<p>India has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its references on Kashmir in its final Communiqué at its summit in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on May 31.</p>

<p>Rejecting the OIC Communiqué, the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "The OIC has no locus standi in matters relating to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India. It is reiterated that OIC should refrain from making such unwarranted references”.</p>

<p>The OIC in its Communiqué mentioned Kashmir six times and said, it "reaffirmed its principled support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the realization of their legitimate right to self-determination".</p>

<p>It is not for the first time when the OIC has made references on Kashmir. India has slammed the group, which comprises 57 Muslim countries, every time.</p>

<p>Since the early 1990s, communiqués and resolutions have been issued at the OIC summits and ministerial meetings which have included one-sided criticism of India. Pakistan has been behind such anti-India references in the OIC communiqués/resolutions.</p>

<p>Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was invited for the 46th OIC foreign ministers meet at Abu Dhabi on March 1. She was in attendance as the Guest of Honour. The invite was extended by foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.</p>

<p>Many countries such as Bangladesh, <a href="http://wionews.com/india-news/organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-welcomes-indias-participation-as-guest-of-honour-hoping-to-embrace-it-soon-200791">the UAE</a> and Syria have supported India's inclusion at the OIC but <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-attends-organisation-of-islamic-cooperation-meet-as-guest-of-honour-pakistan-threatens-to-boycott-due-to-delhis-presence-200426">Pakistan has been creating resistance</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking at a press conference at the end of Abu Dhabi foreign ministers meet, where India was invited on March 1, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan said, "OIC has sent a very clear and a positive sign to India, to the people of India, that the OIC appreciates the relationship with India".</p>

<p>Adding, that the organisation, "looks forward to strengthening such a relationship with India to the point where we can embrace India one day in the OIC".</p>

<p>Pakistan boycotted the plenary session at the OIC foreign minister's meet due to India's presence. Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had written to OIC secretary-general Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking the UAE to rescind the invite to India. The plea did not receive any response.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, Syrian envoy to India Dr Riad Abbas, told WION, "India has full right to be a permanent member of the OIC and we would like to be a full member of the OIC."</p>

<p>In 1969, the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.</p>


India has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its references on Kashmir in its final Communiqué at its summit in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on May 31.

India has slammed the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) for its references on Kashmir in its final Communiqué at its summit in Mecca, Saudi Arabia on May 31. Rejecting the OIC Communiqué, the Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "The OIC has no locus standi in matters relating to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral part of India. It is reiterated that OIC should refrain from making such unwarranted references”. The OIC in its Communiqué mentioned Kashmir six times and said, it "reaffirmed its principled support for the people of Jammu and Kashmir for the realization of their legitimate right to self-determination". It is not for the first time when the OIC has made references on Kashmir. India has slammed the group, which comprises 57 Muslim countries, every time. Since the early 1990s, communiqués and resolutions have been issued at the OIC summits and ministerial meetings which have included one-sided criticism of India. Pakistan has been behind such anti-India references in the OIC communiqués/resolutions. Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was invited for the 46th OIC foreign ministers meet at Abu Dhabi on March 1. She was in attendance as the Guest of Honour. The invite was extended by foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Many countries such as Bangladesh, the UAE and Syria have supported India's inclusion at the OIC but Pakistan has been creating resistance. Speaking at a press conference at the end of Abu Dhabi foreign ministers meet, where India was invited on March 1, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan said, "OIC has sent a very clear and a positive sign to India, to the people of India, that the OIC appreciates the relationship with India". Adding, that the organisation, "looks forward to strengthening such a relationship with India to the point where we can embrace India one day in the OIC". Pakistan boycotted the plenary session at the OIC foreign minister's meet due to India's presence. Pakistan's foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had written to OIC secretary-general Dr Yousef bin Ahmad Al Othaimeen asking the UAE to rescind the invite to India. The plea did not receive any response. Earlier this year, Syrian envoy to India Dr Riad Abbas, told WION, "India has full right to be a permanent member of the OIC and we would like to be a full member of the OIC." In 1969, the Indian delegation led by Congress leader Fakrudin Ali Ahmed, who later became the President of India, was not allowed to attend the final session of the OIC in Rabat, Morocco at the behest of Pakistan's then-president, Yahya Khan.

India slams Organisation of Islamic Cooperation for its reference on Kashmir 

<p>Indian missions across the world are taking part in the world environment day with innovative ways. From New York to Jeddah to Afghanistan, the focus has been to create awareness and Indian way of co-existing with nature.</p>

<p>India's permanent representative to UN Syed Akbaruddin, Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu and other diplomats were seen distributing clothes and cotton bags as part of United Nations initiative of eliminating single-use plastics.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">India acts in support of @ UN efforts.<br />
No to Single Use Plastics <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> in New York. <a href="https://t.co/M0ssfNKb23">pic.twitter.com/M0ssfNKb23</a></p>
— Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/AkbaruddinIndia/status/1135564256534048770?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>On the bags was written Mahatma Gandhi's, father of the nation quotes, ''The future depends on what you do today" and "say no to single-use plastic."</p>

<p>Even president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) joined the Indian mission's initiative.</p>

<p>María Fernanda Espinosa tweeted, "Inspired to see our United Nations coming together around our shared responsibility to beat plastic pollution while holding the cotton bag that was being distributed by Indian mission.''</p>

<p>Indian mission in Afghanistan saw Indian envoy Vinay Kumar planting trees at the New Chancery Complex as part of World Environment Day and 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">As part of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldEnvironmentDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldEnvironmentDay</a> and and 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Amb <a href="https://twitter.com/vkumar1969?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@vkumar1969</a> planted trees at the New Chancery complex in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Kabul?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Kabul</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Bapuat150?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Bapuat150</a> <a href="https://t.co/SuD889vjPK">pic.twitter.com/SuD889vjPK</a></p>
— India in Afghanistan (@IndianEmbKabul) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianEmbKabul/status/1135419753462456320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Indian consulate in Jeddah also saw Consul General Noor Rahman along with other officials planting trees at the chancery complex.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">CG <a href="https://twitter.com/NoorRahman_IFS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NoorRahman_IFS</a> along with Consulate Officials &amp; Members of the Indian Community planting trees at the chancery complex of <a href="https://twitter.com/CGIJeddah?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CGIJeddah</a> on the eve of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldEnvironmentDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldEnvironmentDay</a> and 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a><a href="https://twitter.com/PublicDiplomacy?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PublicDiplomacy</a>. <a href="https://t.co/OlcYNs3ajb">pic.twitter.com/OlcYNs3ajb</a></p>
— India in Jeddah (@CGIJeddah) <a href="https://twitter.com/CGIJeddah/status/1135553727828566016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>World environment day will be celebrated on June 5 and this year's theme is air pollution.</p>


Indian missions across the world are taking part in the world environment day with innovative ways. From New York to Jeddah to Afghanistan, the focus has been to create awareness and Indian way of co-existing with nature.

Indian missions across the world are taking part in the world environment day with innovative ways. From New York to Jeddah to Afghanistan, the focus has been to create awareness and Indian way of co-existing with nature. India's permanent representative to UN Syed Akbaruddin, Deputy Permanent Representative Nagaraj Naidu and other diplomats were seen distributing clothes and cotton bags as part of United Nations initiative of eliminating single-use plastics. India acts in support of @ UN efforts. No to Single Use Plastics @UN in New York. pic.twitter.com/M0ssfNKb23 — Syed Akbaruddin (@AkbaruddinIndia) June 3, 2019 × On the bags was written Mahatma Gandhi's, father of the nation quotes, ''The future depends on what you do today" and "say no to single-use plastic." Even president of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) joined the Indian mission's initiative. María Fernanda Espinosa tweeted, "Inspired to see our United Nations coming together around our shared responsibility to beat plastic pollution while holding the cotton bag that was being distributed by Indian mission.'' Indian mission in Afghanistan saw Indian envoy Vinay Kumar planting trees at the New Chancery Complex as part of World Environment Day and 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. As part of #WorldEnvironmentDay and and 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi Amb @vkumar1969 planted trees at the New Chancery complex in #Kabul #Bapuat150 pic.twitter.com/SuD889vjPK — India in Afghanistan (@IndianEmbKabul) June 3, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Indian consulate in Jeddah also saw Consul General Noor Rahman along with other officials planting trees at the chancery complex. CG @NoorRahman_IFS along with Consulate Officials & Members of the Indian Community planting trees at the chancery complex of @CGIJeddah on the eve of #WorldEnvironmentDay and 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. @MEAIndia@PublicDiplomacy. pic.twitter.com/OlcYNs3ajb — India in Jeddah (@CGIJeddah) June 3, 2019 × World environment day will be celebrated on June 5 and this year's theme is air pollution.

World Environment Day: Indian missions create awareness across the world

<p>Uzbek envoy to India Farhod Arziev has said that India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) and New Delhi being a leader in innovation &amp; IT can help the grouping.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Farhod Arziev spoke to WION on a host of issues surrounding the SCO—from India-Uzbekistan ties to connectivity programmes.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see ties between the two countries?</p>

<p><strong>Farhod Arziev:</strong> First of all, I like to say election just concluded and it was a big event for India, and as soon as election results were announced with the BJP and NDA winning the elections, President of Uzbekistan H E Mr Shavkat Mirziyoyev sent his congratulatory letter. Soon after reappointment of PM Modi for his second term, President sent the congratulatory message again. Election results show the big trust people of India have on govt and leadership of Narendra Modi and clear testimony of recognition of the results of effort he has been taking to make India more prosperous. Bilateral ties between both countries have been growing dynamically. We have identified new priorities for bilateral ties. With the new government formed under the leadership of PM Modi, we are confident that the strategic relationship will further deepen.&nbsp;</p>

<p><br />
<strong>WION:</strong> Can we expect some high-level visit between the two countries this year?</p>

<p><strong>Farhod Arziev: </strong>This year we working on a number of visits at the bilateral level, at the level of different ministries, at parliamentarian level &amp; people to people to contacts expanding. Just recently we had Uzbek India innovation &amp; IT form which shows our cooperation in areas of innovation is also expanding. We also plan to have Uzbek India youth forum. &amp; Also, we will hold, Uzbek India regional summit this year. Gujarat &amp; Andijan are partner regions, and we expect big delegation from Gujarat and other regions of India as well.</p>

<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see India's role at SCO?</p>

<p><strong>Farhod Arziev: </strong>Uzbekistan, we have fully supported full membership of India to SCO, and we believe India's membership to SCO has been a big contribution to further expansion and development of the organisation as an international institution with India being one of the fastest growing countries. It has many things to offer for the development of SCO. Like, expansion of trade and economics or transport or communication, opportunities for SCO members, there we see India can play a big role. In areas like innovation &amp; IT, India holds a strong position, can also play contribution at SCO. Also in areas of tourism, also in areas of cultural exchange, we know India has initiated, put forward the idea of SCO members cinema and we fully support this initiative. Many more areas were India can play an important role within the SCO framework. I would also like to stress the fact, we have very good cooperation and coordination with India within the framework of international and regional organisations like SCO and almost on every agenda at the org we have similar positions.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WION: </strong>How to see India's connectivity programmes?</p>

<p><strong>Farhod Arziev: </strong>Uzbekistan is not only landlocked but double landlocked country. Connectivity projects can help us reach international markets and reduce the cost and distance in reaching international markets to the interest of my country. We see a big scope for Cooperation with India in expanding the connectivity options between India and Uzbekistan and India and central Asia as a whole and there are many connectivity projects and transport projects, being developed. One of them is Chabahar. We see the project as a positive contribution to expanding connectivity between our regions and of course we working connectivity options via Afghanistan. You know there existing railway connection between Uzbekistan and Mazar-e-Sharif which plans to be expanded to Herat. It can eventually reach to Chabahar port.</p>


Uzbek envoy to India Farhod Arziev has said that India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) and New Delhi being a leader in innovation & IT can help the grouping.

Uzbek envoy to India Farhod Arziev has said that India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation(SCO) and New Delhi being a leader in innovation & IT can help the grouping. Farhod Arziev spoke to WION on a host of issues surrounding the SCO—from India-Uzbekistan ties to connectivity programmes. WION: How do you see ties between the two countries? Farhod Arziev: First of all, I like to say election just concluded and it was a big event for India, and as soon as election results were announced with the BJP and NDA winning the elections, President of Uzbekistan H E Mr Shavkat Mirziyoyev sent his congratulatory letter. Soon after reappointment of PM Modi for his second term, President sent the congratulatory message again. Election results show the big trust people of India have on govt and leadership of Narendra Modi and clear testimony of recognition of the results of effort he has been taking to make India more prosperous. Bilateral ties between both countries have been growing dynamically. We have identified new priorities for bilateral ties. With the new government formed under the leadership of PM Modi, we are confident that the strategic relationship will further deepen. WION: Can we expect some high-level visit between the two countries this year? Farhod Arziev: This year we working on a number of visits at the bilateral level, at the level of different ministries, at parliamentarian level & people to people to contacts expanding. Just recently we had Uzbek India innovation & IT form which shows our cooperation in areas of innovation is also expanding. We also plan to have Uzbek India youth forum. & Also, we will hold, Uzbek India regional summit this year. Gujarat & Andijan are partner regions, and we expect big delegation from Gujarat and other regions of India as well. WION: How do you see India's role at SCO? Farhod Arziev: Uzbekistan, we have fully supported full membership of India to SCO, and we believe India's membership to SCO has been a big contribution to further expansion and development of the organisation as an international institution with India being one of the fastest growing countries. It has many things to offer for the development of SCO. Like, expansion of trade and economics or transport or communication, opportunities for SCO members, there we see India can play a big role. In areas like innovation & IT, India holds a strong position, can also play contribution at SCO. Also in areas of tourism, also in areas of cultural exchange, we know India has initiated, put forward the idea of SCO members cinema and we fully support this initiative. Many more areas were India can play an important role within the SCO framework. I would also like to stress the fact, we have very good cooperation and coordination with India within the framework of international and regional organisations like SCO and almost on every agenda at the org we have similar positions. WION: How to see India's connectivity programmes? Farhod Arziev: Uzbekistan is not only landlocked but double landlocked country. Connectivity projects can help us reach international markets and reduce the cost and distance in reaching international markets to the interest of my country. We see a big scope for Cooperation with India in expanding the connectivity options between India and Uzbekistan and India and central Asia as a whole and there are many connectivity projects and transport projects, being developed. One of them is Chabahar. We see the project as a positive contribution to expanding connectivity between our regions and of course we working connectivity options via Afghanistan. You know there existing railway connection between Uzbekistan and Mazar-e-Sharif which plans to be expanded to Herat. It can eventually reach to Chabahar port.

India has an important role at Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Uzbekistan envoy

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced. This will be his first foreign visit in his second term.</p>

<p>The MEA in a release said, "visits to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will demonstrate the priority India attaches to its ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) Doctrine."</p>

<p>Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries.</p>

<p>During his Maldives visit, PM Modi will meet Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and&nbsp;other political leaders of the country.</p>

<p>The release said, "visit is reflective of the new momentum in high-level exchanges between India and Maldives."</p>

<p>During the visit, the PM Modi will address the Maldivian Parliament.</p>

<p>Last 6 months have seen a number of high-level visits between India and Maldives. PM Modi had visited the Indian Ocean island country during the oath-taking ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. This visit was followed by visits by Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid &amp; President Solih.</p>

<p>In March of this year Sushma Swaraj, in her capacity as the minister of external affairs under the Modi Govt's first term visited the country in which India announced 100 million rufiyaa grant.</p>

<p>While coming back from the Maldives, he will visit Sri Lanka on 9th.</p>

<p>During the first term of his govt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena was in India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan &amp; had a bilateral with PM later.</p>

<p>Bhutan was the first foreign country PM Modi visited in his 1st term after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, he addressed the joint session of Parliament.</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a state visit to the Republic of Maldives and Sri Lanka on June 8 and 9, the ministry of external affairs (MEA) has announced. This will be his first foreign visit in his second term. The MEA in a release said, "visits to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will demonstrate the priority India attaches to its ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and the Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR) Doctrine." Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries. During his Maldives visit, PM Modi will meet Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and other political leaders of the country. The release said, "visit is reflective of the new momentum in high-level exchanges between India and Maldives." During the visit, the PM Modi will address the Maldivian Parliament. Last 6 months have seen a number of high-level visits between India and Maldives. PM Modi had visited the Indian Ocean island country during the oath-taking ceremony of President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih. This visit was followed by visits by Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid & President Solih. In March of this year Sushma Swaraj, in her capacity as the minister of external affairs under the Modi Govt's first term visited the country in which India announced 100 million rufiyaa grant. While coming back from the Maldives, he will visit Sri Lanka on 9th. During the first term of his govt, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena was in India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan & had a bilateral with PM later. Bhutan was the first foreign country PM Modi visited in his 1st term after taking charge in 2014. During that visit, he addressed the joint session of Parliament.

PM Narendra Modi to visit Sri Lanka, Maldives in early June: Ministry of External Affairs

<p>India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.</p>

<p>A number of guests who were invited by the Indian mission at the iftar at Islamabad's posh Serena hotel had to face considerable hardship as Pakistani security forces stopped them from attending the event. Some were physically manhandled, while others were simply told that the Iftar was cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A release issued by the Indian mission in Islamabad said, “India has strongly protested to Pakistan gross intimation of guests invited for an Iftar event in Islamabad on Saturday...Guests faced unprecedented harassment and intimation at the hands of security agencies.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Video alert: How Pakistani security agencies harassed guests at the iftar organised by Indian mission at a hotel in Islamabad <a href="https://t.co/Hb64lPWMAs">pic.twitter.com/Hb64lPWMAs</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1135132844152545280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>A large Pakistani security detachment, equipped with forklifts aggressively turned away Pakistani nationals who wanted to attend the event. The agency officials virtually laid a siege of the hotel.</p>

<p>Pakistan agencies even called up invitees and asked them not to attend the event. Many guests from the diplomatic community based in Islamabad were also subject to harassment.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Video alert: Visuals from outside the hotel wr Indian mission organised <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iftar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iftar</a>. Absolute chaos as Pak agencies stop people physically from attending the Iftar. <a href="https://t.co/tdOhYgRr6y">pic.twitter.com/tdOhYgRr6y</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1135134911994761217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Pakistan agency officials also intimidated diplomatic staff of Indian mission who tried to ascertain from the security personnel why guests were being harassed. Some of the Indian officials were jostled and aggressively threatened with bodily harm. In some cases, mobile phones of Indian officials were snatched away.</p>

<p>The Indian mission said the "disappointing chain of events" on June 1 "not only violate basic norms of diplomatic conduct but are against all notions of civilised behaviour" adding that “stopping diplomats of Indian mission from discharging diplomatic functions by intimidation and coercion is entirely counterproductive for our bilateral relationship".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Video alert: Pak agency officials also threatened Indian diplomats &amp; officials. In some cases, mobile phones of Indian officials were snatched away. <a href="https://t.co/xiek1BRZtK">pic.twitter.com/xiek1BRZtK</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1135149847764512768?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Press secretary of the former Pakistani President Asif Zardari Farhatullah Babar who was invited at the Iftar took to twitter and spoke about the harassment meted out to him.</p>

<p>He tweeted, "Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that Iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy.</p>
— Farhatullah Babar (@FarhatullahB) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarhatullahB/status/1134814729317302272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>A Pakistani journalist Mehreen Zahra-Malik who was there to pick someone tweeted, "Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening &amp; police &amp; anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Unprecedented level of harassment at <a href="https://twitter.com/serena_hotels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serena_hotels</a> Islamabad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> embassy iftaar happening &amp; police &amp; anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused. Sorry, not being an entitled prick. This was genuine harassment</p>
— Mehreen Zahra-Malik (@mehreenzahra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mehreenzahra/status/1134839761733074944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>WION's correspondent Anas Mallick who was at the Iftar also confirmed that he faced a lot of trouble while reaching to the venue. Before the Iftar, many invitees got calls asking not to attend the event.</p>

<p>Speaking at the event, Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria said, "I would apologise to all our friends who were subject to extra scrutiny."</p>

<p>More than 300 Pakistani guests including Parliamentarians, government officials, media representatives, retired military officials were invited to the dinner.</p>

<p>The tradition of Iftar by Indian mission was started more than 12 years ago by Sibi George, currently the envoy to Switzerland.</p>


India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident.

India has strongly protested against the harassment of guests invited for the Iftar organised by Indian high commission at a hotel in Islamabad and has asked the Pakistani government to investigate the "ugly" incident. A number of guests who were invited by the Indian mission at the iftar at Islamabad's posh Serena hotel had to face considerable hardship as Pakistani security forces stopped them from attending the event. Some were physically manhandled, while others were simply told that the Iftar was cancelled. A release issued by the Indian mission in Islamabad said, “India has strongly protested to Pakistan gross intimation of guests invited for an Iftar event in Islamabad on Saturday...Guests faced unprecedented harassment and intimation at the hands of security agencies.” Video alert: How Pakistani security agencies harassed guests at the iftar organised by Indian mission at a hotel in Islamabad pic.twitter.com/Hb64lPWMAs — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 2, 2019 × A large Pakistani security detachment, equipped with forklifts aggressively turned away Pakistani nationals who wanted to attend the event. The agency officials virtually laid a siege of the hotel. Pakistan agencies even called up invitees and asked them not to attend the event. Many guests from the diplomatic community based in Islamabad were also subject to harassment. Video alert: Visuals from outside the hotel wr Indian mission organised #Iftar. Absolute chaos as Pak agencies stop people physically from attending the Iftar. pic.twitter.com/tdOhYgRr6y — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 2, 2019 × Pakistan agency officials also intimidated diplomatic staff of Indian mission who tried to ascertain from the security personnel why guests were being harassed. Some of the Indian officials were jostled and aggressively threatened with bodily harm. In some cases, mobile phones of Indian officials were snatched away. The Indian mission said the "disappointing chain of events" on June 1 "not only violate basic norms of diplomatic conduct but are against all notions of civilised behaviour" adding that “stopping diplomats of Indian mission from discharging diplomatic functions by intimidation and coercion is entirely counterproductive for our bilateral relationship". Video alert: Pak agency officials also threatened Indian diplomats & officials. In some cases, mobile phones of Indian officials were snatched away. pic.twitter.com/xiek1BRZtK — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) June 2, 2019 × Press secretary of the former Pakistani President Asif Zardari Farhatullah Babar who was invited at the Iftar took to twitter and spoke about the harassment meted out to him. He tweeted, "Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that Iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy.” Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy. — Farhatullah Babar (@FarhatullahB) June 1, 2019 × A Pakistani journalist Mehreen Zahra-Malik who was there to pick someone tweeted, "Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening & police & anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused." Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening & police & anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused. Sorry, not being an entitled prick. This was genuine harassment — Mehreen Zahra-Malik (@mehreenzahra) June 1, 2019 × WION's correspondent Anas Mallick who was at the Iftar also confirmed that he faced a lot of trouble while reaching to the venue. Before the Iftar, many invitees got calls asking not to attend the event. Speaking at the event, Indian High Commissioner Ajay Bisaria said, "I would apologise to all our friends who were subject to extra scrutiny." More than 300 Pakistani guests including Parliamentarians, government officials, media representatives, retired military officials were invited to the dinner. The tradition of Iftar by Indian mission was started more than 12 years ago by Sibi George, currently the envoy to Switzerland.

India lodges protest against harassment of guests at high commission's Iftar party by Pakistan agencies in Islamabad

<p>Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said that India-China border is stable and forces of both the countries are in close communication with each other.</p>

<p>"Both sides have close communication with each other and the border area is generally stable. The common interest of China and India far outway our differences," Fenghe said while addressing Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore.</p>

<p>On the resolution of the boundary dispute, he said, "The Chinese side is ready to work with India to properly handle the boundary question. At the moment management of the boundary, question is sound."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2017, the Doklam crisis saw over a two-month-long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces after Bejing tried to build a road on Bhutanese territory.</p>

<p>Calling the relationship between the two countries "sound", General Fenghe recalled the informal Wuhan summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China President Xi Jinping and said both the leaders provided "guidance for the relationship and the comprehensive strategic partnership has enjoyed sound growth and our consensus is that two militaries need to work together to contribute to the overall relationship between China and India."</p>

<p>Chinese President Xi and PM Modi met four times in 2018 starting with Wuhan informal summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO), BRICS &amp; G20 Summit. Xi will be visiting India this year for the second Informal Summit.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wei Fenghe had visited India last year and met officials including the then defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman.</p>

<p>Fenghe was quite optimistic about the ties and said, "Both sides committed for a cooperative and stable relationship between the two sides. The momentum of a relationship, it is getting better and better and we are making active efforts to further grow this bilateral relationship."</p>

<p>India and China held a Joint Exercise “Hand-in-Hand” in Pujiang, China from 10 to 23 December 2018 in which 130 personnel from each side participated.</p>


Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said that India-China border is stable and forces of both the countries are in close communication with each other. "Both sides have close communication with each other and the border area is generally stable.

Chinese Defence Minister Wei Fenghe said that India-China border is stable and forces of both the countries are in close communication with each other. "Both sides have close communication with each other and the border area is generally stable. The common interest of China and India far outway our differences," Fenghe said while addressing Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore. On the resolution of the boundary dispute, he said, "The Chinese side is ready to work with India to properly handle the boundary question. At the moment management of the boundary, question is sound." In 2017, the Doklam crisis saw over a two-month-long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces after Bejing tried to build a road on Bhutanese territory. Calling the relationship between the two countries "sound", General Fenghe recalled the informal Wuhan summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and China President Xi Jinping and said both the leaders provided "guidance for the relationship and the comprehensive strategic partnership has enjoyed sound growth and our consensus is that two militaries need to work together to contribute to the overall relationship between China and India." Chinese President Xi and PM Modi met four times in 2018 starting with Wuhan informal summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO), BRICS & G20 Summit. Xi will be visiting India this year for the second Informal Summit. Wei Fenghe had visited India last year and met officials including the then defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Fenghe was quite optimistic about the ties and said, "Both sides committed for a cooperative and stable relationship between the two sides. The momentum of a relationship, it is getting better and better and we are making active efforts to further grow this bilateral relationship." India and China held a Joint Exercise “Hand-in-Hand” in Pujiang, China from 10 to 23 December 2018 in which 130 personnel from each side participated.

India-China border stable, forces of 2 countries in close communication: China defence minister 

<p>India will take up the matter regarding harassment of guests invited to iftar organised by the Indian high commission in Islamabad, top government sources have confirmed to WION.</p>

<p>A number of guests who were invited by the Indian mission to Islamabad's posh Serena hotel had to face considerable hardship as Pakistani security forces stopped them from attending the event. Some were physically manhandled, while others were simply told that the iftar has been cancelled.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Overall the turnout was low at the Indian mission's iftar, as Pakistani security agencies turned many guests away which is ironical in a pious Muslim country like Pakistan which knows the significance of breaking the fast during Ramazan.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Press secretary of the former Pakistani President Asif Zardari Farhatullah Babar who was invited at the iftar took to Twitter and spoke about the harassment meted out.</p>

<p>"Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy,'' he tweeted.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy.</p>
— Farhatullah Babar (@FarhatullahB) <a href="https://twitter.com/FarhatullahB/status/1134814729317302272?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>A Pakistani journalist Mehreen Zahra-Malik who was there to pick someone tweeted, "Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening &amp; police &amp; anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused."</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Unprecedented level of harassment at <a href="https://twitter.com/serena_hotels?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@serena_hotels</a> Islamabad. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> embassy iftaar happening &amp; police &amp; anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused. Sorry, not being an entitled prick. This was genuine harassment</p>
— Mehreen Zahra-Malik (@mehreenzahra) <a href="https://twitter.com/mehreenzahra/status/1134839761733074944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 1, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>WION's correspondent Anas Mallick who was iftar also confirmed that he faced a lot of trouble while reaching to the venue. Before the iftar, many invitees got calls asking not to go to the iftar, he added.</p>

<p>The Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria speaking at the event said, "I would apologise to all our friends who were subjected to extra scrutiny"</p>

<p>Harassment of Indian diplomats has been a norm in Islamabad for months now. From snapping electricity to being aggressively followed has been reported with India sending note verbale asking Pakistani foreign ministry to investigate the incidents.</p>

<p>India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Pakistan government sources accused Indian security forces of harassing the iftar guests at Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi.</p>

<p>“Out of the 73 guests, only 25 made to Iftar in Delhi due to intimidation by Indian security agencies outside Pakistani High Commission.'' Pakistan diplomatic sources said.</p>


India will take up the matter regarding harassment of guests invited to iftar organised by the Indian high commission in Islamabad, top government sources have confirmed to WION.

India will take up the matter regarding harassment of guests invited to iftar organised by the Indian high commission in Islamabad, top government sources have confirmed to WION. A number of guests who were invited by the Indian mission to Islamabad's posh Serena hotel had to face considerable hardship as Pakistani security forces stopped them from attending the event. Some were physically manhandled, while others were simply told that the iftar has been cancelled. Overall the turnout was low at the Indian mission's iftar, as Pakistani security agencies turned many guests away which is ironical in a pious Muslim country like Pakistan which knows the significance of breaking the fast during Ramazan. Press secretary of the former Pakistani President Asif Zardari Farhatullah Babar who was invited at the iftar took to Twitter and spoke about the harassment meted out. "Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy,'' he tweeted. Came to Serena for iftar hosted by Indian HC. Hotel seems barricaded. Told that iftar cancelled. When insisted, I was told to use other gate. Other gate also closed and told to go back to front gate again. What’s going on, something fishy. — Farhatullah Babar (@FarhatullahB) June 1, 2019 × A Pakistani journalist Mehreen Zahra-Malik who was there to pick someone tweeted, "Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening & police & anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused." Unprecedented level of harassment at @serena_hotels Islamabad. #India embassy iftaar happening & police & anti terrorism force misbehaving with anyone trying into get in the hotel. Got screamed at, my driver abused. Sorry, not being an entitled prick. This was genuine harassment — Mehreen Zahra-Malik (@mehreenzahra) June 1, 2019 × WION's correspondent Anas Mallick who was iftar also confirmed that he faced a lot of trouble while reaching to the venue. Before the iftar, many invitees got calls asking not to go to the iftar, he added. The Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria speaking at the event said, "I would apologise to all our friends who were subjected to extra scrutiny" Harassment of Indian diplomats has been a norm in Islamabad for months now. From snapping electricity to being aggressively followed has been reported with India sending note verbale asking Pakistani foreign ministry to investigate the incidents. India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected. Meanwhile, Pakistan government sources accused Indian security forces of harassing the iftar guests at Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi. “Out of the 73 guests, only 25 made to Iftar in Delhi due to intimidation by Indian security agencies outside Pakistani High Commission.'' Pakistan diplomatic sources said.

New Delhi to take up with Islamabad harassment of iftar guests at Indian mission

<p>India has reacted to the US withdrawing <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/i-intend-to-end-indias-preferential-trade-treatment-under-gsp-program-trump-201179">Generalised System of Preference</a> (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries saying its "unfortunate" that Washington did not accept New Delhi's offer for the resolution and it can't offer something that hurts national interest.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The United States would end its preferential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspension-of-preferential-trade-status-for-india-under-gsp-is-done-deal-us-222997">trade treatment for India on June 5</a>.</p>

<p>A release by commerce ministry said, &nbsp;"India as part of our bilateral trade discussions, had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward. It is unfortunate that this did not find acceptance by the US."</p>

<p>India had offered a package to US, both before and after White House announced its decision on discontining of GSP status. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Trump administration withdrew the GSP for India, which allows duty-free entry for products from designated developing countries since, according to white house proclamation, "India has not assured the US that it will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets."</p>

<p>New Delhi, reacting on this said, "India...shall always uphold its national interest in these matters." Adding, it has "significant development imperatives and concerns and our people also aspire for better standards of living. This will remain the guiding factor in the government’s approach."</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Donald Trump to end preferential trade treatment for India on June 5</strong></p>

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<p>But was hopeful, and said, we "will continue to build on our strong ties with the US, both economic and people-to-people."</p>

<p>On 4th March, White House had announced that it plans to terminate India's status under the GSP and had given a 60-day notice period till 3rd of May. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free. India’s exports to the US during 2018 were $ 51.4 billion</p>

<p>According to export body FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations), the impact of the withdrawal will be minimum but some products may face the heat.</p>

<p>President of FIEO, Ganesh Kumar Gupta said, "Out of $ 6.35 billion value of exports from India to the US under the GSP scheme, net benefit to the tune of only $ 260 million were accrued by the Indian exporters and thus at macro level the impact of GSP withdrawal on our exports to US would be minimal."</p>

<p>But products getting GSP benefits of 3 per cent or more may find it difficult to absorb the loss.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Most impacted sectors would be Leather Articles (footwear not included) with average GSP benefit of 6.1%, Pharmaceuticals &amp; Surgical with average GSP benefit 5.9% &amp; Chemical &amp; Plastics with average GSP benefit of 4.8%.</p>


India has reacted to the US withdrawing Generalised System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries saying its "unfortunate" that Washington did not accept New Delhi's offer for the resolution and it can't offer something that hurts national interest.

India has reacted to the US withdrawing Generalised System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries saying its "unfortunate" that Washington did not accept New Delhi's offer for the resolution and it can't offer something that hurts national interest. The United States would end its preferential trade treatment for India on June 5. A release by commerce ministry said, "India as part of our bilateral trade discussions, had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward. It is unfortunate that this did not find acceptance by the US." India had offered a package to US, both before and after White House announced its decision on discontining of GSP status. Trump administration withdrew the GSP for India, which allows duty-free entry for products from designated developing countries since, according to white house proclamation, "India has not assured the US that it will provide equitable and reasonable access to its markets." New Delhi, reacting on this said, "India...shall always uphold its national interest in these matters." Adding, it has "significant development imperatives and concerns and our people also aspire for better standards of living. This will remain the guiding factor in the government’s approach." Watch: Donald Trump to end preferential trade treatment for India on June 5 × But was hopeful, and said, we "will continue to build on our strong ties with the US, both economic and people-to-people." On 4th March, White House had announced that it plans to terminate India's status under the GSP and had given a 60-day notice period till 3rd of May. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free. India’s exports to the US during 2018 were $ 51.4 billion According to export body FIEO (Federation of Indian Export Organisations), the impact of the withdrawal will be minimum but some products may face the heat. President of FIEO, Ganesh Kumar Gupta said, "Out of $ 6.35 billion value of exports from India to the US under the GSP scheme, net benefit to the tune of only $ 260 million were accrued by the Indian exporters and thus at macro level the impact of GSP withdrawal on our exports to US would be minimal." But products getting GSP benefits of 3 per cent or more may find it difficult to absorb the loss. Most impacted sectors would be Leather Articles (footwear not included) with average GSP benefit of 6.1%, Pharmaceuticals & Surgical with average GSP benefit 5.9% & Chemical & Plastics with average GSP benefit of 4.8%.

Unfortunate Washington didn't accept offer on GSP resolution, says India  

<p>Diplomacy was the top focus of the first day of Modi government's second term with the prime minister holding bilateral meetings with five foreign leaders who had arrived in Delhi for his oath-taking ceremony. &nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi's first bilateral was with Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid. During the meet, PM "noted that the bilateral relationship, forged in Bangladesh’s War of Liberation, remained of the highest priority to India", a &nbsp; read out by the Ministry of External Affairs stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Both sides plan to commemorate the centenary of the birth of founding father of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2020 and the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s Liberation, in 2021.</p>

<p>In the first tenure of Modi government, the two countries were able to resolve a number of issues including demarcation of the land boundary.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During the bilateral with PM of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, both leaders agreed to work together to achieve the "shared vision of security and growth of the two countries and the Indian Ocean region", MEA readout said.</p>

<p>In his first term, PM Modi had visited Mauritius in 2015 and was the chief guest at the Mauritian National Day celebrations. The country's location in the Indian ocean is key, as it saddles between crucial trade lanes connecting Asia with Africa.</p>

<p>Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli, gifted PM Modi, "Rudraksha mala" during his bilateral.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In the meet with Bhutan PM Dr. Lotay Tshering, co-operation in the hydro-power sector was discussed. &nbsp;India has constructed three Hydroelectric Projects (HEP) in Bhutan totalling 1416 MW (336 MW Chukha HEP, 60 MW Kurichhu HEP and 1020 MW Tala HEP).&nbsp;</p>

<p>PM Modi is expected to visit both Nepal and Bhutan this year.&nbsp;</p>

<p>During his bilateral with Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena, both sides focused in "peace and security in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region" and "noted that terrorism and extremism continue to pose threat to humanity". Remember on April 21, more than 250 people died in terror attacks in the Indian Ocean island country, whose responsibility was taken by Islamic extremist groups.</p>

<p>Friday also saw, the new External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs V. Muraleedharan taking charge.&nbsp;</p>

<p>S. Jaishankar, who was the former foreign secretary, had played a crucial role in India US Nuclear deal of 2006 and served as envoy to several countries including the US and China.</p>


Diplomacy was the top focus of the first day of Modi government's second term with the prime minister holding bilateral meetings with five foreign leaders who had arrived in Delhi for his oath-taking ceremony.

Diplomacy was the top focus of the first day of Modi government's second term with the prime minister holding bilateral meetings with five foreign leaders who had arrived in Delhi for his oath-taking ceremony. PM Modi's first bilateral was with Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid. During the meet, PM "noted that the bilateral relationship, forged in Bangladesh’s War of Liberation, remained of the highest priority to India", a read out by the Ministry of External Affairs stated. Both sides plan to commemorate the centenary of the birth of founding father of Bangladesh, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman in 2020 and the 50th anniversary of Bangladesh’s Liberation, in 2021. In the first tenure of Modi government, the two countries were able to resolve a number of issues including demarcation of the land boundary. During the bilateral with PM of Mauritius, Pravind Kumar Jugnauth, both leaders agreed to work together to achieve the "shared vision of security and growth of the two countries and the Indian Ocean region", MEA readout said. In his first term, PM Modi had visited Mauritius in 2015 and was the chief guest at the Mauritian National Day celebrations. The country's location in the Indian ocean is key, as it saddles between crucial trade lanes connecting Asia with Africa. Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli, gifted PM Modi, "Rudraksha mala" during his bilateral. In the meet with Bhutan PM Dr. Lotay Tshering, co-operation in the hydro-power sector was discussed. India has constructed three Hydroelectric Projects (HEP) in Bhutan totalling 1416 MW (336 MW Chukha HEP, 60 MW Kurichhu HEP and 1020 MW Tala HEP). PM Modi is expected to visit both Nepal and Bhutan this year. During his bilateral with Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena, both sides focused in "peace and security in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region" and "noted that terrorism and extremism continue to pose threat to humanity". Remember on April 21, more than 250 people died in terror attacks in the Indian Ocean island country, whose responsibility was taken by Islamic extremist groups. Friday also saw, the new External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and Minister of State in the Ministry of External Affairs V. Muraleedharan taking charge. S. Jaishankar, who was the former foreign secretary, had played a crucial role in India US Nuclear deal of 2006 and served as envoy to several countries including the US and China.

Diplomacy remains the top focus of Modi 2.0's first day

<p>PM Narendra Modi will visit Sri Lanka on June 9 in his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modis-first-foreign-visit-in-second-term-will-be-to-maldives-221777">first foreign visit after taking charge</a> as the prime minister for the second consecutive term.<br />
The news was confirmed by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.</p>

<p>During the two day visit PM Modi will&nbsp;be going to the Maldives and Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Maithripala Sirisena, who was in India for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan said, "PM Modi will be coming to Sri Lanka as part of his visit to the Maldives. As for the information we have received so far, PM Modi will be coming to Sri Lanka on the 9th. "</p>

<p>During the first term of his government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Reacting to the WION's question, during a presser in Delhi on the recently concluded Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India, Sri Lanka and Japan to develop the East Container Terminal (ECT) in Colombo port, Sirisena, said, "it is not an agreement, it is a memorandum of understanding in order to start a discussion about getting into an agreement" and through the discussion "Sri Lanka intends to come to an agreement which is economically and trade wise favourable to Sri Lanka."</p>

<p>The development comes even as China has been trying to increase its influence in South Asia especially with the development of ports like Gwadar in Pakistan and Hambantota port in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>In 2017, unable to pay its debts, SriLanka handed over the Hambantota to China for a 99 year period lease.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the recent terror attack in Sri Lanka on April 21 that killed more than 250 people, he said his government was able to bring the situation to normal within three weeks.&nbsp;</p>

<p>He dismissed, reports of any of the nine suicide bombers of Easter Sunday attack visiting India.</p>

<p>He said, "I have not received any reports which say that they have travelled to India. My officers have not reported any connection to India up to now"</p>

<p>India had provided intelligence to Sri Lanka on April 4 but the country failed to act on information. The President later removed the defence secretary and inspector general of police for failing to "inform him" about the intelligence.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Sri Lankan President had a bilateral meeting with PM Modi on Friday during which the "leaders noted that terrorism and extremism continue to pose threat to humanity", a readout from Ministry of External Affairs said.</p>


PM Narendra Modi will visit Sri Lanka on June 9 in his first foreign visit after taking charge as the prime minister for the second consecutive term. The news was confirmed by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena.

PM Narendra Modi will visit Sri Lanka on June 9 in his first foreign visit after taking charge as the prime minister for the second consecutive term. The news was confirmed by Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena. During the two day visit PM Modi will be going to the Maldives and Sri Lanka. Maithripala Sirisena, who was in India for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi at Rashtrapati Bhawan said, "PM Modi will be coming to Sri Lanka as part of his visit to the Maldives. As for the information we have received so far, PM Modi will be coming to Sri Lanka on the 9th. " During the first term of his government, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited the Island country twice, first in 2015 and then in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the International Day of Vesak celebrations in Sri Lanka. Reacting to the WION's question, during a presser in Delhi on the recently concluded Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India, Sri Lanka and Japan to develop the East Container Terminal (ECT) in Colombo port, Sirisena, said, "it is not an agreement, it is a memorandum of understanding in order to start a discussion about getting into an agreement" and through the discussion "Sri Lanka intends to come to an agreement which is economically and trade wise favourable to Sri Lanka." The development comes even as China has been trying to increase its influence in South Asia especially with the development of ports like Gwadar in Pakistan and Hambantota port in Sri Lanka. In 2017, unable to pay its debts, SriLanka handed over the Hambantota to China for a 99 year period lease. On the recent terror attack in Sri Lanka on April 21 that killed more than 250 people, he said his government was able to bring the situation to normal within three weeks. He dismissed, reports of any of the nine suicide bombers of Easter Sunday attack visiting India. He said, "I have not received any reports which say that they have travelled to India. My officers have not reported any connection to India up to now" India had provided intelligence to Sri Lanka on April 4 but the country failed to act on information. The President later removed the defence secretary and inspector general of police for failing to "inform him" about the intelligence. The Sri Lankan President had a bilateral meeting with PM Modi on Friday during which the "leaders noted that terrorism and extremism continue to pose threat to humanity", a readout from Ministry of External Affairs said.

PM Modi to visit Sri Lanka on June 9

<p>The US has said that it is closely working with India to minimise any impact of New Delhi reducing oil imports from Iran as Washington has refused to give waivers to any country from its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/the-debate-behind-trumps-move-to-tighten-iran-oil-sanctions-215055">sanctions on the West Asian country</a>.</p>

<p>US State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus, while replying to a question in a briefing said, "So we work – we coordinated closely, of course, with them to minimize any negative impact".</p>

<p>She explained that Washington's "goal... is for everyone" to "cease importing Iranian oil entirely" and "we appreciate everyone who has worked with us steadfastly to get to zero".</p>

<p>A couple of weeks ago, Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif had visited New Delhi and met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj regarding many issues including the import of oil.</p>

<p>On purchase of oil from Iran, Sushma Swaraj told Zarif that a decision on the same will be taken after the elections result keeping in mind "our commercial considerations, energy security and economic interests".</p>

<p>Even though there hasn't been any statement from the Ministry of External Affairs or the petroleum ministry if India has cut oil imports from Iran, Indian envoy to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla was quoted as saying that New Delhi has reduced oil import from the West Asian country.</p>

<p>"India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran and ended all exemptions to sanctions. That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Mr Shringla was quoted by news agency PTI.</p>

<p>The India-Iran bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2016-17 stood at $12.89 billion of which New Delhi imported $10.5 billion worth of goods - mainly crude oil.</p>


The US has said that it is closely working with India to minimise any impact of New Delhi reducing oil imports from Iran as Washington has refused to give waivers to any country from its sanctions on the West Asian country.

The US has said that it is closely working with India to minimise any impact of New Delhi reducing oil imports from Iran as Washington has refused to give waivers to any country from its sanctions on the West Asian country. US State Department spokesperson Morgan Ortagus, while replying to a question in a briefing said, "So we work – we coordinated closely, of course, with them to minimize any negative impact". She explained that Washington's "goal... is for everyone" to "cease importing Iranian oil entirely" and "we appreciate everyone who has worked with us steadfastly to get to zero". A couple of weeks ago, Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif had visited New Delhi and met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj regarding many issues including the import of oil. On purchase of oil from Iran, Sushma Swaraj told Zarif that a decision on the same will be taken after the elections result keeping in mind "our commercial considerations, energy security and economic interests". Even though there hasn't been any statement from the Ministry of External Affairs or the petroleum ministry if India has cut oil imports from Iran, Indian envoy to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla was quoted as saying that New Delhi has reduced oil import from the West Asian country. "India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran and ended all exemptions to sanctions. That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Mr Shringla was quoted by news agency PTI. The India-Iran bilateral trade during the fiscal year 2016-17 stood at $12.89 billion of which New Delhi imported $10.5 billion worth of goods - mainly crude oil.

Working to minimise any negative impact: US on India cutting oil imports from Iran

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs has said that both <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-eye-on-china-india-japan-and-sri-lanka-agree-to-develop-colombo-port-222353">India and China</a> are in touch with each other regarding the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping that will take place in India later this year. The summit is likely to take place in October, though the venue hasn't been decided.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said, "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-to-cooperate-closely-on-afghanistans-peace-efforts-217633">The two sides</a> are in touch, through diplomatic channels, to finalise the date and venue for the meeting. Details about the visit will be announced in due course after the details are finalised."</p>

<p>During the first Informal Summit in Wuhan last year, Chinese President Xi had accepted PM Modi's invitation to visit India for the next Informal summit in 2019.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Can India, China stop the 4th Gulf war?</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-india-china-stop-the-4th-gulf-war-217606/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Wuhan summit, which happened in the backdrop of the Doklam crisis of 2017, is considered an important milestone in Indo-China ties as it helped re-set the ties between the two Asian neighbours.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Doklam crisis saw over a two-month-long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces after Bejing attempted to build a road in the Bhutanese territory of Doklam.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Chinese President Xi Jinping and PM Modi met four times in 2018 starting with Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of the SCO, BRICS and G20 summits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the PM Modi's re-election, Chinese president Xi Jinping had written a letter to him congratulating him on his victory. &nbsp;In the letter, President Xi noted the "great importance he attached to the development of India-China relations" and his "desire to work with Prime Minister Modi to take the Closer Development Partnership between the two countries to a new height", according to an MEA release.</p>

<p>The two leaders are likely to meet on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Kyrgyzstan in June.</p>


The Ministry of External Affairs has said that both India and China are in touch with each other regarding the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping that will take place in India later this year.

The Ministry of External Affairs has said that both India and China are in touch with each other regarding the second informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping that will take place in India later this year. The summit is likely to take place in October, though the venue hasn't been decided. The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said, "The two sides are in touch, through diplomatic channels, to finalise the date and venue for the meeting. Details about the visit will be announced in due course after the details are finalised." During the first Informal Summit in Wuhan last year, Chinese President Xi had accepted PM Modi's invitation to visit India for the next Informal summit in 2019. Watch: Can India, China stop the 4th Gulf war? The Wuhan summit, which happened in the backdrop of the Doklam crisis of 2017, is considered an important milestone in Indo-China ties as it helped re-set the ties between the two Asian neighbours. The Doklam crisis saw over a two-month-long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces after Bejing attempted to build a road in the Bhutanese territory of Doklam. Chinese President Xi Jinping and PM Modi met four times in 2018 starting with Wuhan summit followed by meetings on the sidelines of the SCO, BRICS and G20 summits. After the PM Modi's re-election, Chinese president Xi Jinping had written a letter to him congratulating him on his victory. In the letter, President Xi noted the "great importance he attached to the development of India-China relations" and his "desire to work with Prime Minister Modi to take the Closer Development Partnership between the two countries to a new height", according to an MEA release. The two leaders are likely to meet on the sidelines of the SCO summit in Kyrgyzstan in June.

India, China in touch for second informal summit: Ministry of External Affairs

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