Hello and welcome to World Today.
I'm Ding Heng in Beijing.
Coming up, US government shutdown begins as Washington is ruled by deepening partisan division.
China rose out K-Visa targeting global young talents.
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The US government has shut down much of its operations as Congress and the White House failed to reach a funding deal.
It is the first government shutdown since 2018 and 15th since 1981.
The shutdown began hours after the Senate rejected a short-term spending measure that would have kept government operations afloat through November 21.
Democrats opposed the legislature over the Republicans' refusal to attach an extension of health benefits for millions of Americans.
agencies warned that the shutdown will halt the release of a key September employment report,
slow air travel,
suspend scientific research, withhold pay from US troops,
and the lead to the furlough of 750,000 federal workers.
So joining us now on the line is Harvey Zolden, former vice president of ABC TV Network.
So thank you very much for joining us today, Harvey.
Looking at this immediate trigger of the current government shutdown,
namely the argument between the Democrats and Republicans over the extension of the health benefits,
what do you make of the fundamental differences between the two sides on this particular issue?
Well, first, let me say Happy National Day and Golden Week to you and your listeners.