Global trade defies tariff shocks, says WTO chief

IANS | October 5, 2026 8:52 AM

Washington, Oct 5 (IANS) Global trade is proving unexpectedly resilient despite aggressive US tariffs, the Iran war, high energy prices and growing strains on the rules-based trading system, World Trade Organization chief Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala has said, pointing to an AI-driven surge in commerce while warning that the system remains vulnerable.

India, Canada open crucial trade talks

IANS | October 5, 2026 7:52 AM

Ottawa, Oct 5 (IANS) India and Canada will begin a crucial fifth round of negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement here Monday, accelerating efforts to conclude a deal before the end of the year as the two countries rapidly expand an economic relationship that only recently emerged from a prolonged diplomatic chill.

Iran war may outlast Trump as US weighs options

IANS | October 5, 2026 7:50 AM

Washington, Oct 5 (IANS) The Iran conflict could continue through the remainder of President Donald Trump's term and be inherited by his successor, a former senior White House Middle East official warned, as the Trump administration said it was simultaneously pursuing diplomatic and military pressure on Tehran and preparing for further contingencies.

AI can empower India's farmers, says World Bank chief

IANS | October 5, 2026 7:17 AM

Washington, Oct 5 (IANS) Artificial intelligence could transform the lives of farmers and other workers in India and developing countries without posing the same immediate threat to jobs seen in advanced economies, World Bank President Ajay Banga has said, citing an AI initiative helping women farmers in Uttar Pradesh diagnose crop diseases using basic mobile phones.