Harassment of Indian diplomats is back in Islamabad, from no gas connection in new residences, randomly switching off electricity to hostile questioning of guests at the reception. In the last several weeks, many of such incidents have been reported in the Pak city.&nbsp;

On 10th December, an intruder tried to enter the house an Indian diplomat in Islamabad. India has lodged a complaint. Other than this, the internet has also being blocked out.

In March of this year, Indian and Pakistani diplomats in respective countries reported harassment. &nbsp;After weeks of discussions that happened at a higher level, both the sides agreed to resolve the matter.&nbsp;

On 30 March 2018, India and Pakistan mutually agreed to resolve matters related to the treatment of diplomats and diplomatic premises, in line with the 1992 Code of Conduct for the treatment of diplomatic/consular personnel in India and Pakistan. Same press releases were issued by New Delhi and Islamabad.

In July, speaking in the Parliament, Minister of state in Ministry of External Affairs General VK Singh said, "the Government of India has, from time to time, taken up the incidents of harassment, aggressive surveillance and intimidation of the officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and also the obstacles placed in the early completion of residential complex for the Indian High Commission officials. The Pakistan side was asked to resolve these issues and ensure the safety and security of our diplomatic Mission and its diplomatic and consular officials."

The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 and the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992.

India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected. It also says intrusive and aggressive surveillance such as verbal and physical harassment shall not be allowed.

The government of India also picked up the matter of internet connectivity, and access to government websites in Islamabad. India sent a reminder last week stating that the official website of the government of India, ending with gov.in, and the internet connection at the high commission in Islamabad continues to be intermittently blocked. Specifically, the website indianvisaonline.gov.in which is used by applicants in Pakistan to apply for visas has been non-accessible for extended period causing disruption in the visa application process for the applicants.&nbsp;

India called on Pakistan to ensure that the internet service providers in the country restore internet service to the high commission and stop blocking Indian government websites.

Harassment of Indian diplomats is back in Islamabad, from no gas connection in new residences, randomly switching off electricity to hostile questioning of guests at the reception.

Harassment of Indian diplomats is back in Islamabad, from no gas connection in new residences, randomly switching off electricity to hostile questioning of guests at the reception. In the last several weeks, many of such incidents have been reported in the Pak city. On 10th December, an intruder tried to enter the house an Indian diplomat in Islamabad. India has lodged a complaint. Other than this, the internet has also being blocked out. In March of this year, Indian and Pakistani diplomats in respective countries reported harassment. After weeks of discussions that happened at a higher level, both the sides agreed to resolve the matter. On 30 March 2018, India and Pakistan mutually agreed to resolve matters related to the treatment of diplomats and diplomatic premises, in line with the 1992 Code of Conduct for the treatment of diplomatic/consular personnel in India and Pakistan. Same press releases were issued by New Delhi and Islamabad. In July, speaking in the Parliament, Minister of state in Ministry of External Affairs General VK Singh said, "the Government of India has, from time to time, taken up the incidents of harassment, aggressive surveillance and intimidation of the officials of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad and also the obstacles placed in the early completion of residential complex for the Indian High Commission officials. The Pakistan side was asked to resolve these issues and ensure the safety and security of our diplomatic Mission and its diplomatic and consular officials." The functioning of diplomatic missions between India and Pakistan is governed by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961 and the bilateral Code of Conduct signed by the two countries in 1992. India, Pakistan code of conduct of 1992 says safety and security of the premises of diplomatic personnel, their families shall be respected and protected. It also says intrusive and aggressive surveillance such as verbal and physical harassment shall not be allowed. The government of India also picked up the matter of internet connectivity, and access to government websites in Islamabad. India sent a reminder last week stating that the official website of the government of India, ending with gov.in, and the internet connection at the high commission in Islamabad continues to be intermittently blocked. Specifically, the website indianvisaonline.gov.in which is used by applicants in Pakistan to apply for visas has been non-accessible for extended period causing disruption in the visa application process for the applicants. India called on Pakistan to ensure that the internet service providers in the country restore internet service to the high commission and stop blocking Indian government websites.

Harassment of Indian diplomats returns in Islamabad

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges'&nbsp;took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties. The meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Calling Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping a "milestone in bilateral relations", Swaraj said, "PM Modi and President Xi have established a personal connection and laid our strategic guidance."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic &amp; youth exchanges <a href="https://t.co/GzWnMgRPud">pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076052889565609986?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

She added, "the armies of both the countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for smooth development of bilateral relations."

The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the informal summit between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Wuhan in April 2018.&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi said, "we agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. <a href="https://t.co/ilVvycgB0G">pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1076050084666589185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 21, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also called on to increase people-to-people exchanges between India and China which he said: "will serve as progress for the entire mankind."

Both the sides agreed on 10 priority areas which include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic and youth exchanges."

The High-Level Mechanism will bring all the existing bilateral, cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella.

This was the last high-level meeting between India and China this year. This year, PM Modi met Chinese President Jinping four times -- from Wuhan informal summit in April to the meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit, BRICS Summit and the G20 summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India in 2019 for the second informal summit between India and China.

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges' took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties.

The first meeting of the newly constituted 'India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges' took place in New Delhi with both sides reaffirming momentum in ties. The meeting was co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Calling Wuhan informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping a "milestone in bilateral relations", Swaraj said, "PM Modi and President Xi have established a personal connection and laid our strategic guidance." EAM Sushma Swaraj at 3rd India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session: I'm satisfied with the quality of discussion today.Ten priorities we discussed include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic & youth exchanges pic.twitter.com/GzWnMgRPud — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × She added, "the armies of both the countries are making effort to strengthen contacts and implement confidence-building measures. This will help to promote peace and tranquillity at India-China border which is an important prerequisite for smooth development of bilateral relations." The decision to establish the India-China High-Level Mechanism on Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges was taken during the informal summit between Prime Minister Modi and President Xi Jinping in Wuhan in April 2018. Chinese Foreign minister Wang Yi said, "we agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations." Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi: We agreed to leverage strengths in respective fields. People to people exchanges should be of the people and for the people. It is a major initiative in the history of India and China relations. pic.twitter.com/ilVvycgB0G — ANI (@ANI) December 21, 2018 × He also called on to increase people-to-people exchanges between India and China which he said: "will serve as progress for the entire mankind." Both the sides agreed on 10 priority areas which include enhancing cooperation in films, education, tourism, art, yoga, media, culture, sports, academic and youth exchanges." The High-Level Mechanism will bring all the existing bilateral, cultural and people-to-people engagements between India and China under one umbrella. This was the last high-level meeting between India and China this year. This year, PM Modi met Chinese President Jinping four times -- from Wuhan informal summit in April to the meeting on the sidelines of the SCO summit, BRICS Summit and the G20 summit. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be visiting India in 2019 for the second informal summit between India and China.

Wuhan was a milestone, PM Modi and President Xi have personal connect: Sushma Swaraj

A day after US&nbsp;President Trump announced the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-islamic-state-defeated-us-will-pull-all-forces-out-of-syira-185369">withdrawal of forces from Syria</a>, media reports from the US said&nbsp;that Washington will be <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-to-withdraw-significant-number-of-troops-from-afghanistan-official-185569">withdrawing 7,000 troops from Afghanistan</a>.

According to a New York Times report, "the Trump administration is withdrawing roughly 7,000 troops from Afghanistan in the coming months."&nbsp;

The Wall Street Journal was the first to report the development.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/it-is-right-for-me-to-step-down-us-defense-secretary-jim-mattis-quits-185565">It is right for me to step down, says US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis&nbsp;</a>

The Pentagon is, however, mum on the development. In a reply to WION's question, Pentagon said, "have nothing to provide."

The development can have a major impact in the region especially with India playing an important developmental role in the war-torn country. In recent months hectic talks have been&nbsp;going on to stabilise the country - from the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-envoy-doubts-afghan-talibans-desire-for-peace-185562">US talking to the Taliban</a>, to Russia-led Moscow talks and China leading tri-party talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

The Taliban recently held talks with the US in Abu Dhabi. The main point of contention from the group has been "withdrawal of foreign troops".

Meanwhile, earlier this week, Russian special envoy for &nbsp;Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov was in India for regular bilateral consultations between India and Russia on Afghanistan. The Russian special envoy held delegation-level talks with joint secretary (PAI) Deepak Mittal and called on foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale.&nbsp;

Giving details on the meeting, the&nbsp;ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "Both sides reiterated support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process."

The Russian side briefed the Indian side their efforts to support the Afghan peace process through the Moscow-format talks. It agreed to "maintain regular bilateral consultations and coordination to promote peace, security, stability, unity and prosperity in Afghanistan."

Earlier this year, India had informally participated in Moscow talks in which the Taliban also participated. India had sent two&nbsp;former envoys - Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, India's envoy to Pakistan to participate in the meet.

A day after US President Trump announced the withdrawal of forces from Syria, media reports from the US said that Washington will be withdrawing 7,000 troops from Afghanistan.

A day after US President Trump announced the withdrawal of forces from Syria, media reports from the US said that Washington will be withdrawing 7,000 troops from Afghanistan. According to a New York Times report, "the Trump administration is withdrawing roughly 7,000 troops from Afghanistan in the coming months." The Wall Street Journal was the first to report the development. Also read: It is right for me to step down, says US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis The Pentagon is, however, mum on the development. In a reply to WION's question, Pentagon said, "have nothing to provide." The development can have a major impact in the region especially with India playing an important developmental role in the war-torn country. In recent months hectic talks have been going on to stabilise the country - from the US talking to the Taliban, to Russia-led Moscow talks and China leading tri-party talks between Afghanistan and Pakistan. The Taliban recently held talks with the US in Abu Dhabi. The main point of contention from the group has been "withdrawal of foreign troops". Meanwhile, earlier this week, Russian special envoy for Afghanistan, Zamir Kabulov was in India for regular bilateral consultations between India and Russia on Afghanistan. The Russian special envoy held delegation-level talks with joint secretary (PAI) Deepak Mittal and called on foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale. Giving details on the meeting, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said: "Both sides reiterated support for Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive peace and reconciliation process." The Russian side briefed the Indian side their efforts to support the Afghan peace process through the Moscow-format talks. It agreed to "maintain regular bilateral consultations and coordination to promote peace, security, stability, unity and prosperity in Afghanistan." Earlier this year, India had informally participated in Moscow talks in which the Taliban also participated. India had sent two former envoys - Amar Sinha, who was India's ambassador to Afghanistan and TCA Raghavan, India's envoy to Pakistan to participate in the meet.

Nothing to provide, says Pentagon to WION on reports of US cutting troops in Afghanistan

Two days after Hamid Nehal Ansari returned to India, details of what he went through have emerged.&nbsp;

Hamid, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/watch-never-fall-in-love-on-facebook-hamid-nihal-ansari-says-after-6-years-in-pakistani-jails-185503">who had fallen in love with a girl from Pakistan's Kohat</a>, had entered the country illegally via Afghanistan on a fake passport.&nbsp;He was arrested by Pakistani security officials in 2012, put in solitary confinement and allowed to use the toilet only once a day. Heavy restrictions were placed on him.&nbsp;

He was <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hamid-nihal-ansari-in-jail-in-pak-for-6-years-crosses-back-over-into-india-185105">released by Pakistan on Monday after six years</a>.

Hamid, along with his mother Fauzia, father Nehal, and journalist Jatin Desai, met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday in Delhi. Desai had played a key role in highlighting Hamid's plight.&nbsp;

Giving details of the meeting, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "He met EAM yesterday. EAM inquired from Hamid Nehal Ansari about his well being. He was being released after six years in a Pakistani jail. EAM did ask him how he landed in Pakistan. He did explain... What he said that he was in love with a girl and in pursuit of the girl he followed her and landed up in Pakistan. There he was arrested on being a spy."

The spokesperson added that "the girl for whom he had gone to Pakistan had testified in his favour, that he had come to meet her, but he was put in jail."

Hamid was also under pressure to sign papers that said he was a spy.&nbsp;

Remember, while announcing Hamid's release in a tweet, the spokesperson of Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs, Dr Mohammad Faisal, had called him a spy.&nbsp;

"#HamidNehalAnsari, an Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents, is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India," Faisal had said. &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HamidNehalAnsari?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HamidNehalAnsari</a>, an Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents, is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India.
— Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrMFaisal/status/1074602180651483136?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 17, 2018</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

WION spoke to Hamid after his release and asked him what he had had to endure in Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Can't give you the details but initially when I was arrested I lost all hopes that I will go home ever. I started praying for my parents, I started praying for my loved ones. But suddenly it was a miracle. Almighty gave this hope in me, don't worry, one day you will go back. Combined efforts paid," Hamid answered.&nbsp;

He also told WION that it was a "mistake" to go to Pakistan and his "intentions weren't against anyone. Not even a single person. My intention were to go there and rescue my friend. But the step or method I took was wrong. I accepted. I repent. I committed a mistake and I was punished for it."

Hamid was optimistic about the future and "<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/message-to-india-pak-govts-is-humanity-is-bigger-than-any-religion-hamid-nihal-ansari-to-wion-185377">look forward to joining Jatin to help people to go back</a>".

Hamid arrived back in Mumbai, his hometown, on Thursday.&nbsp;

Two days after Hamid Nehal Ansari returned to India, details of what he went through have emerged. Hamid, who had fallen in love with a girl from Pakistan's Kohat, had entered the country illegally via Afghanistan on a fake passport.

Two days after Hamid Nehal Ansari returned to India, details of what he went through have emerged. Hamid, who had fallen in love with a girl from Pakistan's Kohat, had entered the country illegally via Afghanistan on a fake passport. He was arrested by Pakistani security officials in 2012, put in solitary confinement and allowed to use the toilet only once a day. Heavy restrictions were placed on him. He was released by Pakistan on Monday after six years. Hamid, along with his mother Fauzia, father Nehal, and journalist Jatin Desai, met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Wednesday in Delhi. Desai had played a key role in highlighting Hamid's plight. Giving details of the meeting, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "He met EAM yesterday. EAM inquired from Hamid Nehal Ansari about his well being. He was being released after six years in a Pakistani jail. EAM did ask him how he landed in Pakistan. He did explain... What he said that he was in love with a girl and in pursuit of the girl he followed her and landed up in Pakistan. There he was arrested on being a spy." The spokesperson added that "the girl for whom he had gone to Pakistan had testified in his favour, that he had come to meet her, but he was put in jail." Hamid was also under pressure to sign papers that said he was a spy. Remember, while announcing Hamid's release in a tweet, the spokesperson of Pakistan's ministry of foreign affairs, Dr Mohammad Faisal, had called him a spy. "#HamidNehalAnsari, an Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents, is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India," Faisal had said. #HamidNehalAnsari, an Indian spy who had illegally entered Pakistan and was involved in anti-state crimes and forging documents, is being released upon completion of his sentence and is being repatriated to India. — Dr Mohammad Faisal (@DrMFaisal) December 17, 2018 × WION spoke to Hamid after his release and asked him what he had had to endure in Pakistan. "Can't give you the details but initially when I was arrested I lost all hopes that I will go home ever. I started praying for my parents, I started praying for my loved ones. But suddenly it was a miracle. Almighty gave this hope in me, don't worry, one day you will go back. Combined efforts paid," Hamid answered. He also told WION that it was a "mistake" to go to Pakistan and his "intentions weren't against anyone. Not even a single person. My intention were to go there and rescue my friend. But the step or method I took was wrong. I accepted. I repent. I committed a mistake and I was punished for it." Hamid was optimistic about the future and "look forward to joining Jatin to help people to go back". Hamid arrived back in Mumbai, his hometown, on Thursday.

Hamid Nehal Ansari was put in solitary confinement, girl he had gone to Pakistan for testified in his favour: MEA

The first India China High-Level Mechanism on People-to-People Exchanges which was one of the outcomes of the informal Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will take place on Friday in Delhi. The meeting will be co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The two ministers will also open the India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session.

Replying to a question by the media, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "This is the first meeting of India China High-Level mechanism on cultural and people to people exchange. The decision to establish a special mechanism was taken during the informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi. Reflects desire of the two sides to build synergy on people to people exchanges."

Chinese foreign minister who is on a four day India visit from December 21 to 24 will also visit Aurangabad and Mumbai. A number of MoUs are expected to be signed during his India visit.

The year 2018 saw a reset in India-China ties which went under strain last year due to Doklam standoff in Bhutan. The standoff between the armed forces of the two countries occurred after the Chinese army attempted to build a road in Bhutan's Doklam area. The conflict was resolved after several rounds of talks.

The current year saw Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting four times. The two leaders first met at the Wuhan informal summit, followed by bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the SCO summit in China, BRICS summit in South Africa and the G20 summit in Argentina.&nbsp;

The first India China High-Level Mechanism on People-to-People Exchanges which was one of the outcomes of the informal Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will take place on Friday in Delhi.

The first India China High-Level Mechanism on People-to-People Exchanges which was one of the outcomes of the informal Wuhan summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping will take place on Friday in Delhi. The meeting will be co-chaired by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. The two ministers will also open the India-China High-Level Media Forum Inaugural Session. Replying to a question by the media, Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, "This is the first meeting of India China High-Level mechanism on cultural and people to people exchange. The decision to establish a special mechanism was taken during the informal summit between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi. Reflects desire of the two sides to build synergy on people to people exchanges." Chinese foreign minister who is on a four day India visit from December 21 to 24 will also visit Aurangabad and Mumbai. A number of MoUs are expected to be signed during his India visit. The year 2018 saw a reset in India-China ties which went under strain last year due to Doklam standoff in Bhutan. The standoff between the armed forces of the two countries occurred after the Chinese army attempted to build a road in Bhutan's Doklam area. The conflict was resolved after several rounds of talks. The current year saw Prime Minister Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping meeting four times. The two leaders first met at the Wuhan informal summit, followed by bilateral meetings on the sidelines of the SCO summit in China, BRICS summit in South Africa and the G20 summit in Argentina.

On Friday, first India, China high-level mechanism on people-to-people exchanges

The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/hamid-nihal-ansaris-emotional-homecoming-kisses-indian-soil-hugs-and-consoles-teary-eyed-mother-185173">Hamid Nihal Ansari incident</a> has highlighted the case of many Indian and Pakistani nationals languishing in Pakistani and Indian jails despite completing the terms. Here are some key facts on how many prisoners and fishermen have been released by both sides.&nbsp;

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan released 14 Indian civilian prisoners in the last 4 years, while India released 124 Pakistani civilian prisoners. This year, with the inclusion of Hamid Nihal, Pakistan released just two Indian civilian prisoners while New Delhi released 10 Pakistani civilian prisoners. Clearly, for every 1 prisoner released by Pakistan in 2018, India released 5.&nbsp;

When it comes to fishermen, Pakistan released 1,514 Indian fishermen in last 4 years while New Delhi released 155 Pakistani fishermen in last 4 years. When it comes to 2018, Pakistan released 148 Indian fishermen and India none.&nbsp;

Under the India-Pakistan ‘Agreement on Consular Access’ signed on 21 May 2008, every first of January and July Islamabad and Delhi exchange list of civilian prisoners and fishermen of each country lodged in their respective jails.&nbsp;

According to the lists exchanged on July 1, 2018, there were 108 Pakistan fishermen and 249 Pakistan civilian prisoners in India’s custody. Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 418 fishermen and 53 civilian prisoners who are Indian or are believed to be Indian in their jails.

Speaking in the Parliament earlier this year, Minister of State, External Affairs, General VK Singh, assured that the "Government regularly takes up the issue of early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen along with their boats with the Pakistan authorities."&nbsp;

Jatin Desai, the man responsible for Hamid Nihal Ansari's release had called on governments of India and Pakistan to release more prisoners and look into the issue. Jatin told WION, "We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. They need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective. Hamid can set an example."

Still many cases remain unacknowledged by Pakistan. There are still 83 missing Indian defence personnel whose custody Islamabad didn't even acknowledge.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in October 2017, suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work together to resolve the humanitarian issues related to elderly women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other’s custody and consider their early release and repatriation.

It was proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitating their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on 7 March 2018.&nbsp;

In a press release welcoming Nihal's release, the MEA hoped that Pakistan would "respond and organize an early visit of the Joint Judicial Committee so that the issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner."

India has shared the details of the medical experts' team and the reconstituted Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan with a request to organise their visit. Pakistan has not responded so far.

The Hamid Nihal Ansari incident has highlighted the case of many Indian and Pakistani nationals languishing in Pakistani and Indian jails despite completing the terms.

The Hamid Nihal Ansari incident has highlighted the case of many Indian and Pakistani nationals languishing in Pakistani and Indian jails despite completing the terms. Here are some key facts on how many prisoners and fishermen have been released by both sides. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Pakistan released 14 Indian civilian prisoners in the last 4 years, while India released 124 Pakistani civilian prisoners. This year, with the inclusion of Hamid Nihal, Pakistan released just two Indian civilian prisoners while New Delhi released 10 Pakistani civilian prisoners. Clearly, for every 1 prisoner released by Pakistan in 2018, India released 5. When it comes to fishermen, Pakistan released 1,514 Indian fishermen in last 4 years while New Delhi released 155 Pakistani fishermen in last 4 years. When it comes to 2018, Pakistan released 148 Indian fishermen and India none. Under the India-Pakistan ‘Agreement on Consular Access’ signed on 21 May 2008, every first of January and July Islamabad and Delhi exchange list of civilian prisoners and fishermen of each country lodged in their respective jails. According to the lists exchanged on July 1, 2018, there were 108 Pakistan fishermen and 249 Pakistan civilian prisoners in India’s custody. Pakistan has acknowledged the custody of 418 fishermen and 53 civilian prisoners who are Indian or are believed to be Indian in their jails. Speaking in the Parliament earlier this year, Minister of State, External Affairs, General VK Singh, assured that the "Government regularly takes up the issue of early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen along with their boats with the Pakistan authorities." Jatin Desai, the man responsible for Hamid Nihal Ansari's release had called on governments of India and Pakistan to release more prisoners and look into the issue. Jatin told WION, "We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. They need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective. Hamid can set an example." Still many cases remain unacknowledged by Pakistan. There are still 83 missing Indian defence personnel whose custody Islamabad didn't even acknowledge. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, in October 2017, suggested to the High Commissioner of Pakistan that the two sides could work together to resolve the humanitarian issues related to elderly women and mentally unsound prisoners in each other’s custody and consider their early release and repatriation. It was proposed to revive the mechanism of Joint Judicial Committee and that a team of Indian medical experts could be allowed to visit the mentally unsound prisoners with a view to facilitating their nationality verification and subsequent repatriation. Pakistan responded positively on 7 March 2018. In a press release welcoming Nihal's release, the MEA hoped that Pakistan would "respond and organize an early visit of the Joint Judicial Committee so that the issues of prisoners can be dealt with in a humanitarian and timely manner." India has shared the details of the medical experts' team and the reconstituted Joint Judicial Committee to Pakistan with a request to organise their visit. Pakistan has not responded so far.

For every 1 prisoner released by Pakistan in 2018, India released 5

The New Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering will visit India on December 27. This is his first foreign visit after taking charge. He took over on November 7 and is the eighth prime minister of Bhutan.

After his victory in the Bhutanese elections, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called Tshering and congratulated him on his win. Modi conveyed to Tshering that India attaches the "highest priority to further strengthening unique ties of friendship and cooperation with Bhutan, which is based on shared interests and values, utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding."

Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale was the first Indian official to visit Bhutan to meet the new prime minister. During the meet, the Bhutanese PM said he "is committed to strengthening the special bond of friendship and cooperation shared by the two countries." He assured that “our foreign policy should not change every five years with the change in government.”&nbsp;

The PM and the foreign secretary also discussed Bhutan’s twelfth five-year plan. India plays a significant role in Bhutan's five-year plans.

This year marks the golden jubilee year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Bhutan and there have been a number of accompanying events. Bhutan Week was celebrated in New Delhi in September, with India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu the chief guest at the event.&nbsp;

India is Bhutan's largest trading partner. In 2016, total bilateral trade between the two countries stood at Rs 8,723 crore with total imports being Rs 5528.5 crore (82% of Bhutan’s total imports) and exports recorded as Rs 3205.2 crore including electricity (90% of Bhutan’s total exports).&nbsp; 
India also soon plans to commission the 720 MW Mangdechhu hydro-power project on the Mangdechhu river in the Trongsa Dzongkhag district of central Bhutan.

In 2017, a crisis erupted in Doklam near the Bhutan, India, China trijunction when the Chinese army tried to construct a road in the area. This led to a two-month long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in the region.&nbsp;

Later, during the official visit of the Bhutanese king and queen to India in 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind “conveyed deep appreciation for the King of Bhutan’s personal involvement and guidance and the support provided by Bhutan in addressing the recent situation in the Doklam area”.&nbsp;

India plays an important role in Bhutan's economic development and has constructed three hydroelectric projects (HEP)Bhutan which together generate 1,416 MW — 336 MW by Chukha HEP, 60 MW by Kurichhu HEP and 1,020 MW by Tala HEP — of power.&nbsp;

In April 2014, an inter-governmental agreement was signed between India and Bhutan for the development of four more HEPs under the joint venture model which would together — 600 MW at Kholongchhu, 180 MW at Bunakha, 570 MW at Wangchhu and 770 MW at Chamkharchhu — generate 2,120 MW of power.&nbsp;

Incidentally, after entering office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit abroad was to Bhutan.

The New Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering will visit India on December 27. This is his first foreign visit after taking charge. He took over on November 7 and is the eighth prime minister of Bhutan.

The New Bhutanese Prime Minister Lotay Tshering will visit India on December 27. This is his first foreign visit after taking charge. He took over on November 7 and is the eighth prime minister of Bhutan. After his victory in the Bhutanese elections, India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called Tshering and congratulated him on his win. Modi conveyed to Tshering that India attaches the "highest priority to further strengthening unique ties of friendship and cooperation with Bhutan, which is based on shared interests and values, utmost trust, goodwill and mutual understanding." Indian Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale was the first Indian official to visit Bhutan to meet the new prime minister. During the meet, the Bhutanese PM said he "is committed to strengthening the special bond of friendship and cooperation shared by the two countries." He assured that “our foreign policy should not change every five years with the change in government.” The PM and the foreign secretary also discussed Bhutan’s twelfth five-year plan. India plays a significant role in Bhutan's five-year plans. This year marks the golden jubilee year of the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Bhutan and there have been a number of accompanying events. Bhutan Week was celebrated in New Delhi in September, with India's Vice-President Venkaiah Naidu the chief guest at the event. India is Bhutan's largest trading partner. In 2016, total bilateral trade between the two countries stood at Rs 8,723 crore with total imports being Rs 5528.5 crore (82% of Bhutan’s total imports) and exports recorded as Rs 3205.2 crore including electricity (90% of Bhutan’s total exports). India also soon plans to commission the 720 MW Mangdechhu hydro-power project on the Mangdechhu river in the Trongsa Dzongkhag district of central Bhutan. In 2017, a crisis erupted in Doklam near the Bhutan, India, China trijunction when the Chinese army tried to construct a road in the area. This led to a two-month long standoff between Indian and Chinese forces in the region. Later, during the official visit of the Bhutanese king and queen to India in 2017, President Ram Nath Kovind “conveyed deep appreciation for the King of Bhutan’s personal involvement and guidance and the support provided by Bhutan in addressing the recent situation in the Doklam area”. India plays an important role in Bhutan's economic development and has constructed three hydroelectric projects (HEP)Bhutan which together generate 1,416 MW — 336 MW by Chukha HEP, 60 MW by Kurichhu HEP and 1,020 MW by Tala HEP — of power. In April 2014, an inter-governmental agreement was signed between India and Bhutan for the development of four more HEPs under the joint venture model which would together — 600 MW at Kholongchhu, 180 MW at Bunakha, 570 MW at Wangchhu and 770 MW at Chamkharchhu — generate 2,120 MW of power. Incidentally, after entering office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's first visit abroad was to Bhutan.

In first foreign visit, New Bhutan PM Lotay Tshering to visit India on December 27

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/indian-national-hamid-nehal-ansari-set-to-cross-wagah-border-today-184927">Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man</a> who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport.&nbsp;

WION&nbsp;spoke to Hamid's mother and father as&nbsp;both<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/its-a-matter-of-great-relief-mea-on-hamid-ansaris-release-from-pak-jail-184890"> thanked the Indian and Pakistani </a>governments. WION also spoke to Jatin Desai, the man who tirelessly worked for the release of the Indian national.

WION: You will finally be able to meet your son...

Fauzia Ansari (Mother): Thanks to both the governments, the government&nbsp;of India, minister Sushma Swaraj and all those people who helped us right from the beginning and who stood on our side in our time of crisis. Credit goes to them. And also the Pakistan government, they helped us. I always felt they were very supportive and very helpful.&nbsp;

We are very happy on Hamid's release.

Nehal Ansari (Father): No words can express our gratitude and happiness. We are thankful to all the people including the government of India and Pakistan. There are so many people who were supportive.&nbsp;

 
Interview with Jatin Desai

 
WION: &nbsp;Sir, your hard work towards Hamid's release has finally paid off...&nbsp;

Jatin Desai: Absolutely, I am thrilled and happy. It is a historic day for India-Pakistan relations. After so many years, he will come back. He was imprisoned for six years. He was arrested on November 14, 2012, which is more than six years.&nbsp;

He was an innocent guy, he went to Pakistan for the sake of his love. He was in love with a girl from Kohat. He just entered Pakistan and he was caught. We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. There are several like him in India and Pakistan, they need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective, which we don't.&nbsp;

Hamid can set an example. This is the time, India and Pakistan should release prisoners from their custody.

WION: &nbsp;Did you expect him to be released soon?

Jatin Desai: I was expecting it, although I didn't think he would be released on Tuesday. It's a pleasant shock, pleasant shocks are always welcome.&nbsp;

The new government in Pakistan, especially Imran Khan&nbsp;took the initiative. Next year will be the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, so the Kartarpur corridor has come up, let us hope. I always live in optimism. I believe, tomorrow will be better than today.

WION: Talk to us about your struggles. Issues you faced?

Jatin Desai: I am interested in the plight of the fishermen who have been arrested, I want them to be released. There are 400 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody and 150 Pakistan fishermen in Indian custody.

It is very difficult. It is because of a lack of trust. We need to have trust between the two countries. In the case of Hamid, I must say, that in Pakistan a couple of friends and others tirelessly worked to get him released.&nbsp;

There were&nbsp;senior lawyers, women lawyers, who worked for his release, without any expectations. It is also a victory of the Indian and Pakistani media including the Indian and Pakistani social activists.

Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport.

Hamid Nehal Ansari, the man who was held in jail for six years was finally released by Pakistan. He had gone to Pakistan and was imprisoned for having a fake Pakistani passport. WION spoke to Hamid's mother and father as both thanked the Indian and Pakistani governments. WION also spoke to Jatin Desai, the man who tirelessly worked for the release of the Indian national. WION: You will finally be able to meet your son... Fauzia Ansari (Mother): Thanks to both the governments, the government of India, minister Sushma Swaraj and all those people who helped us right from the beginning and who stood on our side in our time of crisis. Credit goes to them. And also the Pakistan government, they helped us. I always felt they were very supportive and very helpful. We are very happy on Hamid's release. Nehal Ansari (Father): No words can express our gratitude and happiness. We are thankful to all the people including the government of India and Pakistan. There are so many people who were supportive. Interview with Jatin Desai WION: Sir, your hard work towards Hamid's release has finally paid off... Jatin Desai: Absolutely, I am thrilled and happy. It is a historic day for India-Pakistan relations. After so many years, he will come back. He was imprisoned for six years. He was arrested on November 14, 2012, which is more than six years. He was an innocent guy, he went to Pakistan for the sake of his love. He was in love with a girl from Kohat. He just entered Pakistan and he was caught. We also believe, there are many prisoners. Hamid is not alone. There are several like him in India and Pakistan, they need to be released. They need to be seen from a humanitarian perspective, which we don't. Hamid can set an example. This is the time, India and Pakistan should release prisoners from their custody. WION: Did you expect him to be released soon? Jatin Desai: I was expecting it, although I didn't think he would be released on Tuesday. It's a pleasant shock, pleasant shocks are always welcome. The new government in Pakistan, especially Imran Khan took the initiative. Next year will be the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev, so the Kartarpur corridor has come up, let us hope. I always live in optimism. I believe, tomorrow will be better than today. WION: Talk to us about your struggles. Issues you faced? Jatin Desai: I am interested in the plight of the fishermen who have been arrested, I want them to be released. There are 400 Indian fishermen in Pakistan's custody and 150 Pakistan fishermen in Indian custody. It is very difficult. It is because of a lack of trust. We need to have trust between the two countries. In the case of Hamid, I must say, that in Pakistan a couple of friends and others tirelessly worked to get him released. There were senior lawyers, women lawyers, who worked for his release, without any expectations. It is also a victory of the Indian and Pakistani media including the Indian and Pakistani social activists.

Thank government of India, Pak for son's release, say Hamid Nehal Ansari's parents

Maldives and India officially announced the positive reset in their ties with the visit of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih.&nbsp;

While President Solih reaffirmed his government’s "India First" policy and commitment to working closely with India, New Delhi announced a $1.4 billion aid package for the Maldives.&nbsp;

India will provide the cash in the form of budgetary support, currency swap, and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the Maldives' socio-economic development programmes. This was announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Solih during their joint press statement.&nbsp;

"I am happy to announce, for social and economic development of Maldives, we will provide currency swap, credit with lines of credit worth 1.4 billion dollar," Modi said in Delhi on Monday.&nbsp;

Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region.&nbsp;

Modi announced that both countries "will increase cooperation to maintain stability in the Indian Ocean region" and "security interests of both the countries are interlinked in the region and both will not allowing their respective territories to be used for any activity inimical to the other."&nbsp;

Solih talked of how both countries can strengthen security in the Indian Ocean. "India and Maldives agreed to strength maritime security in Indian Ocean region &nbsp;coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information and capacity building," the Maldivian president said.&nbsp;

India will provide a thousand additional slots over the next five years for training and capacity building in diverse fields including judicial, policing and law-enforcement, audit and financial management, local governance, community development etc.

President Solih reiterated his country's support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded and reformed UN Security Council. The Maldives will also support for India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21.

Visa pact

India and Maldives signed four agreements. One was an agreement on the facilitation of visa arrangements which will ease the issuance of visas for the people of both countries. PM Modi noted that the new agreement will address common concerns and ensure that people-to-people contacts are enhanced. President Solih said the agreement will allow many Maldivians who send their children to school in India to be able to accompany them. The agreement also facilitates easier visa arrangements for Maldivian citizens and their families to come to India for medical treatment.&nbsp;

The Maldives is one of the very few countries with which India has a visa-free arrangement.

In an important gesture, President Solih is staying in the Rashtrapati Bhawan as a special guest of President Ram Nath Kovind.&nbsp;

According to the joint statement released by the ministry of external affairs: "This demonstrates the close ties between India and the Maldives, and the warmth and mutual respect between the two governments."

This is President Solih's first foreign visit after entering office.&nbsp;

The visit comes exactly a month after PM Modi's visit to the Maldives on November 17 to take part in President Solih's swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;

PM Modi was the only head of state invited to take part in the swearing-in ceremony.&nbsp;

India's relationship with the Maldives had suffered under the previous Yameen government who had junked his country's pro-India policy for a pro-China policy.&nbsp;

Maldives and India officially announced the positive reset in their ties with the visit of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih. While President Solih reaffirmed his government’s "India First" policy and commitment to working closely with India, New Delhi announced a $1.

Maldives and India officially announced the positive reset in their ties with the visit of Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohammed Solih. While President Solih reaffirmed his government’s "India First" policy and commitment to working closely with India, New Delhi announced a $1.4 billion aid package for the Maldives. India will provide the cash in the form of budgetary support, currency swap, and concessional lines of credit to fulfil the Maldives' socio-economic development programmes. This was announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Solih during their joint press statement. "I am happy to announce, for social and economic development of Maldives, we will provide currency swap, credit with lines of credit worth 1.4 billion dollar," Modi said in Delhi on Monday. Both leaders agreed on the importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean region. Modi announced that both countries "will increase cooperation to maintain stability in the Indian Ocean region" and "security interests of both the countries are interlinked in the region and both will not allowing their respective territories to be used for any activity inimical to the other." Solih talked of how both countries can strengthen security in the Indian Ocean. "India and Maldives agreed to strength maritime security in Indian Ocean region coordinated patrolling and aerial surveillance, exchange of information and capacity building," the Maldivian president said. India will provide a thousand additional slots over the next five years for training and capacity building in diverse fields including judicial, policing and law-enforcement, audit and financial management, local governance, community development etc. President Solih reiterated his country's support for India's candidature for permanent membership of an expanded and reformed UN Security Council. The Maldives will also support for India’s candidature for a non-permanent seat for the year 2020-21. Visa pact India and Maldives signed four agreements. One was an agreement on the facilitation of visa arrangements which will ease the issuance of visas for the people of both countries. PM Modi noted that the new agreement will address common concerns and ensure that people-to-people contacts are enhanced. President Solih said the agreement will allow many Maldivians who send their children to school in India to be able to accompany them. The agreement also facilitates easier visa arrangements for Maldivian citizens and their families to come to India for medical treatment. The Maldives is one of the very few countries with which India has a visa-free arrangement. In an important gesture, President Solih is staying in the Rashtrapati Bhawan as a special guest of President Ram Nath Kovind. According to the joint statement released by the ministry of external affairs: "This demonstrates the close ties between India and the Maldives, and the warmth and mutual respect between the two governments." This is President Solih's first foreign visit after entering office. The visit comes exactly a month after PM Modi's visit to the Maldives on November 17 to take part in President Solih's swearing-in ceremony. PM Modi was the only head of state invited to take part in the swearing-in ceremony. India's relationship with the Maldives had suffered under the previous Yameen government who had junked his country's pro-India policy for a pro-China policy.

With President Solih's visit, Maldives resets 'India First' policy; India reciprocates with $1.4 bn aid package

India will raise the issue of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-may-soon-get-kim-davy-denmark-pm--131258">the extradition of Kim Davy</a>, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen.&nbsp;

Davy aka Niels Holck is accused of air dropping arms and ammunition, including hundreds of AK-47 rifles and anti-tank grenades, in Purulia 23 years ago in December 1995.&nbsp;

Anders will be on a two-day visit to India on December 17 and 18 and will be meeting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu.

Top government sources told WION, "All issues will be discussed including consular access."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Danish PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen during the India-Nordic summit in April this year with both deciding to enhance ties.&nbsp;

India had decided to scale down ties with Denmark in 2012 after a lower court in that country refused Davy's extradition.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION in Stockholm back in April, Løkke Rasmussen had said about Davy, "These issues... we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political track, we will restart joint commission."

India's ministry of external affairs had sent Denmark's ministry of justice, through its ministry of foreign affairs, a formal request for Davy's extradition in 2016.

Back in April, Rasmussen also called for stronger ties between Copenhagen and New Delhi. "We have strong historical ties and we have bilateral relation for 400 years. I have agreed with your PM its time to enhance it. We are restarting Indo-Danish Joint Commission," he told WION.&nbsp;

The inaugural meeting of the India-Denmark Joint Commission took place in 2010.

India will raise the issue of the extradition of Kim Davy, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen.

India will raise the issue of the extradition of Kim Davy, an accused in the 1995 arms drop in West Bengal's Purulia district, with the visiting foreign minister of Denmark, Anders Samuelsen. Davy aka Niels Holck is accused of air dropping arms and ammunition, including hundreds of AK-47 rifles and anti-tank grenades, in Purulia 23 years ago in December 1995. Anders will be on a two-day visit to India on December 17 and 18 and will be meeting External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Commerce Minister Suresh Prabhu. Top government sources told WION, "All issues will be discussed including consular access." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had met Danish PM Lars Løkke Rasmussen during the India-Nordic summit in April this year with both deciding to enhance ties. India had decided to scale down ties with Denmark in 2012 after a lower court in that country refused Davy's extradition. Speaking to WION in Stockholm back in April, Løkke Rasmussen had said about Davy, "These issues... we deal in the legal track. When I was PM in 2011, my minister of justice took the decision to extradite him. But it was rejected by our courts. But now our director of general prosecution is looking into this. On political track, we will restart joint commission." India's ministry of external affairs had sent Denmark's ministry of justice, through its ministry of foreign affairs, a formal request for Davy's extradition in 2016. Back in April, Rasmussen also called for stronger ties between Copenhagen and New Delhi. "We have strong historical ties and we have bilateral relation for 400 years. I have agreed with your PM its time to enhance it. We are restarting Indo-Danish Joint Commission," he told WION. The inaugural meeting of the India-Denmark Joint Commission took place in 2010.

India to raise extradition of Kim Davy with visiting Danish FM

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. &nbsp;

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-maldives-see-closer-ties-india-under-ibrahim-mohamed-solih-167676">This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country</a> after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17. Maldivian First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation of the Maldives government are accompanying President Solih on his visit.

In a statement on his visit, Solih highlighted that India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives. He also expressed his "gratitude to the Indian government for the continuous support and assistance provided for the development of the Maldives".&nbsp;

Solih had, on the eve of his visit to India, appointed Aishath Mohamed Didi as the new Maldivian ambassador to India.

Solih will during his visit also meet with the Maldivian community and enquire about the challenges they face.&nbsp;

A number of bilateral agreements will be signed between the Maldives and India during Solih's visit, one of which is an agreement on a new visa regime that will ease the process of obtaining a dependent and medical visa for Maldivian travellers to India.

Monday will be the main day of engagements.&nbsp;

Solih will be given a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House and a press statement at 1 pm.&nbsp;

Solih will also meet Indian business leaders.&nbsp;

As part of the state visit, a banquet in honour of President Solih and the first lady will be hosted by Prime Minister Modi.&nbsp;

Modi visited the Maldives last month to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Ties between India and the Maldives had suffered a downward spiral under the previous Abdulla Yameen administration who replaced the Maldives' pro-India stance with a pro-Bejing stance. Yameen had also signed a free trade agreement with China.&nbsp;

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17.

Maldivian President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih arrived in India Sunday on a three-day India visit. He was received by Minister of State Hardeep Singh Puri. This is Solih's first visit to a foreign country after taking over as president of the Maldives on November 17. Maldivian First Lady Fazna Ahmed and a high-level delegation of the Maldives government are accompanying President Solih on his visit. In a statement on his visit, Solih highlighted that India was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with the Maldives. He also expressed his "gratitude to the Indian government for the continuous support and assistance provided for the development of the Maldives". Solih had, on the eve of his visit to India, appointed Aishath Mohamed Didi as the new Maldivian ambassador to India. Solih will during his visit also meet with the Maldivian community and enquire about the challenges they face. A number of bilateral agreements will be signed between the Maldives and India during Solih's visit, one of which is an agreement on a new visa regime that will ease the process of obtaining a dependent and medical visa for Maldivian travellers to India. Monday will be the main day of engagements. Solih will be given a guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhawan, followed by a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House and a press statement at 1 pm. Solih will also meet Indian business leaders. As part of the state visit, a banquet in honour of President Solih and the first lady will be hosted by Prime Minister Modi. Modi visited the Maldives last month to attend Solih's swearing-in ceremony. Ties between India and the Maldives had suffered a downward spiral under the previous Abdulla Yameen administration who replaced the Maldives' pro-India stance with a pro-Bejing stance. Yameen had also signed a free trade agreement with China.

In first visit to foreign country after taking over, Maldives President Solih arrives in India    

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal.&nbsp;

Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland.&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your India visit?

Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder.

WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. &nbsp;We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go.

WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland?

Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand.

WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat?

Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC.

WION: But you don't sound optimistic?&nbsp;

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things.

WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road?

Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values.

WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area.

WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger?

Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. &nbsp;I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change.

WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal?

Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge.

WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase?

Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. &nbsp;If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU.

WION:&nbsp;What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU?

Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade.

WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA.&nbsp;

WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution.

WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know.&nbsp;

WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts?

Gudlaugur Thor: &nbsp;We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror &amp; cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik.

Iceland's Foreign Minister Gudlaugur Thor was in India recently and spoke at length with WION's principal diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Iceland, an Arctic country and will chair the council next year, welcomed India's role in the region and called for increased ties between New Delhi and Reykjavik. He also spoke China's plan to have a polar silk route, Pakistan's status as a Major Non-Nato Ally (Iceland is Nato Country), Climate change, Brexit and future of European Union (EU). He also called on Bollywood (Gerua song from Bollywood movie Dilwale was shot in Iceland) to shoot more movies in Iceland. WION: What is the focus of your India visit? Gudlaugur Thor: We want to strengthen ties between India and Iceland. Obviously, we are very different. You are big populated, a superpower in every way. We are a small country but we share many similarities. We share the same values. Relations between India and Iceland always been good with a lot of opportunities. WION: How do you see India's role in the Arctic Council? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, in the Arctic Council, we have Nordic countries like Russia, Canada, US. Other large countries, especially in Asia, are very important. When it comes to research and the scientific method, we are not going alone. We also need to have an international law when it comes to transportation and exploring natural resources. Because what we seeing now is shorting of the distances of sailing routes. Routes between Asia and Europe shorten by 40 per cent when the sailing route is open. Same when we saw Suez and Panama canal was opened. Its very important arctic is the peaceful area, low tension area. The only way is we work with all the stakeholder and India is a large stakeholder. WION: Gerua song from Dilwale movie was shot in Iceland. Would like more Bollywood movies to be shot in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: Gerua is a very beautiful video, well recognised. We didn't know how famous these actors are. We realized it when they come to Iceland. People who knew them, Indian tourist were very interested. We see a beautiful video. We know that Iceland film industry interested in working with the Indian film industry. Its been very successful. We see a lot of opportunities. Things you see in the video are not far away and it is easy to go. WION: How popular is yoga in Iceland? Gudlaugur Thor: It is not only yoga. Indian cuisine very popular. My favourite restaurant in Iceland is an Indian restaurant. Indian spices and Icelandic lamb go hand in hand. WION: India has been calling for reforms at UN. Do you back India's bid at UNSC seat? Gudlaugur Thor: We totally agree when it comes to UN reforms. It is good that Secretary-General emphasised on that. We have supported India at the security council. Actually, we find it is important that India has a regular role. We are not optimistic changes will happen. When it comes to value, Iceland and India do agree. That is why we both support UN reforms and support India to UNSC. WION: But you don't sound optimistic? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, there is someone who is dragging the reforms. We want UN to be a much more efficient instrument. Security Council should not block things. WION: Your take on China's Polar Silk Road? Gudlaugur Thor: In general its good that we are building infrastructure project around the world. But very important that all multilateralism based on values we have built so far. Find it essential, the multilateralism should be based on rule of law, human rights and democratic values. WION: China says its a near arctic country. Do you think so? Gudlaugur Thor: Well it is important we work together on multilateralism when it comes to the Arctic. Of course, when we look at the Arctic, we need to look at the people. there are 4 million people in the Arctic. Can't make decisions without them. we also need transportations when it comes to exploiting resources. we need some kind of structure. That is why we supported India, China's observer status at the Arctic Council. Everyone needs to be on the table when you are discussing those topics. Otherwise, we won't succeed. The main thing is that the Arctic remains a low tension and peaceful area. WION: Your take on Arctic report saying the Arctic faces danger? Gudlaugur Thor: Well, the challenge is there. No doubt about it. I am an optimist. We need to address it and do it together. Iceland can't do alone. Even India can't do alone. I see the positive sign, lot of enthusiasm when it comes to fighting against climate change. WION: But a Major country has withdrawn from the Paris Climate deal? Gudlaugur Thor: Yes, but at the same time, both states in the US and huge firms and cities are more enthusiastic than ever when it comes fighting climate change. It is not all bleak. It needs to be discussed and we need to listen to voices who are concerned. We can't ignore that. Because if we do we can do in an open and transparent manner based on scientific knowledge. WION: Europe is not going through a positive phase? Gudlaugur Thor: Europe is not about institutions. There are challenges they need to sort out. European nations working together. Europe has layers of cooperation. It's not only EU. there is EFTA, NATO, EEA, EUROZONE. We have layers of cooperation. The best way is to approach is via the a la carte way. If we do that it will lower the tension. It's not me who makes a decision. We are outside EU. WION: What are the advantages of staying away from EU. You are not part of EU? Gudlaugur Thor: These are challenges we hope are resolved. Its very important they are resolved. We are not part of EU, these are our friends and allies, we wish them all the best so that they can try to find some solution. Its clear advantage we not part of EU. we have access to European markets. Very important for us. We need free trade all around the world. A perfect example of the importance of free trade. We used to be poor and we would still be poor if we didn't have access to others markets and our markets are not open. Every once in while this idea of protectionism comes up. It is always a bad idea. We are just emphasizing the importance of free trade. WION: Would you like to sign FTA with India. ? Gudlaugur Thor: Defiantly. The policy is to have a free trade agreement between EFTA and India. It is a good idea. you will only benefit from it. you will never lose by having FTA with EFTA. WION: What suggestion would you like to give to British PM May? Gudlaugur Thor: From the start, Brexit has been a priority for us. The UK is our 2nd most important trading partner. Fifth largest economy. We are saying do not put any trade restrictions in Europe. Think in a constructive way. If we can be part of the solution. For example, if UK would like to be part of EFTA or EEA we should look in a positive way. It will be awful if we see trade restrictions in Europe in future. It is just, we should try to work in a constructive way and look long term. We should think about people in Europe and not institution. WION: You are part of NATO. US president is calling for budget cuts. Your take? Gudlaugur Thor: NATO is an extremely important organization. NATO is the cornerstone of our foreign policy, a stronger supporter of NATO and it needs to be strengthened. And we are seeing that, since 2014 increase in the defence budget. It going in the right direction. And we need to have to strong defence, for reasons we all know. WION: Voices in Washington say Pakistan should be removed from its status of major non-NATO ally. Your thoughts? Gudlaugur Thor: We need to fight terrorism. NATO has emphasised on Europe 360 degree. But also emphasising on the fight against terror & cyber attacks. We can not forget we need to fight terror every way we can, only message we give.

India is a large stakeholder in Arctic: Iceland FM Gudlaugur Thor to WION

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Siddhant Sibal

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.