WORLD
Pakistan opposition intensifies movement, but still may fall short of tilting scales
Despite trying hard to maintain a relaxed demeanour, Khan should be worried that his countrymen are confronting runaway inflation, unemployment and massive corruption. The simmering dissent has now transitioned into a full scale movement, which appears to be getting stronger by the day.
China urges strengthening United States ties after Joe Biden's Electoral College vote
On Monday, electors from every US state gathered at Capitols across the country and voted 306 for Biden and 232 for President Donald Trump. The former US Vice President has now officially surpassed 270 electoral votes needed to clinch the White House.
Confirmed: UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson to be chief guest at 2021 Republic Day celebrations
The UK Foreign Secretary came to India on Monday on a bilateral visit and confirmed UK PM’s availability for the January 26 event the following day. Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who was also present at the meeting said that the British PM’s presence at the Republic Day "would be in a way symbolic of a new era, and a new phase of India-UK ties."
North Korea begins regular winter-time drills: Seoul military
"We believe that North Korea began their regular wintertime drills," Yonhap News Agency quoted Col. Kim Jun-rak, spokesperson of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), as saying at a briefing here. North Korea usually begins their winter military exercise in December, which continues through early spring.
Biden says election victory 'clearest demonstration of people's will'
On Monday, Biden and Harris's victory was sealed in the Electoral College after electors from every state gathered at Capitols across the country. They voted 306 for Biden and 232 for President Donald Trump. Members of Congress are expected to certify the Electoral College vote on January 6, 2021, after which Biden will be sworn in as the 46th President on January 20.
Afghan peace talks must resume in Jan as agreed: Khalilzad
Khalilzad's remarks on Monday night came after the two sides confirmed to have exchanged their lists about the agenda of the peace talks, which were formally launched on September 12 in the Qatari capital, and that the next phase of the discussions will begin on January 5, 2021, reports TOLO News.
Putin congratulates Biden on US president polls victory
Putin wished Biden a successful tenure and said he personally "was ready for cooperation and contacts" with the President-elect, the statement said. The message from the Russian President further said that despite differences, the US and Russia can help solve many world problems, RT News reported citing the Kremlin statement.
India-Iran keen to resume economic activities
In a significant move reflecting rapid geopolitical shifts, India, Iran and Uzbekistan are scheduled to hold their first meeting on the joint use of the strategic Chabahar port. As ministers dialogue, China will be the elephant in the room. Earlier this year, China and Iran thrashed out a key $400 billion deal after which reports suggested that the latter had decided to drop India from the Chabahar rail project that connects Chabahar port and Zahedan.
Health workers 'relieved', 'hopeful' as US begins historic vaccination drive
On the night of December 11, US regulators approved emergency use of the Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine for people aged 16 years and older, based on recommendations from an independent vaccine advisory committee which debated for over nine hours before ending on a 17-4 vote. The shots are yet to be studied in children and in pregnant women.
US lawmakers unveil 2-part $908 bn Covid-19 relief package
The relief package is split into two parts: a bill that outlines a wide range of relief spending totaling $748 billion, and another piece that provides $160 billion to state and local governments with Covid-19-related liability protections, according to Manchin. It is not clear whether the Democratic and Republican leadership will take up these bipartisan bills amid differences over liability protections and funding for state and local governments.
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