Stories for July 2018

Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 11:11 UTC
UK assumes presidency of G13 group of donors to the development of Guatemala

The UK has assumed the Presidency of the G13, a forum of countries and multilateral organizations representing the largest donors to the development of Guatemala. UK’s six months’ presidency, which starts this month, reflects our desire to keep building a strong relationship with Guatemala, and our shared commitment to peace and prosperity.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:49 UTC
US Congress furious after Trump sides with Putin, saying “no Russian meddling in US elections”

There has been a barrage of criticism in the United States after President Donald Trump defended Russia over claims of interference in the 2016 elections. At a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Finland, on Monday, Trump contradicted US intelligence agencies, saying Russia had no reason to meddle.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:49 UTC
Nicaragua: UN Secretary General deplores and condemns violence against civilians

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday deplored and condemned the ongoing violence against civilians, including against students, in Nicaragua.Speaking on behalf of Mr. Guterres at the UN Headquarters, Deputy Spokesman Farhan Haq told reporters that “the use of lethal force is not only unacceptable but is also in itself an obstacle to obtaining a political solution to the current crisis”.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:41 UTC
Brexit debate: government manages to save Customs Bill, and on Tuesday must defend the Trade Bill

The British government has narrowly avoided a defeat on its Customs Bill after agreeing to Brexiteers' demands to change its wording. It twice survived by just three votes after a backlash from pro-EU Tories who accused Theresa May of “caving in” to the party's Eurosceptic MPs.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:36 UTC
China files WTO case against the US arguing tariffs are an illegal attempt of protectionism

China's Ministry of Commerce announced it is pursuing legal remedy against the U.S. in a brief statement on its website — the latest in an escalating trade conflict between the world's two largest economies.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:35 UTC
Cuban new constitution expected to support foreign investment, free markets and private property

Cuba is planning a series of potentially far-reaching changes, with a new constitution set to recognise the free market and private property, while dividing political powers between a president and a prime minister.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:30 UTC
Brazilian market lowers 2018 economic growth to 1.5%, reveals central bank survey

Brazil's financial institutions on Monday reduced the 2018 economic growth forecast to 1.5%, half the initial estimate issued at the beginning of the year, according to the Central Bank weekly survey. The Focus Bulletin, which interviews analysts and economists from Brazil's financial market every Monday, the country's growth estimate was actually reduced from the previous week's 1.53%.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:30 UTC
Beijing/Washington trade dispute: China exports and surplus grow at solid pace

China’s trade surplus with the United States swelled to a record in June as its overall exports grew at a solid pace, a result that could further inflame a bitter trade dispute with Washington.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:24 UTC
China's growth declines in second quarter; expanding government debt trims Beijing's credit rating

China's economic growth slowed in the quarter ending in June, adding to challenges for Beijing amid a mounting tariff battle with Washington. The world's second-largest economy expanded by 6.7%, down from the previous quarter's 6.8%, the government reported Monday.
Tuesday, July 17th 2018 - 09:03 UTC
Typhoon will remain the quick reaction alert fighter in UK and Falklands airspace

The U.K. has confirmed its commitment to the continued development of the Eurofighter program in accordance with its new Combat Air Strategy. The new doctrine was released by U.K. defense officials on Monday at the Farnborough International Air-show. The strategy indicates that the Eurofighter will be upgraded for decades to come, pending a replacement.