The three-day visit to Washington, D.C., symbolizes the recovery of a key relationship that deteriorated over a submarine deal with Australia last year that infuriated Paris.
Extraordinary street protests in some Chinese cities and campuses over the weekend put Xi Jinping's controversial approach to the pandemic under the spotlight.
The U.S. has to beat Iran to advance, while Iran only has to tie. The match comes after controversy over flags, Iran's national anthem, and ongoing protests in Iran.
Iran's players have at times appeared to show solidarity with the protests, even as they say their focus is football. Thousands of protesters have been arrested and hundreds killed, rights groups say.
President Bajram Begaj recognized Lipa, the daughter of Albanian immigrants, for her musical talents and contribution to spreading international awareness of Albania.
Officials say shelling by Russian forces has hit several areas in eastern and southern Ukraine overnight as utility crews continue a scramble to restore power, water and heating from widespread strikes.
Morocco pulled off another shock at the World Cup by beating Belgium 2-0 and leaving Kevin de Bruyne and the 2018 semifinalists in peril of a group-stage exit.