twitter.com/NXnEXcoF1q — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025 Read More | PM Modi, US VP JD Vance hail 'significant progress' in India-US trade talks during vital New Delhi meeting Vance said, "...Like you, we want to appreciate our history, our culture, our religion, we want to do commerce and strike good deals with our friends. We want to find our vision of the future upon the proud recognition of our heritage rather than self-loathing and fear. I work for a President who has long understood all of this, whether through fighting those who seek to erase American history or in support of fair and trade deals abroad. He has been consistent on these issues for decades, and as a result, under the Trump administration, America now has a government that has learned from past mistakes." #WATCH | Jaipur | "It's fitting that India this year is hosting the QUAD leaders' summit this fall. Our interests in a free, open, peaceful and prosperous Indo Pacific are in full alignment...," says US Vice President JD Vance in Jaipur. pic.twitter.com/cq7qDxZHnx — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025 Read More | ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions On tariff war Speaking on the criticism America is facing on the ongoing tariff war, Vance said, "Now, critics have attacked my president, President Trump, for starting a trade war in an effort to bring back the jobs of the past, but nothing could be further from the truth. He seeks to rebalance global trade so that America, with friends like India, can build a future worth having for all of our people together..." He also informed that America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation." #WATCH | Jaipur | US Vice President JD Vance says, "America and India have officially finalised the terms of reference for the trade negotiation." "I believe this is a vital step toward realising President Trump's and Prime Minister Modi's vision, because it sets a road map… pic.twitter.com/vuheT56nCs — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025 WATCH | JD Vance receives regal welcome by elephants Chanda and Pushpa at Jaipur's Amer Fort Vance also said that PM Modi's approval rating makes him jealous. Watch video here #WATCH | At an event in Rajasthan's Jaipur, US Vice President JD Vance says, "...Now I believe that our nations have much to offer to one another, and that's why we come to you as partners, looking to strengthen our relationship." "Now we're not here to preach that you do things… pic.twitter.com/csaIfCPnYt — ANI (@ANI) April 22, 2025 Earlier on Tuesday, Vance met PM Modi and the two leaders reviewed key areas of bilateral partnership, including energy, defence, and strategic technologies. They also exchanged views on regional and global issues, emphasising dialogue and diplomacy as the path forward. As per a press release, Prime Minister and Vice President Vance reviewed and positively assessed the progress in various areas of bilateral cooperation. Read More | US VP JD Vance and PM Modi announce 'Terms of Reference' for a bilateral trade agreement

'Most popular leader...tough negotiator': JD Vance praises PM Modi, asks India to ease tariffs

As US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/donald-trump" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Donald Trump's</a> tariffs bite into exports, Chinese car manufacturers are turning to Russia and the Middle East to cushion the impact, with fresh numbers revealing just how dominant China&rsquo;s auto industry has become on the world stage.
Despite rising trade barriers from the United States, Europe, and others, China remains a powerful force in car production, with domestic sales thriving and exports continuing to expand.
Watch: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-made-toys-75-of-us-imports-face-cost-hikes-8988682" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">China-made toys, 75% of US imports, face cost hikes</a>
<h2>China's car exports race ahead</h2>
New research from global consultancy AlixPartners shows that China&rsquo;s vehicle exports jumped by 23% in 2024, reaching 6.4 million passenger vehicles. That puts China more than 50% ahead of Japan, now the world&rsquo;s second-largest car exporter.
For the first time, exports to Russia and the Middle East made up 35% of China's overseas car sales, surpassing total shipments to Europe and North America combined.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/is-chinas-economy-exposed-to-tariff-hit-8987969" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Is China's economy exposed to tariff hit?</a>
&ldquo;China's car sales to Russia and Belarus have more than doubled over the past five years, insulating it in part from the volatility of tariffs,&rdquo; said Andrew Bergbaum, global leader of AlixPartners&rsquo; Automotive and Industrial Practice.
<h2>Tariffs take a toll, but only slightly</h2>
The ongoing trade war has still made an impact. According to AlixPartners, new tariffs imposed by the US and other countries are expected to raise the cost of Chinese vehicles and car parts by around 24%, or $46 billion, based on last year&rsquo;s export figures.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-issues-big-warning-to-world-against-appeasing-trump-on-tariffs-threatens-payback-8984334" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">&lsquo;Asking tiger for its skin&rsquo;: China issues BIG warning to world against &lsquo;appeasing&rsquo; Trump on tariffs, threatens payback</a>
Nearly $45 billion of that additional cost is linked to US tariffs. However, it's not yet clear whether carmakers, suppliers or consumers will end up bearing those costs.
That said, the report pointed out that the tariff-related losses represent only a small portion of China&rsquo;s total car production.
While tariffs are expected to cool China's export growth to 4% in 2025, the domestic market is forecast to stay strong. Sales in China are expected to rise by another 4% next year, reaching 26.8 million vehicles.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-sends-55m-boeing-jet-back-to-us-calls-it-too-expensive-under-trump-tariffs-8984077" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">5,000-mile return: China sends $55M Boeing jet back to US, calls it &lsquo;too expensive&rsquo; under Trump tariffs</a>

World: Despite rising trade barriers from the United States, Europe, and others, China remains a powerful force in car production, with domestic sales thriving and exports expanding.

As US President Donald Trump's tariffs bite into exports, Chinese car manufacturers are turning to Russia and the Middle East to cushion the impact, with fresh numbers revealing just how dominant China’s auto industry has become on the world stage. Despite rising trade barriers from the United States, Europe, and others, China remains a powerful force in car production, with domestic sales thriving and exports continuing to expand. Watch: China-made toys, 75% of US imports, face cost hikes China's car exports race ahead New research from global consultancy AlixPartners shows that China’s vehicle exports jumped by 23% in 2024, reaching 6.4 million passenger vehicles. That puts China more than 50% ahead of Japan, now the world’s second-largest car exporter. For the first time, exports to Russia and the Middle East made up 35% of China's overseas car sales, surpassing total shipments to Europe and North America combined. Also read: Is China's economy exposed to tariff hit? “China's car sales to Russia and Belarus have more than doubled over the past five years, insulating it in part from the volatility of tariffs,” said Andrew Bergbaum, global leader of AlixPartners’ Automotive and Industrial Practice. Tariffs take a toll, but only slightly The ongoing trade war has still made an impact. According to AlixPartners, new tariffs imposed by the US and other countries are expected to raise the cost of Chinese vehicles and car parts by around 24%, or $46 billion, based on last year’s export figures. Also read: ‘Asking tiger for its skin’: China issues BIG warning to world against ‘appeasing’ Trump on tariffs, threatens payback Nearly $45 billion of that additional cost is linked to US tariffs. However, it's not yet clear whether carmakers, suppliers or consumers will end up bearing those costs. That said, the report pointed out that the tariff-related losses represent only a small portion of China’s total car production. While tariffs are expected to cool China's export growth to 4% in 2025, the domestic market is forecast to stay strong. Sales in China are expected to rise by another 4% next year, reaching 26.8 million vehicles. Also read: 5,000-mile return: China sends $55M Boeing jet back to US, calls it ‘too expensive’ under Trump tariffs

Trump tried to hit China’s car industry hard, he barely left a scratch: Here’s how Russia helped Beijing shrug off the blow

Ukraine on Monday announced the plan to hold peace talks in the United Kingdom, while Russia on the same day confirmed its commitment to pursuing a diplomatic solution to the crisis.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday that Ukraine will hold peace talks with the United Kingdom, France, and the United States in London on Wednesday.
"We are ready to move forward as constructively as possible, to achieve an unconditional ceasefire, followed by the establishment of a real and lasting peace," Zelensky wrote on social media platform X after "a good and detailed" phone talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday confirmed that Russia is open to pursuing a diplomatic solution to the crisis, but refrained from giving a particular timeframe.
In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope that Russia and Ukraine would make a deal this week.
Peskov stressed that efforts and ongoing work aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the conflict must be conducted privately, cautioning against information leaks.
He also welcomed the US statement indicating it does not support Ukraine's accession to NATO.
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2204_WION_ZELENSKY_PROPOSAL_10AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2204_WION_ZELENSKY_PROPOSAL_10AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=287&amp;tags=Russia, Ukraine, World News, WION" title="Russia-Ukraine war: Russia to analyse Kyiv's proposal to halt strike on civilian infra" id="PL_iframe_block-m9sc6sct-yokie2w1-y7kq8p5y"></iframe>
In an evening address on Monday, Zelensky said Ukraine maintains its offer not to strike at civilian infrastructure and expects a clear response from Russia. He added that Ukraine is ready for any dialogue on how to ensure this commitment.
The most reliable way is to stop missile and long-range drone strikes, which would automatically guarantee the preservation of all civilian infrastructure, Zelensky said.
On the day earlier, Russian President Vladimir&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;said they treat any peace initiative positively and they hope that the representatives of the government in Kiev will treat this the same way.
Regarding the proposal to refrain from striking civilian infrastructure targets,&nbsp;Putin&nbsp;said the matter requires thorough examination, possibly even through bilateral dialogue. They will analyze all such instances and make appropriate decisions for the future.&nbsp;
Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

World | Kremlin spokesman on Monday confirmed that Russia is open to pursuing a diplomatic solution to the crisis, but refrained from giving a particular timeframe

Ukraine on Monday announced the plan to hold peace talks in the United Kingdom, while Russia on the same day confirmed its commitment to pursuing a diplomatic solution to the crisis. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Monday that Ukraine will hold peace talks with the United Kingdom, France, and the United States in London on Wednesday. "We are ready to move forward as constructively as possible, to achieve an unconditional ceasefire, followed by the establishment of a real and lasting peace," Zelensky wrote on social media platform X after "a good and detailed" phone talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov on Monday confirmed that Russia is open to pursuing a diplomatic solution to the crisis, but refrained from giving a particular timeframe. In a post on Truth Social on Sunday, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed hope that Russia and Ukraine would make a deal this week. Peskov stressed that efforts and ongoing work aimed at finding a peaceful solution to the conflict must be conducted privately, cautioning against information leaks. He also welcomed the US statement indicating it does not support Ukraine's accession to NATO. In an evening address on Monday, Zelensky said Ukraine maintains its offer not to strike at civilian infrastructure and expects a clear response from Russia. He added that Ukraine is ready for any dialogue on how to ensure this commitment. The most reliable way is to stop missile and long-range drone strikes, which would automatically guarantee the preservation of all civilian infrastructure, Zelensky said. On the day earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin said they treat any peace initiative positively and they hope that the representatives of the government in Kiev will treat this the same way. Regarding the proposal to refrain from striking civilian infrastructure targets, Putin said the matter requires thorough examination, possibly even through bilateral dialogue. They will analyze all such instances and make appropriate decisions for the future. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Ukraine announces peace talks plan; Russia signals positive stance on any peace initiative

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published &nbsp;on April 24.
But, after the demise of the Pope, the Vatican City has released the preface of the book: &ldquo;Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.&rdquo; The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24).&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cardinals-to-vote-for-vatican-next-pontiff-after-death-of-pope-francis-8988362">Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?</a>
<h2>'A new beginning'&nbsp;</h2>
Pope Francis called death a new beginning in the soon-to-be-available book. He said that death is &ldquo;not the end of everything&rdquo;.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
"Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something. It is a new beginning, as the title wisely highlights, because eternal life, which those who love already experience on earth in the occupations of every day, is starting something that will not end,&rdquo; the Pope said in the book.&nbsp;
&ldquo;And it is precisely for this reason that it is a 'new' beginning, because we will experience something that we have never fully experienced: eternity,&rdquo; he added.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-releases-photos-of-pope-francis-in-open-coffin-8988829">Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday</a>
<h2>&lsquo;We must not be afraid of old age&rsquo;&nbsp;</h2>
&ldquo;Yes, we must not be afraid of old age, we must not fear embracing becoming old, because life is life, and sugarcoating reality means betraying the truth of things. Restoring pride to a term too often considered unhealthy is a gesture for which we should be grateful to Cardinal Scola,&rdquo; the Pope wrote in the book.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/vaticans-secret-process-for-choosing-a-new-pope-8988711">Vatican's secret process for choosing a new pope</a>
&ldquo;It is true, one becomes old, but this is not the problem: the problem is how one becomes old. If we live this time of life as a grace, and not with resentment; if we accept the time (even a long one) in which we experience diminished strength, the increasing fatigue of the body, the reflexes no longer what they were in our youth,&rdquo; the late Pope Francis wrote.&nbsp;

Trending | World | The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. It will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24).

Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 21). Just two months before his demise, the Pope has authored a book on February 7 that is scheduled to be published on April 24. But, after the demise of the Pope, the Vatican City has released the preface of the book: “Awaiting a New Beginning. Reflections on Old Age.” The book was written in Italian by Cardinal Angelo Scola, Archbishop Emeritus of Milan. The Vatican Publishing House (LEV) has published the book that will be available in bookstores by Thursday (April 24). Also read: Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they? 'A new beginning' Pope Francis called death a new beginning in the soon-to-be-available book. He said that death is “not the end of everything”. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions "Death is not the end of everything, but the beginning of something. It is a new beginning, as the title wisely highlights, because eternal life, which those who love already experience on earth in the occupations of every day, is starting something that will not end,” the Pope said in the book. “And it is precisely for this reason that it is a 'new' beginning, because we will experience something that we have never fully experienced: eternity,” he added. Also read: Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday ‘We must not be afraid of old age’ “Yes, we must not be afraid of old age, we must not fear embracing becoming old, because life is life, and sugarcoating reality means betraying the truth of things. Restoring pride to a term too often considered unhealthy is a gesture for which we should be grateful to Cardinal Scola,” the Pope wrote in the book. Also read: Vatican's secret process for choosing a new pope “It is true, one becomes old, but this is not the problem: the problem is how one becomes old. If we live this time of life as a grace, and not with resentment; if we accept the time (even a long one) in which we experience diminished strength, the increasing fatigue of the body, the reflexes no longer what they were in our youth,” the late Pope Francis wrote.

What Pope Francis wrote in book published a day after his death

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is on a mission to spread misinformation about autism. In an interview, he compared it to COVID-19 and said that autism is a bigger epidemic "because COVID killed old people." Speaking to John Catsimatidis on WABC 770 AM radio show The Cats Roundtable, RFK Jr falsely claimed that autism is an epidemic.
The Secretary of Health and Human Services stated that &ldquo;the COVID epidemic and the impacts on our country" were smaller when compared to the harm caused by autism, because "COVID killed old people."
RFK Jr is a known anti-vaxxer and has ardently spoken about how vaccines cause autism. Experts have denied that there is a link between the two. He is now on a crusade to reveal the "cause" of autism. In a cabinet meeting held in early April, RFK Jr stated that he would find what caused autism by September.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-health-secretary-who-said-autism-is-curable-now-claims-environmental-toxins-could-be-causing-it-8972319" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Trump's health secretary RFK who said autism is 'curable' now claims 'environmental toxins' could be causing it</a>
At a press conference last week, Kennedy cited a CDC report on autism, according to which the number of autism cases slightly increased between 2020 and 2022. At the Cabinet meeting, he announced a &ldquo;massive testing and research effort&rdquo; &nbsp;to identify the &ldquo;environmental toxin&rdquo; behind this rise.
<h2>CDC report on autism</h2>
Notably, a new report by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that autism numbers rose in 2022, with 1 in 36 children being diagnosed with autism. However, the health body attributed this rise to better screening.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trumps-health-secretary-rfk-jr-downplays-outbreak-concerns-as-texas-child-dies-of-measles-25-years-after-contagious-disease-was-eradicated-from-nation-8760112" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Texas measles death: Unvaccinated child dies amid growing outbreak. This is what anti-vaxxer health secy RFK Jr said</a>
He told mediapersons that people with autism will "never pay taxes. They&rsquo;ll never hold a job. They&rsquo;ll never play baseball. They&rsquo;ll never write a poem." This statement enraged several people on social media, people who have autism, families of such people and groups who work for autistic people.
<h2>COVID-19 killed millions</h2>
His statements not only angered those with autism but also people who had lost loved ones to COVID-19. It killed nearly seven million across the world, and the deaths were not limited to older people. Many in their 30s, 40s and 50s were also killed in the pandemic, including children. More than 10 million children in the world have also lost a parent to COVID-19.

RFK Jr's autism rants are growing by the day. He said in an interview that the effects of COVID were far lesser as compared to those of autism. World Trending

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is on a mission to spread misinformation about autism. In an interview, he compared it to COVID-19 and said that autism is a bigger epidemic "because COVID killed old people." Speaking to John Catsimatidis on WABC 770 AM radio show The Cats Roundtable, RFK Jr falsely claimed that autism is an epidemic. The Secretary of Health and Human Services stated that “the COVID epidemic and the impacts on our country" were smaller when compared to the harm caused by autism, because "COVID killed old people." RFK Jr is a known anti-vaxxer and has ardently spoken about how vaccines cause autism. Experts have denied that there is a link between the two. He is now on a crusade to reveal the "cause" of autism. In a cabinet meeting held in early April, RFK Jr stated that he would find what caused autism by September. Also Read: Trump's health secretary RFK who said autism is 'curable' now claims 'environmental toxins' could be causing it At a press conference last week, Kennedy cited a CDC report on autism, according to which the number of autism cases slightly increased between 2020 and 2022. At the Cabinet meeting, he announced a “massive testing and research effort” to identify the “environmental toxin” behind this rise. CDC report on autism Notably, a new report by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that autism numbers rose in 2022, with 1 in 36 children being diagnosed with autism. However, the health body attributed this rise to better screening. Also Read: Texas measles death: Unvaccinated child dies amid growing outbreak. This is what anti-vaxxer health secy RFK Jr said He told mediapersons that people with autism will "never pay taxes. They’ll never hold a job. They’ll never play baseball. They’ll never write a poem." This statement enraged several people on social media, people who have autism, families of such people and groups who work for autistic people. COVID-19 killed millions His statements not only angered those with autism but also people who had lost loved ones to COVID-19. It killed nearly seven million across the world, and the deaths were not limited to older people. Many in their 30s, 40s and 50s were also killed in the pandemic, including children. More than 10 million children in the world have also lost a parent to COVID-19.

RFK Jr says COVID-19 only killed 'old people'; says autism was worse than the pandemic

The Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) published a photo and video of Pope Francis in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand. The images were taken in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, Francis's residence at the Vatican, where he died Monday.&nbsp;
The Vatican also confirmed that the funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. As per the Apostolic Constitution, the funeral should be held between the fourth and sixth days after the pope's death.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pope-francis-life-in-photos-a-look-back-8985395">Pope Francis dies: His life in pictures</a>&nbsp;
Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure. The Pope had been in poor health for some time, struggling with lung problems, knee issues, and type 2 diabetes. In February 2025, he was hospitalised for a respiratory infection and pneumonia, which weakened his condition further.&nbsp;
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9s836dt-kg7feg70-stkmgxjm">
The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONUncut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONUncut</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PopeFrancis?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PopeFrancis</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vatican?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vatican</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/VaticanCity?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#VaticanCity</a> <a href="https://t.co/q9pzN9kRV4">pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4</a>
&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1914581012798902661?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indian-cardinals-to-vote-for-vatican-next-pontiff-after-death-of-pope-francis-8988362">Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?</a>
Tributes have poured in from around the globe for Francis, who is seen as a liberal reformer who took over following the resignation of German theologian Benedict XVI in 2013.&nbsp;
World leaders from US President Donald Trump to Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky said they would attend to honour the Catholic leader.&nbsp;
Several other heads of state and royalty are expected for his funeral, due to be held at St Peter's Basilica, with Trump and France's Emmanuel Macron the first to announce they would attend.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/papal-power-plays-from-the-two-popes-to-godfather-3-here-are-6-gripping-movies-about-the-vatican-8985365">Papal power plays! From The Two Popes to Conclave, the 6 gripping movies about the Vatican</a>
The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks.&nbsp;
Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave.
The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope.
India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning.&nbsp;
Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>&nbsp;
Watch: From Buenos Aires to Vatican: The journey of people's pope
<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/2204_WION_POPE_FRANCIS_LEGACY_10AM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/2204_WION_POPE_FRANCIS_LEGACY_10AM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=102&amp;tags=Pope Francis, World News, WION" title="From Buenos Aires to Vatican: The journey of people's pope" id="PL_iframe_block-m9s8268e-qp4t99d9-9l0b2aqz"></iframe>
<h2>PM Modi pays tributes to Pope</h2>
In a post on X, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope."
"I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God&rsquo;s embrace," he added.&nbsp;

World news | India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning

The Vatican on Tuesday (Apr 22) published a photo and video of Pope Francis in his open coffin, dressed in a red robe with the papal mitre on his head and a rosary in his hand. The images were taken in the chapel of the Casa Santa Marta, Francis's residence at the Vatican, where he died Monday. The Vatican also confirmed that the funeral will be held at 10 am local time (4:00 am ET) on Saturday. As per the Apostolic Constitution, the funeral should be held between the fourth and sixth days after the pope's death. Also read: Pope Francis dies: His life in pictures Pope passed away at the age of 88 due to complications from a stroke and heart failure. The Pope had been in poor health for some time, struggling with lung problems, knee issues, and type 2 diabetes. In February 2025, he was hospitalised for a respiratory infection and pneumonia, which weakened his condition further. The Vatican releases first visuals of Pope Francis, showing him in casket . . . .#WIONUncut #PopeFrancis #Vatican #VaticanCity pic.twitter.com/q9pzN9kRV4 — WION (@WIONews) April 22, 2025 Also read: Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they? Tributes have poured in from around the globe for Francis, who is seen as a liberal reformer who took over following the resignation of German theologian Benedict XVI in 2013. World leaders from US President Donald Trump to Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky said they would attend to honour the Catholic leader. Several other heads of state and royalty are expected for his funeral, due to be held at St Peter's Basilica, with Trump and France's Emmanuel Macron the first to announce they would attend. Also read: Papal power plays! From The Two Popes to Conclave, the 6 gripping movies about the Vatican The first so-called "general congregation", called following the death of Francis, signals the start of a centuries-old tradition that culminates in the election by cardinals of a new pontiff within three weeks. Cardinals of all ages are invited to the congregations, although only those under the age of 80 are eligible to vote for a new pope in the conclave. The conclave should begin no less than 15 and no more than 20 days after the death of the pope. India began three days of state mourning on Tuesday, meanwhile, his home country, Argentina, prepared for a week of national mourning. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions Watch: From Buenos Aires to Vatican: The journey of people's pope PM Modi pays tributes to Pope In a post on X, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote, "Deeply pained by the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. In this hour of grief and remembrance, my heartfelt condolences to the global Catholic community. Pope Francis will always be remembered as a beacon of compassion, humility and spiritual courage by millions across the world. From a young age, he devoted himself towards realising the ideals of Lord Christ. He diligently served the poor and downtrodden. For those who were suffering, he ignited a spirit of hope." "I fondly recall my meetings with him and was greatly inspired by his commitment to inclusive and all-round development. His affection for the people of India will always be cherished. May his soul find eternal peace in God’s embrace," he added.

Vatican releases photos of Pope Francis in open coffin; funeral to take place on Saturday

US student loan defaulters beware! The Department of Education will start the process of collecting student loans that had gone into&nbsp; default. This could include forcing the defaulters to part with a portion of their salaries. The move can affect millions, according to multiple American media reports.
&ldquo;American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies,&rdquo; Education Secretary Linda McMahon said on Monday (Apr 21), revealing the direction her department will go in order to take back the money. &ldquo;Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd the student loan programme responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment &mdash; both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation&rsquo;s economic outlook,&rdquo; she said.
&nbsp;
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&nbsp;
<h2>How many US student loans are in default?</h2>
At least 5.3 million people who have borrowed money for education are in default on their federal student loans in the US, according to a report in the Associated Press news agency.
&nbsp;
<h2>What does student loan collections mean?</h2>
So far, the US government has been lenient towards student loan defaulters, with the pressure to repay eased, particularly since the Covid pandemic. Since March 2020, when COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, student loans have not been referred for collection.&nbsp; President Donald Trump's predecessor Joe Biden had attempted student loan forgiveness, but the moves were blocked by courts.
<h2>What will the US education department do to student loan defaulters?</h2>
According to reports, the US education department will start 'involuntary' collection of loans from May 5.
This will be done through the US Treasury Department's offset programme, and would involve withholding of government payments.
These payments include tax refunds, salaries and other benefits to federal employees who had taken loans as students.
<h2>Garnishing of wages: the method US govt might use to get back loans </h2>
The reports said that one of the ways in which the student loans will be recovered is through the process known as 'garnishing of wages'. In this, part of the salary of an individual is withheld by the employer under court orders to settle debts.
The education department will start garninshing wages of the debtors after a 30-day notice.
<h2>How bad is the student loan situation in the US? </h2>
According to data collected by various organisations, the federal student loan debt is estimated to be around a whopping $86 billion.&nbsp;
In fact, it is far better than the peak debt default figure in 2018, when it stood at $128 bn.&nbsp;
As of 2021, nearly 5.47 per cent of all student loan debt was in default.
&nbsp;
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The Biden administration introduced the Fresh Start Program in 2022, aimed at bringing student loan borrowers out of default. The education department under Biden allowed the borrowers to apply for federal student aid in order to complete their degree. That programme ended in 2024.
The previous Trump administration introduced a student loan payment moratorium in 2020.
That moratorium was extended several times by Biden, but ended in 2023, and payments became due with interest in 2023. The grace period ended in 2024.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hundreds-of-employees-locked-out-of-office-as-us-department-of-education-cuts-50-percent-staff-trump-ordered-education-secretary-linda-mcmahon-to-put-herself-out-of-a-job-edu-dept-follows-trumps-directive-to-put-yourself-out-of-a-job-8844894">US Education Department fires 50 pc staff after Trump told its chief to &lsquo;put yourself out of job&rsquo;</a>
Several people, such as Mike Pierce, the executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center, criticised the planned move of the education department to collect student loans as 'cruel and unnecessary.&nbsp;
&ldquo;This will further fan the flames of economic chaos for working families across this country,&rdquo; Pierce said, as quoted by AP.&nbsp;
<h2>How bad is the US student loan default situation?</h2>
An individual is considered to be in default if the loan or interest is not paid for nine months.
Defaulting on loans will adversely affect their credit scores.
&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wwe-former-chairman-vince-mcmahon-sued-over-ring-boys-sex-abuse-claims-770478">WWE, former chairman Vince McMahon sued over &lsquo;ring boys&rsquo; sex abuse claims</a>
Besides defaulters, up to 4 million loan takers are late on payments by up to 180 days.
According to education department data, less than 40 per cent of loan takers are paying back their loans in time.
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US student loan defaulters beware! The Department of Education will start the process of collecting student loans that had gone into  default. World

US student loan defaulters beware! The Department of Education will start the process of collecting student loans that had gone into default. This could include forcing the defaulters to part with a portion of their salaries. The move can affect millions, according to multiple American media reports. “American taxpayers will no longer be forced to serve as collateral for irresponsible student loan policies,” Education Secretary Linda McMahon said on Monday (Apr 21), revealing the direction her department will go in order to take back the money. “Going forward, the Department of Education, in conjunction with the Department of Treasury, will shepherd the student loan programme responsibly and according to the law, which means helping borrowers return to repayment — both for the sake of their own financial health and our nation’s economic outlook,” she said. Who is Linda McMahon? Once WWE boss, now appointed as Donald Trump's education secretary" How many US student loans are in default? At least 5.3 million people who have borrowed money for education are in default on their federal student loans in the US, according to a report in the Associated Press news agency. What does student loan collections mean? So far, the US government has been lenient towards student loan defaulters, with the pressure to repay eased, particularly since the Covid pandemic. Since March 2020, when COVID-19 was declared a global pandemic, student loans have not been referred for collection. President Donald Trump's predecessor Joe Biden had attempted student loan forgiveness, but the moves were blocked by courts. What will the US education department do to student loan defaulters? According to reports, the US education department will start 'involuntary' collection of loans from May 5. This will be done through the US Treasury Department's offset programme, and would involve withholding of government payments. These payments include tax refunds, salaries and other benefits to federal employees who had taken loans as students. Garnishing of wages: the method US govt might use to get back loans The reports said that one of the ways in which the student loans will be recovered is through the process known as 'garnishing of wages'. In this, part of the salary of an individual is withheld by the employer under court orders to settle debts. The education department will start garninshing wages of the debtors after a 30-day notice. How bad is the student loan situation in the US? According to data collected by various organisations, the federal student loan debt is estimated to be around a whopping $86 billion. In fact, it is far better than the peak debt default figure in 2018, when it stood at $128 bn. As of 2021, nearly 5.47 per cent of all student loan debt was in default. Trump hopes Linda McMahon 'puts herself out of job' by shutting down education department The Biden administration introduced the Fresh Start Program in 2022, aimed at bringing student loan borrowers out of default. The education department under Biden allowed the borrowers to apply for federal student aid in order to complete their degree. That programme ended in 2024. The previous Trump administration introduced a student loan payment moratorium in 2020. That moratorium was extended several times by Biden, but ended in 2023, and payments became due with interest in 2023. The grace period ended in 2024. US Education Department fires 50 pc staff after Trump told its chief to ‘put yourself out of job’ Several people, such as Mike Pierce, the executive director of the Student Borrower Protection Center, criticised the planned move of the education department to collect student loans as 'cruel and unnecessary. “This will further fan the flames of economic chaos for working families across this country,” Pierce said, as quoted by AP. How bad is the US student loan default situation? An individual is considered to be in default if the loan or interest is not paid for nine months. Defaulting on loans will adversely affect their credit scores. WWE, former chairman Vince McMahon sued over ‘ring boys’ sex abuse claims Besides defaulters, up to 4 million loan takers are late on payments by up to 180 days. According to education department data, less than 40 per cent of loan takers are paying back their loans in time.

Did you take a US student loan and go into default? Education Department is coming to collect the debt from your salaries

TRIGGER WARNING: Sensitive content. Reader discretion is advised
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A couple in Wisconsin are facing legal action after it was revealed that the man sexually assaulted his partner's two-month-old baby while the mother helped him. It is reported that the two planned the assault even before the baby was born. Skyler Klassen admitted to the police that he had assaulted Madison Bishop's 2-month-old daughter, People reported.
According to a criminal complaint, the 22-year-old was arrested on April 9 after the Madison Police Department found child sex abuse material on his phone. At the time, there was an active warrant out of Nevada against Klassen regarding child sex abuse material.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/controversial-statements-by-indian-courts-on-sexual-abuse-cases-women-say-sensitisation-necessary-8964602" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Controversial statements by Indian courts on sexual abuse cases: Women say 'sensitisation necessary'</a>
The police found disturbing content on his phone of the baby. There were photos of the infant's genitals and a video showing Klassen digitally penetrating the baby, as per the complaint. The police also found graphic text messages shared between the couple hinting at their plan to abuse the baby. The assault is believed to have happened on April 7.
Their messages further detailed their plans of sexually assaulting the baby once she was born, as per the complaint. The couple also frequently shared child sex abuse material with each other.
<h2>Man charged with incest</h2>
The 21-year-old woman was also taken into custody on April 15 after the revelation of their plans. Madison Bishop has been charged with one count each of first-degree child sexual assault and failure to protect a child. Meanwhile, Klassen faces four counts of sexual exploitation of a child, four counts of possession of child sex abuse material, one count of first-degree sexual assault, and one count of incest.
People on social media are enraged to learn of a couple that planned the rape of their own baby. A user wrote, "Nasty demon minded sickos", while another added, "Everyone does not deserve to have children."
Another user stated, "This is beyond sad and trifling, just imagine hearing this poor baby screaming with everything in their little tiny body."

A man planned the rape of his own child even before she was born. The mother helped him in his devious scheme of sexually assaulting a 2-month-old.  World Trending

TRIGGER WARNING: Sensitive content. Reader discretion is advised A couple in Wisconsin are facing legal action after it was revealed that the man sexually assaulted his partner's two-month-old baby while the mother helped him. It is reported that the two planned the assault even before the baby was born. Skyler Klassen admitted to the police that he had assaulted Madison Bishop's 2-month-old daughter, People reported. According to a criminal complaint, the 22-year-old was arrested on April 9 after the Madison Police Department found child sex abuse material on his phone. At the time, there was an active warrant out of Nevada against Klassen regarding child sex abuse material. Also Read: Controversial statements by Indian courts on sexual abuse cases: Women say 'sensitisation necessary' The police found disturbing content on his phone of the baby. There were photos of the infant's genitals and a video showing Klassen digitally penetrating the baby, as per the complaint. The police also found graphic text messages shared between the couple hinting at their plan to abuse the baby. The assault is believed to have happened on April 7. Their messages further detailed their plans of sexually assaulting the baby once she was born, as per the complaint. The couple also frequently shared child sex abuse material with each other. Man charged with incest The 21-year-old woman was also taken into custody on April 15 after the revelation of their plans. Madison Bishop has been charged with one count each of first-degree child sexual assault and failure to protect a child. Meanwhile, Klassen faces four counts of sexual exploitation of a child, four counts of possession of child sex abuse material, one count of first-degree sexual assault, and one count of incest. People on social media are enraged to learn of a couple that planned the rape of their own baby. A user wrote, "Nasty demon minded sickos", while another added, "Everyone does not deserve to have children." Another user stated, "This is beyond sad and trifling, just imagine hearing this poor baby screaming with everything in their little tiny body."

US couple planned rape of their 2-month-old even before birth, digitally abused her

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. It is an ancient Roman tradition which is in practice even today. And it is during this period that the preparation to elect the next Pope happens. As the mourning period concludes, the College of Cardinals will elect the new Vicar of Christ.
135 will be voting in the Papal conclave to elect the next pontiff, of which four are from India. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Cardinal Anthony Poola, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis and Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao will vote.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/peoples-pope-pope-francis-dies-at-88-leaving-legacy-of-compassion-8987961">People's pope: Pope Francis dies at 88, leaving legacy of compassion</a>
<h2>Who are the four Indians? Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad</h2>
Cardinal Koovakad serves as the Cardinal-Deacon of S Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia. In 2020, he began working in the offices of the Holy See's Secretariat of State in the Journeys Office. This department is in charge of organising the Pope's overseas trips. The 51-year-old also headed the office in 2021.
<h3>Cardinal Filipe Neri Antonio Sebastiao do Rosario Ferrao</h3>
Cardinal Filipe is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India since 2004. The 72-year-old serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. He is the member of Dicastery for Evangelisation, section for fundamental questions regarding evangelisation in the world. In January 2025, he assumed the presidency of Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
<h3>Cardinal Anthony Poola</h3>
Cardinal Poola is has been the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad since 2021. The 63-year-old belongs to Dalit Christian community and will also be India's first Dalit cardinal to vote to elect the next Pope. In 2022, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Francis at a consistory held in Vatican.&nbsp;
<h3>Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal</h3>
Cardinal Thottunkal is Major Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara. He also serves as the president of the Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church. In 2012, he was named to the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church by Pope Benedict XVI. When he was selected, he was the youngest member, he was 53. Now, the youngest cardinal is Mykola Bychok, who is 45 years of age.

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. World

Pope Francis passed away on Monday (Apr 21) at the age of 88. He was the Vatican's first Latin American pontiff. After his passing the Vatican will observe Novendiale, the nine-day mourning period. It is an ancient Roman tradition which is in practice even today. And it is during this period that the preparation to elect the next Pope happens. As the mourning period concludes, the College of Cardinals will elect the new Vicar of Christ. 135 will be voting in the Papal conclave to elect the next pontiff, of which four are from India. Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, Cardinal Anthony Poola, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis and Cardinal Filipe Neri Ferrao will vote. WATCH | People's pope: Pope Francis dies at 88, leaving legacy of compassion Who are the four Indians? Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad Cardinal Koovakad serves as the Cardinal-Deacon of S Antonio di Padova a Circonvallazione Appia. In 2020, he began working in the offices of the Holy See's Secretariat of State in the Journeys Office. This department is in charge of organising the Pope's overseas trips. The 51-year-old also headed the office in 2021. Cardinal Filipe Neri Antonio Sebastiao do Rosario Ferrao Cardinal Filipe is the Metropolitan Archbishop of Goa and Daman in India since 2004. The 72-year-old serves as the President of the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India. He is the member of Dicastery for Evangelisation, section for fundamental questions regarding evangelisation in the world. In January 2025, he assumed the presidency of Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions Cardinal Anthony Poola Cardinal Poola is has been the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad since 2021. The 63-year-old belongs to Dalit Christian community and will also be India's first Dalit cardinal to vote to elect the next Pope. In 2022, he was elevated to the cardinalate by Pope Francis at a consistory held in Vatican. Cardinal Baselios Cleemis Thottunkal Cardinal Thottunkal is Major Archbishop of Trivandrum of the Syro-Malankara. He also serves as the president of the Synod of the Syro-Malankara Church. In 2012, he was named to the College of Cardinals of the Catholic Church by Pope Benedict XVI. When he was selected, he was the youngest member, he was 53. Now, the youngest cardinal is Mykola Bychok, who is 45 years of age.

Four Indian cardinals to vote for next Pope. Who are they?

Kristi Noem, the US Homeland Security chief, is among the most protected officials, or so one would assume. But what happens when her bag with thousands of dollars in cash and sensitive documents like her passport is stolen when the Secret Service protecting her was standing nearby?
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<iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/1803_WION_KRISTI_2PM/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/1803_WION_KRISTI_2PM.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=103&amp;tags=wion, wion news, world news, world news latest, viral" title="DHS secretary Kristi Noem files Lockheed C-130" id="PL_iframe_block-m9s2pvwx-h1knazs0-dkxzkt7y"></iframe>
An investigation is on after the theft of Noem's bag that also contained her Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identity card, some $3000 in cash, and possibly other sensitive documents.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-flies-a-lockheed-c-130-people-ask-is-she-a-pilot-8864397"></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">Also Read:</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-flies-a-lockheed-c-130-people-ask-is-she-a-pilot-8864397"> Kristi Noem flies a Lockheed C-130. People ask, 'Is she a pilot?'</a>
Noem confirmed that the purse had in it her passport, government access card, credit cards, blank cheques, driver&rsquo;s license, keys and a makeup bag.
<h2>When and how was Kristi Noem's bag stolen?</h2>
According to reports, Kristi Noem's bag was stolen when she was at a private dinner in a Washington DC restaurant around 8 pm local time on Sunday, Apr 20) night.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">Also Read: 'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison</a>
She was with her children and grandchildren for the Easter dinner.&nbsp;
DHS said she was carrying the cash as she wanted to buy Easter gifts for her family.
<h2>Who stole Kristi Noem's bag? </h2>
The Secret Service, which was in charge of the security detail of Noem, is tight-lipped about the suspect.
But reports said the suspect is a masked male who waited around the area before nicking the bag.
CCTV camera footage from the restaurant, Capital Burger, is being examined by the Investigators.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-says-kids-of-migrants-have-the-option-to-not-cross-us-border-illegally-8838835"></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">Also Read: </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kristi-noem-says-kids-of-migrants-have-the-option-to-not-cross-us-border-illegally-8838835">Kristi Noem says kids of migrants 'have the option' to not cross US border 'illegally'</a>
The suspect must have sat very close to Noem's table, then slided her bag toward him with his foot, and walked away, NBC News reported citing sources.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-does-she-buy-a-rolex-kristi-noem-wears-60k-watch-during-her-visit-to-venezuelan-prisoners-internet-reacts-8899355"></a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-you-commit-crimes-against-america-dhs-secretary-kristi-noem-warns-as-she-visits-trumps-fav-el-salvador-prison-8896947">Also Read:</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-does-she-buy-a-rolex-kristi-noem-wears-60k-watch-during-her-visit-to-venezuelan-prisoners-internet-reacts-8899355"> 'How does she buy a Rolex?' Kristi Noem wears '$60k watch' during her visit to Venezuelan prisoners, internet reacts</a>
According to reports, the suspect was wearing a medical N-95 mask, was in the restaurant for some minutes with Noem's bag under his jacket, and walked away unnoticed.
<h2>How protected was Noem when her bag was stolen?</h2>
According to NBC News, two security men in plainclothes were positioned at the restaurant's bar, pretty close to where Noem was dining.
"We can confirm this was stolen. Her entire family was in town, including her children and grandchildren," DHS said in a statement.
"She was using the cash withdrawal to treat her family to dinner, activities, and Easter gifts,&rdquo; it added.
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US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem is among most protected officials, but someone stole her purse as Secert Service was nearby World | Trending

Kristi Noem, the US Homeland Security chief, is among the most protected officials, or so one would assume. But what happens when her bag with thousands of dollars in cash and sensitive documents like her passport is stolen when the Secret Service protecting her was standing nearby? An investigation is on after the theft of Noem's bag that also contained her Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identity card, some $3000 in cash, and possibly other sensitive documents. Also Read: Kristi Noem flies a Lockheed C-130. People ask, 'Is she a pilot?' Noem confirmed that the purse had in it her passport, government access card, credit cards, blank cheques, driver’s license, keys and a makeup bag. When and how was Kristi Noem's bag stolen? According to reports, Kristi Noem's bag was stolen when she was at a private dinner in a Washington DC restaurant around 8 pm local time on Sunday, Apr 20) night. Also Read: 'If you commit crimes against America...': DHS Secretary Kristi Noem warns as she visits Trump's fav El Salvador prison She was with her children and grandchildren for the Easter dinner. DHS said she was carrying the cash as she wanted to buy Easter gifts for her family. Who stole Kristi Noem's bag? The Secret Service, which was in charge of the security detail of Noem, is tight-lipped about the suspect. But reports said the suspect is a masked male who waited around the area before nicking the bag. CCTV camera footage from the restaurant, Capital Burger, is being examined by the Investigators. Also Read: Kristi Noem says kids of migrants 'have the option' to not cross US border 'illegally' The suspect must have sat very close to Noem's table, then slided her bag toward him with his foot, and walked away, NBC News reported citing sources. Also Read: 'How does she buy a Rolex?' Kristi Noem wears '$60k watch' during her visit to Venezuelan prisoners, internet reacts According to reports, the suspect was wearing a medical N-95 mask, was in the restaurant for some minutes with Noem's bag under his jacket, and walked away unnoticed. How protected was Noem when her bag was stolen? According to NBC News, two security men in plainclothes were positioned at the restaurant's bar, pretty close to where Noem was dining. "We can confirm this was stolen. Her entire family was in town, including her children and grandchildren," DHS said in a statement. "She was using the cash withdrawal to treat her family to dinner, activities, and Easter gifts,” it added.

US Homeland Security chief Kristi Noem is among most protected officials, but someone stole her bag as Secret Service stood nearby

The craze of grabbing eyeballs on social media leads people to do strange things. In the UK, an NHS pathology worker stripped inside a hospital mortuary, clicked a photo and posted it on her OnlyFans page. Moreover, the picture isn't recent but was taken during the pandemic. The shocking incident has triggered an investigation by hospital officials into the matter.&nbsp;
Amelie, from Witham, Essex, told The Sun that she created her profile on OnlyFans after being pushed by her friends. The 44-year-old posed in her underwear in a morgue's waiting room during the time COVID-19 was devastating the world.&nbsp;
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/sleep-like-a-pm-boris-johnsons-used-bed-for-sale-on-ebay-for-this-insane-amount-8983058" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Sleep Like a PM? Boris Johnson's used bed for sale on eBay for THIS insane amount</a>
She told the publication that she made the profile and took the picture because "You only have one life." Amelie says she shut down her profile a few years back, effectively removing the photo from the internet. However, the photo resurfaced after she reactivated the account.
Amelie now finds herself in the eye of a storm after posing in barely anything in the morgue of the Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford. Mid and South NHS Foundation Trust have started an investigation, and slammed Amelie for the act, saying there are "strict codes of practice" in its mortuaries.
Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/worlds-sexiest-athlete-alica-schmidt-goes-viral-amid-hook-up-claims-heres-the-truth-749642" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">World's sexiest athlete Alica Schmidt goes viral amid 'hook-up' claims. Here's the truth</a>
Amelie originally is from Spain and received her qualification as a mortician in Spain in 2012.
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet publive-iframes-block publive-Twitter-block" contenteditable="false" width="600" height="400" id="PL_blockquote_block-m9s26pjb-gqm7cel2-zoe23t1c">
Amelie Warnier, 44, posed for the steamy snap in the morgue's waiting room during the pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/PKUOrEG8l2">https://t.co/PKUOrEG8l2</a> <a href="https://t.co/nNYNQflU6m">pic.twitter.com/nNYNQflU6m</a>
&mdash; 🅛🅞🅤🅝🅖🅔 (@the_loungeclub) <a href="https://twitter.com/the_loungeclub/status/1914505975542775991?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 22, 2025</a></blockquote>
&nbsp;The Sun reported that she has been working with the NHS for seven years and has conducted thousands of autopsies. She also performed autopsies on 39 Vietnamese migrants found dead in the back of a truck.
<h2>Hospital staff call out her brazen act for OnlyFans</h2>
Her colleagues are aghast at seeing her behave in such a brazen manner. In her defence, Amelie claimed that she took that picture when she "first opened the account" after "someone pushed" her to do it.
After the hospital officials were made aware of Amelie's photo, they reached out to her in February and called her to talk about it. She was informed that a contractor had been hired to investigate her.
Notably, Amelie has engaged in such behaviour at the morgue previously as well. The Sun reported that she posted videos of her working out in the morgue on TikTok and was warned about them.
Amelie's OnlyFans profile describes her as a "sultry Spanish enchantress who's just embarked on a thrilling journey with OnlyFans at the fabulous age of 40".

Amelie admits that she took a hot photo in the morgue of a hospital and posted it on OnlyFans. Now she is being investigated for the bizarre act. World Trending

The craze of grabbing eyeballs on social media leads people to do strange things. In the UK, an NHS pathology worker stripped inside a hospital mortuary, clicked a photo and posted it on her OnlyFans page. Moreover, the picture isn't recent but was taken during the pandemic. The shocking incident has triggered an investigation by hospital officials into the matter. Amelie, from Witham, Essex, told The Sun that she created her profile on OnlyFans after being pushed by her friends. The 44-year-old posed in her underwear in a morgue's waiting room during the time COVID-19 was devastating the world. Also Read: Sleep Like a PM? Boris Johnson's used bed for sale on eBay for THIS insane amount She told the publication that she made the profile and took the picture because "You only have one life." Amelie says she shut down her profile a few years back, effectively removing the photo from the internet. However, the photo resurfaced after she reactivated the account. Amelie now finds herself in the eye of a storm after posing in barely anything in the morgue of the Broomfield Hospital in Chelmsford. Mid and South NHS Foundation Trust have started an investigation, and slammed Amelie for the act, saying there are "strict codes of practice" in its mortuaries. Also Read: World's sexiest athlete Alica Schmidt goes viral amid 'hook-up' claims. Here's the truth Amelie originally is from Spain and received her qualification as a mortician in Spain in 2012. Amelie Warnier, 44, posed for the steamy snap in the morgue's waiting room during the pandemic. https://t.co/PKUOrEG8l2 pic.twitter.com/nNYNQflU6m — 🅛🅞🅤🅝🅖🅔 (@the_loungeclub) April 22, 2025 The Sun reported that she has been working with the NHS for seven years and has conducted thousands of autopsies. She also performed autopsies on 39 Vietnamese migrants found dead in the back of a truck. Hospital staff call out her brazen act for OnlyFans Her colleagues are aghast at seeing her behave in such a brazen manner. In her defence, Amelie claimed that she took that picture when she "first opened the account" after "someone pushed" her to do it. After the hospital officials were made aware of Amelie's photo, they reached out to her in February and called her to talk about it. She was informed that a contractor had been hired to investigate her. Notably, Amelie has engaged in such behaviour at the morgue previously as well. The Sun reported that she posted videos of her working out in the morgue on TikTok and was warned about them. Amelie's OnlyFans profile describes her as a "sultry Spanish enchantress who's just embarked on a thrilling journey with OnlyFans at the fabulous age of 40".

UK hospital worker posed in underwear in the MORTUARY for OnlyFans during pandemic

Pope Francis died of a stroke, the Vatican announced hours after the death of the 88-year-old reformer who inspired devotion during 12 years leading the Catholic Church.&nbsp;
In another news, Harvard has sued Donald Trump's administration amid the ongoing fight between the university and the president.&nbsp;
Trump on the other hand has completed 100 days in office. We have listed 10 key moments of his presidency so far.&nbsp;
Click on the links to read the full article:&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/pope-francis-dies-latest-images-coming-in-as-people-pay-tribute-worldwide-8987879/2">Pope Francis dies: People pay tribute worldwide</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="People offer prayers in front of a portrait of Pope Francis ahead of the requiem mass at the Manila cathedral on April 22, 2025." src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/512x341/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/22/cjXArA3fWGoOXxl5m3OS.jpg" style="width: 512px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp; Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 22) after a heart attack, Vatican City said. As the world mourns the death of "People's Pope," here are some of the latest photos from across the globe of his followers' tribute to him.
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/harvard-sues-trump-administration-over-us-federal-funding-cuts-calling-actions-arbitrary-and-capricious-8987758">Harvard sues Trump administration over US federal funding cuts, calling actions 'arbitrary' and 'capricious'</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/15/RF89y5LamMZIp6FSjEhm.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>File photo of the entrance to Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
</figure>
&nbsp;
In an escalation, Harvard sued Donald Trump's administration Monday amid the ongoing fight between the university and the president. The US president has threatened several prestigious universities over claims that they tolerated campus anti-Semitism.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-vp-jd-vance-and-pm-modi-announce-terms-of-reference-for-a-bilateral-trade-agreement-8988063">US VP JD Vance and PM Modi announce 'Terms of Reference' for a bilateral trade agreement</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="jd vance-PM modi" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/22/TwDhTKIkluKagc2CDIVI.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>In this handout photograph taken on April 21, 2025 and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau (PIB), India&rsquo;s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) speaks with US Vice President JD Vance, during their meeting in New Delhi. Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
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&nbsp;Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance announced the Terms of Reference for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Office of the United States Trade Representative said in a fact sheet published on Monday (Apr 21) as it shared other details.&nbsp;
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-tariff-war-to-proposal-of-gaza-takeover-trumps-first-100-days-in-10-key-moments-8987802">From tariff war to proposal of Gaza takeover: Trump's first 100 days in 10 key moments</a>
<figure class="image"><img alt="Trump" src="https://img-cdn.publive.online/fit-in/1280x720/filters:format(webp)/wion/media/media_files/2025/04/22/dTCsGbWd1T43NC5DjZ6f.png" style="width: 1280px;">
<figcaption>Photograph: (AFP)</figcaption>
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&nbsp;Since his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has turned US foreign policy upside down, sent shock waves through the financial markets and turned the Oval Office into one "happening" after another.&nbsp;
VIDEO: White House says no chance of Trump firing defence secretary Donald Trump is standing behind as Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said, despite a new scandal. Trump's backing comes amid growing calls to fire the US defence secretary over his reported use of the messaging app Signal to discuss strikes on Yemen with his wife and others.
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Pope Francis died of a stroke, the Vatican announced hours after the death of the 88-year-old reformer who inspired devotion during 12 years leading the Catholic Church. In another news, Harvard has sued Donald Trump's administration amid the ongoing fight between the university and the president. Trump on the other hand has completed 100 days in office. We have listed 10 key moments of his presidency so far. Click on the links to read the full article: Pope Francis dies: People pay tribute worldwide Photograph: (AFP) Pope Francis died at the age of 88 on Monday (April 22) after a heart attack, Vatican City said. As the world mourns the death of "People's Pope," here are some of the latest photos from across the globe of his followers' tribute to him. Harvard sues Trump administration over US federal funding cuts, calling actions 'arbitrary' and 'capricious' File photo of the entrance to Harvard Yard in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Photograph: (AFP) In an escalation, Harvard sued Donald Trump's administration Monday amid the ongoing fight between the university and the president. The US president has threatened several prestigious universities over claims that they tolerated campus anti-Semitism. US VP JD Vance and PM Modi announce 'Terms of Reference' for a bilateral trade agreement In this handout photograph taken on April 21, 2025 and released by the Indian Press Information Bureau (PIB), India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi (R) speaks with US Vice President JD Vance, during their meeting in New Delhi. Photograph: (AFP) Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance announced the Terms of Reference for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Office of the United States Trade Representative said in a fact sheet published on Monday (Apr 21) as it shared other details. From tariff war to proposal of Gaza takeover: Trump's first 100 days in 10 key moments Photograph: (AFP) Since his return to the White House, President Donald Trump has turned US foreign policy upside down, sent shock waves through the financial markets and turned the Oval Office into one "happening" after another. VIDEO: White House says no chance of Trump firing defence secretary Donald Trump is standing behind as Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth said, despite a new scandal. Trump's backing comes amid growing calls to fire the US defence secretary over his reported use of the messaging app Signal to discuss strikes on Yemen with his wife and others.

Morning news brief: World pays tribute to Pope; Harvard sues Trump administration, and more

Trump baby boom: The Trump administration is examining ways to improve the birthrate of the US, with ideas to encourage women to have more babies, according to a report. The ideas being shared with President Donald Trump and his aides include menstrual cycle education and 'baby bonuses' for women, said a New York Times report.
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Some of the ideas are being pitched under health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.&rsquo;s Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA drive.
&ldquo;We need to channel the MAHA spirit and really dive deep into infertility,&rdquo; the NYT quoted Emma Waters, a policy analyst at the Heritage Foundation, as saying.
JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day
<h2>What is the birthrate of the US? Is it a cause for worry?</h2>
The US birth rate is around 1.6 births per woman, which is less than the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman.
This means that the population is not fully reproducing itself.&nbsp;
US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH
A declining population can have far-reaching economic and social consequences, particularly as the workforce ages.
Much of the lack of working-age population is offset by immigrants. But the Trump administration is fundamentally opposed to immigration.
<h2>What are the ideas for improving US birthrate?</h2>
According to the NY report, ideas are being pitched to the White House by different stakeholders on how to nudge Americans to marry and have more babies.
Baby bonuses and menstrual cycle classes are among these proposals, aimed at boosting US birthrate.
JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day
The idea is eerily similar to Russian President Vladimir Putin's exhortation to Russian women to have at least eight or more babies.
However, in the US it falls within the broader agenda of the conservatives: make family the most important pillar of society, and consider wedding as a union between man and woman, with the aim to procreate.&nbsp;
<h2>Fulbright programme for women who have children, baby bonus for mothers...</h2>
According to the NYT report, the proposals on the table of Trump administration include that Fulbright, the famous fellowship programme, should reserve 30 per cent of its awards to women who are married or have children.
Another, more weird one is a $5,000 baby bonus to every woman after delivery of a baby, according to the report.
Elon Musk welcomes his 14th child, 4th with partner Shivon Zilis
The government is also being urged to teach woman to know about their fertility cycle.
The idea is to create and fund awareness programmes for women on their mentrual cycle so that they know their ovulation timings, and when exactly to conceive.
<h2>The pronatalist movement is gaining ground in the US</h2>
With people like Elon Musk openly advocating having more babies, and even reportedly asking women to have his children, it might look strange to the outsiders.
But the pronatalist movement that advocates family values and procreation has been around in the US for a long time.&nbsp;
They propagate the concept that the idea of marriage is essentially to have more children. Such ideologies now have more takers in the Trump administration, the president himself having married thrice and having had children from different women.
Musk donated sperm to Japanese influencer; building 'legion' of babies using his 'harem': Report
Vice President JD Vance has three children with Usha Vance, and is often very open about being a doting father to them.
The NYT report said that policy advocates of improving the American birthrate have been meeting White House officials, often giving written proposals on convincing and assisting women to have more children.
<h2>Trump baby boom</h2>
It is not clear which of these ideas will be eventually adopted by the government, but one thing is clear: the US administration is worried about the decline in birthrate as well as fertility issues, and wants to do something about it.
Many supporters of MAGA , or Make America Great Again movement, have embraced what is being called the Trump baby boom.
Trump himself has advocated such a baby boom, and appreciated Vance and other aides for bringing their children to public appearances.
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Trump baby boom plan: White House is hearing ideas on how to nudge Women to Have More Children, including  baby bonuses, menstrual cycle classes. World | Trending

Trump baby boom: The Trump administration is examining ways to improve the birthrate of the US, with ideas to encourage women to have more babies, according to a report. The ideas being shared with President Donald Trump and his aides include menstrual cycle education and 'baby bonuses' for women, said a New York Times report. Some of the ideas are being pitched under health secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s Make America Healthy Again, or MAHA drive. “We need to channel the MAHA spirit and really dive deep into infertility,” the NYT quoted Emma Waters, a policy analyst at the Heritage Foundation, as saying. JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day What is the birthrate of the US? Is it a cause for worry? The US birth rate is around 1.6 births per woman, which is less than the replacement level of 2.1 births per woman. This means that the population is not fully reproducing itself. US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH A declining population can have far-reaching economic and social consequences, particularly as the workforce ages. Much of the lack of working-age population is offset by immigrants. But the Trump administration is fundamentally opposed to immigration. What are the ideas for improving US birthrate? According to the NY report, ideas are being pitched to the White House by different stakeholders on how to nudge Americans to marry and have more babies. Baby bonuses and menstrual cycle classes are among these proposals, aimed at boosting US birthrate. JD Vance visits India with wife Usha and kids: A glimpse of first day The idea is eerily similar to Russian President Vladimir Putin's exhortation to Russian women to have at least eight or more babies. However, in the US it falls within the broader agenda of the conservatives: make family the most important pillar of society, and consider wedding as a union between man and woman, with the aim to procreate. Fulbright programme for women who have children, baby bonus for mothers... According to the NYT report, the proposals on the table of Trump administration include that Fulbright, the famous fellowship programme, should reserve 30 per cent of its awards to women who are married or have children. Another, more weird one is a $5,000 baby bonus to every woman after delivery of a baby, according to the report. Elon Musk welcomes his 14th child, 4th with partner Shivon Zilis The government is also being urged to teach woman to know about their fertility cycle. The idea is to create and fund awareness programmes for women on their mentrual cycle so that they know their ovulation timings, and when exactly to conceive. The pronatalist movement is gaining ground in the US With people like Elon Musk openly advocating having more babies, and even reportedly asking women to have his children, it might look strange to the outsiders. But the pronatalist movement that advocates family values and procreation has been around in the US for a long time. They propagate the concept that the idea of marriage is essentially to have more children. Such ideologies now have more takers in the Trump administration, the president himself having married thrice and having had children from different women. Musk donated sperm to Japanese influencer; building 'legion' of babies using his 'harem': Report Vice President JD Vance has three children with Usha Vance, and is often very open about being a doting father to them. The NYT report said that policy advocates of improving the American birthrate have been meeting White House officials, often giving written proposals on convincing and assisting women to have more children. Trump baby boom It is not clear which of these ideas will be eventually adopted by the government, but one thing is clear: the US administration is worried about the decline in birthrate as well as fertility issues, and wants to do something about it. Many supporters of MAGA , or Make America Great Again movement, have embraced what is being called the Trump baby boom. Trump himself has advocated such a baby boom, and appreciated Vance and other aides for bringing their children to public appearances.

$5,000 'baby bonus' for new mothers, menstrual cycle education: Weird ideas Trump is hearing for a great American 'baby boom'

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance announced the Terms of Reference for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Office of the United States Trade Representative said in a fact sheet published on Monday (Apr 21) as it shared other details.&nbsp;
Vance met with PM Modi after a red carpet welcome in New Delhi on Monday (Apr 21) as India bids for an early trade deal against massive tariffs.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meeting-us-vice-president-jd-vance-live-updates-check-latest-news-of-vance-visit-india-8986407">Modi-Vance meet: Indian PM, US VP welcome 'significant progress' in bilateral trade agreement negotiations</a>
PM Modi's office said that there had been "significant progress in the negotiations" with the two countries negotiating the first tranche of a trade deal as India looks to secure relief within the 90-day pause on steep tariffs.&nbsp;
Similarly, Vance's office reported "significant progress" in the talks and said the two men had established a roadmap for how economic discussions would proceed.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-vice-president-jd-vance-visits-akshardham-temple-with-family-watch-8984821">US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH</a>
<h2>What did USTR say?&nbsp;&nbsp;</h2>
Meanwhile, the fact sheet by USTR states that the latest announcement elevates significant work done since PM Modi's this year's visit to the US in February. During his visit, PM Modi met with President Donald Trump, and the two agreed to launch negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/what-did-you-do-jd-vance-met-pope-francis-just-hours-before-his-death-netizens-have-questions-8988024">&lsquo;What did you do?&rsquo; JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions</a>
During that visit, the "US-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce &amp; Technology) for the 21st Century" was launched.
USTR, an agency responsible for developing and promoting US foreign trade policies, noted that the goals of this initiative are to drive transformative change across key pillars of cooperation and commit to a results-driven agenda with initial outcomes this year to demonstrate the level of trust for a mutually beneficial partnership.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-to-fire-hegseth-ex-pentagon-official-says-whiskeyleaks-may-be-replaced-as-even-bigger-bombshell-stories-coming-this-week-8987965">Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming'</a>
Watch: PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today; India to push for revival of IMEC
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It added that the Terms of Reference announced today by Vance establish a roadmap for mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement negotiations.&nbsp;
USTR mentioned that the goals for the US include increasing market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and negotiating a robust set of additional commitments to ensure long-term benefits.&nbsp;
The document said that the US ran a $45.7 billion goods trade deficit with India in 2024, a 5.1% ($2.2 billion) increase over 2023.&nbsp;
The US welcomed the tariff reductions India implemented during PM Modi's meeting with Trump in February. It also mentioned India's willingness to further reduce tariffs on US products as part of the BTA.&nbsp;

World | India news | Vance's office reported 'significant progress' in the talks and said the two men had established a roadmap for how economic discussions would proceed

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US Vice President JD Vance announced the Terms of Reference for a Bilateral Trade Agreement, the Office of the United States Trade Representative said in a fact sheet published on Monday (Apr 21) as it shared other details. Vance met with PM Modi after a red carpet welcome in New Delhi on Monday (Apr 21) as India bids for an early trade deal against massive tariffs. Also read: Modi-Vance meet: Indian PM, US VP welcome 'significant progress' in bilateral trade agreement negotiations PM Modi's office said that there had been "significant progress in the negotiations" with the two countries negotiating the first tranche of a trade deal as India looks to secure relief within the 90-day pause on steep tariffs. Similarly, Vance's office reported "significant progress" in the talks and said the two men had established a roadmap for how economic discussions would proceed. Also read: US Vice President JD Vance visits Akshardham Temple with family- WATCH What did USTR say? Meanwhile, the fact sheet by USTR states that the latest announcement elevates significant work done since PM Modi's this year's visit to the US in February. During his visit, PM Modi met with President Donald Trump, and the two agreed to launch negotiations for a bilateral trade agreement. Also read: ‘What did you do?’ JD Vance met Pope Francis just hours before his death, netizens have questions During that visit, the "US-India COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology) for the 21st Century" was launched. USTR, an agency responsible for developing and promoting US foreign trade policies, noted that the goals of this initiative are to drive transformative change across key pillars of cooperation and commit to a results-driven agenda with initial outcomes this year to demonstrate the level of trust for a mutually beneficial partnership. Also read: Trump to fire Hegseth? Ex-Pentagon official says 'Whiskeyleaks' may be replaced as 'even bigger bombshell stories coming' Watch: PM Modi to visit Saudi Arabia today; India to push for revival of IMEC It added that the Terms of Reference announced today by Vance establish a roadmap for mutually beneficial, multi-sector Bilateral Trade Agreement negotiations. USTR mentioned that the goals for the US include increasing market access, reducing tariff and non-tariff barriers, and negotiating a robust set of additional commitments to ensure long-term benefits. The document said that the US ran a $45.7 billion goods trade deficit with India in 2024, a 5.1% ($2.2 billion) increase over 2023. The US welcomed the tariff reductions India implemented during PM Modi's meeting with Trump in February. It also mentioned India's willingness to further reduce tariffs on US products as part of the BTA.

US VP JD Vance and PM Modi announce 'Terms of Reference' for a bilateral trade agreement

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