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Nicolas Sarkozy Admits Defeat in Presidential Primary

Diane A. Wade
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Nicolas Sarkozy Admits Defeat in Presidential Primary

France’s former President Nicolas Sarkozy has been knocked out of the first round of the conservatives’ primary to choose the presidential candidate of the center-right Republican party.

Admitting defeat, Nicolas Sarkozy endorsed Francois Fillon, a moderate who finished first in November 20 first round, according to near-complete results.

Nicolas Sarkozy has announced his return to French politics
Nicolas Sarkozy has announced his return to French politics

Alain Juppe, who like Francois Fillon is an ex-prime minister, finished second.

They will face each other in a run-off on November 27. The winner will compete in next year’s presidential election.

The winner of the Republican primary is likely to make the presidential run-off, where he or she will probably face far-right leader Marine Le Pen.

With the governing socialists unpopular and divided, it seems unlikely that any left-wing candidate will survive the first round in April.

Polls currently suggest that the center-right candidate would win the second round in May.

Angela Merkel to Run for Fourth Term in Office

Diane A. Wade
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Angela Merkel to Run for Fourth Term in Office

German Chancellor Angela Merkel has announced that she will run for a fourth term in office.

Speaking at a meeting of her Christian Democratic Union (CDU) in Berlin, Angela Merkel said she expected her toughest campaign to date, and vowed to “fight for our values and our way of life”.

General elections are expected in Germany in 2017.

Angela Merkel’s poll ratings have slipped since the height of her popularity but she retains wide support.Angela Merkel on migrant crisis

The center-right chancellor, who has been in office since 2005, is being challenged by the populist right-wing AfD party.

Angela Merkel announced she would stand again after meeting party leaders at CDU headquarters.

She told reporters that the decision to run for a fourth term had been “anything but trivial after 11 years in office”.

Angela Merkel added that she expected challenges from both the right and the left of the political spectrum.

In September, she accepted responsibility for election defeats for the CDU in several states and conceded that her open-door policy towards migrants was a factor.

Germany expected up to 300,000 refugees to arrive in the country in 2016, the head of the country’s federal office for migration and refugees said earlier this year.

In 2015, Germany received more than a million applications for asylum.

A pastor’s daughter who grew up in communist East Germany, Angela Merkel has run the united country since 2005.

If she wins next year’s elections, Angela Merkel would equal the post-war record set by Helmut Kohl, who was chancellor from 1982 to 1998.

Germany does not have term limits on the country’s top job.

 

India Train Derailment Death Toll Rises to 115

Nancy Clayson
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India Train Derailment Death Toll Rises to 115

According to Indian police, the death toll following the derailment of a train in Uttar Pradesh state has reached at least 115, with more than 150 injured.

Fourteen carriages of the Indore-Patna Express derailed just after 03:00 local time on November 20, near the city of Kanpur.

Rescuers are still trying to reach the injured and recover the dead from the twisted carriages.

The cause of the crash near the village of Pukhrayan is not yet known.

Image source Times of India
Image source Times of India

The Times of India quoted sources as saying a fracture in the track could have been to blame.

The death toll has been rising steadily all day and is expected to increase further.

Most of the victims were located in two carriages near the engine which overturned and were badly damaged.

By late afternoon, rescue workers were still using heavy machinery to try to reach survivors.

Senior railway official Pratap Rai told Reuters: “We are using every tactic to save lives but it’s very difficult to cut the metal carriages.”

Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted: “Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

“Prayers with those injured in the tragic train accident.”

The prime minister said he had spoken to Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu, who was “personally monitoring the situation closely”.

Home Minister Rajnath Singh said that India’s National Disaster Response Force was overseeing the rescue efforts.

Kanpur is a major railway junction and hundreds of trains pass through it every day.

Train accidents are fairly common in India, where much of the railway equipment is out of date. An accident in Uttar Pradesh in March 2015 killed 39 people and injured 150.

In 2015, the government announced investments of $137 billion over five years to modernize and expand the railways.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0bLX8GMBo0

Mike Pence Confirms Mitt Romney Is Considered for Secretary of State

Diane A. Wade
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Mike Pence Confirms Mitt Romney Is Considered for Secretary of State

Mike Pence has confirmed that Donald Trump is considering Mitt Romney for the post of secretary of state, among others.

The VP-elect’s statement, in a Fox News interview, comes after President-elect Donald Trump met Mitt Romney, a Republican who criticized him during the campaign.

There has been speculation that the post of secretary of state was discussed.

Neither man gave details of their meeting on November 20. Mitt Romney said talks had been “far-reaching”.

Photo Facebook
Photo Facebook

Mitt Romney, who ran an unsuccessful campaign against Barack Obama in 2012, met Donald Trump at the president-elect’s golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Mike Pence told the Fox News Sunday: “It was a warm and a substantive exchange and I know he is under active consideration to be secretary of state (…) along with some other distinguished Americans.”

In March, during the Republican primary race, Mitt Romney said Donald Trump had neither “the temperament nor the judgement to be president”, accusing him of bullying, misogyny and dishonesty.

“Prospects for a safe and prosperous future are greatly diminished” if Donald Trump became the nominee, Mitt Romney said.

Donald Trump responded by mocking Mitt Romney, calling him a “failed candidate” and a “choke artist”.

However, media have suggested that the role of secretary of state could be up for grabs. In the past, Mitt Romney has taken a far more critical line on Russia than that suggested by Donald Trump.

Donald Trump has settled several posts so far, a number of them controversial.

Mike Pence was asked about the way he was treated when attending a performance of the Broadway musical Hamilton on November 18.

The audience booed Mike Pence and a cast member read out a letter saying “diverse America” was “alarmed and anxious” at the future administration.

Mike Pence told Fox News Sunday that he was relaxed about it and had said to his daughter during the incident: “That’s what freedom sounds like.”

Hamilton won the 2016 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, along with 11 Tony awards for live theater. Tickets to the show are the most coveted on Broadway, sometimes changing hands for thousands of dollars.

India Train Derailment Kills at Least 100 Near Kanpur

Nancy Clayson
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India Train Derailment Kills at Least 100 Near Kanpur

At least 100 people are reported dead following the derailment of a train in India’s northern Uttar Pradesh state, with more than 150 injured, police say.

Fourteen carriages of the Indore-Patna Express derailed just after 03:00 local time on November 20 near the city of Kanpur.

Rescuers are still trying to reach the injured and recover the dead from the twisted carriages.

The cause of the crash near the village of Pukhrayan is not yet known.

Most of the victims were located in two carriages near the engine which overturned and were badly damaged.

Image source Times of India
Image source Times of India

By afternoon, rescue workers were still using heavy machinery to try to reach survivors.

Senior railway official Pratap Rai told Reuters: “We are using every tactic to save lives but it’s very difficult to cut the metal carriages.”

One passenger whose carriage did not derail told the Associated Press the train was going at normal speed. It stopped suddenly, said Satish Kumar, then restarted shortly before the crash.

Many anxious relatives gathered at the station in Indore, where the train began its journey, holding pictures of loved ones, the Times of India reported.

Indian PM Narendra Modi tweeted: “Anguished beyond words on the loss of lives due to the derailing of the Patna-Indore express. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

“Prayers with those injured in the tragic train accident.”

Narendra Modi said he had spoken to Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu, who was “personally monitoring the situation closely”.

On his own Twitter account, Suresh Prabhu warned that “strictest possible action will be taken against those who could be responsible for accident”.

Suresh Prabhu said an investigation into the crash would begin immediately and compensation would be paid to “unfortunate passengers who died and to injured”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z0bLX8GMBo0

Choi Soon-sil Scandal: President Park Geun-hye Had Role in Corruption Scandal

Diane A. Wade
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Choi Soon-sil Scandal: President Park Geun-hye Had Role in Corruption Scandal

According to South Korean prosecutors, President Park Geun-hye had a “considerable” role in a corruption scandal involving her close confidante Choi Soon-sil.

Speaking after Choi Soon-sil and two of Prak Geun-hye’s aides were charged, Chief Prosecutor Lee Young-ryeol said the president was “involved as a conspirator” but was immune from prosecution.

Park Geun-hye has faced huge protests and opponents have urged her to quit.

The prosecutor said she would be questioned soon.

Image source Wikimedia
Image source Wikimedia

Park Geun-hye, whose approval rating has dropped to 5%, has apologized twice on national TV but has so far resisted calls to resign.

Her office had no comment on November 20. She has previously pledged to cooperate in the investigation but resisted prosecutors’ plans to question her last week, Reuters reported.

South Korea’s parliament has approved a bill to appoint a special prosecutor, who will take over the case from state prosecutors.

South Koreans have reacted angrily to the revelations. The country has witnessed the largest protests since the pro-democracy demonstrations of the 1980s.

Organizers said as many as 500,000 people attended a candlelit rally in the capital this weekend, which brought streets to a standstill for the fourth consecutive Saturday. Police put the figure far lower.

Park Geun-hye is facing growing calls to resign over the scandal. Opposition figures may attempt to impeach her if she refuses to resign in order to protect her immunity.

Choi Soon-sil is accused of trying to extort huge sums of money from South Korean companies, and suspected of using her friendship with Park Geun-hye to solicit business donations for a non-profit fund she controlled.

Also indicted was Ahn Jong-beom, Park Geun-hye’s former senior secretary for policy coordination. Ahn Jong-beom was charged with abuse of authority, coercion and attempted coercion.

The second aide to be charged was Jung Ho-sung, accused of passing classified presidential documents to Choi Spoon-sil, including information on ministerial candidates.

Donald Trump Meets with Fierce Critic Mitt Romney

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Meets with Fierce Critic Mitt Romney

Donald Trump has met Mitt Romney, with reports suggesting he may be considered for secretary of state.

Mitt Romney was one of Donald Trump’s fiercest critics during the election campaign.

Neither man gave details of their 80-minute meeting on November 19.

Mitt Romney said the talks had been “far-reaching”.Mitt Romney Donald Trump indictment

During the campaign, Mitt Romney called Donald Trump a “fraud”, while Trump said Romney’s unsuccessful presidential bid in 2012 had been “the worst ever”.

Donald Trump has settled several posts so far, a number of them controversial.

The nominee for attorney general, Jeff Sessions, was rejected from becoming a federal judge in 1986 because of alleged racist remarks.

Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, the new national security adviser, has drawn concern over his strident views on Islam.

On leaving Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey, Mitt Romney did not answer questions on whether he would accept a cabinet position, or whether he still thought his host was “a con artist”.

Mitt Romney said only that they had held a “far-reaching conversation with regards to the various theatres of the world” in which the US had an interest.

Donald Trump will conduct more meetings with potential appointees at the golf course over the weekend.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HHHgxWsRTp4

Donald Trump Demands Apology over Hamilton Cast’s Letter to Mike Pence

Sonia Pantiss
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Donald Trump Demands Apology over Hamilton Cast’s Letter to Mike Pence

Donald Trump and the cast of Broadway’s Hamilton musical have traded barbs after VP-elect Mike Pence mate was booed at a performance of the show.

The president-elect demanded an apology over a letter read out by a cast member to Mike Pence on November 18. It said “diverse America” was “alarmed and anxious” at the future administration.

Donald Trump tweeted that the cast had been “very rude” and harassed Mike Pence.

The cast member replied by denying that the “conversation” had been hostile.

Mike Pence was jeered by members of the audience before and during a performance in New York. Afterwards cast member Brandon Victor Dixon thanked Mike Pence for attending and read a letter to him on stage.

Image source hamiltonbroadway.com
Image source hamiltonbroadway.com

“We, sir, are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us,” the letter read.

On November 19, Donald Trump tweeted: “Our wonderful future V.P. Mike Pence was harassed last night at the theater by the cast of Hamilton, cameras blazing. This should not happen!”

“The theater must always be a safe and special place. The cast of Hamilton was very rude last night to a very good man, Mike Pence. Apologize!”

Brandon Dixon responded on Twitter by defending his cast mates: “@realDonaldTrump conversation is not harassment sir,” he wrote. “And I appreciate @mike_pence for stopping to listen.”

Some Trump supporters called for people to boycott Hamilton musical, using the Twitter hashtag #boycotthamilton. They were mocked in turn by other Twitter users, who pointed out the futility of attempting to boycott a show for which it is nearly impossible to get tickets.

Some sarcastically urged others to support the ban in the hope it would free up seats.

A staunch conservative, Mike Pence sparked an outcry as governor of Indiana earlier this year, when he signed a law critics said discriminated against the LGBT community by allowing businesses to refuse service over religious beliefs. He later amended the bill.

Mike Pence is not the first high-profile politician to attend the hugely popular Hamilton, which tells the story of founding father Alexander Hamilton.

President Barack Obama saw the musical last year and joined the cast backstage after the performance.

Hillary Clinton, who lost to Donald Trump in last week’s election, also saw the show. She was supported by Hamilton‘s creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, during her campaign.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdulP97BnZY

Mitt Romney to Meet President-Elect Donald Trump

Diane A. Wade
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Mitt Romney to Meet President-Elect Donald Trump

Donald Trump will meet Mitt Romney as he continues to build his transitional team.

Mitt Romney was one of Donald Trump’s severest critics during the election campaign.

Media have speculated the post of secretary of state could be discussed.

During the election campaign, Mitt Romney called Donald Trump a “fraud” and “phony”, while Trump said Romney’s unsuccessful campaign against Barack Obama in 2012 was “the worst ever”.

Donald Trump has settled several posts so far, a number of them controversial.

The nominee for attorney general, Jeff Sessions, was rejected from becoming a federal judge in 1986 because of alleged racist remarks.Mitt Romney Donald Trump indictment

Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, the new national security adviser, has drawn concern over his strident views on Islam.

Also on November 18, Donald Trump settled three lawsuits for fraud brought against him over his Trump University.

He tweeted on November 19 that he had settled “for a small fraction of the potential award because as President I have to focus on our country”.

Donald Trump will be at his golf course in Bedminster, New Jersey, all weekend to conduct more meetings with potential appointees.

The president-elect tweeted: “Will be working all weekend in choosing the great men and women who will be helping to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!”

Asked about the Romney meeting, Sean Spicer, a spokesman for the presidential transition, told reporters: “The president-elect wants the best and brightest people to put this country forward: people who supported him, people who didn’t support him.”

Sean Spicer said Donald Trump usually started conversations by soliciting opinions and thoughts, and then deciding if a candidate warranted appointment.

“The conversation with Mitt Romney is just that: an opportunity to hear his ideas and his thoughts,” he said.

Mitt Romney’s thoughts back in March were decidedly hostile.

The Republican said Donald Trump had neither “the temperament nor the judgement to be president”, accusing him of bullying, misogyny and dishonesty.

“Prospects for a safe and prosperous future are greatly diminished” if Donald Trump became the nominee, he said.

“His promises are as worthless as a degree from Trump University.”

Donald Trump responded by mocking Mitt Romney, calling him a “failed candidate” and a “choke artist”.

However, media suggest the role of secretary of state could be up for grabs, despite former New York mayor Rudy Giuliani being the early frontrunner.

Mitt Romney would certainly be another link to the Republican establishment, following the appointment of party insider Reince Priebus as chief of staff.

The 2012 Republican candidate in the past has taken a far more critical line on Russia than that suggested by Donald Trump.

Ex-ambassador to the UN John Bolton, Tennessee Senator Bob Corker and South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley are also in the running.

Another of those meeting Donald Trump on November 19 will be James Mattis, a retired Marine Corps general being considered for defense secretary.

Gen. James Mattis oversaw military operations in the Middle East from 2010 to 2013 but disagreed with President Barack Obama’s desire for a greater presence in the Gulf.

He is not the only candidate though – Senator Tom Cotton from Arkansas met Donald Trump on November 18, the New York Times reported.

The other key appointments so far are Mike Pompeo as CIA director and Stephen Bannon as chief strategist.

In settling the Trump University class-action lawsuits, Donald Trump “was willing to sacrifice his personal interests, put this behind him, and move forward”, his lawyer said.

Donald Trump had been sued by former students who paid $35,000 for real estate “secrets” from his “hand-picked” instructors.

The lawsuits alleged the school had misled students and failed to deliver on its promises.

In his tweets on November 19, Donald Trump said the only thing bad about his election victory was that he would not be able to win the Trump University case in court.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-srQelO-Po

Mike Pence Booed at Hamilton Performance

Diane A. Wade
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Mike Pence Booed at Hamilton Performance

Mike Pence was booed on November 18 at a performance of the hit musical Hamilton.

After the show, a cast member thanked the vice-president-elect for attending and read a letter to him on stage.

“We, sir, are the diverse America who are alarmed and anxious that your new administration will not protect us,” Brandon Dixon said.

The message was reportedly penned by Hamilton‘s writers when they learned that Mike Pence planned to attend.

Brandon Dixon’s reading was greeted with cheers from the audience at the Richard Rogers Theatre in New York.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

An audience member tweeted to say there was a three-minute standing ovation when one character performed a song directly to Mike Pence which included the lyrics: “A small query for you / What comes next? / You’ve been freed / Do you know how hard it is to lead?”

Mike Pence was loudly booed as he entered the theatre, and audience members said the performance was repeatedly stopped because of jeers.

When Brandon Dixon addressed theatergoers at the end, he urged them not to boo and asked Mike Pence, who was leaving, to stay and listen.

“You know, we had a guest in the audience this evening, and Vice-President-elect Pence, I see you are walking out but I hope you will hear us.

“There’s nothing to boo here, ladies and gentlemen… We have a message for you, sir, and we hope you will hear us out.”

Brandon Dixon continued: “We truly hope that his show has inspired you to uphold our American values and work on behalf of all of us.

“We truly thank you for sharing this wonderful American story told by a diverse group of men and women of different colors, creeds, and orientations.”

A staunch conservative, Mike Pence sparked an outcry earlier this year after signing a law critics said discriminated against the LGBT community by allowing businesses to refuse service over religious beliefs. He later amended the bill.

Mike Pence is not the first high-profile politician to attend the critically-acclaimed and hugely popular Hamilton, which tells the story of US founding father Alexander Hamilton.

President Barack Obama saw Hamilton in 2015 and joined the cast backstage after the performance.

Hillary Clinton, who lost to Donald Trump in last week’s election, also saw the show. She was supported by its creator, Lin-Manuel Miranda, during her campaign.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GMp6WHWJHf4

Sharon Jones Dies from Pancreatic Cancer Aged 60

Sonia Pantiss
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Sharon Jones Dies from Pancreatic Cancer Aged 60

Soul revival singer Sharon Jones has died from cancer at the age of 60.

The singer spearheaded a soul revival movement with her band the Dap-Kings.

Sharon Jones died on November 18 in a New York hospital after a battle with pancreatic cancer, the singer’s representative said.

Image source Wikimedia
Image source Wikimedia

Despite her powerhouse voice, Sharon Jones failed to make a breakthrough for decades until a recording session led to a Dap-Kings album in 2002.

The Dap-Kings later won a Grammy nomination and performed at Glastonbury.

Members of the band were at Sharon Jones’ bedside when she died, her representative, Judy Miller Silverman, said.

The cancer was diagnosed in 2013 but failed to stop Sharon Jones performing during periods of remission.

Barbara Kopple, who directed the documentary Miss Sharon Jones! released this year, said the singer even lit up hospital wards when she was undergoing chemotherapy treatment.

Sharon Jones was born in Augusta, Georgia, in 1956 and sang in gospel choirs and backing bands. However, real success eluded her and she took many jobs, including as a corrections officer at the Rikers Island jail.

A recording session performance led to the formation of the Dap-Kings and the release of Dap-Dippin’ With Sharon Jones and The Dap-Kings in 2002, when Sharon Jones was 46.

Six more albums followed, including the Grammy-nominated Give the People What They Want.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CSyJ-e1wQjk

Donald Trump Pays $25 Million to Settle Three Trump University Lawsuits

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Pays $25 Million to Settle Three Trump University Lawsuits

President-elect Donald Trump has settled three Trump University lawsuits for $25 million, the New York Attorney General has said.

Donald Trump was being sued by former students who paid $35,000 for real estate “secrets” from his “hand-picked” instructors.

He had repeatedly said he would not settle the class-action lawsuits.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said the settlement was a “stunning reversal” by Donald Trump and a “major victory” for victims.

However, Donald Trump’s lawyer Daniel Petrocelli said his client was pleased with the outcome, saying “he was willing to sacrifice his personal interests, put this behind him, and move forward”.

Image source Wikipedia
Image source Wikipedia

The president-elect faced three fraud lawsuits – which alleged the school misled students and failed to deliver on its promises – in California and New York.

A trial in one of the cases had been due to begin in San Diego on November 28, although Donald Trump’s lawyers had attempted to delay the case.

Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said in a statement: “Today’s $25 million settlement agreement is a stunning reversal by Donald Trump and a major victory for the over 6,000 victims of his fraudulent university.

“The victims of Trump University have waited years for today’s result and I am pleased that their patience – and persistence – will be rewarded by this $25 million settlement.”

Eric Schneiderman, who Donald Trump has attacked as a “lightweight”, had sought a $40 million payout from Trump over the university, which closed in 2010.

He called Trump University a “fraud from beginning to end” in July, adding that the organization used “false promises to prey on desperate people”.

District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, who is presiding over the two California cases, had been urging both sides to settle out of court.

In June, Donald Trump said: “I will win the Trump University case. I already am, as far as I’m concerned.

“I could settle that case. I could have settled that case. I just choose not to.”

Trump University promised students the opportunity to learn from “hand-picked” teachers, that actually were not chosen by Donald Trump himself.

Eric Schneiderman alleged that the closest students ever got to the real estate mogul was having their photo taken beside a cardboard cutout of him. He also said that Donald Trump personally pocketed about $5 million in the “scheme”.

Donald Trump Nominates Jeff Sessions as Attorney General

Diane A. Wade
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Donald Trump Nominates Jeff Sessions as Attorney General

President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions as attorney general.

Jeff Sessions, a former prosecutor, was turned down for a federal judgeship in 1986 because of alleged racist remarks.

Donald Trump has also nominated Mike Pompeo as CIA director and retired Lt-Gen Michael Flynn has been appointed national security adviser.

His latest picks were praised on Twitter by David Duke, former leader of the white supremacist KKK group.

In a statement, Donald Trump called Jeff Sessions a “world class legal mind”.

Image source Flickr
Image source Flickr

“Jeff is greatly admired by legal scholars and virtually everyone who knows him,” he added.

Jeff Sessions, 69, said in a statement that he “enthusiastically” embraced Donald Trump’s vision for “one America and his commitment to equal justice under law”.

“I look forward to fulfilling my duties with an unwavering dedication to fairness and impartiality,” he said.

Jeff Sessions and Gen. Michael Flynn, 57, have been close allies of Donald Trump since the early days of his campaign and share many of his views.

Jeff Sessions opposes any path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and was an enthusiastic backer of Donald Trump’s pledge to build a wall on the border with Mexico.

In 1986, Jeff Sessions was nominated by then-President Ronald Reagan for a federal judgeship, but was rejected because of allegations that he had made racist remarks. He strongly denied the claims.

Gen. Michael Flynn, a vocal critic of the Obama administration since he was ousted as director of the Defense Intelligence Agency in 2014, agrees with Donald Trump on renegotiating the Iran nuclear deal, strengthening ties with Russia and intensifying the fight against Islamic extremists.

He once tweeted that fear of Muslims was “rational”.

Kansas Congressman Mike Pompeo, 52, is a supporter of the conservative Tea Party movement. He originally backed Marco Rubio as the Republican candidate but supported Donald Trump after he won the nomination.

Mike Pompeo has also been a fierce critic of Barack Obama’s nuclear deal with Iran, tweeting on November 17: “I look forward to rolling back this disastrous deal with the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQYDYD3z_L0

The Best Places to Visit in Banff National Park

Nancy Clayson
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The Best Places to Visit in Banff National Park

Nature lovers will get a real kick out of a visit to Banff national park. This breathtaking park is Canada’s greatest and oldest (and the world’s third oldest), having been established in the legendary Rocky Mountains in 1885. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff boasts a staggering 6641 square km of astonishing mountain scenery, including emerald lakes, thick forests, flower-filled meadows, glistening glaciers, snow-capped peaks and much more.

 

There is an incredible amount to see and do in the park. Here are a few of the highlights.

 

  • Banff Town – At the south of the National Park you will find the charming town of Banff. A tiny town with epic natural surroundings, Banff is home to a range of restaurants, shops and accommodation. It has a brilliant atmosphere in the summer when it is packed with tourists and skiers.
  • Sulphur Mountain – Take the Sulphur Mountain Gondola to the top of the mountain where you are treated to breathtaking views of the valley. There are a few walking options from the top and a mountain-top restaurant.

    Image source Wikimedia
    Image source Wikimedia
  • Lake Louise – Regarded as the “jewel” of the park, Lake Louise has gorgeous turquoise waters and is surrounded by gigantic snow-capped mountains for a sublime and peaceful setting. The lake is best enjoyed with a canoe trip or a walk along the paved trail which runs along the water’s edge.
  • Plain of Six Glaciers – There are a handful of wonderful hikes starting from Lake Louise, with the Plain of Six Glaciers being one highlight where you will be treated to postcard-esque vistas.
  • Wildlife viewing – The abundance of wildlife in the park is one of the main attractions. Here you can find elk, deer, goats, bighorn sheep, grizzly bears, black bears and dozens more. The best way to see this wildlife is with a tour, which can be arranged by holiday specialists like TrekAmerica.
  • Bow Valley Parkway – This alternative route to the Trans-Canada Highway is 48km long and features a number of camping and picnic sites with stunning views and wildlife spotting opportunities. Castle Mountain towers above the parkway at 2,728 metres. Another highlight, Johnston Canyon, is along the parkway. Here you will find a trail through the canyon with two waterfalls and a group of springs.

 

These are a few of the highlights, but it only scratches the surface of the magnificent Banff national park. Wherever you visit it is sure to be an unforgettable and incredible experience.

Kanye West Says He Would Have Voted for Donald Trump… If He Did

Lisa.Felice
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Kanye West Says He Would Have Voted for Donald Trump… If He Did

Kanye West has told an audience in San Jose he would have opted for Donald Trump if he had voted.

“I told you I didn’t vote,” the rapper said.

“But I didn’t tell you… if I would’ve voted, I would’ve voted on Trump.”

Angry fans responded by booing Kim Kardashian’s husband and throwing items on stage.

Photo Getty Images
Photo Getty Images

Kanye West said he had “loved the debates” between Donald Trump and rival Hillary Clinton and that his “approach was absolutely genius because it… worked”.

He also asked for people to “stop focusing on racism”, saying: “This world is racist, okay. Let’s stop being distracted to focus on that as much. We are in a racist country – period.”

However, Kanye West said his preference did not mean he was any less supportive of women’s rights and the Black Lives Matter movement.

In footage uploaded on social media, Kanye West can be heard saying: “That don’t mean I don’t believe in these things because that is the guy I would’ve voted for.”

Kanye West, 39, was performing in San Jose, California, on November 17 as part of his Saint Pablo tour. His next concert will be held in Sacramento, California, on November 19.

At 2015 MTV Music Video Awards, Kanye West announced that he planned to run for president in 2020.

Shinzo Abe Has Great Confidence in Donald Trump

Diane A. Wade
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Shinzo Abe Has Great Confidence in Donald Trump

The Japanese prime minister has said he has “great confidence” in President-elect Donald Trump and he believes they can build a relationship of trust.

Shinzo Abe described the 90-minute meeting in Trump Tower, New York, as “candid”, with a “warm atmosphere”.

Some of Donald Trump’s campaign rhetoric cast doubt over long-standing US alliances, including with Japan.

The meeting was Donald Trump’s first face-to-face with a world leader since winning the presidential election.

Image source Reuters
Image source Reuters

The United States and Japan have been key allies since the end of World War Two, when the US helped Japan rebuild its economy.

Donald Trump has vowed to scrap the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal, which PM Shinzo Abe strenuously supports as a means of countering China’s growing economic strength.

The deal was approved by the Japanese parliament, despite the likelihood that it would be cancelled when Donald Trump takes office.

The president-elect has also said Japan needs to pay more to maintain US troops on its soil, and has floated the idea that Japan and South Korea should develop their own nuclear weapons to counter the threat from North Korean missiles.

The meeting was reportedly arranged when Shinzo Abe rang Donald Trump to congratulate him, mentioning that he would be passing through New York on the way to an Asia-Pacific trade summit in Peru.

Speaking after the meeting, Shinzo Abe said: “We were able to have a very candid talk over a substantial amount of time. We held it in a very warm atmosphere.

“I do believe that without confidence between the two nations the alliance would never function in the future and as the outcome of today’s discussion I am convinced Mr. Trump is a leader in whom I can have great confidence.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGe1kD55MTY

Philippines Dictator Ferdinand Marcos Buried in Heroes’ Cemetery

Roy Siemens
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Philippines Dictator Ferdinand Marcos Buried in Heroes’ Cemetery

Ferdinand Marcos, the late president of the Philippines, has been buried in the Heroes’ Cemetery in Manila.

The former dictator, who was ousted and forced into exile in 1986, died in the US in 1989.

Ferdinand Marcos had been embalmed and on display in his home city of Batac.

Despite public opposition, his burial follows a decision by the Supreme Court to allow him to be moved to the cemetery.

Image source Wikimedia
Image source Wikimedia

There have been protests against honoring a man blamed for thousands of killings, tortures and abductions.

Former presidents and artists of national significance are among those buried in the cemetery, although most are former soldiers.

In August, President Rodrigo Duterte gave permission for the burial, calling Ferdinand Marcos a “Filipino soldier”.

The court approved it earlier this month and the body was moved to the cemetery without announcement on November 18, surprising opponents of the burial.

The private ceremony was described as “very simple” and “just a family affair” by Police Chief Superintendent Oscar Albayalde, who helped manage security for the event.

He said it was not a state funeral, although Ferdinand Marcos was given a 21-gun salute.

Ferdinand Marcos and his wife, Imelda, ruled the Philippines for 20 years, a large part of it under martial law, before more than a million people took to the streets to overthrow them in what became known as the People Power Revolution.

As well as official brutality, Ferdinand and Imelda Marcos are accused of widespread corruption and the theft of billions of dollars of state funds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pESGRqoS8jQ

The Grand Tour with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May Premieres on Amazon Prime

Clyde K. Valle
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The Grand Tour with Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May Premieres on Amazon Prime

The Grand Tour, Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May’s first show since they left Top Gear has premiered on the Amazon Prime streaming service.

It is the first show to be fronted by the trio since they parted company with the BBC 18 months ago after Jeremy Clarkson punched a producer.

The Grand Tour will see them present from a different location every week.

Image source Amazon
Image source Amazon

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May will be seen embarking on a series of challenges and stunts in a variety of vehicles around the world in the new show, Amazon have said.

The first episode of the series, which aired on November 18, sees the trio take their travelling studio tent to Dry Rabbit Lake in the Mojave Desert in California.

Vehicles featured in the episode included hybrid hyper-cars such as the McLaren P1, the Porsche 918 Spyder and the Ferrari LaFerrari.

The Grand Tour first series will consist of 12 hour-long episodes – with one being made available each week.

A total of 36 episodes across three years have been commissioned by Amazon.

Currently, only fans in the UK, America, Germany and Japan are able to watch the first episode, but Amazon has announced it will be launching the show globally in December.

The new series does not include features such as “star in a reasonably-priced car” or The Stig – as those belong to the BBC’s Top Gear format.

Matt LeBlanc and Chris Evans took over presenting duties on Top Gear after Jeremy Clarkson’s departure, although Evans departed after one series.

Jeremy Clarkson has previously said of The Grand Tour: “I think program one will be all right. I’d be extremely surprised if that was poorly reviewed.”

Nick Gordon Ordered to Pay $36 Million in Bobbi Kristina Brown’s Wrongful Death Case

Lisa.Felice
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Nick Gordon Ordered to Pay $36 Million in Bobbi Kristina Brown’s Wrongful Death Case

Nick Gordon has been ordered by a Georgia judge to pay $36 million in Bobbi Kristina Brown’s wrongful death case, her estate’s lawyers have said.

Whitney Houston’s daughter was found unresponsive in a bath in her Atlanta home in 2015.

Bobbi Kristina Brown’s family accused Nick Gordon of plying her with a “toxic mixture” before putting her face down in the water.

Nick Gordon has not been criminally charged in connection with her death.

However, he was found liable in September following a default judgment in a civil case because he failed to appear in court.

Image source Instagram
Image source Instagram

Nick Gordon did not appear at the civil hearing, nor did he appoint a lawyer, but his legal representatives have previously described the allegations as baseless.

Bobbi Kristina Brown was in a coma for six months before dying in a hospice aged 22 in July 2015 as a result of immersion in water and drug intoxication, according to medical records.

A post-mortem report was unable to determine whether death was due to intentional or accidental causes.

Bobbi Kristina Brown died in similar circumstances to her mother, who also died in a bathtub in 2012 with heart disease and cocaine use listed as contributing factors.

Her estate had been seeking at least $40 million from Nick Gordon in its wrongful death lawsuit against him, which was filed in October 2015.

Nick Gordon was accused of assault, battery, intentional infliction of emotional distress, and transferring money from Bobbi Kristina Brown’s account into his own without authorization.

In a statement after November 17 court order one of the lawyers acting for her family said: “Bobbi suffered such horrific pain and degradation at the hands of Nick Gordon.”

“[He was] the man she loved and trusted. No one should suffer the way she did and the judge sent a strong message in the award of punitive damages that this despicable behaviour is inexcusable and will not be tolerated,” Glenda Hatchett was quoted by Atlanta Alive as saying.

Bobbi Kristina Brown’s father contended his daughter had a major career ahead of her in the entertainment industry before her untimely death.

Bobby Brown said in a statement after yesterday’s ruling that he was pleased with the judgment and called on prosecutors to file criminal charges.

“I do know Mr. Gordon will be unable to slander my daughter’s name in the future or obtain any benefits from the use of Krissy’s name,” NBC News quoted Bobby Brown as saying.

Bobbi Kristina Brown was the only daughter of Whitney Houston and Bobby Brown.

Whitney Houston took in Nick Gordon at the age of 12. He lived with the family for years before he and Bobbi Kristina Brown began a romantic relationship.

James Clapper Announces Early Resignation

Diane A. Wade
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James Clapper Announces Early Resignation

Director of National Intelligence James Clapper has announced he already submitted his letter of resignation.

General James Clapper told the House Intelligence Committee that “it felt pretty good”.

He had been expected to step aside, as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to appoint his own officials.

Analysts believe that James Clapper is sending a signal to the Trump administration that they must now speed up the transition.

President-elect Donald Trump has denied that his transition team is in turmoil, despite having only filled two postings so far.

One of Donald Trump’s close advisers, Kellyanne Conway, told reporters at Trump Tower in New York that announcements would be made before or after Thanksgiving, which is one week away.James Clapper China hacking US government

James Clapper will remain in post until President Barack Obama leaves office.

“I submitted my letter of resignation last night which felt pretty good. I’ve got 64 days left,” he said.

Committee members jokingly asked him to stay for four more years.

James Clapper has authority over 17 different agencies including the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), and the (Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

More than 107,000 employees report to James Clapper with a combined budget of over $52 billion.

In a profile published by Wired magazine only hours before James Clapper’s announcement, he said that he never questioned the morality of his profession.

In his role, James Clapper has often been in the position of defending the National Security Agency (NSA), just one of the covert agencies that his office oversees.

NSA’s image was badly damaged after Edward Snowden revealed how they collect information on American citizens.

During a 2013 congressional hearing, James Clapper was asked: “Does the NSA collect any type of data at all on millions, or hundreds of millions, of Americans?”

“No, sir,” he replied.

“It does not?” the incredulous senator responded.

“Not wittingly,” James Clapper said.

“There are cases where they could inadvertently, perhaps, collect, but not wittingly.”

On November 17, James Clapper was asked if Donald Trump will open up a rapprochement with Russian President Vladimir Putin, but answered that he does not predict a “significant change in Russian behavior”.

James Clapper, 75, has served in the job for six years after previously working for the US Air Force and the Defense Intelligence Agency.

EaseUS Data Recovery Software Review

Nancy Clayson
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EaseUS Data Recovery Software Review

Losing my data is the greatest problem I have ever experienced as a smartphone and computer user.   The data I had lost was precious and priceless.   I had lost both outstanding school and office documents. Also, I had lost great family and friends videos and photos.

How I recovered my lost data

My computer got attacked by virus forcing me to format the computer, although I had not backed up my data. I lost all my data, which was critical, but I started looking for data recovery software to recover my data on the internet. After researching on the various data recovery software, I found many were not trusted by the different users, on giving the best recovery results. easeus

Also, I realized accurate and reliable data recovery software was not free, although they offered some trail period.   Among the software was EaseUS free data recovery software, which was allowed me to recover 2GB of the lost data free.  The EaseUS data recovery software recovered my lost data, and after purchasing the software, I did recover deleted  files  safely.

Besides the EaseUS data recovery software being reliable, I found it every user-friendly. The process of recovering my lost data was very easy. After downloading the software, I performed both quick and deep scan. The scanning was very fast, and the software gave me a preview of all files, I selected all files that were important and pressed the recovery button.

EaseUS is the only software I can recommend if you intend to save the scanning results and resume the recovery next time without scanning again.  Besides, the software has the capacity of recovering lost data from all forms of losing data such as system crash, formatting, partition loss and others.  Also, EaseUS data recovery software can easily recover photos, music, email and documents, within short time and without overwriting like in my case.

If you are experiencing data loss, EaseUS data recovery is the software to use either in a smartphone, computers or any storage device.

Tips on preventing data loss

Before you reach a point of using recovery software, you can prevent data loss through the following tips, which I have been using after recovering my data using free data recovery software.

  • Updating your system always
  • Installing original anti-virus software, which protects your system from virus and malware attack.
  • Creating a password or passcode in your computer system or smartphone to prevent access by anyone.
  • Avoiding un-useful softwares in your computer as they can cause the crashing of your system.
  • Making sure you backup all your useful data. Among the best places to back up your data is Google Drive, One Drive and others, since they provide free space and are safe for storage.

 

Brazil Protests: Demonstrators Storm Chamber of Deputies Demanding Military Coup

Diane A. Wade
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Brazil Protests: Demonstrators Storm Chamber of Deputies Demanding Military Coup

At least 40 demonstrators stormed Brazil’s Chamber of Deputies demanding a military coup.

The protesters scuffled with guards and took over the podium as a session began on November 16.

Denouncing government corruption, protesters called for a return to military rule – which Brazil saw from 1964 to 1985.

In Rio de Janeiro, police fired tear gas at public sector workers protesting against cuts.

Demonstrators swept past security guards and smashed a glass door to get into the parliament chamber, where they shouted “general here, general here” and sang the national anthem.

According to Reuters, it took police three hours to round up all the protesters.They were all detained.

Later in the day, President Michel Temer’s spokesman, Alexandre Parola, called the protest an “affront” and said it was a “violation of the norms of democratic co-existence.”

Public confidence in Brazilian institutions has been eroded by a massive corruption scandal and the impeachment of President Dilma Rousseff.

Michel Temer was Dilma Rousseff’s vice-president before being promoted after her dismissal.

Last week Dilma Rousseff filed court documents accusing Michel Temer of accepting a large bribe. Michel Temer’s party says the money was a legal campaign donation.

Brazil was one of several Latin American nations where the military overthrew democratic governments in the 1960s and 70s.

The generals said they were countering the very real threat of a communist insurgency and had support from a considerable part of Brazil’s elite.

The military regime detained, tortured – and in some cases – killed its opponents, while overseeing rapid economic growth.

Also on November 16, protesters gathered outside the state legislature where austerity plans to tackle the city’s financial crisis were being debatedbrazil-crisis

Police fired tear gas, rubber bullets and stun grenades into a crowd of about 2,000 protesters, ranging from teachers to off-duty police officers, AFP reported.

Brazil has been hit by a drop in global oil and commodity prices and declared a financial emergency ahead of the Rio Olympics earlier this year.

Many public workers have not been paid in months.

Ellen DeGeneres and Other Stars Set to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

Sonia Pantiss
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Ellen DeGeneres and Other Stars Set to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

Ellen DeGeneres and other stars are set to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest US civilian honor.

The medal recognizes people who have made “especially meritorious contributions” to the United States, the White House said.

President Barack Obama will honor the 21 people at a ceremony on November 22.

Ellen DeGeneres is joining HGTV with a six-episode competition series

The president said the medal was a “tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better”.

“From scientists, philanthropists, and public servants to activists, athletes, and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way.”

Bruce Springsteen, Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro, Diana Ross and Robert Redford are among the other honorees from the entertainment world.

Bill and Melinda Gates and SNL producer Lorne Michaels will also be recognized.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to people who have contributed to the security or national interests of the US, the White House said.

It also rewards people who have contributed to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.

Honorees from the sports world include basketball players Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, along with veteran sports broadcaster Vin Scully.

Architect Frank Gehry, attorney Newt Minow, designer Maya Lin, polymath physicist Richard Garwin, mathematician and computer scientist Margaret H. Hamilton and Eduardo Padron, and president of Miami Dade College in Florida will also receive the medal.

Posthumous honors will go to Native American advocate Elouise Cobell and Rear Admiral Grace Hopper.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XLc9RBpWz58

Setting Yourself Up For the Best Online Lending Options

Dana R
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Setting Yourself Up For the Best Online Lending Options

Online lending makes loans available to all kinds of people, even people with bad credit. It doesn’t matter who you are; you can probably find an online lender willing to let you borrow their money. But this doesn’t mean that the loan you find will have the best possible terms. It’s likely that it will be very expensive, actually. So if you want a good loan online and don’t want to pay an arm and a leg for it, here are a few ways to set yourself up for success.

Image result for Best Online Lending Options

First of all, you’ve got to make sure that you look good to the lender. This involves taking a careful look at your own credit history. Many people have never checked out their credit histories before, but this doesn’t mean that this same credit history isn’t dictating important events in their lives. A credit history is a record of all of a consumer’s credit actions. These histories are recorded by three independent Credit Reporting Agencies. Each Agency is regulated by the US government, but is independent of the US government in terms of operation and staffing. Each one has a unique algorithm by which they determine credit scores for each American consumer. If you want to find a great online loan, it’s best to first understand how you’re doing in this respect.

Every year, you can get your credit score for free from a site enabled by the US government. Your score will be a three digit number. Anything over 700-750 is good or great. Anything below that, especially scores in the 600’s, 500’s, or lower, is fair to bad. Your credit score is a quick way for lenders to determine what kind of borrower you are. Lenders want to get their money back. If they see that your credit score is low, they assume that you will be unlikely to pay back the loan on time, or at all. They will either deny you a loan, or will make the loan so expensive that it’s hardly worth taking part in.

Your credit score is a short way to sum up the contents of your credit history. The credit history is an exhaustive record of everything that has happened in your credit life within the past several years (up to seven). If you have been responsible with your credit, your credit history will be sterling. But if you have let credit account go unpaid or have not taken part in any credit behaviors at all, your credit history will be wanting. This is turn will lower your credit score and limit the good options you have from online lenders.

If you have a bad credit history, it is best to deal with it before seeking out a loan, if at all possible. This may require you to dispute negative credit history marks, or to pay off old debts. Credit histories and scores recover pretty quickly, so if you give this the attention it deserves, you can see it rebound in little time. This, in turn, will make the online lending options available to you much more affordable and attractive. People who seek out loans online don’t always have a lot of time, but if they do it’s always good to work to make their personal criteria optimal for the typical online lender.

Salvează

Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe Becomes First World Leader to Meet President-Elect Donald Trump

Diane A. Wade
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Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe Becomes First World Leader to Meet President-Elect Donald Trump

The first foreign leader to meet President-elect Donald Trump is Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe.

The Japanese prime minister said he wanted to “build trust” and “work together for prosperity and world peace”, before leaving for his trip.

The New York meeting on November 17 comes amid concern over the foreign policy direction of Tokyo’s biggest ally.

Donald Trump has said Japan needs to pay more to maintain US troops on its soil.

Image source india.com
Image source india.com

During his campaign, the Republican candidate also condemned a major trade deal struck by President Barack Obama with Japan and other Pacific Rim countries.

The US and Japan have been key allies since the end of World War Two, when the US helped Japan rebuild its economy.

Shinzo Abe is stopping in New York on his way to an Asia-Pacific trade summit in Peru.

However, details of today’s meeting are unclear, with a Japanese official saying exactly where it will happen has not been firmed up.

“There has been a lot of confusion,” a Japanese official told Reuters.

Donald Trump has also yet to select his new cabinet and other positions. He has denied that the transition to the White House is in a disarray.

The president-elect and Vice President-elect Mike Pence have spoken with 29 world leaders since the election, according to a statement from the transition team.

It remains unclear who else might be at the meeting with PM Shinzo Abe.

High-level talks are rarely held in such an informal context and Tokyo is keen to minimize uncertainty during the long handover of power.

Senior Japanese foreign ministry official Tetsuya Otsuru said about meeting: “We want to safeguard our alliance with the United States during the transition.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NxFQ2kM1sf4

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