WATCH PRESS TV NEWS HEADLINES

Here is a brief look at Press TV Newsroom's headlines from 0900 GMT to 1700 GMT, August 20, 2018.

India deadly floods

The death toll from severe monsoon flooding in India’s southern state of Kerala keeps rising. Indian officials say at least 30 bodies were found in the latest rescue operations. That pushed up the total death toll to above 400, since the monsoon rains began nearly three months ago. The toll may go higher, as flood waters have receded and more bodies are expected to be found. Rescuers are racing against time to find possible survivors as well. Officials said 22,000 people were rescued on Sunday. Efforts are also underway to provide food and water to the affected areas.

Warning on US tariffs  

The US Chamber of Commerce warns against the consequences of new tariffs on Chinese imports proposed by the administration of President Donald Trump. The top business lobbying group said the tariffs dramatically expand the harm to American consumers, workers, businesses, and the US economy. It said the Trump administration lacks a coherent strategy to address “China's theft of intellectual property and other harmful trade practices”. The chamber also demanded that Washington hold serious discussions with Beijing. Trump has threatened 25 percent tariffs on 200 billion dollars of Chinese imports. He says this is in response to China’s retaliatory tariffs on 50 billion dollars worth of US products.

Afghanistan truce

Taliban militants reject a three-month ceasefire proposal by the Afghan government. The Taliban said fighting against the government and security forces will continue. The group also says American forces may extend their stay in the country if they agree to the truce. Meanwhile, the militants have kidnapped nearly 200 people after seizing three buses in the northern Afghan province of Kunduz. They have indicated civilians will be freed but 20 security forces will remain hostage. On Sunday, President Asharf Ghani announced a conditional ceasefire ahead of Eid al-Adha if the Taliban agree.

Greece bailout program

The European economic and financial affairs commissioner hails the Greek government’s exit from eight years of international bailout programs. Pierre Moskovichi, however, warned, realities on the ground remain tough. But, Moscovici said Greece exhausted all efforts to re-vitalize its economy. He added, Athens’ economic reforms addressed the country’s challenges. Greece has concluded the final audit of its third multi-million euro bailout package from the European Union. This, as Greece completed the Euro-zone’s three-year bailout program. The government has pledged to pump the new money into the Greek’s economy, giving it a boost to return to full market financing. The Greek economic crisis that broke out in 2010 was its worst since World War II.

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