India has hit out at Pakistan on its continued support to terror and said Islamabad is "trying to deflect the attention of the financial crisis by mainstreaming terrorists."&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in a weekly media briefing, asked, "Why is Pakistan allowing safe haven to a terrorist group?" and questioned the lack of seriousness by Pakistan to take action against the perpetrators of Mumbai and Pathankot terror attacks.&nbsp;

Kumar added, "If Pakistan is ready for dialogue, why hasn't Pakistan taken any action against Mumbai and Pathankot terror attack perpetrators? They continue to provide support to the banned terrorist outfits."

On India-Pak&nbsp;talks, Kumar said, "no seriousness in Pakistan&nbsp;saying it wants dialogue and it (Pakistan) has to back up it up with action."

MEA spokesperson gave examples of how Pak ministers have been sharing the stage with terrorists like Hafiz Saeed. In September 2018, Noor-Ul-Haq Qadri, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony and member of Imran Khan's government shared the stage with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed.&nbsp;

In December, Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Afridi vowed to protect Hafiz Saeed "as long as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is in the government." A prominent leader from PTI also opened Hafiz Saeed's Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) centres in Pakistan occupied Kashmir.

JuD is no longer on the list of banned terrorist groups with the lapse of the ordinance under which they were put on the list earlier.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first interview of 2019 said New Delhi is open to dialogue with Islamabad but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard."&nbsp;Last year, on&nbsp;the 10th anniversary of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, New Delhi had called on Pakistan to give up "double standards and to expeditiously bring the perpetrators of the horrific attack to justice."

The MEA also slammed Pakistan on the issue of raising the so-called bad situation of minorities in India. Raveesh noted, "Pakistan said minorities are not treated well in India, I think Pakistan should be the last country to lecture us on plurality and inclusive society. We and the world are fully aware of the situation of minorities in their country."

Last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had said, "We will show the Modi government how to treat minorities." On the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pak is Quaid's Pak and we will ensure that <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-ensure-our-minorities-are-treated-as-equals-unlike-what-is-happening-in-india-imran-khan-186352">our minorities are treated as equal citizens</a>, unlike what is happening in India."

India has hit out at Pakistan on its continued support to terror and said Islamabad is "trying to deflect the attention of the financial crisis by mainstreaming terrorists.

India has hit out at Pakistan on its continued support to terror and said Islamabad is "trying to deflect the attention of the financial crisis by mainstreaming terrorists." Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in a weekly media briefing, asked, "Why is Pakistan allowing safe haven to a terrorist group?" and questioned the lack of seriousness by Pakistan to take action against the perpetrators of Mumbai and Pathankot terror attacks. Kumar added, "If Pakistan is ready for dialogue, why hasn't Pakistan taken any action against Mumbai and Pathankot terror attack perpetrators? They continue to provide support to the banned terrorist outfits." On India-Pak talks, Kumar said, "no seriousness in Pakistan saying it wants dialogue and it (Pakistan) has to back up it up with action." MEA spokesperson gave examples of how Pak ministers have been sharing the stage with terrorists like Hafiz Saeed. In September 2018, Noor-Ul-Haq Qadri, Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony and member of Imran Khan's government shared the stage with 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed. In December, Minister of State for Interior Shehryar Afridi vowed to protect Hafiz Saeed "as long as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is in the government." A prominent leader from PTI also opened Hafiz Saeed's Jamat-ud-Dawah (JuD) centres in Pakistan occupied Kashmir. JuD is no longer on the list of banned terrorist groups with the lapse of the ordinance under which they were put on the list earlier. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first interview of 2019 said New Delhi is open to dialogue with Islamabad but "amid the noise of bombs and guns, the dialogue cannot be heard." Last year, on the 10th anniversary of 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks, New Delhi had called on Pakistan to give up "double standards and to expeditiously bring the perpetrators of the horrific attack to justice." The MEA also slammed Pakistan on the issue of raising the so-called bad situation of minorities in India. Raveesh noted, "Pakistan said minorities are not treated well in India, I think Pakistan should be the last country to lecture us on plurality and inclusive society. We and the world are fully aware of the situation of minorities in their country." Last month, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan had said, "We will show the Modi government how to treat minorities." On the birth anniversary of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, Khan tweeted, "Naya Pak is Quaid's Pak and we will ensure that our minorities are treated as equal citizens, unlike what is happening in India."

Pakistan trying to deflect attention from financial crisis by mainstreaming terrorists: MEA

The Indian government has granted British officials the consular access to meet Christian Michel who is the alleged key middleman in the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/agustawestland-scam-christian-michel-named-mrs-gandhi-son-of-italian-lady-in-probe-ed-tells-court-187221">AgustaWestland</a> case.&nbsp;

On Friday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said," I can confirm Christian Michel has been granted consular access". A second secretary level officer from the British High Commission met Michel on Thursday.&nbsp;

The British High Commission also confirmed saying, "Our staff are supporting a British man who is detained in India, and have visited him to check his welfare". The High Commission had requested India to grant consular access to Michel last month when he was extradited from the UAE.

Remember Christian Michel, who despite being a British national, was extradited from the UAE on December 2018. The operation to get him back was named operation 'Unicorn' and according to the CBI, it was "carried out under the guidance of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval" and was "coordinated by interim CBI Director M Nageshwar Rao."

Michel's extradition is being considered a shot in the arm for the Modi government just before the 2019 polls. Reacting to the extradition, PM Modi had said, "we've caught a 'raazdaar' of chopper scam and brought him here. The entire family (Gandhi family) is now scared of the things which will be revealed. They are scared as to whose name will he take if he opens his mouth."

He has been in the custody of the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) since December. According to the ED, during an interrogation, Michel had taken the name of "Mrs Gandhi," though the reference wasn't clear. He had spoken about the "the son of the Italian lady" and how he is going to become the “next prime minister of the country."

The Indian government has granted British officials the consular access to meet Christian Michel who is the alleged key middleman in the AgustaWestland case. On Friday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said," I can confirm Christian Michel has been granted consular access".

The Indian government has granted British officials the consular access to meet Christian Michel who is the alleged key middleman in the AgustaWestland case. On Friday, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said," I can confirm Christian Michel has been granted consular access". A second secretary level officer from the British High Commission met Michel on Thursday. The British High Commission also confirmed saying, "Our staff are supporting a British man who is detained in India, and have visited him to check his welfare". The High Commission had requested India to grant consular access to Michel last month when he was extradited from the UAE. Remember Christian Michel, who despite being a British national, was extradited from the UAE on December 2018. The operation to get him back was named operation 'Unicorn' and according to the CBI, it was "carried out under the guidance of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval" and was "coordinated by interim CBI Director M Nageshwar Rao." Michel's extradition is being considered a shot in the arm for the Modi government just before the 2019 polls. Reacting to the extradition, PM Modi had said, "we've caught a 'raazdaar' of chopper scam and brought him here. The entire family (Gandhi family) is now scared of the things which will be revealed. They are scared as to whose name will he take if he opens his mouth." He has been in the custody of the CBI and the Enforcement Directorate (ED) since December. According to the ED, during an interrogation, Michel had taken the name of "Mrs Gandhi," though the reference wasn't clear. He had spoken about the "the son of the Italian lady" and how he is going to become the “next prime minister of the country."

India grants British High Commission consular access to Christian Michel

India has briefed the visiting United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad about its policy in the South Asian neighbour&nbsp;and Pakistan's role in the region.&nbsp;

Khalilzad met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday and foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday.&nbsp;

Ministry of External affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said both sides shared perspective on peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

''Khalilzad briefed us on their aspect as to how US is trying to achieve peace and reconciliation in the country. We made it very clear that peace and reconciliation in Afganistan should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled," Kumar said.

Asked if Pakistan's role was discussed, he replied," This is something we have articulated time and again, about the destabilising role they (Pakistan) play. We reiterate out policy in Afghanistan."

US ambassador to India Ken Juster and secretary PAI (Pakistan Afgahistan Iran) division was also present when Khalilzad met Swaraj on Thursday.

"Both sides shared their perspectives on peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan," said an MEA tweet.

This is the first visit by Zalmay to India after taking charge. He will also be visiting China, Pakistan and Afghanistan. During his last visits to the region had had not visited India.&nbsp;

MEA also reacted on Army Chief General Bipin Rawat saying that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without "any preconditions."

"Our position on Afghanistan has been clear and consistent. We have said in the past, India supports the peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. We support the process which is inclusive towards achieving this goal and there has been no change in the position," MEA spokesperson Kumar said.&nbsp;

India has briefed the visiting United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad about its policy in the South Asian neighbour and Pakistan's role in the region.

India has briefed the visiting United States Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation Zalmay Khalilzad about its policy in the South Asian neighbour and Pakistan's role in the region. Khalilzad met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Thursday and foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale on Friday. Ministry of External affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said both sides shared perspective on peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan. ''Khalilzad briefed us on their aspect as to how US is trying to achieve peace and reconciliation in the country. We made it very clear that peace and reconciliation in Afganistan should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled," Kumar said. Asked if Pakistan's role was discussed, he replied," This is something we have articulated time and again, about the destabilising role they (Pakistan) play. We reiterate out policy in Afghanistan." US ambassador to India Ken Juster and secretary PAI (Pakistan Afgahistan Iran) division was also present when Khalilzad met Swaraj on Thursday. "Both sides shared their perspectives on peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan," said an MEA tweet. This is the first visit by Zalmay to India after taking charge. He will also be visiting China, Pakistan and Afghanistan. During his last visits to the region had had not visited India. MEA also reacted on Army Chief General Bipin Rawat saying that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without "any preconditions." "Our position on Afghanistan has been clear and consistent. We have said in the past, India supports the peace and reconciliation efforts in Afghanistan. We support the process which is inclusive towards achieving this goal and there has been no change in the position," MEA spokesperson Kumar said.

India briefs UN special representative for Afghanistan about Pakistan's destabilising role in the region  

India's neighbour Nepal recently banned the all Indian currency notes above the denomination of Rs 100. The move is seen as directly impacting the Indian tourists who visit the Himalayan country.

The decision by Nepal's cabinet came in the wake of the Indian government sitting on a request to exchange old currency notes worth Rs 950 crore (which were rendered obsolete after demonetisation) that still remains with Nepal citizens.

Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali, who is in India, spoke to WION's Siddhant Sibal on the ban on Indian currency notes and a host of other issues. He also called for reactivation of the Southeast Association of Regional Cooperation or Saarc. The 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad was called off in 2016, following the boycott by India due to the terrorist attack at the Army base in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir.

Here's the transcript of the interview:

WION: What is the current status of ties between India and Nepal?

Pradeep Gyawali: It is a symbol of importance both leaders give to our bilateral relationship. There have been frequent visits by the heads of state of the two countries. The Indian Prime Minister visited Nepal twice, our PM came also here. Such visits have contributed in further strengthening and widening of our relations and we are satisfied with excellent relationship that we have.

WION: Nepal recently banned higher denomination note. What do you have to say about that?

Pradeep Gyawali: There was no ban. We are seeking a type of assurance from the Indian government and the Indian central bank that the new notes worth Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000 are equally valid to bring to exchange or be used in our country. I think the issues will be settled soon between both the sides.

WION: Any update on the demonetised Indian currency that you have? Has Indian government agreed to take it?

Pradeep Gyawali: We asked about this during the visit of our PM in April last year. We have requested the Indian government to consider the problem we are facing. We are optimistic that the Indian side will take positive steps in this regard.

WION: Coming to reactivation of Saarc. Have you seen any progress made on that front?

Pradeep Gyawali: Saarc is a common platform of 1.8 billion people of South Asia. If we can reactive this process, it can serve as a tool, as a means, to eradicte the poverty, to futher integrate the region economical, infrastructurally and by other means. It's very important to reactive Saarc, we have request all member nation to contribute to the process.

India's neighbour Nepal recently banned the all Indian currency notes above the denomination of Rs 100. The move is seen as directly impacting the Indian tourists who visit the Himalayan country.

India's neighbour Nepal recently banned the all Indian currency notes above the denomination of Rs 100. The move is seen as directly impacting the Indian tourists who visit the Himalayan country. The decision by Nepal's cabinet came in the wake of the Indian government sitting on a request to exchange old currency notes worth Rs 950 crore (which were rendered obsolete after demonetisation) that still remains with Nepal citizens. Nepal's Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali, who is in India, spoke to WION's Siddhant Sibal on the ban on Indian currency notes and a host of other issues. He also called for reactivation of the Southeast Association of Regional Cooperation or Saarc. The 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad was called off in 2016, following the boycott by India due to the terrorist attack at the Army base in Uri, Jammu and Kashmir. Here's the transcript of the interview: WION: What is the current status of ties between India and Nepal? Pradeep Gyawali: It is a symbol of importance both leaders give to our bilateral relationship. There have been frequent visits by the heads of state of the two countries. The Indian Prime Minister visited Nepal twice, our PM came also here. Such visits have contributed in further strengthening and widening of our relations and we are satisfied with excellent relationship that we have. WION: Nepal recently banned higher denomination note. What do you have to say about that? Pradeep Gyawali: There was no ban. We are seeking a type of assurance from the Indian government and the Indian central bank that the new notes worth Rs 200, Rs 500 and Rs 2000 are equally valid to bring to exchange or be used in our country. I think the issues will be settled soon between both the sides. WION: Any update on the demonetised Indian currency that you have? Has Indian government agreed to take it? Pradeep Gyawali: We asked about this during the visit of our PM in April last year. We have requested the Indian government to consider the problem we are facing. We are optimistic that the Indian side will take positive steps in this regard. WION: Coming to reactivation of Saarc. Have you seen any progress made on that front? Pradeep Gyawali: Saarc is a common platform of 1.8 billion people of South Asia. If we can reactive this process, it can serve as a tool, as a means, to eradicte the poverty, to futher integrate the region economical, infrastructurally and by other means. It's very important to reactive Saarc, we have request all member nation to contribute to the process.

Seek assurance from India on currency notes of higher denomination: Nepal foreign minister to WION

Army Chief General&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/army-has-managed-situation-well-along-china-pakistan-borders-bipin-rawat-189336">Bipin Rawat</a> has said even though new leadership in Islamabad "talks of peace", he hasn't seen any change on the ground.&nbsp;

Speaking at his annual press conference on Thursday, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/cant-allow-gay-sex-to-perpetrate-into-the-army-general-bipin-rawat-189374">Rawat said</a>, "They talk of peace. But on the ground, we don’t see anything. They have a future plan. Practically we have to see anything on the ground."

On terrorist infiltrating from Pakistan, he said, "Ceasefire is not applicable to the movement of the terrorist group." and anyone who is a terrorist and is coming near LoC will "be engaged".

He assured that the army has managed the situation both at the western and northern border and there is "no cause for concern."

On Afghanistan, India must not be left out when asked about his comments on talks with the Taliban. He said, "People’s voice emerging that we want peace. If number of other countries talking to Taliban do we have interest in Afghanistan? Does India has interest in Afghanistan? If the answer is yes, then you can't be out of the bandwagon. Our thinking is, yes we have interest in Afghanistan and if we have interest in Afghanistan, then other people saying we have talks, then should we in some way become participants. Maybe directly or indirectly involved"

He added, "unless you are not sitting on the table we will not know what is being discussed. Everything is discussed in closed doors. Till you sit on the table, on the high table and see what is happening and how it suits you, that is what we are looking at". Elaborating, how India has support Afghanistan in development, he said New Delhi has supported Kabul in development, trade and equipment.&nbsp;

Asked if that differs with official Indian stand, he said, "I did not say you take lead in talks, there are so many countries there. Let us at least know what is happening, that is what I supported. At least what we listen to what is said "

As a policy, India does not engage with Taliban but did participate at the Moscow talks at a non-official level last year.

Asked, if talks with separatist in J&amp;K can he compared with talks with Taliban, he said, "Same analogy can’t be applied. Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue. No place for 3rd party intervention. So, here we have to talk, we have to talk based on our terms and condition. Our terms and conditions very clear, come to negation table and then start talking but shun the gun, give up violence, stop taking support from the western neighbour, if all that can happen we can talk, who says talks cannot happen. Talks and terror cannot go together. And it's not applicable to our western neighbour but people inside. You cannot keep killing security forces, abducting police, killing policemen and say we want talks"&nbsp;

He expressed optimism when it comes to the relation with Bejing. He said, "On the Chinese border we have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity especially after Wuhan when 2 heads of nation met at Wuhan. There were some common directions were issued and these directions which were issued is what we are following. Instruction has been given to both northern, western, central and eastern command, that these are the methods that need to be followed."

In December troops, Indian and Chinese troops participated in joint exercises—Hand in Hand. &nbsp;Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh and Tawang celebrated the new year together.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said even though new leadership in Islamabad "talks of peace", he hasn't seen any change on the ground. Speaking at his annual press conference on Thursday, Rawat said, "They talk of peace.

Army Chief General Bipin Rawat has said even though new leadership in Islamabad "talks of peace", he hasn't seen any change on the ground. Speaking at his annual press conference on Thursday, Rawat said, "They talk of peace. But on the ground, we don’t see anything. They have a future plan. Practically we have to see anything on the ground." On terrorist infiltrating from Pakistan, he said, "Ceasefire is not applicable to the movement of the terrorist group." and anyone who is a terrorist and is coming near LoC will "be engaged". He assured that the army has managed the situation both at the western and northern border and there is "no cause for concern." On Afghanistan, India must not be left out when asked about his comments on talks with the Taliban. He said, "People’s voice emerging that we want peace. If number of other countries talking to Taliban do we have interest in Afghanistan? Does India has interest in Afghanistan? If the answer is yes, then you can't be out of the bandwagon. Our thinking is, yes we have interest in Afghanistan and if we have interest in Afghanistan, then other people saying we have talks, then should we in some way become participants. Maybe directly or indirectly involved" He added, "unless you are not sitting on the table we will not know what is being discussed. Everything is discussed in closed doors. Till you sit on the table, on the high table and see what is happening and how it suits you, that is what we are looking at". Elaborating, how India has support Afghanistan in development, he said New Delhi has supported Kabul in development, trade and equipment. Asked if that differs with official Indian stand, he said, "I did not say you take lead in talks, there are so many countries there. Let us at least know what is happening, that is what I supported. At least what we listen to what is said " As a policy, India does not engage with Taliban but did participate at the Moscow talks at a non-official level last year. Asked, if talks with separatist in J&K can he compared with talks with Taliban, he said, "Same analogy can’t be applied. Jammu and Kashmir is a bilateral issue. No place for 3rd party intervention. So, here we have to talk, we have to talk based on our terms and condition. Our terms and conditions very clear, come to negation table and then start talking but shun the gun, give up violence, stop taking support from the western neighbour, if all that can happen we can talk, who says talks cannot happen. Talks and terror cannot go together. And it's not applicable to our western neighbour but people inside. You cannot keep killing security forces, abducting police, killing policemen and say we want talks" He expressed optimism when it comes to the relation with Bejing. He said, "On the Chinese border we have been able to maintain peace and tranquillity especially after Wuhan when 2 heads of nation met at Wuhan. There were some common directions were issued and these directions which were issued is what we are following. Instruction has been given to both northern, western, central and eastern command, that these are the methods that need to be followed." In December troops, Indian and Chinese troops participated in joint exercises—Hand in Hand. Indian and Chinese forces in Ladakh and Tawang celebrated the new year together.

No change on the ground under Pakistan PM Imran Khan: Army Chief Bipin Rawat

Raising concerns over the increased Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba said Wednesday that "at any given time, there are six to eight Chinese Navy ships in the northern part of the Indian Ocean" and "no navy has grown so rapidly in the last 200 years as the Chinese Navy."&nbsp;

Lanba added that "they are a force and they are a force which is here to stay."

The Chinese have added 80 ships to their navy in the last 5 years.&nbsp;

Lanba was speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/there-should-be-talks-with-the-taliban-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189220">There should be talks with the Taliban, says army chief Bipin Rawat</a>

Elaborating, the navy chief said, "since 2008 there has been a permanent presence of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean region in the form of anti-piracy escort force. The 31st anti-piracy escort force is present in the Gulf of Aden."

China commissioned its first overseas facility in Djibouti two years ago. The stated aim of Bejing's deployment is to protect Chinese trade from piracy in the region.&nbsp;

Lanba however said that China has "deployed submarines for anti-piracy operations" which is the "most unlikely platform to be used for this role".&nbsp;

He also expressed concern over China's spending on its military.&nbsp;

"There is no doubt they are spending a huge sum of money to develop military capabilities. They are modernising the forces, they are modernising command structure," Lanba said.&nbsp;

A Chinese submarine deployed in the Gulf of Aden since April 2015 docked at Karachi in May and July 2015 after transiting through international waters.&nbsp;

India on its part undertakes coordinated patrols and maritime exercises with foreign navies including those of island countries in the Indian Ocean. India has also been increasing its diplomatic engagement with Indian Ocean region countries, and under the Indo-Pacific concept calling for a rules-based approach in the region.&nbsp;

Raising concerns over the increased Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba said Wednesday that "at any given time, there are six to eight Chinese Navy ships in the northern part of the Indian Ocean" and "no navy has grown so rapidly in the last 200 years as the Chinese Navy.

Raising concerns over the increased Chinese presence in the Indian Ocean, Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba said Wednesday that "at any given time, there are six to eight Chinese Navy ships in the northern part of the Indian Ocean" and "no navy has grown so rapidly in the last 200 years as the Chinese Navy." Lanba added that "they are a force and they are a force which is here to stay." The Chinese have added 80 ships to their navy in the last 5 years. Lanba was speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi. Also read: There should be talks with the Taliban, says army chief Bipin Rawat Elaborating, the navy chief said, "since 2008 there has been a permanent presence of the Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean region in the form of anti-piracy escort force. The 31st anti-piracy escort force is present in the Gulf of Aden." China commissioned its first overseas facility in Djibouti two years ago. The stated aim of Bejing's deployment is to protect Chinese trade from piracy in the region. Lanba however said that China has "deployed submarines for anti-piracy operations" which is the "most unlikely platform to be used for this role". He also expressed concern over China's spending on its military. "There is no doubt they are spending a huge sum of money to develop military capabilities. They are modernising the forces, they are modernising command structure," Lanba said. A Chinese submarine deployed in the Gulf of Aden since April 2015 docked at Karachi in May and July 2015 after transiting through international waters. India on its part undertakes coordinated patrols and maritime exercises with foreign navies including those of island countries in the Indian Ocean. India has also been increasing its diplomatic engagement with Indian Ocean region countries, and under the Indo-Pacific concept calling for a rules-based approach in the region.

No navy has grown as rapidly in the last 200 years as China's: Indian naval chief Sunil Lanba

Australia’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne who is on a 3 day India visit has said, her country welcomes "India’s leadership in the Indian Ocean." Speaking at the 4th Raisina Dialogue, she said, there is an increased "strategic competition among major powers in the Indo-Pacific" and as the "competition intensifies, Australia and India have shared interests in ensuring the peaceful development of an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo Pacific region".

Canberra is increasing its security cooperation with India in the region.

In March this year Australia’s largest annual naval deployment, Indo-Pacific Endeavour, comprising up to five Royal Australian Navy vessels, including frigates, a Helicopter Landing Dock (HMAS Canberra), and a replenishment vessel and around 1400 Australian Defence Force personnel, will be hosted across the region and will visit Vizag &amp; Chennai. India and Australian Navy will also have the bilateral navy exercise AUSINDEX later this year. In 2014, Australia and India conducted 11 defence activities together, by 2018 this figure had reached 38 bilateral defence activities.

Lauding India's success, Payne said it "is a reminder to the world of the merits of democracy, of rule of law, of a strong private sector and an increasingly open market economy." She added, "alongside that strategic convergence, we are also seeking closer economic engagement with India and the region. We know that India’s economic growth will re-shape the region’s strategic landscape."

Australia will open its Consulate-General in Kolkata this year with Andrew Ford serving as the first resident Consul-General. It will be Australia fourth diplomatic post in India.

Canberra will also step up connectivity projects in South Asia through the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity initiative, known as SARIC under which the country will spend $25 million over four years.

Congratulating Indian cricket team for its recent victory in her country, the minister said, "I come directly to New Delhi from the Sydney cricket test. There was a suggestion from the Indian cricket administration that I should put the Border Gavaskar trophy in my hand luggage and carry it with me to present to the government. I declined that honour and opportunity but I do convey my congratulations on the historic win achieved by the Indian cricket team."

Australia’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne who is on a 3 day India visit has said, her country welcomes "India’s leadership in the Indian Ocean." Speaking at the 4th Raisina Dialogue, she said, there is an increased "strategic competition among major powers in the Indo-Pacific" and as the "competition intensifies, Australia and India have shared interests in ensuring the peaceful development of an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo Pacific region".

Australia’s Foreign Minister Marise Payne who is on a 3 day India visit has said, her country welcomes "India’s leadership in the Indian Ocean." Speaking at the 4th Raisina Dialogue, she said, there is an increased "strategic competition among major powers in the Indo-Pacific" and as the "competition intensifies, Australia and India have shared interests in ensuring the peaceful development of an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo Pacific region". Canberra is increasing its security cooperation with India in the region. In March this year Australia’s largest annual naval deployment, Indo-Pacific Endeavour, comprising up to five Royal Australian Navy vessels, including frigates, a Helicopter Landing Dock (HMAS Canberra), and a replenishment vessel and around 1400 Australian Defence Force personnel, will be hosted across the region and will visit Vizag & Chennai. India and Australian Navy will also have the bilateral navy exercise AUSINDEX later this year. In 2014, Australia and India conducted 11 defence activities together, by 2018 this figure had reached 38 bilateral defence activities. Lauding India's success, Payne said it "is a reminder to the world of the merits of democracy, of rule of law, of a strong private sector and an increasingly open market economy." She added, "alongside that strategic convergence, we are also seeking closer economic engagement with India and the region. We know that India’s economic growth will re-shape the region’s strategic landscape." Australia will open its Consulate-General in Kolkata this year with Andrew Ford serving as the first resident Consul-General. It will be Australia fourth diplomatic post in India. Canberra will also step up connectivity projects in South Asia through the South Asia Regional Infrastructure Connectivity initiative, known as SARIC under which the country will spend $25 million over four years. Congratulating Indian cricket team for its recent victory in her country, the minister said, "I come directly to New Delhi from the Sydney cricket test. There was a suggestion from the Indian cricket administration that I should put the Border Gavaskar trophy in my hand luggage and carry it with me to present to the government. I declined that honour and opportunity but I do convey my congratulations on the historic win achieved by the Indian cricket team."

We welcome India’s leadership in the Indian Ocean: Australian FM

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability."

On Pakistan's engagement with Afghanistan, Rawat said, "Pakistan has always treated Afghanistan as its backyard and they have been always concerned about it. And as a military leader, why not? They have to be concerned about the backyard. They will always want a military situation in Afghanistan which is more favourable to them. Even if it implies speaking to the devil. They will know it."

Explaining, Rawat said, "But then when you talk to terrorists or any organisation of that kind, you have to talk without precondition. There cannot be precondition attached to it. When you start attaching preconditions, then it gives the notion that one or the other side is talking from the position of victory. Any negotiation you go in for must be from that point of view."

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157">Terrorism becoming </a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157">new</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorism-becoming-new-form-of-warfare-says-army-chief-bipin-rawat-189157"> form of warfare, says Army chief Bipin Rawat</a>

Rawat's comments came even as the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is in India, his first visit to New Delhi after taking over the post.&nbsp;

Announcing his India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China visit, the US State Department had said, "During his last trip in December, Special Representative Khalilzad reiterated that the only solution to the conflict is for all parties to sit together and reach an agreement on the political future of Afghanistan with mutual respect and acceptance."

India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"No engagement with the Taliban" remains the official policy of New Delhi when it comes to dealing with the group.

India had however participated last year in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level, sending two former diplomats — Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan, and TCA Raghavan.&nbsp;

Iran recently said India could use its offices to talk to the Taliban.&nbsp;

Top Iranian government sources told WION, "We have our channels with Taliban. If (India) wishes to use those channels, you are welcome."&nbsp;

Iran does however consider the Taliban a threat.&nbsp;

"A Taliban-dominated Afghanistan is security threat to Iran, India but an existential threat to Pakistan," the Iranian government sources said. "We discussed this with late Pakistan PM Bhutto. We told them this will be your menace."

Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Wednesday. During their 40-minute talk, the Iranian side briefed India about Tehran's talks with the Taliban.

Iran had a brief dialogue with the Taliban in Moscow and their first round of talks took place in Tehran last week. Iran, the US, Russia, and Pakistan all are holding talks with the Taliban at some level and have acknowledged it.&nbsp;

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest.

Army chief General Bipin Rawat has said that "there should be talks with Taliban" but without any preconditions. Speaking at the fourth Raisina Dialogue in Delhi, he said talks with Taliban should happen "so long they don't come with a precondition and so long they look at lasting peace in Afghanistan and bring about stability in the country" and this is "in our interest, in region's interest, and it's in Pakistan's interest. We all want stability." On Pakistan's engagement with Afghanistan, Rawat said, "Pakistan has always treated Afghanistan as its backyard and they have been always concerned about it. And as a military leader, why not? They have to be concerned about the backyard. They will always want a military situation in Afghanistan which is more favourable to them. Even if it implies speaking to the devil. They will know it." Explaining, Rawat said, "But then when you talk to terrorists or any organisation of that kind, you have to talk without precondition. There cannot be precondition attached to it. When you start attaching preconditions, then it gives the notion that one or the other side is talking from the position of victory. Any negotiation you go in for must be from that point of view." Also read: Terrorism becoming new form of warfare, says Army chief Bipin Rawat Rawat's comments came even as the US Special Representative for Afghanistan Reconciliation, Zalmay Khalilzad, is in India, his first visit to New Delhi after taking over the post. Announcing his India, Pakistan, Afghanistan and China visit, the US State Department had said, "During his last trip in December, Special Representative Khalilzad reiterated that the only solution to the conflict is for all parties to sit together and reach an agreement on the political future of Afghanistan with mutual respect and acceptance." India's official policy on the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned, and Afghan-controlled and with the participation of the government of Afghanistan. "No engagement with the Taliban" remains the official policy of New Delhi when it comes to dealing with the group. India had however participated last year in the Moscow talks on Afghanistan, in which the Taliban also took part. India participated at a non-official level, sending two former diplomats — Amar Sinha, India's former envoy to Afghanistan, and TCA Raghavan. Iran recently said India could use its offices to talk to the Taliban. Top Iranian government sources told WION, "We have our channels with Taliban. If (India) wishes to use those channels, you are welcome." Iran does however consider the Taliban a threat. "A Taliban-dominated Afghanistan is security threat to Iran, India but an existential threat to Pakistan," the Iranian government sources said. "We discussed this with late Pakistan PM Bhutto. We told them this will be your menace." Indian External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj met Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Wednesday. During their 40-minute talk, the Iranian side briefed India about Tehran's talks with the Taliban. Iran had a brief dialogue with the Taliban in Moscow and their first round of talks took place in Tehran last week. Iran, the US, Russia, and Pakistan all are holding talks with the Taliban at some level and have acknowledged it.

There should be talks with the Taliban: Army chief Bipin Rawat

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility."

The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory.&nbsp;

The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization."

"Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said.

India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus.&nbsp;

She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas.

These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility".

In a message that will be noted by both Islamabad and Bejing, India's external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday said that "unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally" but in "atmosphere free from violence and hostility". Speaking at the 4th Raisina dialogue, Swaraj said, "our commitment to upholding territorial integrity and sovereignty remains unwavering. Our consistent message is that unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, when approached in the right spirit and, in an atmosphere free from violence and hostility." The comments come even as India and China have bilaterally engaged with each other last year to improve the relationship that suffered in 2017 due to the Doklam crisis when Chinese forces tried to enter Bhutanese territory. The Doklam crisis led to a two-month-long standoff between India and China. But India Pakistan relationship remains without engagement due to Pakistan's continued support to cross border terror. On terror, Sushma Swaraj said, "today, no country, big or small, is immune from this existential threat, particularly, terrorism actively supported and sponsored by states. In this digital age, the challenge is even greater, with a greater vulnerability to radicalization." "Ensuring zero-tolerance towards terrorism, and those who use it as an instrument of convenience is the need of the hour," she said. India has been vocal about cross bother terror and has been calling for a common definition of terrorism. India in 1996 had proposed a draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN but it remains a draft due to lack of consensus. She also talked about India building "sustainable development partnerships" stretching from the Indian Ocean and Pacific Islands to the Caribbean, and from the continent of Africa to the Americas. These initiatives, she explained, are "refer to these as partnerships, and not assistance."

Unresolved border issues can be resolved bilaterally, says Sushma Swaraj

A prequel to English author AA&nbsp;Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies. Earlier, only Disney had the screen rights to Pooh Bear stories, but that ended after the character entered public domain last year. Notably, indie horror filmmaker Rhys Frake-Wakefield took the opportunity to write and direct an R-Rated slasher movie, 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' . The prequel treatment, we presume, will be geared towards children.

Mike de Seve will direct and co-write the film with John Reynolds.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-oh-bother-winnie-the-pooh-blood-and-honey-first-trailer-is-here-to-destroy-your-childhood-watch-511933">Oh, bother! 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' first trailer is here to destroy your childhood. Watch</a>

Reynolds said in a statement, “We’re telling the surprising origin story of the ‘silly young bear’ and his friends, when they were still kids, in a way designed to connect with 21st-century kids."

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/W3E74j_xFtg" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

de Seve said, “I think this unsinkable young cub is totally relatable for today’s kids, with his hell-bent craving for honey and his ludicrous schemes to get it. The whole gang is hilarious, and are even more hilarious as kids, we’re finding out.”&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the fans of Winnie the Pooh and supporting characters like Piglet and Tigger continue to observe 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' with a horrified fascination. It is a sick retelling of the short stories by Milne set in Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh and his friends had many adventurous together with their human friend Christopher Robin.&nbsp;

Christopher Robin, Pooh and others did have all those adventures in Robin's childhood in the film, but then the boy grew up and went to college. Pooh, Piglet, and others, meanwhile, went more and more hungry and became feral. Now, they have become so crazy that they terrorise a group of girls residing in a rural cabin.&nbsp;

 
<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

A prequel to English author AA Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies.

A prequel to English author AA Milne’s classic creation of children Winnie the Pooh is in development, as per The Hollywood Reporter. The project is taking inspiration from the 'Paddington' movies. Earlier, only Disney had the screen rights to Pooh Bear stories, but that ended after the character entered public domain last year. Notably, indie horror filmmaker Rhys Frake-Wakefield took the opportunity to write and direct an R-Rated slasher movie, 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' . The prequel treatment, we presume, will be geared towards children. Mike de Seve will direct and co-write the film with John Reynolds. Also Read: Oh, bother! 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' first trailer is here to destroy your childhood. Watch Reynolds said in a statement, “We’re telling the surprising origin story of the ‘silly young bear’ and his friends, when they were still kids, in a way designed to connect with 21st-century kids." de Seve said, “I think this unsinkable young cub is totally relatable for today’s kids, with his hell-bent craving for honey and his ludicrous schemes to get it. The whole gang is hilarious, and are even more hilarious as kids, we’re finding out.” Meanwhile, the fans of Winnie the Pooh and supporting characters like Piglet and Tigger continue to observe 'Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey' with a horrified fascination. It is a sick retelling of the short stories by Milne set in Hundred Acre Wood, where Winnie the Pooh and his friends had many adventurous together with their human friend Christopher Robin. Christopher Robin, Pooh and others did have all those adventures in Robin's childhood in the film, but then the boy grew up and went to college. Pooh, Piglet, and others, meanwhile, went more and more hungry and became feral. Now, they have become so crazy that they terrorise a group of girls residing in a rural cabin.

Putin, Modi share great chemistry, says Russian deputy foreign minister

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-norway-to-ink-pact-tuesday-to-facilitate-dialogue-to-boost-bilateral-trade-188804">who is on a three-day visit</a> to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".&nbsp;

Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House.&nbsp;

Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues."

She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks."

She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe."

She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy.&nbsp;

PM Modi has met&nbsp;Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).&nbsp;

Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues".

Norway Prime Minister Erna Solberg who is on a three-day visit to India called on "friendship and partnership" with India on "oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues". Today is the main day of engagement for the Norway prime minister and she will be calling on President Kovind, Vice-President Naidu and will meet with PM Modi at Hyderabad House. Solberg will also deliver the inaugural address at the Raisina Dialogue at 6pm today. Speaking to the media after the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan, she said, "I would like to thank Prime Minister Modi for the warm welcome so far and an impressive reception. Good tradition. I hope the meetings today will have even better way for cooperating in very big and important issues." She added,"We hope for good friendship and partnership with India on oceans and sustainable development and bilateral issues. I would like to say thank you for the warm welcome and looking forward to talks." She later paid respects to father of the nation, Mahatma Gandhi, at Rajghat. In the visitor's book, she wrote,"I am grateful for the opportunity to pay my respects to Mahatma Gandhi, 150 years after his birth. His efforts for peace and non-violence continue to resonate across the globe." She is the first foreign leader and head of government to visit New Delhi in the new year. On the first day, she addressed the Indian-Norwegian business summit and opened the "green" compound at the Norwegian embassy. PM Modi has met Solberg twice. In 2017, during her meeting with PM Modi on the sidelines of G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, she gifted PM Modi with a football. The football had SDG - sustainable development - goal inscribed on it. The gesture was to symbolise attainment of Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). Last year, PM Modi met the Norway prime minister during the maiden India-Nordic summit in Stockholm on April 17th last year.

Want friendship and partnership with India: Norway PM Erna Solberg

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue.&nbsp;

Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono was the first one to arrive in Delhi on Monday. Kono took part in the 10th round of Strategic Dialogue and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus during the Strategic Dialogue was on Indo Pacific. The Ministry of External Affairs, in its release, said "India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has acquired a broader significance in the current global context" and "has become a factor of prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region."

Australian foreign minister Marise Payne also arrived on Monday. Payne will address the Raisina Dialogue on how Australia and India can work together along with regional partners to deliver a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This will be Payne’s first visit to India as country's foreign minister and follows President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to the country in November 2018.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Deep rooted ties blossoming into a special strategic and global partnership. 
 
Japanese Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/konotaromp?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@konotaromp</a> is warmly welcomed by EAM <a href="https://twitter.com/SushmaSwaraj?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SushmaSwaraj</a> ahead of the 10th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndiaJapan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndiaJapan</a> Strategic Dialogue. EAM had visited Japan in March 2018 for the last edition. <a href="https://t.co/tIJ30uWDEA">pic.twitter.com/tIJ30uWDEA</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1082277986202779649?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Australia’s High Commissioner to India Harinder Sidhu said, "Minister Payne is visiting at a time when our relationship has grown to become a significant partnership. Our shared interests range widely across political, security, cultural and economic fields."

Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif is also in the city and held talks with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This comes in the background of India taking over the operations of part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting held on December 24, 2018. The Iranian foreign minister will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Giving details of the visit, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said, "He will meet with Indian officials and participate in a joint trade conference of the two countries. Among other programs of the Iranian foreign minister during this important visit is to attend the annual international conference of the Raisina Dialogue."

Mongolian foreign minister Damdin Tsogtbaatar and Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will also be in Delhi. India has been increasing its engagement with land-lock Mongolia in recent years. India has had close ties with Nepal with PM Modi visiting the country twice last year.

Foreign affairs ministers from as many as 10 countries visited India between November 24 to December 24, 2018.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue.

Foreign ministers of six countries will be in Delhi this week. Australian, Japanese, Nepalese, Mongolian, Spanish and Iranian foreign ministers will be in the national capital on the sidelines of the Raisina Dialogue. Japanese foreign minister Taro Kono was the first one to arrive in Delhi on Monday. Kono took part in the 10th round of Strategic Dialogue and called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The focus during the Strategic Dialogue was on Indo Pacific. The Ministry of External Affairs, in its release, said "India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership has acquired a broader significance in the current global context" and "has become a factor of prosperity and stability in the Indo-Pacific region." Australian foreign minister Marise Payne also arrived on Monday. Payne will address the Raisina Dialogue on how Australia and India can work together along with regional partners to deliver a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific. This will be Payne’s first visit to India as country's foreign minister and follows President Ram Nath Kovind's visit to the country in November 2018. Deep rooted ties blossoming into a special strategic and global partnership. Japanese Foreign Minister @konotaromp is warmly welcomed by EAM @SushmaSwaraj ahead of the 10th #IndiaJapan Strategic Dialogue. EAM had visited Japan in March 2018 for the last edition. pic.twitter.com/tIJ30uWDEA — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) January 7, 2019 × Australia’s High Commissioner to India Harinder Sidhu said, "Minister Payne is visiting at a time when our relationship has grown to become a significant partnership. Our shared interests range widely across political, security, cultural and economic fields." Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif is also in the city and held talks with Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari. This comes in the background of India taking over the operations of part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran during the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement meeting held on December 24, 2018. The Iranian foreign minister will hold talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday. Giving details of the visit, Iran’s foreign ministry spokesman Bahram Qassemi said, "He will meet with Indian officials and participate in a joint trade conference of the two countries. Among other programs of the Iranian foreign minister during this important visit is to attend the annual international conference of the Raisina Dialogue." Mongolian foreign minister Damdin Tsogtbaatar and Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will also be in Delhi. India has been increasing its engagement with land-lock Mongolia in recent years. India has had close ties with Nepal with PM Modi visiting the country twice last year. Foreign affairs ministers from as many as 10 countries visited India between November 24 to December 24, 2018.

Foreign ministers of 6 countries in Delhi this week

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