Pakistan, Russia expand economic ties amid Western sanctions
==========

Russian Deputy Prime Minister Alexei Overchuk met with Pakistani officials on September 18, 2024, in Islamabad to enhance economic cooperation amid Western sanctions on Russia due to the Ukraine war; Pakistan's bilateral trade with Russia reached $1 billion last year; discussions included expanding ties in liquefied natural gas (LNG) purchases; U.S. officials agreed to Pakistan's request for Russian LNG purchases in October 2023; both countries aim to strengthen defense ties; analysts suggest Russia is filling a vacuum left by the U.S. exit from Afghanistan; Pakistan received its first shipment of Russian liquefied petroleum gas in 2023; discussions between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif occurred in July 2024 regarding LNG supplies.

#Pakistan #Russia #EconomicTies #Sanctions #Lng #Trade #Defense #Ukraine #ForeignRelations #Energy

https://www.voanews.com/a/pakistan-russia-expand-economic-ties-amid-western-sanctions/7789779.html 

 Americans view China’s economic impact negatively, survey finds
==========

A survey conducted by the Pew Research Center reveals that Americans have a negative view of China's economic impact. The survey shows that while most people recognize China's economic influence in their country, they are divided on whether that influence is good. Compared to other countries, more people in the U.S. view China's economic influence negatively. The survey findings indicate a general sentiment of skepticism and concern towards China's economic activities in the U.S.

#China #EconomicImpact #Survey #PewResearchCenter

https://www.voanews.com/a/americans-view-china-s-economic-impact-negatively-survey-finds/7701344.html 

 US sees 'incremental progress' in Ethiopia's reconciliation efforts
==========

The United States is encouraged by "incremental progress" on peace and reconciliation efforts in Ethiopia, 20 months after a cease-fire was implemented in the northern Tigray region. Mike Hammer, U.S. special envoy for the Horn of Africa, stated that internally displaced people have started to return to their homes, and human rights abuses in Tigray have "dramatically decreased." However, conflicts in the Amhara and Oromia regions continue, and the U.S. is prepared to support efforts to bring peace through dialogue. The U.S. special envoy visited Ethiopia to attend the African Union's second meeting to review the implementation of the Pretoria Agreement. The U.S. is committed to supporting Ethiopia's transitional justice process to ensure accountability for war crimes. The U.S. special envoy also discussed regional issues in Djibouti and expressed concern over the situation in Sudan, calling for a resumption of peace talks.

#Ethiopia #Reconciliation #Peace #Tigray #Conflict #HumanRights #DisplacedPeople #Amhara #Oromia #Dialogue #WarCrimes #Accountability #Sudan #PeaceTalks

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-sees-incremental-progress-in-ethiopia-s-reconciliation-efforts-/7700514.html 

 IMF should work with Kenya to account for public funds, says rights group
==========

Advocacy group Human Rights Watch called for greater accountability of public funds in Kenya, urging the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to work with the Kenyan government to ensure that corruption doesn't divert funds meant to improve the lives of ordinary people. Kenyans have been protesting for four consecutive weeks against the high cost of living, corruption, and misuse of the country's finances. The protests have evolved into a demand for the end of President William Ruto's government. Kenya's debt pressures led the IMF to approve $941 million in January, bringing the total amount loaned to the country to $3.9 billion. Kenyans have raised concerns about heavy borrowing, arguing that it has not improved their lives while they are burdened with increased taxes to repay the loans. Human Rights Watch also called for the Kenyan government to be accountable to the IMF and other foreign loan providers, as well as for the revenue it collects within the country. Activists have demanded transparency regarding the country's total current debt, including the amount owed to China. The Kenyan government has formed a task force to audit the country's debt and report back by the end of September. The United Nations Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights has highlighted Kenya's issues with illicit financial flows, tax avoidance, and corruption involving top government officials. Human Rights Watch argues that aligning economic policies with human rights on all levels could help solve many countries' problems.

#Imf #Kenya #PublicFunds #HumanRights #Protests #Corruption

https://www.voanews.com/a/imf-should-work-with-kenya-to-account-for-public-funds-says-rights-advocate/7700485.html 

 China hosts meeting amid concerns over weak consumption, overcapacity
==========

China is hosting its Third Plenum to discuss economic and political policy measures for the next 5-10 years. Concerns are growing about the impact of China's economy on global trade, with accusations of flooding foreign markets with cheap goods. The meeting comes as China is facing challenges such as a property market crisis, rising unemployment, and weak consumer spending. The US and the EU have already responded with new tariff actions on various goods. Analysts believe that Beijing is unlikely to change its export-heavy approach to economic growth and is more focused on technological breakthroughs. China has launched initiatives to boost consumer spending, but they have been relatively unsuccessful. China's high savings rate and saving culture contribute to low levels of household consumption. Analysts expect China to continue developing technology and relying on exports for economic growth. The US Treasury Department's Undersecretary of International Affairs hopes that China will address the concerns of its major trading partners and work with them to find solutions.

#China #ThirdPlenum #GlobalTrade #Consumption #Overcapacity #Tariffs #EconomicGrowth #TechnologicalBreakthroughs #SavingsRate #SavingCulture

https://www.voanews.com/a/china-hosts-top-level-meeting-amid-concerns-over-weak-consumption-overcapacity/7695919.html 

 US consumer inflation eases to 3.0% in June
==========

US consumer inflation in June eased to 3.0%, according to government data. The consumer price index (CPI) rose 3.0% from a year ago, with a fall in gas prices offsetting housing costs. The core CPI index, which excludes volatile food and energy prices, saw the smallest annual rise since April 2021 at 3.3%. The Federal Reserve has been working to rein in inflation, which reached 9.1% in mid-2022, and Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell stated that inflation has shown 'modest' progress. The latest CPI report suggests that inflation is coming down to the Fed's two-percent target, potentially allowing for interest rate cuts.

#UsConsumerInflation #Cpi #FederalReserve #InterestRates

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-consumer-inflation-eases-to-3-0-in-june/7693859.html 

 US voters prioritize economy in 2024 election
==========

US voters are prioritizing the health of their wallets and pocketbooks with less than four months to go before Election Day. A CNN poll showed that 36% of respondents said the economy is the most important issue in deciding how to vote. In a June survey, 54% of registered voters believed Trump would best handle the economy, not President Joe Biden. Concerns were raised after Biden's faltering debate performance last month, with some Democratic lawmakers divided on his campaign viability. Biden has vowed to stay in the race, urging Democratic lawmakers to quickly get behind his campaign.

#UsElection #Economy #Biden #Trump

https://www.voanews.com/z/4720 

 American journalist Gershkovich arbitrarily detained by Russia, UN group says
==========

American journalist Evan Gershkovich has been arbitrarily detained by Russia for over a year on false espionage charges, according to the United Nations Working Group on Arbitrary Detention. Gershkovich, a correspondent for The Wall Street Journal, has been jailed since March 2023 and is currently on trial in Yekaterinburg. The trial is widely believed to be a sham. The U.S. State Department and Gershkovich's employer have declared his detention wrongful. Another American journalist, Alsu Kurmasheva, is also currently jailed in Russia on charges of failing to self-register as a 'foreign agent' and spreading false information about the Russian military. The State Department is considering declaring Kurmasheva wrongfully detained. The U.N. working group also determined that Guatemalan journalist Jose Ruben Zamora is arbitrarily detained by his country's government.

#AmericanJournalist #EvanGershkovich #Russia #UnGroup #ArbitraryDetention #EspionageCharges #Trial #WrongfulDetention #AlsuKurmasheva #ForeignAgent #JoseRubenZamora #Guatemala

https://www.voanews.com/a/american-journalist-gershkovich-arbitrarily-detained-by-russia-un-group-says/7683884.html 

 China looks to roll out economic reforms at key party conclave
==========

China's Third Plenum, scheduled for July 15-18, will likely reveal details of China's attempts to boost and reform its troubled economy. China is struggling to raise economic growth back to pre-pandemic levels, with a 10.1% decline in property sales in the first five months of 2024 and weak household consumption. The delay in holding the key party conclave suggests a lack of consensus over how to address the economic challenges. Experts predict that instead of big structural reforms, Chinese authorities will focus on boosting consumer and business confidence and rolling out fiscal reforms. China is also facing economic pressure from foreign countries, with the US and EU imposing tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of science and technology innovation and likely suggests increased funding for research and development and policies to foster an innovation ecosystem. Xi's top priorities will be to strengthen his position in the Chinese Communist Party and enhance his leadership of the country.

#China #EconomicReforms #ThirdPlenum #PropertySector #ConsumerConfidence #FiscalReform #ForeignPressure #ScienceAndTechnologyInnovation #ChineseCommunistParty #Leadership

https://www.voanews.com/a/china-looks-to-roll-out-economic-reforms-at-key-party-conclave-/7677783.html 

 Ukraine sets out on long path to EU membership
==========

Ukraine has officially opened EU accession talks and is committed to meeting the bloc's standards. The country has already made significant progress under an association agreement with the EU, including securing a visa-free regime. Ukraine was approved as a candidate for EU membership in June 2022. The process of negotiations can take years or even decades, but Ukrainian officials are determined to work diligently. The country must align its laws and standards with those of the EU in 35 policy areas. The negotiations will require consolidated efforts from all sectors of society and political factions. Ukraine is ready to proceed with negotiations and reunite with its European family. The path to EU membership for Ukraine is compared to that of Poland, which completed its negotiations in five years. The EU must be enlarged for its survival and Ukraine's membership will be a key component of the peacebuilding process in Europe.

#Ukraine #EuMembership #AccessionTalks #AssociationAgreement #VisafreeRegime #Negotiations #Standards #PolicyAreas #ConsolidatedEfforts #Poland #Peacebuilding

https://www.voanews.com/a/ukraine-sets-out-on-long-path-to-eu-membership/7675241.html 

 Biden extends protections to undocumented spouses of citizens
==========

President Joe Biden announced a move to offer protections to undocumented spouses of U.S. citizens on the 12-year anniversary of the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals program. The new move could affect approximately half a million spouses of U.S. citizens, plus 50,000 noncitizen children who have a parent married to a U.S. citizen. To be eligible, a person must have lived in the U.S. for 10-plus years and be legally married to a citizen. The eligibility is retroactive, only those married before June 17, 2024, qualify. Those who meet the criteria and have their application approved by the Department of Homeland Security have three years to apply for permanent residency. The announcement also includes a plan to accelerate the process of obtaining work visas for certain DACA recipients with a U.S. degree and an employment offer. The move has received mixed reactions from politicians, with Democratic congresswoman Sylvia Garcia applauding the move and Republican senator Ted Cruz criticizing it as amnesty for illegal aliens. Immigration advocates argue that those who benefit from this policy contribute about $13 billion in spending power to the U.S. economy each year and could increase that amount by $5 billion each year if they become U.S. citizens. The policy is seen as a way to unleash the economic potential of undocumented immigrants who have been contributing to the country for years.

#JoeBiden #UndocumentedImmigrants #SpousesOfUsCitizens #DeferredActionForChildhoodArrivals #PermanentResidency #WorkVisas #DacaRecipients #ImmigrationPolicy #EconomicImpact

https://www.voanews.com/a/biden-extends-protections-to-undocumented-spouses-of-citizens/7660323.html 

 Zelenskyy eyes 'history being made' at Ukraine peace conference
==========

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy predicts 'history being made' at the Swiss-hosted conference on peace in Ukraine, despite Russia's absence. Over 50 heads of state and government, including the presidents of Ecuador, Ivory Coast, Kenya, and Somalia, are attending the conference. China and many other countries are not participating. The agenda includes nuclear safety, humanitarian assistance, exchange of prisoners of war, and global food security. Zelenskyy's 10-point peace formula, which includes the withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied Ukrainian territory, is unlikely to be achieved. The conference aims to underline Russia's violation of international law and restore Ukraine's territorial integrity.

#Ukraine #PeaceConference #VolodymyrZelenskyy #Russia #Switzerland

https://www.voanews.com/a/zelenskyy-eyes-history-being-made-at-ukraine-peace-conference/7657295.html 

 G7 leaders discuss economic threats from Chinese, AI ethics
==========

On Friday, U.S. President Joe Biden wrapped up meetings in Italy with leaders of the Group of Seven democracies. The leaders focused on threats they say China poses to the global economy and artificial intelligence ethics championed by Pope Francis.

#G7 #China #AiEthics #GlobalEconomy

https://www.voanews.com/a/g7-leaders-discuss-economic-threats-from-chinese-ai-ethics/7657029.html 

 Afghan girls endure 1,000 days without school under Taliban rule
==========

The Taliban's ban on educating girls over the age of 12 in Afghanistan has reached 1,000 days. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has denounced the ban, stating that 1,000 days out-of-school amounts to 3 billion learning hours lost. UNICEF executive director Catherine Russell has called on the Taliban government to allow all children to resume learning immediately. The Taliban have also banned women from attending school beyond the sixth grade and from public places such as parks, beauty parlors, and gyms. Human Rights Watch has expressed concern about the potential loss of talent and dreams due to the ban. The U.N. special rapporteur on Afghan human rights has called for the Taliban to be held accountable for their crimes against women and girls. The Taliban reject criticism of their government and policies, stating that they are aligned with local culture and Islam. The impoverished country of Afghanistan is in need of relief assistance, with more than half of the population, including 9.2 million children, requiring assistance. UNICEF executive director Russell emphasized that education not only provides opportunities but also protects girls from early marriage, malnutrition, and other health problems.

#Afghanistan #Taliban #Girls'Education #Unicef #HumanRights #Women'sRights

https://www.voanews.com/a/afghan-girls-endure-1-000-days-without-school-under-taliban-rule/7653958.html 

 Two US men jailed for conspiracy to sell Iranian oil to China
==========

Two men, Zhenyu Wang and Daniel Ray Lane, have been sentenced to 45 months in prison for conspiracy to sell Iranian oil to China. They were convicted by a U.S. jury in November for violating sanctions imposed by Washington and for conspiracy to commit money laundering. The scheme involved facilitating the purchase of sanctioned oil from Iran, masking its origins, and selling it to a refinery in China. Lane, the president of Stack Royalties, a Texas-based company, was approached by undercover government agents who offered him millions of dollars in profits to participate in the scheme. Two co-conspirators have pleaded guilty in the case. China remains the world's major importer of Iranian oil despite U.S. sanctions imposed in 2018.

#UsMen #IranianOil #China #Sanctions #Conspiracy #MoneyLaundering

https://www.voanews.com/a/two-us-men-jailed-for-conspiracy-to-sell-iranian-oil-to-china-/7652109.html 

 Biden releasing 1 million barrels of gasoline from Northeast reserve in bid to lower prices at pump
==========

The Biden administration is releasing 1 million barrels of gasoline from a Northeast reserve established after Superstorm Sandy to lower prices at the pump. The sale will be allocated in increments of 100,000 barrels at a time, creating a competitive bidding process. Gas prices average about $3.60 per gallon nationwide. The release of gas from the Northeast reserve builds on previous actions by President Joe Biden to lower gas and energy costs. Biden significantly drained the Strategic Petroleum Reserve in 2022 following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The move is intended to help lower costs for American families and consumers.

#BidenAdministration #GasolineRelease #NortheastReserve #GasPrices #CompetitiveBiddingProcess #StrategicPetroleumReserve

https://www.voanews.com/a/biden-releasing-1-million-barrels-of-gasoline-from-northeast-reserve-in-bid-to-lower-prices-at-pump/7621242.html 

 Online abuse silences women in Ethiopia, study finds
==========

A recent study conducted by the Center for Information Resilience (CIR) reveals that women in Ethiopia face gender-targeted online abuse and hate speech across Facebook, Telegram, and X. The study found over 2,000 inflammatory keywords in three Ethiopian languages and English, making it the most comprehensive inflammatory word lexicon in Ethiopia. Facebook was cited as the worst platform for abuse. Over 78% of the women interviewed reported feelings of fear or anxiety after experiencing online abuse. The report's authors state that online abuse has become so normalized in Ethiopia that it is invisible. Women also face compounded attacks based on their ethnicity and religion. Organizations like Setaset Power and the Ethiopian Human Rights Defenders Center are working to address the issue and call for more government initiatives in education and policymaking to protect women from online abuse.

#OnlineAbuse #HateSpeech #Ethiopia #GendertargetedAttacks #SocialMedia #Facebook #Telegram #X #InflammatoryKeywords #Normalized #Ethnicity #Religion #HumanRights #Advocacy #GovernmentInitiatives

https://www.voanews.com/a/online-abuse-silences-women-in-ethiopia-study-finds/7606615.html 

 Japan, India reject Biden's comments describing countries as 'xenophobic'
==========

Japan and India have rejected comments made by U.S. President Joe Biden during a campaign fundraising event, where he described them as 'xenophobic' countries that do not welcome immigrants. Japan stated that Biden's judgment was not based on an accurate understanding of its policy, while India defended itself as the world's most open society. Biden grouped Japan and India with Russia and China as struggling economies, contrasting them with the strength of the U.S. as a nation of immigrants. Both Japan and India are key allies of the U.S. and part of the Quad, a U.S.-led informal partnership to counter China in the Indo-Pacific. The White House clarified that Biden meant no offense and was emphasizing the presence of immigrants as America's strength. Japan has recently eased its immigration policies to mitigate its declining birth rate and shrinking population. India enacted a new citizenship law that fast-tracks naturalization for certain religious groups while excluding Muslims.

#Japan #India #JoeBiden #Xenophobic #Immigration #Quad #China #Russia

https://www.voanews.com/a/japan-india-reject-biden-s-comments-describing-countries-as-xenophobic-/7598177.html 

 US journalist held in Russian prison for 400 days
==========

American journalist Evan Gershkovich has been held in a Russian prison for 400 days after being accused of espionage. The charges have been denied by both The Wall Street Journal, the newspaper Gershkovich was working for, and the U.S. government. Gershkovich was arrested a day after publishing a report on Russia's illegal war in Ukraine. U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield stated that the Biden administration will continue to work for Gershkovich's release. Mariana Katzarova, the U.N. special rapporteur on human rights in Russia, expressed concern about Gershkovich's prolonged detention without trial or evidence. Another journalist, Alsu Kurmasheva, who works for Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, was also arrested in Russia and remains jailed on charges of failing to self-register as a foreign agent and spreading false information about the Russian military. The high conviction rates in Russian courts raise concerns about the fairness and independence of the judiciary. The Biden administration has called on Russian President Vladimir Putin to release both journalists.

#Journalist #Russia #Prison #Espionage #Ukraine #Detention

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-journalist-held-in-russian-prison-for-400-days-/7596124.html 

 Ukraine reports downing Russian drones as White House pledges quick aid delivery
==========

Ukraine's military reported destroying 15 of 16 Russian drones in the latest wave of aerial attacks. The attack also included two ballistic missiles. Ukrainian air defenses shot down the Russian drones over the Cherkasy, Kyiv, Mykolaiv, and Odesa regions. The drone attack damaged several residential buildings and injured at least nine people. Falling drone debris injured one person and damaged a trade pavilion. Russia's defense ministry said its air defenses destroyed four Ukrainian missiles over the Belgorod region. The White House pledged to provide significant new security assistance packages to Ukraine's urgent battlefield and air defense needs. The aid package will include strengthening Ukraine's air defense, long-range, and artillery capabilities. Experts and lawmakers believe the assistance will change the military outlook for Ukraine. However, uncertainties remain as to whether Ukraine can keep its defenses strong beyond 2024. CIA Director William Burns stated that with military assistance, Ukraine is entirely capable of holding its own through 2024. Ukraine needs to use 2024 to rebuild its force for the long war. The boost from military assistance will puncture Putin's arrogant view that time is on his side. The aid may take weeks to reach troops. The article does not mention any specific dates or timing of events.

#Ukraine #Russia #Drones #AerialAttacks #SecurityAssistance #WhiteHouse #AidPackage

https://www.voanews.com/a/ukraine-reports-downing-russian-drones-as-white-house-pledges-quick-aid-delivery/7581131.html 

 US ponders trade status upgrade for Vietnam despite some opposition
==========

U.S. officials are considering a request from Vietnam to be removed from a list of “nonmarket” economies, a step that would foster improved diplomatic relations with a potential ally in Asia but would anger some U.S. lawmakers and manufacturing firms. Vietnam has engaged a lobbying firm in Washington to help it win congressional support for a status upgrade. The U.S. is Vietnam's most important export market with two-way trade totaling more than $125 billion in 2023. Both Abuza and Hiebert believe that Vietnam is pushing hard to secure the upgrade before the November U.S. election that could bring Trump back into office. More than 30 U.S. lawmakers in January sent joint letters to U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo urging the Biden administration not to grant market economy status to Vietnam. U.S. manufacturing groups have expressed opposition to Vietnam's request, arguing that Vietnam continues to operate as a nonmarket economy.

#Us #Vietnam #Trade #NonmarketEconomies #DiplomaticRelations #Lobbying #ManufacturingFirms

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-ponders-trade-status-upgrade-for-vietnam-despite-some-opposition/7578314.html 

 US to withdraw its troops from Niger, source says
==========

The United States will withdraw its troops from Niger, according to a source familiar with the matter. An agreement was reached between U.S Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell and Niger's leadership. As of last year, there were a little more than 1,000 U.S. troops in Niger, operating out of two bases. The U.S. military used Air Base 201 near Agadez in central Niger, a drone base costing over $100 million, to target Islamic State militants and an al-Qaida affiliate. Last year, Niger's army seized power in a coup, leading to the new authorities in Niger ending military deals with the United States and France and fostering closer ties with Russia. The drawdown of troops will be discussed in the coming days. Despite the withdrawal, diplomatic and economic relationships between the U.S. and Niger will continue.

#UsTroops #Withdrawal #Niger #Agreement #Bases #IslamicState #Alqaida #Coup #Russia #DiplomaticRelationships #EconomicRelationships

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-to-withdraw-military-personnel-from-niger-source-says-/7577865.html 

 As landmark United Methodist gathering approaches, African churches weigh their future
==========

The United Methodist Church is facing the possibility of a schism as its first major legislative gathering approaches. The church lost one-fourth of its U.S. churches in a recent schism over disputes on sexuality and theology. The question of whether the church can avert a similar outcome in other parts of the world, particularly in Africa, where most of its members live, is being debated. At the upcoming General Conference, delegates will discuss proposals ranging from repealing the ban on same-sex marriage and ordaining LGBTQ people to creating more autonomy for regional conferences and making it easier for international churches to leave the denomination. African churches are divided on the issue, with some favoring disaffiliation and others advocating for regional conferences to set their own rules. The United Methodist Church is the most international of the major U.S. Protestant denominations, with members from four continents participating in legislative gatherings and sharing the same rules. The church has experienced a significant loss of membership due to the schism, with more than 7,600 U.S. congregations departing. The General Conference will also consider approving a provision that would allow churches in other countries to disaffiliate under more favorable legal terms. The fate of proposals to repeal the bans on LGBTQ ordination and marriage and to regionalize the church is uncertain.

#UnitedMethodistChurch #Schism #AfricanChurches #GeneralConference #SamesexMarriage #LgbtqOrdination #RegionalConferences

https://www.voanews.com/a/as-landmark-united-methodist-gathering-approaches-african-churches-weigh-their-future/7569806.html 

 Turkey-Israel disagreement over Gaza hits trade relations
==========

Turkey has announced new restrictions on exporting 54 product groups, including aluminum, steel, construction products, jet fuel, and chemical fertilizers, to Israel. This comes after Turkey's Foreign Minister accused Israel of preventing aid to Gaza and vowed to take measures against Israel until there was a cease-fire and a permanent flow of aid into the territory. Some experts believe that Turkey's export restrictions are a response to domestic politics, particularly the success of the Islamist New Welfare Party in recent local elections. Trade between Israel and Turkey has become increasingly unbalanced in Turkey's favor, with Turkey's exports to Israel worth $5.4 billion in 2023, while Israel's exports to Turkey were worth $1.6 billion the same year. The restrictions are expected to broadly affect Israel's construction sector, as Israel is highly dependent on imports from Turkey for materials such as cement and steel. Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has threatened to prevent Turkey from exporting additional products in response. Some analysts believe that Turkey's actions may violate the World Trade Organization's agreements, but it is unlikely that the U.S. will take measures against Turkey due to other priorities. Thirty-eight U.S. states have laws prohibiting contracting or investing in entities that boycott Israel.

#Turkey #Israel #Gaza #TradeRelations #ExportRestrictions #DomesticPolitics #ConstructionSector #WorldTradeOrganization #UsCongress #BoycottLaws

https://www.voanews.com/a/turkey-israel-disagreement-over-gaza-hits-trade-relations/7566520.html 

 ‘Robust' US has helped improve global economic outlook, IMF chief says
==========

Strong growth in the United States has helped to lift the outlook for the world economy, according to International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. The US economy grew by 2.5 percent last year, outstripping most other advanced economies. Georgieva stated that robust household consumption, business investment, and an easing of supply chain problems contributed to the growth. She also mentioned rising geopolitical tension and the challenges of growing public debt and a broad-based slowdown in productivity. The IMF expects global growth to rise by 3.1 percent in 2024 and 3.2 percent in 2025. Georgieva called for steps to bring global inflation and public debt back down to sustainable levels and boost productivity.

#UsEconomy #GlobalEconomy #Imf #EconomicGrowth #Productivity #Inflation #PublicDebt #GeopoliticalTension

https://www.voanews.com/a/robust-us-has-helped-improve-global-economic-outlook-imf-chief-says-/7565802.html 

 Ukraine denies Russian claim it struck Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant
==========

Ukraine denies Russian claim that it struck the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant, which is under Russian military control. The spokesperson for Ukraine's Main Directorate of Intelligence stated that Ukraine is not involved in any armed provocations at the plant. Russia accused Ukraine of striking various sites at the plant, injuring three staff members. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) was informed of the attack, and while nuclear safety was not compromised, the IAEA Director General warned that striking the plant could jeopardize nuclear safety. Both Ukraine and Russia have blamed each other for attacking the plant in the past. In a separate incident, three people were killed in Russian shelling in the Zaporizhzhia region. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called for more air defense systems to protect against Russian airstrikes. Zelenskyy also expressed hopes for a world peace summit on the war in Ukraine, but Russia has stated that it must be invited to the negotiating table. Fighting around the front-line city of Chasiv Yar was described as difficult and tense, but Ukrainian forces repelled Russian attacks and the Russian troops are now in retreat. If Russian forces take the town of Chasiv Yar, they will be able to advance to other Ukrainian towns in the Donetsk region. The article includes information from Reuters, The Associated Press, and Agence France-Presse.

#Ukraine #Russia #ZaporizhzhiaNuclearPlant #Conflict #Iaea #NuclearSafety #VolodymyrZelenskyy #ChasivYar

https://www.voanews.com/a/ukraine-denies-russian-claim-it-struck-zaporizhzhia-nuclear-plant/7560428.html 

 US, China discuss economic issues on Yellen’s China tour
==========

The United States and China have agreed to hold talks and create two economic groups focused on a wide range of issues. U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has urged Chinese leaders to change their domestic manufacturing policies. The two sides are set to hold “intensive exchanges” on cultivating more balanced economic growth and combating money laundering. Yellen said the efforts would establish a structure for Beijing and Washington to exchange views and address Chinese industrial overcapacity. Yellen was en route to Beijing after beginning her five-day visit in the southern city of Guangzhou. Some analysts say the announcement reflects Yellen’s effort to push forward on collaboration in areas the U.S. and China agreed on during U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s San Francisco summit last November. While he called the announcement a positive development, Roberts said he does not think Beijing and Washington will reach agreement on contentious trade issues during Yellen’s trip. While Washington highlighted threats posed by China’s industrial overcapacity, Beijing focused on its concerns about U.S. export controls on Chinese companies during the meeting between Yellen and He. Despite persistent differences over contentious trade issues, Yellen and He underscored the importance for China and the U.S. to “properly respond to key concerns of the other side” to build a more cooperative economic relationship. Yellen is scheduled to have meetings with other senior officials Sunday and Monday in Beijing.

#Us #China #EconomicIssues #Yellen #Trade #IndustrialOvercapacity

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-china-discuss-economic-issues-on-yellen-s-china-tour/7559460.html 

 US official urges China to address 'industrial overcapacity'
==========

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen called on China to address its industrial overcapacity, reform its trade practices, and create a "healthy economic relationship" with the United States. Yellen expressed concerns about China's industrial overcapacity, particularly in green energy sectors, which threaten American production of electric vehicles and solar panel parts. China's production capacity in these sectors has exceeded domestic demand and is being exported globally. Yellen also urged China to reform its unfair economic practices, including barriers to access for foreign firms and coercive actions against American companies. Yellen's visit to China marks the first visit by a senior U.S. official since November meetings between U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

#UsOfficial #China #IndustrialOvercapacity #TradePractices #EconomicRelationship #GreenEnergy #ElectricVehicles #SolarPanels #ForeignFirms #CoerciveActions

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-official-urges-china-to-address-its-industrial-overcapacity-/7559237.html 

 Why Biden Won't Put Conditions on Military Aid to Israel
==========

President Joe Biden has refrained from putting conditions on military aid to Israel despite increasing pressure to do so. Biden has criticized Israel's offensive in the Gaza Strip and called for more humanitarian aid, but has not used his strongest leverage of conditioning aid. Lawmakers from his own party have demanded that Biden comply with the Foreign Assistance Act and cut off military aid if Israel continues to block U.S. humanitarian aid to Gaza. However, Biden's support for Israel is rooted in his long-standing and deeply held views on the security of the state of Israel. He has a personal relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and believes he can moderate Israel's behavior as a friend from the inside. Biden fears that conditioning aid to Israel could widen the war beyond Gaza and benefit Hezbollah, Iran, and other proxies. The U.S. provides Israel with weapons systems and munitions for deterrence and warfighting, and conditioning aid on defensive systems like the Iron Dome missile defense system carries serious risks. However, conditioning aid on specific types of offensive weapons systems may be less risky. The Biden administration has mandated relevant U.S. government agencies to obtain credible and reliable assurances from foreign governments that U.S. weapons are used in accordance with international and humanitarian law. Israel has provided its assurances, and the State Department will assess them by early May. Whether Biden conditions aid may also depend on Israeli plans for a ground invasion in Gaza's southernmost city of Rafah. As long as Israel does not cross clear American red lines, the likelihood of conditioning aid seems low.

#JoeBiden #Israel #BenjaminNetanyahu #MilitaryAid #GazaStrip

https://www.voanews.com/a/why-biden-won-t-put-conditions-on-military-aid-to-israel-/7549438.html 

 New US Inflation Data 'Along the Lines' of What Fed Wants, Powell Says
==========

The latest U.S. inflation data are "along the lines of what we would like to see," Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell said. The personal consumption expenditures (PCE) price index data for February were released and showed less of a slowdown than last year. Powell stated that the data were "not as low as most of the good readings we got in the second half of last year, but it's definitely more along the lines of what we want to see." The PCE price index increased at a 2.5% annual rate in February, up from 2.4% in the prior month. The number excluding volatile food and energy prices rose 0.3% on a month-to-month basis. Powell indicated that the latest PCE report did not undermine the central bank's baseline outlook but said with the economy on a "strong" footing, "that means we don't need to be in a hurry to cut."

#UsInflation #FederalReserve #JeromePowell

https://www.voanews.com/a/new-us-inflation-data-along-the-lines-of-what-fed-wants-powell-says/7549462.html 

 US Denounces Severe Sentences for Civil Activists in Iran
==========

The U.S. Department of State strongly condemns the Iranian government's imposition of harsh sentences on 11 women's rights activists in Gilan province. The activists were sentenced to a combined 60-year prison term by Iran's Third Branch of the Revolutionary Court. The State Department spokesperson criticized the legal proceedings as 'fabricated' and lacking credibility and legitimacy. The rulings were based on charges of 'gathering and collusion, forming a group with the intent to undermine national security,' and 'membership in a group.' The Department of State reaffirmed the Biden administration's commitment to supporting the Iranian people and pursuing accountability for Iran's human rights abuses. Iranian rights activist Gohar Eshghi criticized the government's treatment of women and highlighted the prevalence of torture, coerced confessions, and restrictions on legal counsel. The Hengaw Organization for Human Rights reported that in 2023, 22 women were executed, 325 women activists were detained, and 147 women activists were sentenced to imprisonment, flogging, and execution in Iran.

#Iran #CivilActivists #HumanRights #Women'sRights #UsDepartmentOfState

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-denounces-severe-sentences-for-civil-activists-in-iran-/7549340.html 

 Yellen Warns She’ll Confront China on Its Energy Subsidies
==========

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen plans to confront China on its energy subsidies during her upcoming visit to China. Yellen believes that Chinese subsidies for clean energy industries create unfair competition and hurt American firms and workers. She intends to discuss the issue of overcapacity in industries such as solar panels, electric vehicle parts, and lithium-ion batteries, which she believes will distort production in other economies and global prices. Yellen will also emphasize that excess capacity poses risks to the global economy and productivity and growth in the Chinese economy. She hopes to have a constructive dialogue with Chinese officials about subsidies and oversupply issues. Yellen's visit to China is scheduled for April, although the Treasury has not yet confirmed her itinerary. In response to the U.S.'s requirements for electric vehicle subsidies, China has filed a complaint against the U.S. at the World Trade Organization, arguing that the requirements are discriminatory.

#JanetYellen #China #EnergySubsidies #CleanEnergy #Overcapacity #SolarPanels #ElectricVehicleParts #LithiumionBatteries #GlobalEconomy #WorldTradeOrganization

https://www.voanews.com/a/yellen-warns-she-ll-confront-china-on-its-energy-subsidies-/7546754.html 

 Chinese Officials Acknowledge Economic Challenges
==========

Chinese officials acknowledge the need to boost employment and stabilize the property market as China's economy faces challenges. Youth unemployment reached 21.3% in mid-2023, and home prices have been falling for months. Wang Xiaoping, the Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, stated that overall employment pressure has not lessened and more effort is needed to stabilize employment. Housing Minister Ni Hong acknowledged the difficulty of stabilizing the property market and emphasized the need to address systemic risks. Premier Li Qiang set an ambitious growth target of around 5% for 2024, despite the challenges facing the Chinese economy.

#China #Employment #PropertyMarket #YouthUnemployment #EconomicChallenges

https://www.voanews.com/a/chinese-officials-acknowledge-economic-challenges/7520902.html 

 US Economy Adds 275,000 Jobs in February
==========

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the U.S. economy added 275,000 jobs in February, exceeding economists' expectations. Unemployment rose by 0.2% to 3.9%. President Joe Biden stated that the total number of jobs created since he took office in 2021 is nearly 15 million, and unemployment has remained under 4% for the longest period in over 50 years. Job gains were seen in health care, government, food services, social assistance, and transportation and warehousing. The bureau revised downward the job gains reported in December and January. The revisions were due to additional reports received from businesses and government agencies and the recalculation of seasonal factors.

#UsEconomy #Jobs #Unemployment #JoeBiden

https://www.voanews.com/a/us-economy-adds-275-000-jobs-in-february/7519793.html 

 Iran Sentences Man to Death for Killing Prominent Filmmaker
==========

An Iranian court has sentenced a man to death for the killing of renowned filmmaker Dariush Mehrjui and his wife at their home near Tehran. Mehrjui, an 83-year-old director, was stabbed to death in October. The convicted killer, a former employee of Mehrjui, had a grudge against him due to financial issues. Three others were charged in the case for planning and assisting the murder. The court sentenced the killer to death in accordance with the Islamic law of retribution. The other defendants received sentences ranging from eight to 36 years in prison. The verdicts can be appealed before the Supreme Court.

#Iran #Filmmaker #DeathSentence #Murder #IslamicLaw

https://www.voanews.com/a/iran-sentences-man-to-death-for-killing-prominent-filmmaker/7484664.html 

 New Amazon TV Series Filmed in Hong Kong but Unavailable There
==========

The online TV series 'The Expats,' starring Nicole Kidman, was launched globally on Amazon Prime Video but is unavailable in Hong Kong. The show, directed by Lulu Wang and based on a novel by Janice Y. K. Lee, revolves around the lives of three women in Hong Kong in 2014 and includes scenes of the 2014 Hong Kong protests. It is unclear whether the decision to block the program in Hong Kong was a business decision or due to interference from authorities. Some speculate that the reproduced scenes of the protests may be the reason. Analysts suspect it may be a sign of Beijing's crackdown on the arts. The Hong Kong government has not commented on the issue. Chinese independent film director Guo Zhenming believes self-censorship by Amazon may have prevented the show from airing in Hong Kong. Film censorship expert Kenny Ng believes it is not directly related to the Hong Kong government and suggests that Amazon may have made a business decision based on the territory's political situation and social atmosphere. Hong Kong residents are seeking alternative ways to watch the show, such as accessing movie and TV show websites in China.

#AmazonPrimeVideo #TheExpats #NicoleKidman #LuluWang #JaniceY.K.Lee #HongKongProtests #Censorship

https://www.voanews.com/a/new-amazon-tv-series-filmed-in-hong-kong-but-unavailable-there/7470113.html 

 Baltic Speakers Back Supporting Ukraine Amid US Debate on Aid
==========

Parliamentary speakers from Latvia, Lithuania, and Estonia express solidarity with Ukraine amid Russian aggression. They emphasize the importance of continued U.S. support for Ukraine, as it holds significant implications for the Indo-Pacific region. The speakers visited Washington and held talks with U.S. lawmakers and State Department officials. The discussions took place during a U.S. congressional debate on new aid for Ukraine. The Baltic speakers highlight Russia's preparation for a prolonged conflict and stress the need for ongoing support. Estonia has contributed over $434 million in military aid to Ukraine and plans to allocate 0.25% of its GDP annually for the next four years. Lithuania's speaker notes the global significance of the conflict, particularly for the Indo-Pacific region and Taiwan. Inadequate support for Ukraine could diminish global trust in the West and embolden autocratic regimes. China's coercive measures against Lithuania after its cooperation with Taiwan are cited as an example. Ukrainian officials report a Russian aerial attack on a hospital in the Kharkiv region, injuring four people. The Russian Defense Ministry claims to have downed five Ukrainian drones. The article also mentions other related news, such as the Baltic states building new defenses on Russia and Belarus borders, Lithuania becoming a repair hub for Ukraine's tanks, and diplomats boycotting OSCE talks over the presence of the Russian foreign minister.

#BalticSpeakers #Ukraine #UsAid #RussianAggression #Indo-pacific #Estonia #Lithuania #Latvia #China #Taiwan #Kharkiv #RussianDefenseMinistry

https://www.voanews.com/a/baltic-speakers-back-supporting-ukraine-amid-us-debate-on-aid/7467285.html