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The article from Bloomberg.com reports on the state funeral of former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. The funeral brought together political rivals, including President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, to honor Carter's character and dedication to promoting values like human rights and fair elections. Despite acknowledging Carter's presidency's challenges, the funeral served as a moment of unity and respect for a figure who transcended political divides. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the upcoming state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away at the age of 100. The event will bring together political rivals, including President Joe Biden and President-elect Donald Trump, as well as former Presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush, and Bill Clinton. Despite Carter's mixed legacy as president, he is praised for his post-presidential humanitarian work and dedication to promoting values such as human rights. The funeral will serve as a rare occasion for a polarized political class to honor a figure known for his humility and decency. [Extracted from the article]

President-elect Donald Trump stated on NBC that he has no intention of replacing Fed Chair Jerome Powell when he returns to the White House, despite previously attempting to fire him during his first term. Powell has emphasized the Fed's independence from political pressure and indicated he would not step aside if asked by Trump. Trump believes he has the right to provide input on monetary policy and interest rates but does not have the authority to order changes. Powell does not anticipate conflicts with the incoming administration. [Extracted from the article]

President-elect Donald Trump stated that he has no intention of replacing Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell once he returns to the White House. Powell, whose term ends in May 2026, has made it clear that he will not step down early if asked by Trump. Trump has previously expressed his belief that he should have some influence over monetary policy and interest rates, but Powell has emphasized the Fed's independence from political pressure. Additionally, Trump has renewed his threats to impose tariffs on US trading partners, particularly Mexico and Canada, and has reiterated his desire to end birthright citizenship in the US. [Extracted from the article]

In the article "Trump, Harris Vie for Votes With Springsteen, Rogan, and Musk" on Bloomberg.com, US presidential candidates are using unique strategies to appeal to undecided voters close to the election. Donald Trump is campaigning in Florida and North Carolina, while Kamala Harris is conducting interviews in Washington, DC. Both candidates are targeting specific demographics and utilizing high-profile figures like Joe Rogan, Bruce Springsteen, and Elon Musk to garner support. The article also highlights key issues such as high prices, immigration, and reproductive rights that are central to the candidates' campaigns. [Extracted from the article]

The US will be hosting a delegation of Chinese officials for talks on curbing the flow of fentanyl, as part of President Joe Biden's efforts to address the opioid crisis. The discussions will focus on cracking down on domestic firms responsible for producing precursor chemicals used in the production of fentanyl and combating illicit financing of the drug trade. The Biden administration has seen signs of increased Chinese cooperation, including arrests and warnings to the Chinese industry. The White House will also release a national security memorandum emphasizing stronger coordination among federal agencies and renew calls for legislation to address drug trafficking. The flow of illicit drugs and the surge in migrants across the southwest border with Mexico have become key issues in the 2024 election, with Republicans criticizing Biden's handling of the situation. [Extracted from the article]

Vice President Kamala Harris is launching her presidential campaign with a rally in Milwaukee, aiming to prove to skeptical Democrats that she can defeat Donald Trump. Harris has quickly gained the support of major Democrats and raised over $100 million in her first day as a candidate. However, she faces the challenge of convincing everyday voters that she can mount a winning campaign and reassemble the coalition of moderate and progressive voters that helped Biden win the presidency. Harris will also focus on issues such as women's reproductive rights and economic messaging to appeal to key voter groups. [Extracted from the article]

Vice President Kamala Harris is launching her presidential campaign with a rally in Milwaukee, aiming to answer the question of how she plans to defeat Donald Trump. Harris has already secured the endorsement of major Democrats and raised over $100 million in her first day as a candidate. Her biggest challenge will be convincing voters that she can mount a winning campaign and reassemble the coalition of moderate and progressive voters that helped Biden win the presidency. Harris plans to use her background as a prosecutor to define Trump. She will also focus on women's reproductive rights and economic issues. Harris will need to broaden her appeal to Black voters and select her own running mate. Republicans are expected to mount a highly personal campaign against her, targeting her failed 2020 presidential campaign and high staff turnover. However, pollster Frank Luntz believes Harris has a real shot at beating Trump and has the opportunity to redefine herself to American voters. [Extracted from the article]

Vice President Kamala Harris is launching her presidential campaign with a rally in Milwaukee, aiming to answer the question of how she plans to beat Donald Trump. Harris has secured the endorsement of major Democrats and raised over $100 million in her first day as a candidate. Her biggest challenge will be convincing voters that she can mount a winning campaign and reverse the gap with Trump in the polls. Harris plans to use her background as a prosecutor to define Trump. She inherits Biden's campaign operations and donors, and Biden has vowed to continue campaigning on her behalf. One issue that will remain important for Harris is women's reproductive rights, which she has been advocating for. Economic issues are also significant in Wisconsin, where Harris will be making her case. She will need to select her own second-in-command and address domestic and foreign issues. Republicans are expected to mount a highly personal campaign against her, targeting her failed 2020 presidential campaign and high staff turnover. However, pollster Frank Luntz believes Harris has a real shot at beating Trump and has the opportunity to redefine herself to American voters. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden's decision to engage in an early debate with Donald Trump in hopes of boosting his election chances turned out to be a major miscalculation. The debate highlighted concerns about Biden's age and mental acuity, leading to calls for him to drop out of the race. Over the course of 25 days, doubts about Biden's viability as a candidate grew, with Democratic lawmakers and party leaders discussing the possibility of replacing him on the ballot. Despite Biden's insistence on staying in the race, pressure mounted, and ultimately, he made the decision to drop out and focus on his duties as president. [Extracted from the article]

The Group of Seven (G-7), which accounts for 44% of the global economy, is facing challenges from Russia and China as they gain influence in the Global South. The G-7 is trying to counter this by using interest from Russian frozen assets to support Ukraine. However, several G-7 leaders are facing difficulties in their own countries. The G-7's military dominance is being questioned due to conflicts in Ukraine and China's military build-up. The G-7's economic vitality has also declined, with their economies projected to be eclipsed by the rest of the G-20 by 2030. The focus has shifted from free trade to economic statecraft, with industrial policies and protectionist measures becoming more prevalent. The G-7 is considering measures to ensure a level playing field with China, but it is important to also reward and engage with the Global South. Despite its challenges, the G-7 remains one of the few international groupings capable of mounting a significant financial response and setting the agenda on global issues. [Extracted from the article]

The Group of Seven (G-7), which accounts for 44% of the global economy, is facing challenges from an axis of resistance led by China and Russia. At a recent summit in Italy, the G-7 discussed using interest from Russian frozen assets to support Ukraine. However, the G-7 leaders themselves are facing difficulties in their own countries, such as political challenges and low approval ratings. The G-7's military dominance is also being questioned, particularly in relation to the conflicts in Ukraine and Taiwan. The G-7's economic vitality has declined in recent years, with the world's economic center of gravity shifting away from the West. Aging populations and high levels of public debt are contributing to this decline. Meanwhile, Asian economies, particularly China, are experiencing rapid growth and increasing geopolitical influence. The focus on free trade has shifted to economic statecraft, with intervention in markets and protectionist industrial policies becoming more common. The G-7 is considering measures to ensure a level playing field, particularly in relation to China. However, there is a recognition that both carrots and sticks will be needed to engage the Global South. Despite its challenges, the G-7 remains one of the few international groupings capable of mounting a significant financial response and setting the agenda on global issues. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden's recent visit to France did not result in significant progress on key policy issues for Emmanuel Macron and the European Union. Biden declined to participate in a French initiative to deploy military trainers in Ukraine and did not address disagreements over the Israel-Hamas conflict or trade disputes. Macron, who is facing important parliamentary elections, gained little from his meetings with both Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, highlighting the challenges France and the EU face in a time of increasing geopolitical competition. The EU's struggle to establish a unified strategy is evident in Macron's efforts to train Ukrainian troops, which have been met with resistance from Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz. The EU is also grappling with how to respond to China, with Germany's car industry opposing tariffs that could impact their business with China. The article suggests that Europe faces difficult choices ahead, particularly regarding whether Germany is willing to prioritize European solidarity over short-term economic interests. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden visited the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery in France, a site that his predecessor, Donald Trump, had skipped during his presidency. Biden emphasized the importance of honoring war dead as a measure of a country's support for democratic values. He also criticized Trump's "America First" foreign policy and warned against the rise of isolationism in the US. Trump, in response, denied The Atlantic's report that he had disparaged US troops and called it false. Biden's visit to the cemetery marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings and he drew parallels between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the Nazis' conquest of Europe. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden visited the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery in France, a site that his predecessor, Donald Trump, had skipped. Biden emphasized the importance of honoring war dead as a measure of a country's support for democratic values. He also criticized Trump's "America First" foreign policy and warned against the rise of isolationism in the US. Biden drew parallels between Russia's invasion of Ukraine and Nazi Germany's conquest of Europe, calling on Americans to stand up for freedom and democracy. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Paris to discuss the need for better cooperation in countering China's economic practices. Macron expressed concerns about China's unfair practices and the need for coordinated action. Biden mentioned his recent conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where he defended US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. The leaders also discussed Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, which European leaders worry could disadvantage European firms. The visit also marked the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, and both leaders emphasized the importance of defending democracy. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden and French President Emmanuel Macron met in Paris to discuss the need for better cooperation in countering China's economic practices. They expressed concerns about China's unfair practices and the creation of overcapacity, emphasizing the importance of coordinated action. Biden mentioned his recent conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping, where he defended US tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles. However, Biden's Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at fighting climate change, has raised concerns among European leaders, including Macron, who fear it could disadvantage European firms. The meeting also addressed the need to defend democracy against new threats, such as Russian President Vladimir Putin's invasion of Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has announced a $225 million aid package for Ukraine during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The aid package includes support for rebuilding Ukraine's electrical grid and providing munitions and defense interceptors to repel Russian attacks. Biden apologized for the delay in approving the aid package and pledged continued US support. The meeting took place in Paris, where both leaders emphasized the need to sustain support for Ukraine and linked the current conflict to the effort to defeat Nazi Germany. The US is also allowing Ukraine to strike certain military targets within Russia using US-provided weapons. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has announced a $225 million aid package for Ukraine during a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy. The aid package includes support for rebuilding Ukraine's electrical grid and providing ammunition for Ukrainian forces. Biden apologized for the delay in approving the aid package and pledged continued US support for Ukraine. The meeting took place in Paris, where both leaders are participating in ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings. The US and other nations are also negotiating an agreement to provide critical financing for Ukraine using seized Russian assets. Biden has allowed Ukraine to strike certain military targets within Russia using US-provided weapons, but he will not be attending an upcoming peace summit in Switzerland, which has upset Zelenskiy. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden delivered a speech at the historic D-Day site, invoking the heroism of US Army Rangers who fought against Nazi Germany. While not mentioning former President Donald Trump by name, Biden's speech was seen as a contrast to Trump's "America First" foreign policy and his attempts to overturn the 2020 election. Biden emphasized the importance of defending democracy and freedom, both at home and abroad, and sought to align himself with former Republican President Ronald Reagan's message against isolationism. However, Biden has faced challenges in gaining traction against Trump, particularly regarding the economy, immigration, and foreign wars. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has defended his decision to allow Ukraine to use US-provided weapons against military targets in Russia, stating that it is limited in scope and not authorizing strikes on major Russian cities. This marks a shift for Biden, who had previously resisted such a move due to concerns about escalating the war and inviting Russian attacks on NATO nations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has long called for allies to send long-range weapons to strike targets inside Russia. Biden plans to meet with Zelenskiy in the coming weeks to demonstrate US solidarity with Ukraine. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden delivered a speech at an American cemetery in Normandy, marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings in World War II. While not mentioning them by name, Biden rebuked Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, linking the historic backdrop to Ukraine's struggle against Russia's invasion and emphasizing the importance of alliances like NATO in preserving democracy. Biden warned that if Ukraine failed, it would threaten all of Europe. The trip also provided an opportunity for Biden to contrast himself with Trump and deliver a veiled critique of his leadership style. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden is in France to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings at Normandy during World War II. He plans to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy to discuss Ukraine's struggle against Russia's invasion. Biden will also deliver a speech on democracy and freedom, implicitly contrasting his leadership style with that of former President Donald Trump. Additionally, he will visit the Aisne-Marne American Cemetery, which was the subject of a report about Trump's alleged disparagement of US troops. However, Biden's actions outside of Ukraine have strained some relationships with European leaders, particularly regarding Israel's war against Hamas and economic policies that affect European industries. Despite these challenges, Biden aims to rally the world and American voters by evoking the past and emphasizing his commitment to democracy. [Extracted from the article]

(Bloomberg) -- As Singapore embraces the post-Covid era, the city-state's leaders are busy updating rules around hiring foreign workers while tearing down coronavirus restrictions, citing a hypercompetitive battle for global talent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

China is resuming its "panda diplomacy" by sending two pandas, Bao Li and Qing Bao, to Washington's National Zoo by the end of the year. This comes after China took back all the pandas on loan to the US and failed to renew an agreement for them to stay in Washington. The return of the pandas is seen as a sign of China's efforts to improve relations with the US and revive foreign investment. The pandas will stay in Washington until April 2034, and any offspring they produce will remain China's property. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has defended his decision not to send US troops to Haiti, instead opting for a multinational police force led by Kenya. Biden stated that the involvement of American military personnel could complicate the operation and potentially upset other nations in the region. He emphasized that the US would still contribute by providing logistics, intelligence, and equipment. Questions about Kenya's leadership in the mission were raised during a press conference, with Kenyan President William Ruto asserting that the decision was made by Kenya in the interest of global peace and stability. The deployment of the police force has been delayed due to ongoing violence in Haiti, and international leaders have called on the Biden administration to provide more funding and prevent the flow of weapons. Republican lawmakers have criticized Biden's approval of a $60 million military aid package for Haiti without explicit congressional approval. [Extracted from the article]

Top US and Chinese officials recently held a seven-hour meeting in Geneva to discuss the management of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential risks. While the talks did not result in any concrete agreements, they set the stage for continued engagement on AI safety. Both countries expressed a shared desire to prevent nightmare scenarios involving AI, such as a computer-triggered nuclear war. However, the discussions also highlighted the competition between the US and China to dominate AI technology, which has become a new area of rivalry between the two largest economies. The US and China are now vying to write the rules for AI governance and are engaging in conversations at the United Nations and private-sector groupings. The US has rallied support for a UN resolution on promoting safe and trustworthy AI systems, while China is developing its own proposal to bridge gaps between rich and developing nations. The talks in Geneva took place on the same day that the US announced new tariffs on Chinese imports, indicating China's concerns about the potential applications of AI. The US delegation focused on valuation measurements, transparency, and monitoring, while the Chinese delegation emphasized export controls and outbound investment. Despite the lack of concrete outcomes, the dialogue between the US and China on AI is seen as valuable in reducing misunderstandings and misperceptions in an era of intensifying strategic competition. [Extracted from the article]

Lael Brainard, the National Economic Council Director under President Joe Biden, defended new tariffs on Chinese imports, stating that they are necessary to prevent economic turbulence caused by unfair trade practices. Brainard expressed concern about the negative impact of Chinese exports on American manufacturing and job gains. President Biden recently accused China of cheating and announced a set of tariffs on various goods to protect American businesses. However, these tariffs may lead to potential retaliation from China and could raise prices for consumers already dealing with inflation. The International Monetary Fund also criticized Biden's decision, warning that it could harm global trade and growth. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden's top economic adviser, Lael Brainard, is defending the administration's new tariffs on Chinese imports, stating that they are necessary to prevent economic turbulence caused by unfair trade practices. Brainard argues that China is using the same tactics as before to power its own growth, such as investing in industrial overcapacity and flooding global markets with cheap exports. The tariffs, announced by Biden, aim to protect American businesses and industries, but they also pose risks, including potential price increases for consumers and possible retaliation from China. Brainard emphasizes that the US will work with its allies to combat unfair Chinese trade practices. [Extracted from the article]

The US will be sending a delegation of former government officials to Taiwan for the inauguration of President-elect Lai Ching-te. This visit is seen as a way to manage tensions between Taiwan and China. The delegation will be in Taiwan for meetings with leaders and to attend the inauguration. The Biden administration has emphasized that sending delegations to Taiwan is a longstanding practice and has been done in the past to support democratic elections. The US remains concerned about China's non-military coercion and has been engaging in intense diplomacy to minimize conflict. [Extracted from the article]

US officials plan to raise concerns about China's development of artificial intelligence (AI) during talks in Geneva. The meeting, which is the first of its kind, was agreed upon by US President Joe Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping to address security and safety concerns over AI. China's deployment of AI capabilities is seen as undermining national security for the US and its allies. The US will also discuss global regulation of AI and consult extensively with allies. The talks are part of the broader competition between the US, China, and the European Union to set the tone for AI regulation. [Extracted from the article]

China is using the Gaza war as a wedge issue to turn opinion in developing countries against the US, according to US officials and experts. They argue that China is capitalizing on global outrage over the rising death toll and dire humanitarian situation in Gaza to paint America as a major contributor to global insecurity while promoting itself as a force for peace. China is also stoking dissent within the US by using a network of pro-Chinese Communist Party operators to target the Gaza war and flame internal divisions. This effort is part of China's broader strategy to challenge the US-led world order and position itself as an alternate global power. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has addressed the ongoing student protests against the Israel-Hamas war, defending the right to peaceful protest but emphasizing the need for order. He condemned acts of vandalism, trespassing, and disruption of campus activities as not constituting peaceful protest. The protests have caused political challenges for Biden, highlighting divisions within his own Democratic party and eroding confidence in his approach to the conflict. Biden called for a balance between free speech and the rule of law, rejecting calls for National Guard intervention and warning against antisemitic intimidation or threats against Muslim students. University administrators have faced criticism for their response to the protests, with accusations of heavy-handedness and failure to address threats against Jewish students. The protests have become a personal challenge for Biden as he seeks to mobilize young voters and progressives ahead of the general election. Republicans have used the protests to criticize Biden's administration and portray the nation as experiencing lawlessness and disorder. Biden has been pushing for a cease-fire and increased aid to Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis and mitigate the political backlash. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden traveled to Tampa, Florida, to rally against a six-week abortion ban set to take effect in the state. Biden urged Floridians to vote against former President Donald Trump and support a ballot measure that would protect abortion access in the state constitution. He criticized the Florida law as one of the most extreme anti-abortion laws in the US, which was triggered by Trump's appointment of Supreme Court justices who helped overturn Roe v. Wade. Biden's visit to Trump's home state is part of Democrats' efforts to use abortion as a key issue in the upcoming elections. [Extracted from the article]

Secretary of State Antony Blinken will be visiting China next week with a dual mission. He aims to convey US concerns about Chinese companies supporting Russia's war efforts while also maintaining a stable relationship with Beijing. Although China has not provided lethal assistance to Russia, Blinken will warn that the US and its allies are united in opposing China's role. This visit follows a series of high-level meetings between American and Chinese officials as they work to ease tensions. The US is concerned about Chinese companies providing components for cruise missiles and drones, which have aided Russia's defense production in Ukraine. The visit also comes after the Group of Seven foreign ministers expressed similar concerns about Chinese support for Russia's industrial base. The US values these face-to-face meetings as opportunities to advocate for change in China. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden referred to China as "xenophobic" and highlighted their economic challenges during a campaign stop in Pennsylvania. This comes after a phone call between Biden and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where tensions over Chinese investments in manufacturing were discussed. Biden also called for higher tariffs on Chinese steel and aluminum and criticized former President Trump's policies towards China. China's Foreign Ministry responded with a measured tone, questioning whether the US was referring to China or itself. Biden also expressed his commitment to denying China advanced technology like computer chips. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has pledged to strengthen maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines in response to China's assertive actions in disputed waters. Biden assured the allies that the United States' defense commitments to them are unwavering. The Philippines, under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., has taken a more assertive stance against Chinese patrols in the South China Sea, where both countries have competing maritime claims. The trilateral summit between the US, Japan, and the Philippines focused on maritime security and included plans for increased military exercises and joint patrols. China responded by criticizing the defense cooperation and accusing the joint statement of smearing and attacking China. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has pledged to strengthen maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines in response to China's increasing assertiveness in disputed waters. The leaders of the three nations held their first trilateral summit at the White House, where they agreed to enhance military exercises and conduct joint patrols in the Indo-Pacific. The summit focused on maritime security, particularly in the South China Sea, where tensions have risen due to Chinese patrols and incidents involving Chinese Coast Guard ships. The leaders also discussed cooperation in technology, clean energy, and securing supply chains. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has expressed his commitment to strengthening maritime and security ties with Japan and the Philippines in response to China's assertive actions in disputed waters. Biden assured the allies that the United States' defense commitments to both countries are unwavering. The three nations, along with Australia, are planning joint military patrols and training exercises in the South China Sea. The leaders also discussed cooperation on technology, clean energy, securing semiconductor supply chains, and telecommunications. The US aims to offer an alternative to Chinese investments in developing countries through its infrastructure commitments. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden has announced that Japanese astronauts will join future NASA lunar missions, with one becoming the first non-American to land on the moon. This move is intended to strengthen economic and defense ties between the United States and Japan, as well as to compete with China in the race to the moon. The Japanese astronaut will participate in the Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon by 2026. The Biden administration has also made progress in its space diplomacy strategy by collaborating with India on a joint mission to the International Space Station and signing the Artemis Accords with various countries. China, on the other hand, is seeking support for a proposal to establish a research base on the moon in cooperation with Russia. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden is strengthening ties with Japan and the Philippines to counter China's assertiveness in the South China Sea. The leaders will discuss joint military patrols, humanitarian efforts, and maritime training. The US is concerned about China's use of coercive tactics and sees a growing number of countries pushing back. The summit will also address economic security and provide an alternative to China's infrastructure investments. The US is planning to announce projects in the Philippines and investments in underseas cables, logistics, clean energy, and telecommunications in the region. The US is also seeking to strengthen its economic appeal to Southeast Asia and counter negative perceptions of its foreign policy. [Extracted from the article]

Leading technology, finance, and media executives attended a state dinner at the White House to honor Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. The event aimed to strengthen security and economic ties between the US and Japan. The guest list included prominent figures such as Jamie Dimon of JPMorgan Chase, Tim Cook of Apple, and Jeff Bezos of Amazon. Discussions during the visit focused on defense issues and initiatives to enhance partnerships and investment in technology. The dinner featured a three-course meal and entertainment by American singer-songwriter Paul Simon. Celebrities, labor allies, and prominent donors were also in attendance. This state dinner is the fifth of President Joe Biden's presidency and continues the tradition of honoring foreign leaders at the White House. [Extracted from the article]

The US and Japan are set to announce plans for a Japanese astronaut to join a NASA lunar mission, making them the first non-American to do so. The announcement is expected to be made during Prime Minister Fumio Kishida's visit to Washington, signaling stronger economic and defense ties between the two nations and competing with China in the race to the moon. This move follows the Biden administration's success in space diplomacy, including collaborations with India and the signing of the Artemis Accords. China, on the other hand, is seeking support for a research base on the moon but has had limited success in gaining commitments. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida are planning to strengthen their defense alliance with a focus on China. They intend to form a council on defense industries and allow Japanese shipyard workers to perform more maintenance work on US Navy ships. The leaders will discuss defense issues during their meeting, as well as intensify cooperation on security in the Indo-Pacific region. The US sees co-producing the Patriot-3 missile as a potential project for the new council, and the shipyard agreement would save time and costs by having Japanese workers maintain US ships. The leaders will also discuss their efforts to work together on global issues such as Israel's conflict with Hamas, Ukraine's war against Russia, and North Korea's nuclear and missile threats. [Extracted from the article]

President Joe Biden is urging Congress to approve funds for the rebuilding of a collapsed bridge in Baltimore. The bridge collapse resulted in the deaths of six people and disrupted shipping and transportation in the area. Biden visited the site and emphasized the need for federal support to fully restore the bridge and port. He also announced that the nearby Sparrow's Point industrial complex would be expanded with $8 million in federal funds to alleviate disruptions. Major employers in Baltimore, including Amazon, Home Depot, and Domino Foods, have committed to keeping jobs and business in the city. The federal government estimates that the cost of replacing the bridge will be at least $2 billion. Biden has called for a "100 percent federal cost share" for the reconstruction, citing a bipartisan measure passed after a 2007 bridge collapse in Minnesota. The bridge collapse has raised concerns about supply-chain disruptions and the impact on the Baltimore economy. The National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the cause of the ship's crash into the bridge. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping had a phone conversation, their first since their meeting in November. The call focused on various topics, including artificial intelligence, military cooperation, climate change, and drug trafficking. Biden expressed concerns about China's support for Russia's defense industry and emphasized the importance of the rule of law and freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. Xi, on the other hand, raised concerns about US restrictions and sanctions on China's tech sector and warned against US involvement in supporting Taiwanese independence. The leaders agreed to communicate more regularly, and the US is considering a final decision on tariffs on China. [Extracted from the article]

US President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping had a phone conversation, their first one-on-one communication since their meeting in California last November. Despite mutual suspicion and ongoing trade tensions, the leaders have maintained diplomatic stability and have sought common ground on issues such as artificial intelligence and combating illicit drugs. Biden was expected to discuss counter-narcotics efforts and urge China to use its influence with Russia and Iran to enhance stability in Ukraine and the Middle East. The leaders agreed to maintain regular communication, and Biden faces a re-election campaign against Donald Trump, who initiated a trade war with China. [Extracted from the article]