international relations 6 - The Latremie Post

US lawmakers seek to ‘break the ice’ in China visit amid trade, TikTok tensions

**US House Representatives Meet Chinese Premier Li Qiang in Beijing, Aim to ‘Break the Ice’ Amid Tense US-China Relations**

A delegation from the US House of Representatives met with Chinese Premier Li Qiang on Sunday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The lawmakers conveyed their hope to “break the ice” as the two superpowers strive to make progress toward stabilizing their increasingly tense relationship.

This visit comes during a week marked by high-stakes negotiations and tense phone calls between Washington and Beijing. According to Al Jazeera, the US delegation’s trip is a rare occasion aimed at thawing frozen ties amid ongoing disputes over trade, the fate of TikTok, and escalating military tensions in the South China Sea.

Just two days prior, US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held their first phone call in three months. While the leaders discussed several critical issues, no breakthrough was reached regarding TikTok — the immensely popular Chinese-owned app boasting 170 million users in the United States.

The White House announced on Saturday that a prospective deal would grant US companies control over TikTok’s algorithm, with US citizens holding the majority on a board overseeing the app’s US operations—six out of seven seats. The app’s algorithm, which determines what content users see, has been a point of concern for US officials who fear potential manipulation by Chinese authorities.

Despite this, President Trump told reporters on Saturday evening that “great American patriots” are planning to purchase TikTok’s US operations. Originally slated for a ban in the US in January, TikTok has instead remained operational due to repeated executive orders allowing the app to continue while negotiations with its owner, China’s ByteDance, proceed.

“And they’re very smart technologically,” Trump said of the potential buyers, “and they will not let anything bad happen to TikTok.”

Oracle, the tech giant led by billionaire and longtime Trump supporter Larry Ellison, is one of the frontrunners to acquire TikTok’s US operations.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt expressed confidence in the deal during a Fox News interview on Saturday, stating the administration is “100 per cent confident that a deal is done.” She added, “[Trump] recognized the need to protect Americans’ privacy and data while also keeping this app open.”

Leavitt emphasized TikTok’s importance, calling it “a vital part of our democratic process,” and anticipated the agreement would be finalized “in the coming days.”

As tensions continue, this diplomatic engagement and potential TikTok deal represent crucial steps in addressing the complex challenges defining US-China relations.
https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/tech/technology/us-lawmakers-seek-to-break-the-ice-in-china-visit-amid-trade-tiktok-tensions/articleshow/124036815.cms

Pakistan PM Sharif to meet US President Trump with select Muslim leaders

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is scheduled to meet US President Donald Trump alongside a select group of Muslim leaders on the sidelines of the annual United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session, it was announced on Sunday.

The Prime Minister will visit the United States from September 22 to 26, leading a delegation to attend the 80th Session of the UNGA in New York. He will be accompanied by Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, other ministers, and senior officials.

According to a statement from the Foreign Office (FO), “The Prime Minister will also participate in a meeting of select Islamic leaders with US President Trump to exchange views on issues pertaining to regional and international peace and security.”

During his address to the General Assembly, Prime Minister Sharif will urge the international community to resolve prolonged global issues. He will particularly draw attention to the grave crisis in Gaza and call for decisive action to end the suffering of the Palestinians.

The Prime Minister will also highlight Pakistan’s perspective on the regional security situation, as well as other key issues of international concern, including climate change, terrorism, Islamophobia, and sustainable development.

In addition to his speech, the Prime Minister will attend several high-level events on the sidelines of the UNGA Session. These include important meetings of the UN Security Council, the High-Level Meeting of the Global Development Initiative (GDI), and a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action, among others.

Prime Minister Sharif will hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders and senior UN officials to exchange views on issues of mutual interest. He will emphasize Pakistan’s commitment to working with all UN Member States to uphold the UN Charter, prevent conflict, foster peace, and promote global prosperity during Pakistan’s current tenure as a member of the Security Council.

“The Prime Minister’s participation in this largest annual gathering of global leaders will showcase Pakistan’s strong commitment to multilateralism and the United Nations, highlighting Pakistan’s longstanding contribution towards the shared objectives of peace and development,” the FO added.

*Note:* This story is sourced from a third-party syndicated feed and agencies. Mid-day accepts no responsibility or liability for its dependability, trustworthiness, reliability, or accuracy. Mid-day management and mid-day.com reserve the sole right to alter, delete, or remove content at their absolute discretion without prior notice.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/pakistan-pm-shehbaz-sharif-to-meet-us-president-trump-with-select-muslim-leaders-on-unga-sidelines-23595118

Asia Cup: Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after half-century draws flak

**Asia Cup 2025: Sahibzada Farhan’s Gun Gesture After Half-Century Draws Flak**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Sep 21, 2025, 09:53 pm*

Pakistan cricketer Sahibzada Farhan has come under widespread criticism for his controversial celebration during the Asia Cup 2025 Super 4 clash against India. After scoring a well-crafted half-century, Farhan made a gun-firing gesture towards his dugout, a move that has sparked outrage, especially in light of the recent tragic Pahalgam terror attack.

### The Incident

Farhan reached his 50 with style by smashing a huge six off India’s Axar Patel in the 10th over, injecting momentum into Pakistan’s innings. However, his subsequent celebration – mimicking a firing gun towards his teammates – immediately drew heavy criticism on social media. The gesture was seen as insensitive, given that just months earlier, the Pahalgam terror attack claimed the lives of 26 innocent Indian tourists, an act attributed to Pakistan-based militants.

### Public Reaction

Social media users expressed strong disappointment and outrage over Farhan’s actions. One fan remarked, “Disappointed with Sahibzada Farhan’s gun gesture after his 50 in the Ind vs Pak match. Felt like a jab at India’s hospitality.” Another user commented, “Sahibzada Farhan showing how his brothers killed innocent tourists in Pahalgam through his half-century celebration.”

### Match Summary

In the cricketing action at Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, Pakistan lost three wickets during the powerplay overs. Sahibzada Farhan eventually fell to Shivam Dube for 58 runs off 45 balls. Earlier, Dube had also dismissed Pakistan’s Saim Ayub, who scored 21 runs.

Pakistan opener Fakhar Zaman’s innings ended controversially when he was caught behind off Hardik Pandya’s bowling, with Sanju Samson taking the catch. Later, Kuldeep Yadav claimed the wicket of Hussain Talat, as India sought to keep Pakistan’s scoring in check in this crucial Super 4 encounter.

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The incident involving Farhan has overshadowed the thrilling cricket on display and has raised questions about sportsmanship and sensitivity in moments of celebration.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/pakistan-cricketer-sahibzada-farhan-s-gun-gesture-anger-fans/story

UK’s Starmer set to recognize Palestinian state today despite strong opposition from Israel, US

UK’s Starmer Set to Recognize Palestinian State Despite Strong Opposition from Israel and US

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to announce the recognition of a Palestinian state on Sunday, a move that has drawn significant criticism from Israel, former US President Donald Trump, and segments of the UK public ahead of a key United Nations meeting.

Starmer’s decision marks a notable shift in the UK’s foreign policy stance and is seen as an effort to support renewed efforts toward peace in the Middle East. However, it has also sparked controversy given the complex geopolitical implications and the strong opposition from Israel and its allies.

Keir Starmer, pictured on July 28, 2025. (Photo credit: REUTERS/EVELYN HOCKSTEIN)

As the announcement approaches, attention is focused on how this recognition might influence the broader UN discussions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the international community’s role in seeking a resolution.

By MATHILDA HELLER

https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868242

Indian Embassy in US issues emergency number for H-1B concerns

**Indian Embassy in US Issues Emergency Number for H-1B Concerns**

*By Akash Pandey | Sep 21, 2025, 01:47 PM*

**Overview**

The Indian Embassy in the United States has issued an emergency assistance number for Indian nationals amid growing concerns following a new proclamation by President Donald Trump. The proclamation imposes a $100,000 fee on H-1B visa applications, raising alarm among thousands of Indian tech professionals working in the US.

The embassy shared an official message on X (formerly Twitter), stating, “Indian nationals seeking emergency assistance may call cell number +1-202-550-9931 (and WhatsApp).”

—

**Impact on Indian Tech Professionals**

The announcement of the hefty new fee has triggered widespread worry about its impact on Indian tech workers and remittances sent back home. Indians make up approximately 71-72% of all H-1B visa recipients, highlighting the significance of this policy change.

Fortunately, a senior official from the US administration clarified that the annual fee applies only to new H-1B visa petitions and does not affect existing visa holders or those renewing their visas. While this offers some relief, uncertainties remain among businesses and affected individuals.

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**Important Note**

The emergency number provided by the Indian Embassy is intended strictly for urgent assistance related to the new fee structure and is **not** for routine consular queries.

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**Diplomatic Response**

In response to these changes, the Indian government has instructed all its missions and posts in the US to provide maximum support to Indian nationals preparing to travel or return in the next 24 hours.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is closely analyzing how these new rules could affect Indian families and professionals living in the US.

MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal commented on the situation, saying, “The full implications of the measure are being studied by all concerned.” He emphasized that both Indian and American industries have a shared interest in fostering innovation and creativity, suggesting ongoing consultations to find the best way forward.

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The situation is evolving, and Indian nationals affected by these changes are encouraged to stay informed through official channels and utilize the emergency assistance number if needed.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/h-1b-row-indian-embassy-issues-emergency-number-for-assisting-nationals/story

Russia launches large-scale attack on Ukraine, three dead, dozens injured

The enemy’s target was our infrastructure, residential areas, and civilian enterprises, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated. He added that a missile armed with cluster munitions struck a multi-storey building in the city of Dnipro.

“Each such strike is not a military necessity but a deliberate strategy by Russia to intimidate civilians and destroy our infrastructure,” Zelenskyy wrote on his official Telegram account.

The Ukrainian President also informed that he expects to meet United States (US) President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) next week. He added that the first ladies of Ukraine and the US would likely hold separate talks focused on humanitarian issues concerning children.

His comments, made on Friday, were embargoed until Saturday morning.

—

At least 30 people were wounded in the attack in Ukraine’s central Dnipropetrovsk region, Governor Serhii Lysak said. Several high-rise buildings and homes were damaged in the eastern city of Dnipro, according to the Associated Press (AP).

In the Kyiv region, authorities reported strikes in Bucha, Boryspil, and Obukhiv, which damaged homes and cars. In western Lviv, Governor Maxim Kozytsky said two cruise missiles were shot down.

Russia launched 619 drones and missiles, Ukraine’s Air Force reported. This included 579 drones, eight ballistic missiles, and 32 cruise missiles. Ukrainian forces shot down 552 drones, two ballistic missiles, and 29 cruise missiles.

“Western weapons once again prove their effectiveness on the battlefield,” the Air Force said.

—

**Russia Denies Violating Estonia’s Airspace**

Russia’s Defence Ministry denied its aircraft violated Estonia’s airspace after Tallinn reported that three Russian fighter jets crossed into its territory on Friday without permission for 12 minutes. The incident was described by Estonia’s top diplomat as an unprecedentedly brazen incursion.

This occurred just over a week after NATO planes downed Russian drones over Poland, raising fears that the conflict could spill over into NATO territory.

Moscow stated that the MiG-31 fighter jets remained over neutral Baltic Sea waters, more than three kilometres from Estonia’s Vaindloo Island in the Gulf of Finland.

On September 19, the three MiG-31 fighter jets completed a scheduled flight from Karelia to an airfield in the Kaliningrad region. The Russian Defence Ministry emphasized that the flight was conducted in strict compliance with international airspace regulations and did not violate the borders of other states, as confirmed through objective monitoring.

Estonian officials said Tallinn summoned a Russian diplomat to protest the incident and initiated consultations among NATO allies under Article 4, which allows members to confer whenever territorial integrity, political independence, or security is threatened.

—

**Polish and Allied Aircraft Scrambled**

Poland’s Operational Command reported that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed overnight in response to Russian long-range airstrikes in neighbouring Ukraine. The operation was described as preventive and aimed at securing airspace near the threatened zones.

Polish jets have frequently patrolled the country’s airspace in connection with Russian attacks on Ukraine. Last week, Romania deployed two F-16 jets to intercept a drone that briefly entered its airspace.

—

**Zelenskyy Seeks to Finalise Security Guarantees in New York Meetings**

President Zelenskyy said Ukraine and its partners have laid the groundwork for long-term security guarantees. He hopes to gauge progress during next week’s meetings in New York.

He added that European nations are ready to move forward with a framework if the United States remains closely engaged, with ongoing discussions among military leadership and general staffs in Europe and the US.

“I would like to receive signals for myself on how close we are to understanding that the security guarantees from all partners will be the kind we need,” Zelenskyy said.

He stressed that sanctions against Russia must remain in place if peace efforts stall and stated he would press the issue with President Trump.

“If the war continues and there is no movement toward peace, we expect sanctions,” he said, adding that Trump is seeking strong steps from Europe.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/world-news/article/russia-ukraine-war-three-killed-in-massive-drone-and-missile-attack-across-nine-regions-says-volodymyr-zelenskyy-23594995

Australian singer quits Russia’s Eurovision alternative

Intervision, the Russian alternative to the Eurovision Song Contest, has kicked off in Moscow with a message from President Vladimir Putin. He emphasized that the event promotes the preservation of cultural identity. “Respect for traditional values and the diversity of cultures is the fundamental idea of the competition and inspires participants to achieve artistic heights,” Putin stated.

The musical competition features 23 countries and is being held at the Live Arena concert hall in Moscow, with an audience of approximately 11,000 spectators, according to the organizers.

Shortly before the performance of Australian-born singer Vasiliki Karagiorgos, known as Vassy, who was set to represent the United States, the hosts announced her withdrawal from the contest. The organizers, confirming that Vassy holds US citizenship, attributed her removal to alleged “unprecedented political pressure from the Australian government.”

Vassy was originally a replacement candidate after the initially announced US entrant, musician B Howard (Brandon Howard), withdrew on Wednesday due to “unforeseen family reasons.”

Russia’s state-run Channel One is broadcasting the three-and-a-half-hour show. The winner will be decided by an international jury composed of representatives from the participating countries. These include former Soviet republics such as Belarus, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, as well as Russia’s allies within the BRICS group—China, India, Brazil, and South Africa.

Unlike Eurovision, Intervision does not allow public voting. Russia has been barred from participating in Eurovision since 2022, following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

Intervision is widely seen as President Putin’s conservative counter-project to Eurovision. Reflecting this stance, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov remarked, “There will be no perversions or mockery of human nature.”
https://www.perthnow.com.au/entertainment/australian-singer-quits-russias-eurovision-alternative-c-20091310

Palestinian Hamas-aligned journalist Mustafa Ayash arrested at Netherlands airport – report

**Palestinian Hamas-Aligned Journalist Mustafa Ayash Arrested at Netherlands Airport**

Mustafa Ayash, a Palestinian journalist known for his alignment with Hamas, was reportedly arrested at a Netherlands airport. Sources indicate that Ayash is set to be deported to Austria.

Meanwhile, Dutch mobile police officers were deployed in Amsterdam city center following several scuffles that broke out after the UEFA Europa League, League Phase Matchday 4 football match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 8, 2024.

(Photo credit: VLN Niews / ANP / AFP)

— By JERUSALEM POST STAFF
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868151

Palestinian Hamas-aligned journalist Mustafa Ayash arrested at Netherlands airport – report

**Palestinian Hamas-Aligned Journalist Mustafa Ayash Arrested at Netherlands Airport**

Mustafa Ayash, a Palestinian journalist reportedly aligned with Hamas, was arrested at an airport in the Netherlands. Reports indicate that Ayash is set to be deported to Austria.

In a related event, Dutch mobile police officers were deployed and stood guard after several scuffles broke out in Amsterdam’s city center. These disturbances followed the UEFA Europa League Group Phase Matchday 4 football match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 8, 2024.

*Photo credit: VLN Niews / ANP / AFP*

—
*By JERUSALEM POST STAFF*
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868151

Palestinian Hamas-aligned journalist Mustafa Ayash arrested at Netherlands airport – report

**Palestinian Hamas-aligned Journalist Mustafa Ayash Arrested at Netherlands Airport**

Mustafa Ayash, a Palestinian journalist reportedly aligned with Hamas, was arrested at a Dutch airport. According to reports, Ayash is set to be deported to Austria.

In a related incident, Dutch mobile police officers were deployed to stand guard after several scuffles broke out in Amsterdam’s city center. The disturbances followed the UEFA Europa League Group Stage Matchday 4 football match between Ajax Amsterdam and Maccabi Tel Aviv on November 8, 2024.

*Photo credit: VLN Niews / ANP / AFP*

*By JERUSALEM POST STAFF*
https://www.jpost.com/international/article-868151