World

U.S. President Donald Trump's administration has proposed sharply cutting the number of refugees allowed into the United States next year to 30,000.

The announcement, made on September 17 by Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, came despite calls from humanitarian groups that the 2018 cap of 45,000 was already too low.

Trump's administration has consistently voiced opposition to accepting refugees and other immigrants, which has helped drive refugee admissions to their lowest level in a decade.

The new figure will go into effect October 1.

"The improved refugee policy of this administration serves the national interest of the United States and expands our ability to help those in need all around the world," Pompeo said in a statement.

By comparison, the administration of Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama, allowed in 85,000 refugees in its final year in office.

Based on reporting by AP and AFP

A 27-year-old Afghan refugee has won the Democratic primary for a seat in the legislature of the U.S. state of New Hampshire, defeating a fellow Democrat who held the seat for four terms.

Safiya Wazir defeated District 17 State Representative Dick Patten, who said during the campaign that Wazir's lack of political experience and background as a refugee would hurt her chances of election.

Wazir won the primary on September 11 after a campaign in which she highlighted her years of community activism and dedication to education and family issues.

She said that record, as well as her efforts to communicate with voters by knocking on doors and sending thank-you notes, among other things, helped her win.

Supporters "were very excited there was someone new running for the State House,” Wazir said.

Wazir's family left Afghanistan in 2007 and she arrived in Concord, the capital of the northeastern state, that same year.

New Hampshire officials say that if Wazir beats Republican Dennis Soucy in the November election, she will be the first refugee to hold public office in the state.

Based on reporting by AP and the Concord Monitor