White House Confirms President Trump's Upcoming Visit to China
In a significant diplomatic development, a White House official has confirmed to AFP that US President Donald Trump will travel to China from March 31 to April 2. This announcement follows a recent call between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on February 4, during which the Republican leader described the US relationship with China, the world's second-largest economy, as extremely good. The visit is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing key economic and strategic issues between the two global powers.
Iran Moves Forward with Nuclear Agreement Draft
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has stated that Tehran is prepared to submit a draft plan for a nuclear agreement to the United States within the next two to three days. This move comes after President Trump issued a warning, suggesting military action if Iran does not reach a deal on nuclear concerns within 15 days. Araghchi emphasized in an interview with MSNBC's Morning Joe show that there is no ultimatum and that both sides are interested in a fast deal. The draft will be handed over to US official Steve Witkoff after final confirmation by Iranian superiors, marking a critical step in ongoing nuclear negotiations.
Strong Earthquake Strikes Eastern Afghanistan
A powerful 5.8-magnitude earthquake rocked eastern Afghanistan on Friday, with tremors felt in the capital Kabul and Nangarhar province. According to the United States Geological Survey, the quake struck approximately 130 kilometres northeast of Kabul. Fortunately, there were no immediate reports of casualties or damage. Earthquakes are common in Afghanistan, particularly along the Hindu Kush mountain range, where tectonic plates meet. This event follows previous devastating quakes in the region, including a 6.0-magnitude tremor in August 2025 that killed over 2,200 people and destroyed villages, highlighting the ongoing seismic risks in the area.
Communal Clash in Madhya Pradesh Leads to 49 Arrests
In Sihora town, Jabalpur district, Madhya Pradesh, a communal clash erupted between two religious groups, resulting in stone-pelting and vandalism. Police responded by using teargas and arresting 49 individuals to restore order. The incident occurred near Azad Chowk, where a mosque and a Durga temple are located opposite each other, during simultaneous Ramzan prayers and temple aarti on Thursday night. Hindu organisations alleged that miscreants damaged the temple gate, while local Muslim residents cited the timing of religious activities as a trigger. Authorities have deployed additional police forces, and the situation is now under control, with most shops remaining closed on Friday as a precaution.
Fatal Accident in Jaipur Claims One Life
A tragic accident in Jaipur resulted in one death and two injuries after a speeding car crashed into a motorcycle from behind near Kharbas Circle. The victims, three friends traveling towards Mansarovar, were rushed to a private hospital in critical condition, where one was declared dead. The car driver fled the scene, and police are actively working to identify and apprehend the suspect. A case has been registered, and the body has been sent for post-mortem, underscoring road safety concerns in the area.
