COVID-19 - Daily News

10 November 2020 Military News

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Defense Policy / Programs
Defense Industry
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Current Operations

Readout of the Global Coalition to Defeat ISIS Meeting on West Africa US Dept. of State 10 Nov 2020

Taliban Calls On U.S. President-Elect Biden To Stick To Doha Peace Deal RFE/RL Gandhara 10 Nov 2020 -- The Taliban has called on U.S. President-elect Joe Biden to stick to a February peace agreement between the militant group and the United States, describing its implementation as the "the most reasonable and effective tool" for ending the war in Afghanistan.
Afghan Taliban urge Biden to uphold US troop withdrawal deal Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Afghanistan's Taliban militant group has called on the "future administration" of US President-elect Joe Biden to abide by the outgoing President Donald Trump administration's deal to pull out American troops from the war-ravaged country.
Afghan Forces Prevent Two Separate Car Bomb Attacks Planned by Taliban Militants, Military Says Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- The Afghan forces have thwarted two car bomb attacks planned by the Taliban*, the Maiwand 215th Corps said in a Tuesday statement.
Key Al-Qaida Leader Killed in Western Afghanistan VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Authorities in Afghanistan said Tuesday an intelligence-led security operation had killed a key al-Qaida leader in a western region close to the Iranian border.

Defense Policy / Programs

DOD Statement on Personnel Changes at the Pentagon DoD 10 Nov 2020 -- As announced yesterday, November 9, President Trump has designated the National Counter Terrorism Center Director, Chris Miller, as the Acting Secretary of Defense. Mr. Miller took over those functions and responsibilities mid-day yesterday. Deputy Secretary of Defense David Norquist remains in his position and continues to execute his responsibilities.
Pentagon Policy Chief Resigns Following Esper Firing VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Another top U.S. Pentagon official is leaving his post, a day after the termination of Defense Secretary Mark Esper.
Esper's firing signals possible 'waves of dismissals and resignations' over next 70 days Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- US President Donald Trump's dismissal of Defense Secretary Mark Esper is not merely an abrupt personnel change before his presidential term expires, but signals turbulence before January 20, 2021, when the new president takes over.
Trump may fire heads of the CIA and FBI: Report Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- US President Donald Trump's decision to abruptly fire his defense secretary has raised fears that he will remove other key national security officials in the wake of the disputed presidential election.
Trump fires Defense Secretary Mark Esper People's Daily 10 Nov 2020 -- U.S. President Donald Trump said on Monday that he has fired Defense Secretary Mark Esper.

Air Force update for COVID-19 US Air Force 10 Nov 2020
COVID-19 Forces DOD to Adapt, Innovate DoD News 10 Nov 2020 -- The Defense Department moved quickly in response to the coronavirus pandemic and is already planning on the follow-on computing/data needs, said John Sherman, the DOD's principal deputy chief information officer.
Millinocket Represents U.S. in Exercise with Bangladesh US Navy 10 Nov 2020 -- The Spearhead-class expeditionary fast transport USNS Millinocket (T-EPF 3) took part in the annual Cooperation and Readiness Afloat Training exercise, known as CARAT Bangladesh.
Tippecanoe Crew Reflects on Keen Sword Lessons Learned US Navy 10 Nov 2020 -- After every military evolution, there's usually a "hotwash," also known as an after-action review – basically, a time to determine what worked well, what can be improved, and how lessons learned will impact operations going forward.
NAVSUP Yokosuka Supports Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group US Navy 10 Nov 2020 -- Naval Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) Fleet Logistics Center (FLC) Yokosuka performed a barge-loading operation onboard Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) in support of the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group.
USS Antietam Returns to Yokosuka Following 260-day Deployment US Navy 10 Nov 2020 -- The crew of the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54) returned to Naval Station Yokosuka following a successful deployment.
Andersen AFB holds Exercise Sling Stone 21-1 US Air Force 10 Nov 2020 -- Andersen Air Force Base personnel conducted an antiterrorism/force protection exercise dubbed Sling Stone 21-1 with its Joint Region Marianas partners to strengthen the base's ability to respond to security threats Nov. 5.
U.S., Colombia armies begin PISAJ 14 Army News 10 Nov 2020 -- U.S. Army South held an opening ceremony for the first virtual iteration of the semi-annual military-to-military engagement, "Programa Integral para Suboficiales de Alta Jerarquía," or PISAJ on Nov. 9 at the Army South Headquarters.
US and Chinese Armies Conduct Virtual Collaboration on HA/DR Army News 10 Nov 2020 -- Soldiers from U.S. Army Pacific (USARPAC) and the People's Republic of China (PRC) People's Liberation Army (PLA) will participate in a virtual Disaster Management Exchange (DME) from Schofield Barracks, Hawaii, Nov. 10-12.
DOD Working With Industry to Ramp Up 5G Network Innovation DoD News 10 Nov 2020 -- The introduction of 5G network technology helps restore military readiness, builds a more lethal force, expands and strengthens alliances and partnerships and brings business reform to the department, a Defense Department official said.
Rules Describe Permitted, Prohibited Post-Election Activities DoD News 10 Nov 2020 -- The 2020 election cycle is almost over. However, the rules that limit the political activities of federal government employees and service members still apply.
SECNAV Names Future Expeditionary Sea Base USS John L. Canley USMC News 10 Nov 2020 -- Secretary of the Navy Kenneth J. Braithwaite announced Nov. 10 that a future U.S. Navy Expeditionary Sea Base class ship will honor Medal of Honor Recipient Marine Corps Sergeant Major (Retired) John L. Canley.
NATO, Pentagon's DARPA Designing 'Drifter' Device to Watch Entire Oceans Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- The Pentagon's chief experimental research agency and the NATO alliance's maritime research center have partnered to design a network of floating devices that can map and monitor the conditions and contents of entire oceans.

NATO Secretary General stresses importance of nuclear disarmament. NATO 10 Nov 2020 -- Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on Tuesday (10 November 2020) said that the world needs to urgently pursue nuclear arms control and disarmament but cautioned that this had to happen in a balanced, reciprocal and verifiable way.

Meeting with senior Defence Ministry officials, heads of federal agencies and defence industry executives President of Russia 10 Nov 2020 -- The President opened a new series of meetings with senior officials from the Defence Ministry, federal agencies and defence industry.
Putin: Russia Won't Join Arms Race, But Will Continue Upgrading Nuclear Arsenal to Tackle Threats Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Moscow presented several new cutting-edge weapons in 2018, many of which had no equivalents in the world at the time. Among them were a prototype of a nuclear-powered missile and a missile capable of flying at a speed of Mach 10.

Cambodian Defense Chief Defends Demolition of Second US-Funded Building at Ream Naval Base Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- Cambodia's Minister of Defense Tea Banh on Tuesday confirmed that a second U.S.-funded building at Ream Naval Base in the southwestern coastal city of Sihanoukville has been torn down and defended the move, despite growing tensions with Washington amid reports of Chinese-backed development at the site.

Photos: China May Have New Anti-Radar Missile for Suppressing Enemy Air Defenses Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Photos recently posted on social media from a People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) recruitment video seem to show a new anti-radiation missile under the wings of a J-11BS fighter jet, signaling that China may have a potent new weapon for hunting enemy radars.

Joint Statement on Host Nation Support US Dept. of State 10 Nov 2020 -- The text of the following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America and Japan on the beginning of formal negotiations on Host Nation Support.

S.Korea to launch 2nd homegrown 3,000-ton submarine People's Daily 10 Nov 2020 -- South Korea's military planned to launch its second homegrown 3,000-ton diesel-powered submarine, Yonhap news agency reported Tuesday citing the country's navy.

Falklands finally landmine free thanks to UK-funded team UK FCDO 10 Nov 2020 -- A UK-funded programme which started in 2009 has completed its dangerous mission to de-mine the Falkland Islands three years ahead of schedule.

U.S. Approves Advanced Defense Capabilities for the United Arab Emirates US Dept. of State 10 Nov 2020 -- The United Arab Emirates is a longtime vital U.S. security partner. Today, I directed the Department to formally notify Congress of our intent to authorize the UAE's proposed purchase of several advanced capabilities that are worth $23.37 billion, for up to 50 F-35 Lightning II aircraft, valued at $10.4 billion; up to 18 MQ-9B Unmanned Aerial Systems, valued at $2.97 billion; and a package of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, valued at $10 billion.
United Arab Emirates - MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft DSCA 10 Nov 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates of MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft and related equipment for an estimated cost of $2.97 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
United Arab Emirates - F-35 Joint Strike Fighter DSCA 10 Nov 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters and related equipment for an estimated cost of $10.4 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
United Arab Emirates - Munitions, Sustainment and Support DSCA 10 Nov 2020 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the United Arab Emirates of Munitions, Sustainment and Support, and related equipment for an estimated cost of $10.0 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
Trump administration approves $23 billion weapons package for UAE Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- The outgoing administration of US President Donald Trump has formally notified Congress of its approval to sell the United Arab Emirates (UAE) $23.4 billion in weapons, including dozens of F-35 fighter jets and armed drones.
Mike Pompeo: US Gov't Greenlights Military Equipment Sale to UAE, Including Up to 50 F-35 Jets Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- It is unclear if the Congress will try to prevent the sale of the weapons to the Gulf state, which might contradict a legal obligation of the US to ensure that Israel maintains a "qualitative military edge" over the rest of the regional powers.

INDIAN ARMY HANDS OVER 20 FULLY TRAINED MILITARY HORSES AND 10 MINE DETECTION DOGS TO BANGLADESH ARMY India PIB 10 Nov 2020 -- In an endeavour to further strengthen the bilateral relations between the two Countries in general and between the two Armies in particular, the Indian Army gifted 20 fully trained military horses and 10 mine detection dogs to Bangladesh Army. These equines and canines were trained by the Remount and Veterinary Corps of Indian Army. The Indian Army has also trained Bangladesh Army personnel for training and handling these specialist dogs and horses.

Secretary Michael R. Pompeo at a Press Availability US Dept. of State 10 Nov 2020
The Promise of America US Dept. of State 10 Nov 2020 -- Speech by Michael R. Pompeo, Secretary of State

Defense Industry

Contracts For Nov. 10, 2020

Other Conflicts

10 November 2020 - Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General United Nations 10 Nov 2020

Why US Wants to Send Coast Guard to the Seas Near China VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- A U.S. plan to steer Coast Guard vessels toward waters frequented by Chinese vessels will bulk up Washington's resolve to contain Beijing's maritime expansion without inviting a hot conflict, analysts believe.

EU refuses to attend international conference on Syrian refugees Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- The European Union (EU) has refused to attend an international conference aimed at putting an end to the suffering of Syrian refugees and facilitating their return to their homeland.
Turkey withdraws from another base in northwest Syria: Report Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Turkish troops have reportedly withdrawn from a second military base in northwestern Syria, as territory held by Turkish-backed militants further shrinks in the Arab country.
US imposes new sanctions on Syria's oil sector, MPs, intel officers Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- The United States has imposed a new round of sanctions targeting Syria's oil sector, lawmakers and intelligence officers over providing support to President Bashar al-Assad, vowing no let-up in pressure to cut off funds for the Damascus government amid its gains against foreign-backed terrorists on the ground.
U.S. imposes fresh sanctions against Syrian officials, entities People's Daily 10 Nov 2020 -- The United States on Monday announced more than a dozen sanctions against Syrian entities and military officials to further pressure the Syrian government.

ICC Prosecutor calls for Libya ceasefire progress, decries 'powerful forces' hampering global justice UN News 10 Nov 2020 -- The Prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC) is urging Libya's warring parties to implement their recent historic ceasefire agreement, calling it a "welcome concrete development" for a population that has been yearning for peace.

Statement by the President of Russia President of Russia 10 Nov 2020 -- President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Today, on November 9, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia Nikol Pashinyan have signed a statement on a complete ceasefire and the termination of hostilities in the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict zone as of midnight, Moscow time, on November 10, 2020.
Statement by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and President of the Russian Federation President of Russia 10 Nov 2025
As Guns Fall Silent In Nagorno-Karabakh, There's One Winner In The Conflict You Might Not Expect RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Who's the big winner in the Nagorno-Karabakh peace deal?
Azerbaijan Celebrates 'Victory,' Armenia In Crisis After Nagorno-Karabakh Deal RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Still euphoric over the capture of a vital city from Armenian forces, Azerbaijanis celebrated on the streets of Baku after a Russian-brokered deal was signed late on November 9 aimed at ending the war over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Russian Peacekeepers Deploy To Nagorno-Karabakh After Truce As Political Crisis Hits Armenia RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Russian peacekeepers are on their way to Nagorno-Karabakh to be deployed as part of an agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia to halt six weeks of military conflict over the breakaway region.
Angry Mob Assaults Armenian Lawmaker, Threatens RFE/RL Bureau Following Nagorno-Karabakh Truce RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Armenia's ombudsman, Arman Tatoyan, has condemned the violence by protesters amid unrest triggered by the signing of a Russian-brokered agreement with Azerbaijan to end fighting over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh.
Unrest, Political Crisis Hit Armenia Over Nagorno-Karabakh Losses RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Armenia was plunged into political crisis after opposition groups called on Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian to resign and a night of unrest over a Russian-brokered agreement with Azerbaijan to end fighting over the breakaway region of Nagorno-Karabakh left the fate of the deal uncertain.
Russia Brokers Armenia-Azerbaijan Cease-Fire VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Russia announced it had brokered a lasting cease-fire deal between Armenia and Azerbaijan over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh territory early Tuesday — the Kremlin's latest attempt to end six weeks of intense fighting in the south Caucasus that risked pulling both Russia and Turkey directly into the conflict.
Russia to deploy peacekeepers in Nagorno-Karabakh after ceasefire Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- Russia will deploy peacekeepers in the Nagorno-Karabakh region as a "complete ceasefire" starting Tuesday was reached by Azerbaijan and Armenia, Russian President Vladimir Putin said Monday night.
Iran welcomes Armenia-Russia-Azerbaijan agreement on Nagorno-Karabakh IRNA 10 Nov 2020 -- The Iranian Foreign Ministry expressed the country's content about the signing of an agreement among Russia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia to end the war in Nagorno-Karabakh.
Official welcomes end of Nagorno-Karabakh conflict IRNA 10 Nov 2020 -- Head of Iran's Presidential Office Mahmoud Vaezi in a tweet on Tuesday expressed hope that the agreement reached for the ceasefire about the Nagorno-Karabakh crisis would be implemented.
Iran welcomes agreement between Azerbaijan, Armenia, Russia ISNA 10 Nov 2020 -- The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomed a ceasefire agreement between Azerbaijan, Armenia and Russia.
Iran welcomes Armenia-Azerbaijan ceasefire agreement Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Iran has welcomed the recent agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan to cease fire in the Nagorno-Karabakh region and offered to help establish lasting peace.
Russia deploys peacekeepers to Nagorno-Karabakh as war draws to close Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Russia's President Vladimir Putin says Russian peacekeepers are being deployed to the disputed region of Nagorno-Karabakh, following a new ceasefire agreement between Azerbaijan and Armenia.
Macron: France Demands Turkey Stop All Provocations Vis-a-Vis Nagorno-Karabakh Standoff Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- The Elysee's statements follow a number of fiery exchanges between French President Emmanuel Macron and his Turkish couterpart Recep Tayyip Erdogan, including on the issue of the ethnic Armenian enclave Nagorno-Karabakh, and threats of Islamist terrorism.
Ceasefire in Nagorno Karabakh: Key Points of Deal to Stop Hostilities Between Armenia and Azerbaijan Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Yerevan agreed to engage in negotiations with Baku after Azerbaijani forces managed to seize control over a number of territories in the Nagorno-Karabakh region, coming close to the capital of the self-proclaimed republic.
Active Hostilities on Nagorno-Karabakh Frontline Have Stopped, Armenian MoD Says Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a joint declaration on a new ceasefire in Nagorno-Karabakh, which came into force earlier on Tuesday.
Azerbaijan accidentally downs Russian helicopter in Armenia People's Daily 10 Nov 2020 -- Azerbaijan apologized for accidentally shooting down a Russian Mi-24 military helicopter near the Azerbaijan-Armenia border on Monday, which killed two Russian servicemen.
Aliyev Called Putin to Apologise for Incident With Russian Helicopter on Armenian-Azerbaijani Border Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- The Russian military earlier said its Mi-24 helicopter was downed from a man-portable air defence system (MANPADS) over the territory of Armenia, which Azerbaijan has claimed responsibility for, saying it shot down the aircraft by mistake.

Israel to send first delegation to Sudan to 'firm up' normalization deal: Report Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Israel reportedly plans to send a first delegation to Sudan in the coming days to "firm up" a declared normalization deal between Tel Aviv and Khartoum.
Israel to Send First Delegation to Sudan After Normalising Ties, Media Reports Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Since September 2020, Tel Aviv has normalised ties with three new Arab states, mediated by the US, after decades without progress in regards to the Jewish state's recognition by regional powers.

UN agency for Palestine refugees runs out of money as COVID-19 spreads UN News 10 Nov 2020 -- The UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNWRA) has run out of cash on hand to keep vital services going amid the worsening health emergency, UNRWA spokesperson Tamara Alrifai told a regular UN press briefing in Geneva on Tuesday.
Senior PLO official, veteran negotiator Saeb Erekat dies of COVID-19 Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Senior Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) official and veteran Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat has died of COVID-19. He was 65.
Senior Palestinian Negotiator Saeb Erekat Dies of COVID-19 VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Chief Palestinian negotiator Saeb Erekat died Tuesday of COVID-19 after weeks in an Israeli hospital.

Video: Turkey Launching Program for Country's First Armed Unmanned Surface Vessel Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Turkish defense companies Meteksan Defense Inc. and Ares Shipyard have teamed up to construct Ankara's first armed unmanned surface vehicle (AUSV), complete with artificial intelligence.

Ethiopia's Defense Force seizes airport in Humera amid Tigray tension Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- In Ethiopia, the National Defense Force has seized the airport in the town of Humera in line with the government's military response to the rebel Tigray People's Liberation Front (TPLF).

6 Nigerians Sentenced for Funding Boko Haram Terrorist Group VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Six Nigerians are facing prison terms of ten years to life after a federal appeals court in the United Arab Emirates upheld their convictions for funding the terrorist group Boko Haram.

News Reports

Biden: 'Embarrassment' That Trump Has Not Conceded Election Loss VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- U.S. President-elect Joe Biden said Tuesday he is not worried about President Donald Trump's refusal to concede after last week's national election, but that he thinks it is an "embarrassment" for Trump and the country.
US Election Results Dismay Trump's Populist Allies in Europe VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- There was undisguised glee among Europe's liberals and centrists when Joe Biden was projected the winner of the race for the White House. But for the continent's populist nationalists, including a group of national leaders in Central Europe, the election outcome has prompted dismay, and some foreboding.

Peru Lawmakers Set to Swear-in New Leader After Voting to Remove President From Office VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Peruvian legislators are set to swear-in a new leader Tuesday, a day after voting overwhelmingly to oust the country's popular president, Martin Vizcarra.
Peru's president impeached out of office over corruption Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Peru's President Martin Vizcarra has been ousted by the country's legislators in an impeachment vote over corruption, prompting tensions in the Latin American country.
Violent Protests Erupt in Peru's Lima After Congress Impeaches President Vizcarra - Videos Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Without waiting for the impeachment proceedings to start, Vizcarra decided to announce his resignation on Monday evening, as less than a year was left until his presidential term is over.
Peru Congress Votes to Impeach President Martin Vizcarra Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- Vizcarra was accused of abusing power, namely for allegedly giving away controversial state contracts in the Mokegua region in 2011-2014, at the time he was the region's governor.

EU Leaders Urge 'Rapid and Coordinated' Response to Terror Attacks VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- After the recent terror attacks in France and Austria, European leaders held a summit Tuesday in France to coordinate the response against terrorism, and they are pushing for a "common coordinated and rapid" European response to counterterror attacks.

American Mom Who Joined IS Sentenced to More Than 6 1/2 Years in Prison VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- The lone woman brought back to the United States and charged with supporting the Islamic State terror group will spend the next six and a half years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

Putin Says 'External Pressure' On Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, Moldova 'Unacceptable' RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin has said "attempts to exert foreign pressure" in Belarus, Kyrgyzstan, and Moldova are "unacceptable."

SCO members to be 'more united in post-Trump era' Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday attended a virtual meeting of the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) via video link hosted by Russia, which holds the rotating SCO presidency this year.
President Xi emphasizes multilateralism, joint efforts among SCO countries amid COVID-19 Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- China's top leader emphasized that the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member countries should adhere to multilateralism amid the COVID-19 pandemic, shedding light on the joint efforts needed to safeguard the international order, suggesting that China will actively consider the COVID-19 vaccine needs of SCO member countries.
Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Wang Wenbin's Regular Press Conference on November 10, 2020 PRC MofA 10 Nov 2020
Contenders for key posts in Biden's cabinet hint tougher stance on China: experts Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- After Democrat Joe Biden was declared victory for the US presidential election on Saturday night, US media have presented lists of contenders for the new cabinet in recent days and Chinese experts said that the candidates for key posts which would greatly influence the China-US ties under the new administration hint a tougher stance on pressuring China with varied and flexible tactics if Biden is officially confirmed as the new president.
Hong Kong suspends fugitive offender agreement with Netherlands, Ireland Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- The HKSAR govt announced it would suspend the fugitive offenders agreement and mutual legal assistance on criminal matters between the SAR, the Netherlands and Ireland, in opposition to the their interference in China's internal affairs regarding the National Security Law.
HK officials shrug off US sanctions, vow to continue protecting national security Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- The US has imposed sanctions on four more Chinese officials in the Chinese mainland and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) over the Hong Kong issue, which Hong Kong Chief Secretary called "barbaric." The sanctioned officials shrugged off the sanctions, and pledged to continue to safeguard the security of Hong Kong in the future.
China decries US 'barbaric' interference over Hong Kong sanctions Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- China has decried the United States for "barbaric" interference in the internal affairs of Hong Kong, after Washington imposed new sanctions on four more Chinese officials over the national security law enacted in the semi-autonomous city.
Hong Kong Journalist Says Her Arrest Isn't Just a Personal Matter Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- An investigative journalist arrested by Hong Kong police after she made a documentary exposing their handling of the July 21, 2019 mob attacks on train passengers in Yuen Long has been released on bail, pending a further court hearing in January.
China Jails Activist Who Helped Huang Qi's Mother For 'Terrorism' Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- A court in the Chinese capital has handed down a three-and-a-half year jail term to a veteran rights activist after finding him guilty of "terrorism."
China follows international conventions to engage with incoming US administration Global Times 10 Nov 2020 -- While some world leaders rush to congratulate Democrat Joe Biden on his victory in the presidential election, China is sticking to its long-standing tradition of reaching out to the incoming administration and may wait until the election result is confirmed, in a move, experts say, out of respect for international norms and the US.
Uyghur Businessman Faces Deportation to Xinjiang by Saudi Authorities Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- A Uyghur businessman who is a legal resident of Turkey and recently became stranded in Saudi Arabia because of coronavirus travel restrictions is being hunted by Saudi authorities for deportation to China, where he faces persecution, he told RFA's Uyghur Service.

Chinese anti-submarine plane enters Taiwan's ADIZ CNA 10 Nov 2020 -- A Chinese military Y-8 anti-submarine plane entered Taiwan's southwest air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Tuesday morning, the 37th such maneuver since mid-September, according to Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND).
U.S. ambassador, lawmakers call for Taiwan's WHA inclusion CNA 10 Nov 2020 -- The United States mission to the United Nations in Geneva and American lawmakers called for Taiwan to be included in the annual World Health Assembly (WHA) that began Monday without the participation of Taiwan.

North Koreans Told to Join 'Food-Saving Struggle' to Combat Shortages Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- North Korea is encouraging people to conserve food, and punishing those who waste it, as part of a national campaign to solve shortages made worse by recent floods, sources in the country told RFA.
Chilly North Koreans Grumble as Authorities Ban Firewood Trade Ahead of Winter Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- Authorities in North Korea have banned the sale of firewood in an effort to stem deforestation in the country, a measure that will create hardship for residents looking for ways to keep warm this winter, sources in the country told RFA.

Taiwan Individual and International Business Organizations Charged with Criminal Conspiracy to Violate Iranian Sanctions US Dept. of Justice 10 Nov 2020 -- Chin Hua Huang, 42, a resident of Taiwan, was charged in the United States District Court for the District of Columbia with participating in a criminal conspiracy to violate U.S. export laws and sanctions against Iran. Also charged was Taiwan business organization DES International Co., Ltd. (DES Int'l) and Brunei business organization Soltech Industry Co., Ltd. (Soltech).
Future of JCPOA depends on US behavior: Zarif IRNA 10 Nov 2020 -- Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran Mohammad Javad Zarif while expressing his views about future of the JCPOA with new US administration coming into power said it depends on the behavior of the United States.
Rouhani: US new leaders should fulfill American nation's will for change IRNA 10 Nov 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday that it is now time for the newly-elected president and senior officials in the United States to understand their nation's message well and implement this will to change their foreign policy vis-a-vis other countries and nations.
Biden's strategy toward Iran IRNA 10 Nov 2020 -- Joe Biden's winning the US elections and removal of Donald Trump from the White House is one of the most significant political events in the world. Trump was a threat and his removal serves a safer world.
Rouhani says US election result shows people fed up with Trump administration Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Iranian President Hassan Rouhani says the result of the recent presidential election in the United States shows that not just other countries but also the American people themselves are fed up with the wrong policies of the incumbent US administration.
US Exports To Iran Drop 50 Percent Radio Farda 10 Nov 2020 -- In its latest monthly report released on November 4, the United States Census Bureau said that U.S. exports to Iran in the first nine months of 2020 amounted to $29.6 million, amounting to less than half of the same period last year.
Outgoing Trump administration imposes new Iran-related sanctions Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- The outgoing administration of US President Donald Trump has imposed Iran-related sanctions on several individuals and entities.
Treasury Sanctions Procurement Network Supplying Iranian Military Firm US Treasury 10 Nov 2020 -- Today, the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated a network of six companies and four individuals that facilitated the procurement of sensitive goods, including U.S.-origin electronic components, for Iran Communication Industries (ICI), an Iranian military firm designated by the United States in 2008 and by the European Union in 2010 for being owned or controlled by Iran's Ministry of Defense and Armed Forces Logistics (MODAFL), the overall manager and coordinator of Iran's ballistic missile program. ICI, a subsidiary of Iran Electronics Industries, which falls under MODAFL, produces various items including military communication systems, avionics, information technology, electronic warfare, and missile launchers.
Iran to extend cyber defense to industrial sites Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Iran's Passive Defense Organization says it has devised a plan to extend cyber defense operations to the Iranian industries that rely on cyberspace.

UK lashes out at Belarus over expulsion of 'diplomats' Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- The British foreign policy and defense establishment has hit out at Belarus after the government in Minsk expelled two British diplomats.
Britain Expels Two Belarusian Diplomats In Tit-For-Tat Move RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Britain says it has expelled two Belarusian diplomats following the "unjustified expulsion" of two of its own diplomats by Minsk, amid a wave of protests across Belarus calling for the resignation of Alyaksandr Lukashenka following a presidential election in August that the West has refused to accept.
UK Expels 2 Belarusian Diplomats as Mirror Response to Minsk Actions, Foreign Secretary Says Sputnik 10 Nov 2020 -- After incumbent President Alexander Lukashenko won the vote by a landslide in August, several countries, including the UK, the US, as well as the European Union, criticised the Belarusian authorities for alleged election fraud and violence against protesters.
UK expels Belarusian diplomats in clear message to Lukashenko's regime UK FCDO 10 Nov 2020 -- Two Belarusian diplomats have been expelled from the UK today in response to the unjustified expulsion of two British diplomats from Belarus earlier this week.
Belarusian Nuclear Plant Stops Electricity Output Three Days After Opening Ceremony RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- Belarus's only nuclear plant, near the Lithuanian border, has suspended electricity production just three days after authoritarian leader Alyaksandr Lukashenka officially opened it, boasting that his country "will become a nuclear power."

Myanmar Military Launches Body For Talks With Ethnic Armies as Vote Count Goes On Radio Free Asia 10 Nov 2020 -- Moving before an outcome is declared in elections expected to return Myanmar's ruling party to power, the country's military has unveiled a permanent committee "to continue peace talks as quickly as possible" with ethnic armies that have been fighting the central government for decades.
Myanmar's ruling party wins elections amid disenfranchisement criticism Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Myanmar's ruling party, whose reputation with the outside world has been tarnished due to a heavy-handed crackdown on the Rohingya Muslims, has won the general elections.

Former Tory PM John Major warns of 'brutal' Brexit experience Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Former Tory Prime Minister, John Major, has upped the stakes in last minute trade negotiations with the European Union (EU) by warning that Brexit may be "even more brutal than expected".

Some 'Pro-Russian' Voices Tamed In Serbia, But Vucic Keeping His Options Open RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- When a new government finally got near-unanimous support from lawmakers in Serbia's overwhelmingly one-party parliament late last month, there were a lot of familiar faces.

Exclusive: Slain Money Launderer Feared Retribution From Ex-Kyrgyz Official Before Murder, Leaked Police Records Show RFE/RL 10 Nov 2020 -- A former Kyrgyz-based money launderer said before his murder in Istanbul last year that a senior Kyrgyz ex-official and a secretive tycoon would be responsible if anything happened to him, according to a new RFE/RL investigation.

Jordanians vote in parliamentary elections amid coronavirus outbreak Press TV 10 Nov 2020 -- Jordanians go to polls to elect 130 members of the lower house of the parliament at a time when the coronavirus pandemic has dealt a heavy blow to the country's already debt-ridden economy.
Jordanians Vote in Legislative Elections as COVID Infections Surge VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- Jordanians are electing a new parliament even as COVID-19 infections and death rates soar in the kingdom. The devastating pandemic is plunging this key U.S. Arab ally into an economic crisis with record unemployment. More Jordanian women than ever; however, are running for office. But will they succeed in this kingdom still influenced by Bedouin tribal traditions?

UN rights chief Bachelet condemns Tanzania election violence UN News 10 Nov 2020 -- The people of Tanzania should be allowed to express grievances "without fear of reprisals" after nationwide elections, UN rights chief Michelle Bachelet said on Tuesday.

Rising Political Tensions in Ivory Coast Send Thousands Fleeing VOA 10 Nov 2020 -- The U.N. refugee agency reports a significant increase in the number of people fleeing Ivory Coast to neighboring countries in the wake of the country's controversial October 31 presidential election.

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