Australia's ruling coalition splits over lawmaker's China comments
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-china-australia-diplomacy/australias-ruling-coalition-splits-over-lawmakers-china-comments-idUSKCN1V101Q
SYDNEY (Reuters) - A split has opened in Australia’s ruling coalition government over a lawmaker’s comparison of the rise of China to that of Nazi Germany.
Conservative MP Andrew Hastie, a former special forces soldier, wrote an opinion piece on Thursday for Channel 9 newspapers comparing the rise of China as an unnoticed existential threat to that of Nazi Germany, prompting a mixed reaction from colleagues and swift condemnation from Beijing.
Hastie is not a minister but is an influential member of Australia’s ruling Liberal-National coalition, and is the chair of parliament’s intelligence and security committee, which is privy to classified information.
His column outlined the dangers of not comprehending China’s ideological motivation for building ports and roads, arguing the West had wrongly calculated that economic liberalization in China would lead to democratization.
Powerful ministers including Attorney General Christian Porter and Finance Minister Mathias Cormann criticized Hastie’s column, while Home Affairs Minister Peter Dutton defended it, and Prime Minister Scott Morrison remained neutral.
The split continued to widen over the weekend when Trade Minister Simon Birmingham told his colleagues to watch their words.
“I would certainly encourage any colleague or indeed anybody making comments around sensitive foreign policy matters to pose a couple of questions,” he told ABC TV’s Insiders program.
“Is the making of those comments in a public way necessary? Is it helpful to Australia’s national interests?”
國際時事政治選舉新聞張貼及討論區（七）
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Romania: Tens of thousands rally against government in Bucharest
https://www.dw.com/en/romania-tens-of-thousands-rally-against-government-in-bucharest/a-49983200
Tens of thousands of Romanians staged massive anti-corruption protests in the capital, Bucharest, on Saturday on the one-year anniversary of a violent police crackdown.
The demonstration was organized by groups of Romanians working abroad who are furious at what they say is widespread corruption, incompetent leadership, and attempts to weaken the country's judiciary. An estimated 3.5 million Romanians are working and living abroad, according to the World Bank.
Over 20,000 people rallied outside the Social Democrat-led government headquarters, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Viorica Dancila's government.
The protests are also being fueled in part by anger over the recent rape and murder of a teenage girl, and the government's slow response. Police arrived 19 hours after the victim managed to make repeated phone calls to the country's emergency number telling authorities she had been kidnapped.
https://www.dw.com/en/romania-tens-of-thousands-rally-against-government-in-bucharest/a-49983200
Tens of thousands of Romanians staged massive anti-corruption protests in the capital, Bucharest, on Saturday on the one-year anniversary of a violent police crackdown.
The demonstration was organized by groups of Romanians working abroad who are furious at what they say is widespread corruption, incompetent leadership, and attempts to weaken the country's judiciary. An estimated 3.5 million Romanians are working and living abroad, according to the World Bank.
Over 20,000 people rallied outside the Social Democrat-led government headquarters, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Viorica Dancila's government.
The protests are also being fueled in part by anger over the recent rape and murder of a teenage girl, and the government's slow response. Police arrived 19 hours after the victim managed to make repeated phone calls to the country's emergency number telling authorities she had been kidnapped.
Italian politicians try to stop push for elections
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-49318000
The heads of Italy's political groups will decide on Monday when to hold a no-confidence vote, days after nationalist leader Matteo Salvini announced he was pulling the plug on the populist coalition government.
Mr Salvini wants snap elections, but faces a challenge from his ex-coalition partner and the opposition centre left.
Ex-Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is calling for a caretaker government.
A final decision on the next step rests with the president.
Mr Salvini's nationalist League party has been in government with the populist Five Star Movement for the past 14 months, but relations between the parties have turned sour. The government is headed by an independent prime minister, Giuseppe Conte.
The centre-left Democratic Party (PD) were voted out of government last year.
Now, ex-PD leader Matteo Renzi has returned to the political arena with a call to stop Mr Salvini's "crazy" push for elections by proposing a caretaker, "institutional" government backed by parliament.
Five Star leader Luigi di Maio, who has seen his party ratings eclipsed by the rise of the League, is also opposed to new elections, insisting that reform of parliament has to come first.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-49318000
The heads of Italy's political groups will decide on Monday when to hold a no-confidence vote, days after nationalist leader Matteo Salvini announced he was pulling the plug on the populist coalition government.
Mr Salvini wants snap elections, but faces a challenge from his ex-coalition partner and the opposition centre left.
Ex-Prime Minister Matteo Renzi is calling for a caretaker government.
A final decision on the next step rests with the president.
Mr Salvini's nationalist League party has been in government with the populist Five Star Movement for the past 14 months, but relations between the parties have turned sour. The government is headed by an independent prime minister, Giuseppe Conte.
The centre-left Democratic Party (PD) were voted out of government last year.
Now, ex-PD leader Matteo Renzi has returned to the political arena with a call to stop Mr Salvini's "crazy" push for elections by proposing a caretaker, "institutional" government backed by parliament.
Five Star leader Luigi di Maio, who has seen his party ratings eclipsed by the rise of the League, is also opposed to new elections, insisting that reform of parliament has to come first.
Guatemala: Alejandro Giammattei wins presidential vote
https://www.dw.com/en/guatemala-alejandro-giammattei-wins-presidential-vote/a-49989569
With results from 95% of polling stations in Guatemala's presidential runoff counted, the Supreme Electoral Council has announced that 63-year-old Alejandro Giammattei has won almost 60% of votes, compared with about 26% for former first lady Sandra Torres.
"The aim is fulfilled," Giammattei said late Sunday. "It will be an immense honor to be president."
Eight million people were eligible to vote in the runoff for the June 16 election. However, a turnout of 40% suggests disillusionment.
Giammattei, who had lost three previous presidential bids, received negative press ahead of the vote. Investigative site Nomada branded Giammattei "impulsive ... despotic, tyrannical ... capricious, vindictive" — and worse. This time, Giammattei ran for Vamos, a party that preaches liberal economics and works to limit access to reproductive services and opposes LGBTQ+ equality.
https://www.dw.com/en/guatemala-alejandro-giammattei-wins-presidential-vote/a-49989569
With results from 95% of polling stations in Guatemala's presidential runoff counted, the Supreme Electoral Council has announced that 63-year-old Alejandro Giammattei has won almost 60% of votes, compared with about 26% for former first lady Sandra Torres.
"The aim is fulfilled," Giammattei said late Sunday. "It will be an immense honor to be president."
Eight million people were eligible to vote in the runoff for the June 16 election. However, a turnout of 40% suggests disillusionment.
Giammattei, who had lost three previous presidential bids, received negative press ahead of the vote. Investigative site Nomada branded Giammattei "impulsive ... despotic, tyrannical ... capricious, vindictive" — and worse. This time, Giammattei ran for Vamos, a party that preaches liberal economics and works to limit access to reproductive services and opposes LGBTQ+ equality.
Trump delays some items on China tariff list
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-49287494
The US is delaying imposing tariffs on some imports from China until 15 December because of "health, safety, national security and other factors".
The products include mobile phones, laptops, video game consoles, some toys, computer monitors, and certain footwear and clothing.
The surprise news from the United States Trade Representative office sparked a 5% jump in Apple shares.
Other items facing a 10% tariff will go ahead as planned on 1 September.
The USTR's announcement was released minutes after China's Ministry of Commerce said Vice Premier Liu He had conducted a phone call with US trade officials.
Technology investors welcomed news of the exemptions, pushing an index of chip stocks up 2.8%.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-49287494
The US is delaying imposing tariffs on some imports from China until 15 December because of "health, safety, national security and other factors".
The products include mobile phones, laptops, video game consoles, some toys, computer monitors, and certain footwear and clothing.
The surprise news from the United States Trade Representative office sparked a 5% jump in Apple shares.
Other items facing a 10% tariff will go ahead as planned on 1 September.
The USTR's announcement was released minutes after China's Ministry of Commerce said Vice Premier Liu He had conducted a phone call with US trade officials.
Technology investors welcomed news of the exemptions, pushing an index of chip stocks up 2.8%.
Chaos in Harare as Zimbabwe riot police violently disperse protesters
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/16/zimbabwe-riot-police-teargas-batons-clear-protesters
Riot police have charged hundreds of protesters in Zimbabwe and fired teargas, hours after a court ruled out an attempt by the opposition to overturn a ban on a planned demonstration.
As leaders of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), the main opposition party, debated whether to call off the protest on Friday, police armed with batons and whips moved to clear streets in the centre of Harare, the capital.
Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, with many protesters beaten, at least three injured and others loaded into armoured vehicles. Police also set up a series of checkpoints to stop MDC supporters reaching the centre of Harare and blocked off the headquarters of the MDC.
“People were peaceful and marched with order. They know that we always sing during demonstrations. Why are they beating us? Is this the democracy that they always talk about? They are the ones who are violent,” Mike Nyashanu, an unemployed 27-year-old who was being treated by paramedics for a suspected broken arm, told the Guardian.
The government had moved to block the demonstration with a prohibition order imposed late on Thursday. A high court judge refused to overturn the ban in an early morning hearing.
A spokesperson for Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the MDC, said the planned protest had not been called off, despite the court decision. Other protests are planned around Zimbabwe in coming days.
“The government has come out in full force. The legal decision [upholding the ban] is unconstitutional … [Chamisa] is concerned about loss of life but he believes the country will have to move forward,” Dr Nkululeko Sibanda said.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/16/zimbabwe-riot-police-teargas-batons-clear-protesters
Riot police have charged hundreds of protesters in Zimbabwe and fired teargas, hours after a court ruled out an attempt by the opposition to overturn a ban on a planned demonstration.
As leaders of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), the main opposition party, debated whether to call off the protest on Friday, police armed with batons and whips moved to clear streets in the centre of Harare, the capital.
Witnesses reported chaotic scenes, with many protesters beaten, at least three injured and others loaded into armoured vehicles. Police also set up a series of checkpoints to stop MDC supporters reaching the centre of Harare and blocked off the headquarters of the MDC.
“People were peaceful and marched with order. They know that we always sing during demonstrations. Why are they beating us? Is this the democracy that they always talk about? They are the ones who are violent,” Mike Nyashanu, an unemployed 27-year-old who was being treated by paramedics for a suspected broken arm, told the Guardian.
The government had moved to block the demonstration with a prohibition order imposed late on Thursday. A high court judge refused to overturn the ban in an early morning hearing.
A spokesperson for Nelson Chamisa, the leader of the MDC, said the planned protest had not been called off, despite the court decision. Other protests are planned around Zimbabwe in coming days.
“The government has come out in full force. The legal decision [upholding the ban] is unconstitutional … [Chamisa] is concerned about loss of life but he believes the country will have to move forward,” Dr Nkululeko Sibanda said.
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Greenland: Trump warned that island cannot be bought from Denmark
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-49367792
Greenland has said it is "not for sale" after President Donald Trump stated that he would like the US to buy the world's biggest island.
The president is said to have discussed the idea of purchasing Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, during dinners and meetings with advisers.
But Greenland's government dismissed the idea, saying: "We're open for business, not for sale."
Mr Trump's plans have also been quickly dismissed by politicians in Denmark. "It must be an April Fool's Day joke...but totally out of [season]!", tweeted former Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), which first reported the news, said Mr Trump had spoken about the purchase with "varying degrees of seriousness".
Sources quoted in other media differed over whether the president was joking or seriously hoping to expand US territory.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-49367792
Greenland has said it is "not for sale" after President Donald Trump stated that he would like the US to buy the world's biggest island.
The president is said to have discussed the idea of purchasing Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory, during dinners and meetings with advisers.
But Greenland's government dismissed the idea, saying: "We're open for business, not for sale."
Mr Trump's plans have also been quickly dismissed by politicians in Denmark. "It must be an April Fool's Day joke...but totally out of [season]!", tweeted former Prime Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen.
The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), which first reported the news, said Mr Trump had spoken about the purchase with "varying degrees of seriousness".
Sources quoted in other media differed over whether the president was joking or seriously hoping to expand US territory.
North Korea snubs peace talks with South Korea over war drills
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-49365771
North Korea has rejected any further talks with South Korea, calling its decision "completely the fault of South Korea's actions".
It issued a statement in response to a speech by South Korea President Moon Jae-in on Thursday.
Meanwhile, early on Friday North Korea test-fired two missiles into the sea off its eastern coast, the South Korean military said.
It is the sixth such test in less than a month.
The two "unidentified projectiles" were fired about 08:00 (23:00 GMT Thursday) and travelled 230km (140 miles) reaching an altitude of 30km (18 miles), South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
Six days ago, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan/East Sea.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-49365771
North Korea has rejected any further talks with South Korea, calling its decision "completely the fault of South Korea's actions".
It issued a statement in response to a speech by South Korea President Moon Jae-in on Thursday.
Meanwhile, early on Friday North Korea test-fired two missiles into the sea off its eastern coast, the South Korean military said.
It is the sixth such test in less than a month.
The two "unidentified projectiles" were fired about 08:00 (23:00 GMT Thursday) and travelled 230km (140 miles) reaching an altitude of 30km (18 miles), South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said.
Six days ago, North Korea fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan/East Sea.
The White House quietly appointed a new China director who could rattle Beijing and make a US-China trade deal even less likely
https://www.insider.com/white-house-appoints-uighur-american-elnigar-iltebir-china-director-2019-8
The White House has quietly appointed an American member of the Muslim Uighur ethnic group to manage its China policy at the National Security Council — a move that will likely rile Beijing and jeopardize the US-China trade relationship.
Elnigar Iltebir started working as the National Security Council's (NSC) China director three weeks ago, Uighur activist Rushan Abbas told Business Insider.
Abbas is the executive director of the Campaign for Uyghurs advocacy group and former high school student of Iltebir's father, Abdulhekim Baqi Iltebir, a late Uighur intellectual who lived in the US. (Uyghur is an alternate spelling.)
The appointment was first reported by Foreign Policy, which cited unnamed current and former US officials. The NSC declined to comment on its personnel.
As China director, Iltebir will be responsible for leading NSC policy on China. According to Foreign Policy, this means "helping to manage China policy … including issues related to trade, military, and human rights."
The NSC declined to comment on its internal structure.
https://www.insider.com/white-house-appoints-uighur-american-elnigar-iltebir-china-director-2019-8
The White House has quietly appointed an American member of the Muslim Uighur ethnic group to manage its China policy at the National Security Council — a move that will likely rile Beijing and jeopardize the US-China trade relationship.
Elnigar Iltebir started working as the National Security Council's (NSC) China director three weeks ago, Uighur activist Rushan Abbas told Business Insider.
Abbas is the executive director of the Campaign for Uyghurs advocacy group and former high school student of Iltebir's father, Abdulhekim Baqi Iltebir, a late Uighur intellectual who lived in the US. (Uyghur is an alternate spelling.)
The appointment was first reported by Foreign Policy, which cited unnamed current and former US officials. The NSC declined to comment on its personnel.
As China director, Iltebir will be responsible for leading NSC policy on China. According to Foreign Policy, this means "helping to manage China policy … including issues related to trade, military, and human rights."
The NSC declined to comment on its internal structure.
Sudan conflict: Army and civilians seal power-sharing deal
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49379489
Sudan's ruling military council and civilian opposition alliance have signed a landmark power-sharing deal.
The agreement ushers in a new governing council, including both civilians and generals, to pave the way towards elections and civilian rule.
Mohamed Hamdan "Hemeti" Dagolo, widely regarded as Sudan's most powerful man, has pledged to abide by its terms.
Sudan has seen pro-democracy protests and repression since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was ousted in April.
The deal was signed by Hemeti and Lt-Gen Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan for the military council, and Ahmed al-Rabie for the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group of pro-democracy protesters.
The prime ministers of Ethiopia and Egypt and the South Sudanese president were among regional leaders attending ceremony.
There were scenes of wild celebrations on the streets of the capital, Khartoum, after the ceremony.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49379489
Sudan's ruling military council and civilian opposition alliance have signed a landmark power-sharing deal.
The agreement ushers in a new governing council, including both civilians and generals, to pave the way towards elections and civilian rule.
Mohamed Hamdan "Hemeti" Dagolo, widely regarded as Sudan's most powerful man, has pledged to abide by its terms.
Sudan has seen pro-democracy protests and repression since long-time ruler Omar al-Bashir was ousted in April.
The deal was signed by Hemeti and Lt-Gen Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan for the military council, and Ahmed al-Rabie for the Alliance for Freedom and Change umbrella group of pro-democracy protesters.
The prime ministers of Ethiopia and Egypt and the South Sudanese president were among regional leaders attending ceremony.
There were scenes of wild celebrations on the streets of the capital, Khartoum, after the ceremony.
Iran tanker row: Detained ship sets sail from Gibraltar
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-49390902
An Iranian ship held by Gibraltar since July on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria has left port.
Marine tracking shows the tanker moving east into the Mediterranean. Its destination is not known.
Gibraltar earlier rejected a request by the US to again seize the ship, which has changed its name from Grace 1 to Adrian Darya-1.
The US made the last-minute request on Friday, a day after Gibraltar lifted its detention order.
Gibraltar - which has not confirmed the ship's departure - said it could not comply with Washington's request to issue a new detention order because US sanctions against Iran did not apply in the EU.
Tehran said it was ready to dispatch a naval escort to the Adrian Darya-1.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-49390902
An Iranian ship held by Gibraltar since July on suspicion of transporting oil to Syria has left port.
Marine tracking shows the tanker moving east into the Mediterranean. Its destination is not known.
Gibraltar earlier rejected a request by the US to again seize the ship, which has changed its name from Grace 1 to Adrian Darya-1.
The US made the last-minute request on Friday, a day after Gibraltar lifted its detention order.
Gibraltar - which has not confirmed the ship's departure - said it could not comply with Washington's request to issue a new detention order because US sanctions against Iran did not apply in the EU.
Tehran said it was ready to dispatch a naval escort to the Adrian Darya-1.
Trump 'not ready' for China trade deal, dismisses recession fears
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-economy/trump-not-ready-for-china-trade-deal-dismisses-recession-fears-idUSKCN1V80HS
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump and top White House officials dismissed concerns that economic growth may be faltering, saying on Sunday they saw little risk of recession despite a volatile week on global bond markets, and insisting their trade war with China was doing no damage to the United States.
“We’re doing tremendously well, our consumers are rich, I gave a tremendous tax cut, and they’re loaded up with money,” Trump said on Sunday.
But he was less optimistic than his aides on striking a trade deal with China, saying that while he believed China was ready to come to an agreement, “I’m not ready to make a deal yet.”
He hinted that the White House would like to see Beijing resolve ongoing protests in Hong Kong first.
“I would like to see Hong Kong worked out in a very humanitarian fashion,” Trump said. “I think it would be very good for the trade deal.”
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-economy/trump-not-ready-for-china-trade-deal-dismisses-recession-fears-idUSKCN1V80HS
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump and top White House officials dismissed concerns that economic growth may be faltering, saying on Sunday they saw little risk of recession despite a volatile week on global bond markets, and insisting their trade war with China was doing no damage to the United States.
“We’re doing tremendously well, our consumers are rich, I gave a tremendous tax cut, and they’re loaded up with money,” Trump said on Sunday.
But he was less optimistic than his aides on striking a trade deal with China, saying that while he believed China was ready to come to an agreement, “I’m not ready to make a deal yet.”
He hinted that the White House would like to see Beijing resolve ongoing protests in Hong Kong first.
“I would like to see Hong Kong worked out in a very humanitarian fashion,” Trump said. “I think it would be very good for the trade deal.”
Trump affirms that Mike Pence will be 2020 running mate
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-election-trump/trump-affirms-that-mike-pence-will-be-2020-running-mate-idUSKCN1V80NU
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday he would keep Vice President Mike Pence as his running mate when he seeks re-election in November 2020.
“I’m very happy with Mike Pence,” Trump, who is expected to easily win the Republican nomination for a second term, told reporters before boarding Air Force One in New Jersey.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-election-trump/trump-affirms-that-mike-pence-will-be-2020-running-mate-idUSKCN1V80NU
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday he would keep Vice President Mike Pence as his running mate when he seeks re-election in November 2020.
“I’m very happy with Mike Pence,” Trump, who is expected to easily win the Republican nomination for a second term, told reporters before boarding Air Force One in New Jersey.
Sudan conflict: Army and civilians form sovereign council
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49414216
Sudan's military leaders and opposition alliance have formed a sovereign council to lead the country during its three-year transition to civilian rule.
Made up of six civilians and five military officers, it will initially be led by Lt-Gen Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan.
He took over as Sudanese leader following the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir.
The council will be sworn in on Wednesday morning.
A prime minister is expected to be sworn in later that day.
The latest moves were announced by a spokesman for the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC).
The TMC took over from Mr Bashir in April. Sudan has subsequently seen pro-democracy protests and security crackdowns.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-49414216
Sudan's military leaders and opposition alliance have formed a sovereign council to lead the country during its three-year transition to civilian rule.
Made up of six civilians and five military officers, it will initially be led by Lt-Gen Abdel Fattah Abdelrahman Burhan.
He took over as Sudanese leader following the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir.
The council will be sworn in on Wednesday morning.
A prime minister is expected to be sworn in later that day.
The latest moves were announced by a spokesman for the ruling Transitional Military Council (TMC).
The TMC took over from Mr Bashir in April. Sudan has subsequently seen pro-democracy protests and security crackdowns.
Cardinal George Pell loses appeal against sexual abuse convictions
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-49416573
Cardinal George Pell, the most senior Catholic cleric to be convicted of sexual abuse, has failed in a legal bid to quash his convictions in Australia.
Pell was jailed for six years in March after being found guilty of abusing two boys in a Melbourne cathedral in the 1990s. He maintains his innocence.
A court of appeal rejected Pell's argument that the verdict was unfair.
The former Vatican treasurer, 78, will now remain in jail until he is eligible for parole in October 2022.
Last December, a jury unanimously convicted Pell of sexually abusing the 13-year-old boys after a mass at St Patrick's Cathedral, and of abusing one of the boys again on another occasion.
Pell challenged the verdict by arguing it was "unreasonable" because there was insufficient evidence for the jury to convict him beyond a reasonable doubt.
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-australia-49416573
Cardinal George Pell, the most senior Catholic cleric to be convicted of sexual abuse, has failed in a legal bid to quash his convictions in Australia.
Pell was jailed for six years in March after being found guilty of abusing two boys in a Melbourne cathedral in the 1990s. He maintains his innocence.
A court of appeal rejected Pell's argument that the verdict was unfair.
The former Vatican treasurer, 78, will now remain in jail until he is eligible for parole in October 2022.
Last December, a jury unanimously convicted Pell of sexually abusing the 13-year-old boys after a mass at St Patrick's Cathedral, and of abusing one of the boys again on another occasion.
Pell challenged the verdict by arguing it was "unreasonable" because there was insufficient evidence for the jury to convict him beyond a reasonable doubt.
Brexit: 'No prospect' of a deal unless backstop is dropped
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49411786
Unless the UK's withdrawal agreement with Brussels is reopened and the backstop abolished there is no prospect of a deal, Downing Street has said.
The strong statement came after the EU pushed back against Boris Johnson's proposal to implement "alternative arrangements" for the UK-Irish border.
Mr Johnson has said the backstop is "anti-democratic" and must be scrapped.
European Council President Donald Tusk said it was "an insurance to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland".
Meanwhile, the government has announced UK officials will stop attending most EU meetings from 1 September.
The Department for Exiting the European Union said it would "unshackle" them from discussions "about the future of the Union after the UK has left" and allow them to focus on "our immediate national priorities".
Later this week Mr Johnson will meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron for the first time since entering No 10.
Ahead of that, in a letter to European Council President Tusk, he called for the backstop to be removed from the withdrawal agreement reached between the EU and his predecessor, Theresa May, arguing it risked undermining the Northern Irish peace process.
Brexit: EU migration rules 'to end straight after no-deal'
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49393556
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49411786
Unless the UK's withdrawal agreement with Brussels is reopened and the backstop abolished there is no prospect of a deal, Downing Street has said.
The strong statement came after the EU pushed back against Boris Johnson's proposal to implement "alternative arrangements" for the UK-Irish border.
Mr Johnson has said the backstop is "anti-democratic" and must be scrapped.
European Council President Donald Tusk said it was "an insurance to avoid a hard border on the island of Ireland".
Meanwhile, the government has announced UK officials will stop attending most EU meetings from 1 September.
The Department for Exiting the European Union said it would "unshackle" them from discussions "about the future of the Union after the UK has left" and allow them to focus on "our immediate national priorities".
Later this week Mr Johnson will meet German Chancellor Angela Merkel and French President Emmanuel Macron for the first time since entering No 10.
Ahead of that, in a letter to European Council President Tusk, he called for the backstop to be removed from the withdrawal agreement reached between the EU and his predecessor, Theresa May, arguing it risked undermining the Northern Irish peace process.
Brexit: EU migration rules 'to end straight after no-deal'
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49393556
Italian Prime Minister Conte offers resignation amid political crisis
https://www.dw.com/en/italian-prime-minister-conte-offers-resignation-amid-political-crisis/a-50098258
Much of Rome held its breath on Tuesday, eyes glued to TVs through the end of the work day, one thing dominating cafe chatter — the end to Italy’s 65th government since World War II.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced he would submit his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella, ending Italy's 14-month-old populist government.
"The current crisis definitely compromises the experience of this government, which stops here," Conte said.
In his speech before the Senate, Conte took aim at his Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, calling him "irresponsible" for engineering a political crisis for "personal and party interests."
Salvini, emboldened by his party’s strong showing in May’s EU elections, has increasingly positioned himself as Italy’s main leader on the world stage.
Two weeks ago, he made the surprise announcement that his far-right League no longer wanted to remain in an alliance with the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S), presenting a no-confidence vote against Conte and pushing for fresh elections.
https://www.dw.com/en/italian-prime-minister-conte-offers-resignation-amid-political-crisis/a-50098258
Much of Rome held its breath on Tuesday, eyes glued to TVs through the end of the work day, one thing dominating cafe chatter — the end to Italy’s 65th government since World War II.
Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte announced he would submit his resignation to President Sergio Mattarella, ending Italy's 14-month-old populist government.
"The current crisis definitely compromises the experience of this government, which stops here," Conte said.
In his speech before the Senate, Conte took aim at his Interior Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Matteo Salvini, calling him "irresponsible" for engineering a political crisis for "personal and party interests."
Salvini, emboldened by his party’s strong showing in May’s EU elections, has increasingly positioned himself as Italy’s main leader on the world stage.
Two weeks ago, he made the surprise announcement that his far-right League no longer wanted to remain in an alliance with the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S), presenting a no-confidence vote against Conte and pushing for fresh elections.
Trump imposes rule allowing U.S. to detain migrant families indefinitely
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-migrants/trump-imposes-rule-allowing-u-s-to-detain-migrant-families-indefinitely-idUSKCN1VB1JL
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Trump administration on Wednesday unveiled a rule that allows officials to detain migrant families indefinitely while judges consider whether to grant them asylum in the United States, abolishing a previous 20-day limit.
The rule, which is certain to draw a legal challenge, would replace a 1997 court settlement that limits the amount of time U.S. immigration authorities can detain migrant children. That agreement is generally interpreted as meaning families must be released within 20 days.
It was the Republican administration’s third major regulation restricting immigration in little more than a month, all during an unsettled period when senior immigration officials hold “acting” titles lacking U.S. Senate confirmation.
https://www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-immigration-migrants/trump-imposes-rule-allowing-u-s-to-detain-migrant-families-indefinitely-idUSKCN1VB1JL
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The Trump administration on Wednesday unveiled a rule that allows officials to detain migrant families indefinitely while judges consider whether to grant them asylum in the United States, abolishing a previous 20-day limit.
The rule, which is certain to draw a legal challenge, would replace a 1997 court settlement that limits the amount of time U.S. immigration authorities can detain migrant children. That agreement is generally interpreted as meaning families must be released within 20 days.
It was the Republican administration’s third major regulation restricting immigration in little more than a month, all during an unsettled period when senior immigration officials hold “acting” titles lacking U.S. Senate confirmation.
Greenland: Trump criticises 'nasty' Denmark over cancelled visit
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-49423968
US President Donald Trump has called the Danish leader "nasty" after she rebuffed his idea of buying Greenland.
He lashed out hours after Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she was "sorry" that Mr Trump had abruptly called off a state visit to Denmark.
She has dismissed the suggestion of such a land deal as "absurd".
Queen Margrethe II invited Mr Trump to visit Denmark on 2 September, and the manner of his cancellation has stunned the Scandinavian nation.
Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Trump took umbrage at Ms Frederiksen's remarks.
"I thought that the prime minister's statement that it was absurd, that it was an absurd idea was nasty," he said.
"I thought it was an inappropriate statement. All she had to do is say no, we wouldn't be interested."
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-49423968
US President Donald Trump has called the Danish leader "nasty" after she rebuffed his idea of buying Greenland.
He lashed out hours after Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said she was "sorry" that Mr Trump had abruptly called off a state visit to Denmark.
She has dismissed the suggestion of such a land deal as "absurd".
Queen Margrethe II invited Mr Trump to visit Denmark on 2 September, and the manner of his cancellation has stunned the Scandinavian nation.
Speaking to reporters on the White House lawn on Wednesday afternoon, Mr Trump took umbrage at Ms Frederiksen's remarks.
"I thought that the prime minister's statement that it was absurd, that it was an absurd idea was nasty," he said.
"I thought it was an inappropriate statement. All she had to do is say no, we wouldn't be interested."
Venezuela crisis: President Maduro says he had secret talks with US
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-49418451
Venezuela's embattled President Nicolás Maduro said he had been in talks with the Trump administration for months, even as the US ramped up its sanctions.
The US is one of more than 50 nations which do not recognise Mr Maduro as Venezuela's legitimate leader.
On Tuesday, Mr Maduro said that talks with the Trump administration had been going on for months.
But US National Security Adviser John Bolton said the only thing being discussed was Mr Maduro's departure.
Speaking on television, Mr Maduro said: "Just as I have sought dialogue in Venezuela, I have sought a way in which President Trump really listens to Venezuela."
President Trump confirmed on Tuesday that his administration was "talking to various representatives of Venezuela".
"I don't want to say who, but we are talking at a very high level," the US president said.
Mr Maduro had suggested that he authorised the back-channel discussions.
But Mr Bolton cast those contacts in a very different light, tweeting that the "only items discussed by those who are reaching out behind Maduro's back are his departure and free and fair elections".
https://www.bbc.com/news/world-latin-america-49418451
Venezuela's embattled President Nicolás Maduro said he had been in talks with the Trump administration for months, even as the US ramped up its sanctions.
The US is one of more than 50 nations which do not recognise Mr Maduro as Venezuela's legitimate leader.
On Tuesday, Mr Maduro said that talks with the Trump administration had been going on for months.
But US National Security Adviser John Bolton said the only thing being discussed was Mr Maduro's departure.
Speaking on television, Mr Maduro said: "Just as I have sought dialogue in Venezuela, I have sought a way in which President Trump really listens to Venezuela."
President Trump confirmed on Tuesday that his administration was "talking to various representatives of Venezuela".
"I don't want to say who, but we are talking at a very high level," the US president said.
Mr Maduro had suggested that he authorised the back-channel discussions.
But Mr Bolton cast those contacts in a very different light, tweeting that the "only items discussed by those who are reaching out behind Maduro's back are his departure and free and fair elections".
Merkel: Backstop alternative 'possible within 30 days'
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49427674
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has suggested an alternative to the Irish border backstop - a key Brexit sticking point - could be found within 30 days.
Speaking at a news conference alongside Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Berlin, she stressed it would be up to the UK to offer a workable plan.
The PM said he was "more than happy" with that "blistering timetable".
He accepted the "onus" was on the UK, but said he believed there was "ample scope" for a new deal to be reached.
In his first overseas visit to a fellow leader, Mr Johnson is meeting Mrs Merkel after he told the EU the backstop - which aims to prevent a hard Irish border after Brexit - must be ditched if a no-deal exit was to be avoided.
He will meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, before attending the G7 summit on Saturday alongside other leaders including US President Donald Trump.
The EU has repeatedly said the withdrawal deal negotiated by former PM Theresa May, which includes the backstop, cannot be renegotiated.
And - despite Mrs Merkel's comments - that message was echoed by Mr Macron on Wednesday evening.
"Renegotiation of the terms currently proposed by the British is not an option that exists, and that has always been made clear by [EU] President Tusk," he told reporters in Paris.
https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-politics-49427674
German Chancellor Angela Merkel has suggested an alternative to the Irish border backstop - a key Brexit sticking point - could be found within 30 days.
Speaking at a news conference alongside Prime Minister Boris Johnson in Berlin, she stressed it would be up to the UK to offer a workable plan.
The PM said he was "more than happy" with that "blistering timetable".
He accepted the "onus" was on the UK, but said he believed there was "ample scope" for a new deal to be reached.
In his first overseas visit to a fellow leader, Mr Johnson is meeting Mrs Merkel after he told the EU the backstop - which aims to prevent a hard Irish border after Brexit - must be ditched if a no-deal exit was to be avoided.
He will meet French President Emmanuel Macron on Thursday, before attending the G7 summit on Saturday alongside other leaders including US President Donald Trump.
The EU has repeatedly said the withdrawal deal negotiated by former PM Theresa May, which includes the backstop, cannot be renegotiated.
And - despite Mrs Merkel's comments - that message was echoed by Mr Macron on Wednesday evening.
"Renegotiation of the terms currently proposed by the British is not an option that exists, and that has always been made clear by [EU] President Tusk," he told reporters in Paris.
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By the way, 澳洲國會多數黨咁奶共既
Italy's Democratic party leader warms to idea of M5S alliance
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/21/italy-democratic-party-leader-warms-to-idea-of-m5s-alliance
The leader of Italy’s centre-left Democratic party (PD) has warmed to a potential alliance with its long-time rival, the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S), in an attempt to stave off snap elections that threaten to create western Europe’s first fully far-right government since the second world war.
Nicola Zingaretti, who was elected PD party leader in March, relented to the prospect of forming a government with M5S on condition it lasts until the end of the legislature in 2023. “A possible new government must be a turning point, lasting the term, or it is better to go to the polls,” he said after a meeting with PD members on Wednesday morning.
Zingaretti had previously said that such a move would be “a gift to the dangerous right”. His change of heart came after the Italian president, Sergio Mattarella, gave his country’s political parties two days to carve out an alternative government majority after Giuseppe Conte resigned as prime minister on Tuesday, prompting a new wave of political turmoil.
Conte ended the stormy 14-month alliance between the far-right League and M5S after the League’s leader, Matteo Salvini, declared the partnership unworkable earlier this month as he manoeuvres to exploit his rising popularity and bring about snap elections.
Mattarella will begin consultations with the various parliamentary groups on Wednesday afternoon, followed by meetings with leaders of each of the main parties on Thursday.
https://www.theguardian.com/world/2019/aug/21/italy-democratic-party-leader-warms-to-idea-of-m5s-alliance
The leader of Italy’s centre-left Democratic party (PD) has warmed to a potential alliance with its long-time rival, the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S), in an attempt to stave off snap elections that threaten to create western Europe’s first fully far-right government since the second world war.
Nicola Zingaretti, who was elected PD party leader in March, relented to the prospect of forming a government with M5S on condition it lasts until the end of the legislature in 2023. “A possible new government must be a turning point, lasting the term, or it is better to go to the polls,” he said after a meeting with PD members on Wednesday morning.
Zingaretti had previously said that such a move would be “a gift to the dangerous right”. His change of heart came after the Italian president, Sergio Mattarella, gave his country’s political parties two days to carve out an alternative government majority after Giuseppe Conte resigned as prime minister on Tuesday, prompting a new wave of political turmoil.
Conte ended the stormy 14-month alliance between the far-right League and M5S after the League’s leader, Matteo Salvini, declared the partnership unworkable earlier this month as he manoeuvres to exploit his rising popularity and bring about snap elections.
Mattarella will begin consultations with the various parliamentary groups on Wednesday afternoon, followed by meetings with leaders of each of the main parties on Thursday.
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