World News Briefs -- October 24, 2017

Reuters: China to unveil new leadership line-up as Xi cements power

BEIJING (Reuters) - China’s ruling Communist Party reveals its new leadership line-up on Wednesday when President Xi Jinping introduces his Politburo Standing Committee, culminating a week-long party congress.

A key measure of Xi’s rising influence leading the world’s second-largest economy will be how many of his allies are installed on the Standing Committee, the apex of power, which is currently made up of seven people, all men, and headed by Xi, who is also party and military chief.

Five members are expected to retire due to an unwritten rule limiting new five-year terms to those under 68.

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MIDDLE EAST

Potential showdown in eastern Syria over IS-held territory.

Russia vetoes UN resolution on Syria chemical weapons probe.

U.S. condemns Russia veto of probe into Syria chemical weapons use.

Iraqi forces attacked Kurdish districts after clashes: Amnesty.

Saudi foreign minister says backs Trump's stance on Iran.

UN relief chief makes first visit to Yemen.

Iran 'sentences Sweden resident to death' for spying.

Kuwait emir warns of GCC collapse and crisis escalation.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman pledges more 'moderate' kingdom.

Saudis plan to build $500bn mega city and business zone.

ASIA

Pakistan gives Tillerson frosty welcome after US warns over Taliban havens.

Xi Jinping 'most powerful Chinese leader since Mao Zedong'.

No successor to Xi seen emerging from party congress in China. China to unveil new leadership after Xi stamps authority on country.

Trump to visit S. Korea but not Demilitarized Zone, breaking with presidents’ tradition.

US mulls sanctions on Myanmar over Rohingya crisis. Myanmar Rohingya crisis: US withdraws military assistance.

Myanmar, Bangladesh agree to cooperate on Rohingya refugee repatriation.

Angry Trump envoy to meet South Sudan president to push for peace.

Women accused of Kim Jong-un's half-brother's nerve gas murder visit crime scene.

AFRICA

S general: Many questions remain about Niger attack.

West African bloc's 2020 single currency goal fails.

UN chief arrives for visit in strife-torn C. Africa.

Tanzania suspends fourth newspaper since June in media crackdown.

Moroccan king sacks ministers over troubled northern region.

Kenya: Uncertainty over election fuels fears of clashes.

Madagascar plague death toll climbs to 124.

EUROPE

New wave of cyber attacks hits Russia, other nations.

Donald Tusk: EU must stay united or face Brexit 'defeat'.

New German parliament convenes for first time.

Italy: More autonomy for Lombardy and Veneto up for discussion, says government.

Portugal government survives no confidence vote over fires.

EU lawmakers urge Malta money laundering inquiry after journalist's murder.

AMERICAS

Clinton campaign, DNC paid for research that led to Russia dossier.

Two Republican senators blast Trump as party feud deepens.

Brazil's Temer makes concessions to survive in office.

US refugees: Stricter screening as 120-day ban expires.

Venezuela swears in opposition governors despite boycott.

Argentinian president Macri vows 'many reforms' after strong election result. Argentina midterm vote leaves Peronism divided, leaderless.

Quebec softens face-covering ban amid criticism it targets Muslims.

Storm Maria: Puerto Rico power contract prompts questions.

TERRORISM/THE LONG WAR

Generation ISIS: When children are taught to be terrorists.

Tillerson urges Pakistan to step up action against terrorist 'safe havens'.

IS foreign fighters: 5,600 have returned home - report. Return home of 5,600 jihadists poses major threat: Soufan.

ECONOMY/FINANCE/BUSINESS

Dow jumps with upbeat 3M, Caterpillar earnings.

Interior to offer largest oil and gas lease sale in US.

Einstein’s theory of happiness sold for $1.5m.

Global wine production sinks to lowest level since 1961.