US President Donald Trump has named Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping among the world leaders he admires most, offering praise for both leaders during a recent interview.

Asked which global leaders he respects and admires, Trump pointed to Modi and Xi. He described the Indian Prime Minister as “a very tough cookie” and praised his negotiating abilities, while characterising the Chinese President as someone who is “all business.”

Speaking about Modi, Trump said the Indian leader is a strong negotiator who is difficult to outmanoeuvre in discussions.Trump’s remarks came shortly after his meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France. 

Trump also spoke positively about Xi Jinping, highlighting his focused approach to leadership. Despite differences between Washington and Beijing on several issues, Trump indicated that he maintains respect for Xi’s abilities and leadership style.

The comments reflect Trump’s emphasis on dealing directly with influential world leaders and his tendency to evaluate leaders based on their negotiating skills, leadership qualities and effectiveness on the global stage.

A shooting in New York City’s Times Square caused panic among hundreds of people on Thursday after gunfire erupted in the crowded entertainment and tourist district. Authorities said one person was injured in the incident, while police quickly detained a suspect and began an investigation.

Videos shared on social media showed people running through the streets and seeking cover as the sound of gunshots echoed through the area. The incident unfolded in one of Manhattan’s busiest locations, which is usually packed with tourists, office workers and commuters.

According to officials, emergency responders reached the scene shortly after the shooting was reported. The injured person was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Authorities have not immediately released details about the victim’s condition.

Police officers already deployed in the area moved swiftly to secure the location and apprehend a suspect. Investigators are examining the circumstances that led to the shooting and are working to determine whether any other individuals were involved.

Initial reports suggested that the gunfire may have followed an altercation, though officials have not confirmed a motive. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are reviewing evidence and witness accounts from the scene.

The shooting drew attention because of its location in Times Square, one of New York City’s most visited landmarks. Despite the brief period of chaos, law enforcement officers were able to restore order and secure the area.

Officials have urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward as investigators continue to piece together the events that led to the shooting.

The memorandum of understanding sets out a roadmap for restoring maritime trade, advancing nuclear negotiations and supporting Iran’s economic recovery through a proposed reconstruction fund.

The United States has released the text of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Iran, laying out the framework for ending months of conflict and opening the door to broader negotiations on Tehran’s nuclear programme and economic future. The agreement includes commitments on reopening the Strait of Hormuz, a pledge from Iran not to pursue nuclear weapons, and the creation of a proposed $300 billion reconstruction and development fund.

According to the released text, Iran has agreed to ensure the restoration of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy transit routes. The US, in turn, has committed to lifting its naval blockade and refraining from imposing new sanctions during a 60-day negotiation period aimed at reaching a broader and more comprehensive agreement.

Hormuz reopening central to agreement

A major component of the deal focuses on restoring maritime traffic in the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. The memorandum calls for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz to safe commercial navigation, a move expected to ease concerns in global energy markets after months of disruption.

The agreement also outlines cooperation between both sides to reduce tensions in the region and maintain freedom of navigation through the strategic waterway.

Iran reiterates no-nuclear weapons commitment

The released document states that Iran has reaffirmed its commitment not to develop or acquire nuclear weapons. It also provides for cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and further discussions on the future of Iran’s enriched uranium stockpiles as part of upcoming negotiations.

While the MoU establishes broad principles, several key nuclear issues are expected to be addressed during the 60-day negotiation process that follows the signing of the framework agreement.

$300 billion reconstruction fund proposed

One of the most significant economic elements of the agreement is a proposed $300 billion Reconstruction and Development Fund intended to support Iran’s recovery and investment needs. US officials have said the fund would be financed by private-sector investors and international partners rather than American taxpayers.

Officials have also stressed that access to the fund and broader economic benefits would depend on Iran meeting its commitments under the agreement, including compliance with nuclear-related obligations.

Next phase of negotiations

The memorandum establishes a 60-day period for negotiations on a final agreement covering sanctions, nuclear issues and broader regional security concerns. Both countries have pledged to avoid escalation during this period while working toward a longer-term settlement.

The deal is being viewed as an important step toward reducing tensions in the Middle East, though significant negotiations remain before a permanent agreement can be reached.