IN BRIEF (Page 16)

United States

Hurricane damage could reach $180b

Texas Governor Greg Abbott on Sunday said damage from Hurricane Harvey would reach $180 billion. Harvey, which came ashore on Aug 25 as the most powerful hurricane to hit Texas in 50 years, has killed an estimated 47 people and displaced more than 1 million. The administration of President Donald Trump has asked Congress for an initial $7.85 billion for recovery efforts, which

Abbott called a "down payment".

United Kingdom

William and wife Kate expecting third child

Prince William and his wife Kate are expecting their third child, their office said on Monday after the Duchess was forced to cancel an engagement due to severe morning sickness. The baby will be fifth in line to the throne, after grandfather Prince Charles, father William and elder siblings George, 4, and Charlotte, 2. The baby will bump William's younger brother Harry down the order of succession.

Iran

Saudi delegation to visit after ruptured ties

Iran's Foreign Ministry confirmed on Sunday that a Saudi Arabian delegation will visit Teheran after Riyadh severed ties with Iran last year. "The delegation simply comes to visit diplomatic buildings because the buildings have been empty after the two countries broke off relations. At the same time, we will visit our buildings in Saudi Arabia," a spokesman said.

Reuters - Xinhua

(China Daily 09/05/2017 page16)