Microsoft has confirmed it is still pursuing talks to buy the Chinese video app TikTok, with reports that Donald Trump has given the negotiations a 45-day deadline.
The news comes just after TikTok’s US general manager, Vanessa Pappas, stood up for the app, saying “we’re here for the long run”.
Donald Trump had threatened to ban TikTok from the US as early as last weekend, but ultimately took no action, instead talking with Microsoft about its plans.
In a statement on Sunday, the company announced that after a discussion between the president and its CEO, Satya Nadella, it is still committed to buying the app, “subject to a complete security review” and a mid-September deadline.
The American tech giant also promised to “ensure that all private data of TikTok’s American users is transferred to and remains in the United States,” amid concerns over national security — the likely sticking point for determining TikTok’s future in the US.
President refuses to deny racist Harris birther claim and claims Biden trying to lock people in their basements with mask rule
Harris ‘proud’ after debut with Biden
The senator and Democratic vice presidential candidate said she was «proud» after standing alongside Joe Biden on Wednesday as the duo made their first appearance as a ticket.
While the pandemic made a traditional campaign announcement impossible, it provided Mr Biden and Ms Harris with a setting that centred on their criticism of the incumbent, Donald Trump.
«The case against Donald Trump and Mike Pence is open and shut,» Ms Harris said. «This virus has impacted almost every country. But there’s a reason it has hit America worse than any other advanced nation. It’s because of Trump’s failure to take it seriously from the start.»
She added: «This is what happens when we elect a guy who just isn’t up for the job.»
Ms Harris, who is the first Black woman on a major party’s presidential ticket, said she and Mr Biden noted the historical significance.
«This morning, all across the nation, little girls woke up — especially little black and brown girls, who so often feel overlooked and undervalued in their communities. But today, today, just maybe, they’re seeing themselves for the first time in a new way,» said Mr Biden.
Ms Harris, who is also of South Asian descent, noted the «heroic and ambitious women before me, whose sacrifice, determination and resilience make my presence here today even possible.»