<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality.</p>
<p>Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia".</p>
<p>The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-assembly-election-aap-launches-website-for-residents-to-calculate-savings-from-welfare-schemes-8684388" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes</a></p>
<p>The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history&rdquo;. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha.&nbsp;</p>
<p>He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. &nbsp;Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/budget-is-by-the-people-for-the-people-says-fm-sitharaman-citing-abraham-lincoln-8684033" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln</a></p>
<p>During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in &nbsp;Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat".&nbsp;</p>
<p>On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage.</p>
<p>He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity&mdash;this multiplicity&mdash;is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In &nbsp;Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today&rsquo;s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.</p>

India News | Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple, is dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday presided over the Maha Kumbabhishegam of Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam in Jakarta, Indonesia, emphasising the deep cultural and historical connections between India and Indonesia, underlining the countries' shared heritage in faith and spirituality. Shri Sanathana Dharma Aalayam, also known as the Jakarta Murugan Temple is a temple dedicated to Lord Murugan and is the largest such Hindu temple in the Indonesian capital. Speaking through video conference, PM Modi extended his wishes on the Maha Kumbh-Abhishekam of the Murugan Temple and thanked "My brother, Indonesian President Prabowo" for making this event "even more special for me through his presence." PM Modi said, "I am physically hundreds of kilometers away from Jakarta, my heart is as close to this event as the relationship between India and Indonesia". The Government of Jakarta donated 4000 square meter of land in the heart of the city to build a Hindu temple. It will also serve for multiple activities like cultural events, Tamil classes, marriage hall at affordable cost to locals, yoga, and meditation centre. Also Read: Delhi Assembly election: AAP launches website for residents to calculate savings from welfare schemes The Indian Prime Minister Modi said that the "relationship between India and Indonesia is not just geo-political but is rooted in thousands of years of shared culture and history”. He emphasised that the bond between the two nations is based on heritage, science, faith, shared beliefs, and spirituality and this connection includes Lord Murugan, Lord Ram, and Lord Buddha. He highlighted that when someone from India visits the Prambanan Temple in Indonesia, they experience the same "spiritual feeling" as in Kashi and Kedarnath and that the stories of Kakawin and Serat Ramayana evoke the same emotions as Valmiki Ramayana, Kamba Ramayana, and Ramcharitmanas in India. Indonesia, which has the largest Muslim population anywhere in the world, also has among the largest population of Hindus in the world. Hinduism, which arrived in Indonesia centuries ago, is still followed in regions like Bali where Hindus are in the majority (87%). Many monuments like Parmanand Temple, Borobudur temples, Arjuna and Horses statues are still preserved and supported by the Indonesian government. Hinduism was the dominant religion during the era of the Srivijaya and Majapahit empires, influencing the architecture, arts, literature, and governance of the region. Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata are still celebrated, notably in Bali, but also influence cultural expressions in other parts of Indonesia. Also Read: 'Budget is by the people for the people,' says FM Sitharaman citing Abraham Lincoln During the address, PM Modi mentioned that Indonesian Ramleela is performed in Ayodhya, India. He said, "When we hear the words 'Om Swasti-Astu' in Bali, we are reminded of the Swasti Vaachan recited by Vedic scholars in Bharat. The Borobudur Stupa in Indonesia reflects the same teachings of Lord Buddha that we experience in Sarnath and Bodh Gaya in Bharat". On the cultural connect, the Prime Minister mentioned that the Bali Jatra festival in Odisha celebrates the ancient maritime voyages that once connected India and Indonesia culturally and commercially. He added that even today when Indians travel by Garuda Indonesia Airlines, they see the shared cultural heritage. He mentioned that during President Prabowo's recent visit to India, they cherished many aspects of shared heritage. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto visited India in January and was the chief guest at India's Republic Day parade, becoming the 4th Indonesian leader to do so since 1950. During that visit, India announced that it would take part in initiatives to preserve the Prambanan Temple. During his address, PM said,"Alongside Lord Murugan, several other Gods-Goddesses have also been enshrined in this temple. This diversity—this multiplicity—is the very foundation of our culture. In Indonesia, this philosophy is called Bhinneka Tunggal Ika. In Bharat, we call it Unity in Diversity. It is our ease with the diversity that allows people of different communities to live together in harmony, both in Indonesia and in Bharat. That is why today’s sacred occasion is also inspiring us for unity in diversity". During the Maha Kumbabhishegam ceremony, the Indonesian Foreign minister, Religious Affairs Minister, Forest Minister and Indian ambassador to Indonesia Sandeep Chakravorty were present. In the past, PM Modi presided over the inauguration ceremony of the BAPS Hindu temple in Abu Dhabi, UAE in 2024. The idea for the temple was conceived in 1997 by Pramukh Swami Maharaj, the spiritual leader of BAPS, who envisioned a temple in Abu Dhabi. In August 2015, during PM Narendra Modi's visit to the UAE, the UAE government, under the leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, allocated 27 acres of land for the temple's construction.

Indian PM Modi presides over "Maha Abhishekam" of Jakarta Murugan Temple

<p>Member of the European Parliament (MEP), who also sits on the committee of Foreign Affairs, Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic has called for the "deepening of friendship with India" even as he hoped that the EU gets more Indian students and skilled Indian workers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Prebilic, who was elected from Slovenia said, "If Europe needed new friends, this is the time, and I think India is the right answer to our questions and our needs. I would say that we are really pushing forward with some agreements.'</p>
<p>This year will be a big year for India-EU ties, with the expected visit of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission to India very soon and later this year the India-EU Summit.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The legislator also suggested a program along the lines of the Erasmus program that will "enable Indian students to come to Europe and vice versa".</p>
<p>Erasmus Programme, officially known as the "European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students," is a major initiative by the European Union aimed at enhancing education, training, youth, and sports across Europe. Full interview.</p>
<p><strong>WION:</strong> How do you see India-EU ties?</p>
<p><strong>Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic: </strong>First of all, thank you for your visit and have the opportunity to talk to you. I have found the line that if there was ever a very good chance to deepen the relationship with India, now is the time. Why? Because we are living in a very unstable geopolitical environment. I always say, that if Europe needs new friends, this is the time, and I think India is the right answer to our questions and our needs. I would say that we are really pushing forward with some agreements. One of them is a free trade agreement that should be underway. European Parliament definitely supports this kind of approach, but I think there are many other options to deepen our friendship with India. I think that India also is much closer to Europe than to other countries, let's say United States or China. And there are certain historical reasons. They also have certain cultural reasons. And I always say much more unites us, India and the European Union than divides us. So let's explore these possibilities in the future.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>WION:</strong> So there are many things that bring India and the EU together. One, it looks like, could be education. How do you see the education pillar of the relationship expanding Indian students are everywhere in the world. What's your suggestion or plans to get more Indian students here in the European Union</p>
<p><strong>Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic:</strong> Within the European Union, we've already had a special program called the Mobility Program, known under the name of Erasmus. I would suggest, already started to do that, to suggest another program that will enable Indian students to come to Europe and vice versa. Why? I think that knowledge sharing is a very good starting point if you want to create a true relationship or true friendship between the two entities. Moreover, exchanging knowledge is beneficial for both sides. So I think there is a great opportunity, and also we can learn a lot from each other maybe some stereotypes that may still exist on both sides, on Indian or European sites, could be handled or removed by deepening the knowledge about each other. So I think this new approach of Erasmus being available for Indian students and European students to exchange is a great opportunity.</p>
<p><strong>WION:</strong> My last question to you is when it comes to immigration because immigration is a big debate here in the European Union. How do you see Indian immigrants? Because when it comes to Indian immigrants, a large portion of Indian immigrants are skilled workers, and they have been lauded across the world. So what's your view about having Indian immigrants in the European Union?&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic: </strong>So you would know that demography in the European Union doesn't really work in the way we would like to. So we have problems with natural reproduction. So immigration will be needed also in the future. But whenever we talk about immigration, of course, we have to talk about legal immigration. We would like to influence who will be the one sharing our future together. And I see India as a very good potential partner. Again, there are a lot more things that unite us. So we are not so far away culturally. And of course, not to forget, you are the biggest democracy in the world. And democracy is something that your opinion always stands by. So I think this is a very good opportunity for both sides, that you would have more opportunities to also become part of European society.</p>

World news: This year will be a big year for India-EU ties, with the expected visit of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission to India very soon and later this year the India-EU Summit. 

Member of the European Parliament (MEP), who also sits on the committee of Foreign Affairs, Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic has called for the "deepening of friendship with India" even as he hoped that the EU gets more Indian students and skilled Indian workers. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Prebilic, who was elected from Slovenia said, "If Europe needed new friends, this is the time, and I think India is the right answer to our questions and our needs. I would say that we are really pushing forward with some agreements.' This year will be a big year for India-EU ties, with the expected visit of Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission to India very soon and later this year the India-EU Summit. The legislator also suggested a program along the lines of the Erasmus program that will "enable Indian students to come to Europe and vice versa". Erasmus Programme, officially known as the "European Community Action Scheme for the Mobility of University Students," is a major initiative by the European Union aimed at enhancing education, training, youth, and sports across Europe. Full interview. WION: How do you see India-EU ties? Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic: First of all, thank you for your visit and have the opportunity to talk to you. I have found the line that if there was ever a very good chance to deepen the relationship with India, now is the time. Why? Because we are living in a very unstable geopolitical environment. I always say, that if Europe needs new friends, this is the time, and I think India is the right answer to our questions and our needs. I would say that we are really pushing forward with some agreements. One of them is a free trade agreement that should be underway. European Parliament definitely supports this kind of approach, but I think there are many other options to deepen our friendship with India. I think that India also is much closer to Europe than to other countries, let's say United States or China. And there are certain historical reasons. They also have certain cultural reasons. And I always say much more unites us, India and the European Union than divides us. So let's explore these possibilities in the future. WION: So there are many things that bring India and the EU together. One, it looks like, could be education. How do you see the education pillar of the relationship expanding Indian students are everywhere in the world. What's your suggestion or plans to get more Indian students here in the European Union Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic: Within the European Union, we've already had a special program called the Mobility Program, known under the name of Erasmus. I would suggest, already started to do that, to suggest another program that will enable Indian students to come to Europe and vice versa. Why? I think that knowledge sharing is a very good starting point if you want to create a true relationship or true friendship between the two entities. Moreover, exchanging knowledge is beneficial for both sides. So I think there is a great opportunity, and also we can learn a lot from each other maybe some stereotypes that may still exist on both sides, on Indian or European sites, could be handled or removed by deepening the knowledge about each other. So I think this new approach of Erasmus being available for Indian students and European students to exchange is a great opportunity. WION: My last question to you is when it comes to immigration because immigration is a big debate here in the European Union. How do you see Indian immigrants? Because when it comes to Indian immigrants, a large portion of Indian immigrants are skilled workers, and they have been lauded across the world. So what's your view about having Indian immigrants in the European Union? Prof Dr Vladimir Prebilic: So you would know that demography in the European Union doesn't really work in the way we would like to. So we have problems with natural reproduction. So immigration will be needed also in the future. But whenever we talk about immigration, of course, we have to talk about legal immigration. We would like to influence who will be the one sharing our future together. And I see India as a very good potential partner. Again, there are a lot more things that unite us. So we are not so far away culturally. And of course, not to forget, you are the biggest democracy in the world. And democracy is something that your opinion always stands by. So I think this is a very good opportunity for both sides, that you would have more opportunities to also become part of European society.

'Need to deepen friendship with India', says Member of European Parliament Dr Vladimir

<p>The Vice President of European Investment Bank (EIB), Nicola Beer, has said that the bank is looking for a &lsquo;win-win&rsquo; partnership with India. Speaking to our correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, in Luxembourg, she said, &ldquo;India is really a leader in the region...and we really hope that with the upcoming India EU summit, we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the citizens in India.&rdquo;</p>
<p>EIB, one of the largest multilateral financial institutions globally, is notably active in financing projects that address climate change, aiming to align its investment with the Paris Agreement. The bank&rsquo;s vice president pointed out, &ldquo;Especially in the Global South, our investments are merely 90% for climate action or climate adaptation.&rdquo;</p>
<p><strong>Also read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-plan-to-detain-30000-migrants-at-notorious-guantanamo-bay-military-prison-criminal-illegal-aliens-us-illegal-immigrants-8669651" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison</a></strong></p>
<p>The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India, including Lucknow, Bengaluru, Pune, Bhopal, Kanpur, and Agra. Here is the transcript of the full interview.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> My first question to you is about the European Investment Bank and its role in projects in India, if you can talk about it, if you can shed some light on it?</p>
<p><strong>Nicola Beer:</strong> First, thank you that you are interested in the European Investment Bank, and the European Investment Bank is engaged in India since 1993. We did invest about 5.5 billion euros so far, with a huge emphasis on decarbonisation. So in energy, renewable energy, on transport, and also on all that is helping people, so water projects, especially when it comes up to the quality of drinking water. The largest engagement of the European Investment Bank in India is about decarbonisation of public transport, especially when it comes to railways, suburbs, and urban ones. Here we invested 3.6 billion euros, and I think this is maybe the best example to show how we really try to have with our partners on the ground here in India an impact for citizens, because, of course, if you have this public transport, then first, you are travelling faster because you do not have the traffic jams. You have safe access for all kinds of citizens, especially but for vulnerable groups like women or handicapped, they can travel safer and they have access, quicker access, also to working places, education places all over a city or a region. So for us, this is very important that this comes together and is then, in this kind, answering the need of fast-growing cities and regions like you have it in India.</p>
<p><strong>Also read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/metas-former-coo-sheryl-sandberg-sanctioned-by-delaware-judge-over-alleged-email-deletions-8655488" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Meta&rsquo;s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> Moving to the larger Global South. Now, the role of the European Investment Bank in the Global South, if you can shed some light on it, the projects you have been involved in the Global South?<br><strong>Nicola Beer:</strong> Coming to the Global South, it is important for us that we deliver on projects that lead to better life conditions for the citizens and that we do it together with partners on the ground. But we come merely with the European family, which means that we, in the context of the team Europe approach. We come as a European anchor investor, but we often bring them other financial institutions, for example, from the member states, or we are cooperating, for example, with the Asian Development Bank to bring better living conditions, drinking water, and health. So, investing huge amounts, especially in vaccine development, health condition and infrastructure, in better mobility on the ground, and in renewable energy, so that you have really affordable and safe energy around all the places.</p>
<p><strong>Also read |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lee-zeldin-confirmed-as-trumps-pick-for-environmental-protection-agency-8669732" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> Climate change, that is another big issue. How is the European Investment Bank helping the world in terms of dealing with it?<br><strong>Nicola Beer:</strong> Thank you very much for the question, because we as the climate bank of European Union are of course, heavily engaged in climate action. We have a goal every year to at least have investments of 50% of what all the business we are doing related to climate action. And we always overcoming it, and especially in the Global South, our investments are 90% for climate action or climate adaptation. And so for us, it&rsquo;s important that what we do and what we build with our projects is resilient, so, for example, that we reduce the risk of drought for people, so that this is helping in agriculture, but also it&rsquo;s a prevention, for example, for fire and other climate related crisis all over different places, that we help to have more circularity projects, so that you are having, for example, good quality drinking water, but also then having a management system for the water, which is then also related to wastewater and sewage, so also to recycle the water, for example, for industry purposes, and to prevent diseases, because if you do not have a managed and treatment system, then there will come up diseases with the wastewater, which is then a health issue for a lot of people, especially in growing urban situations. So this is then also related to climate, but in the same time, having a positive impact on the life and better life for citizens.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> Now we know that there is a cutting off of aid and support to many developing countries with the change of guard in Washington. Now do you think that the European Investment Bank has to take a much bigger lead in terms of providing support to the Global South?<br><strong>Nicola Beer:</strong> You&rsquo;re totally right. A lot of challenges we have are not European or Indian or Global South challenges. These are challenges for the whole globe. So we have to act in partnership. And European Investment Bank is stepping up this investment. We got a top-up from our stakeholders, shareholders. So the 27 member states, we can do more business. We can especially also do more business outside the European Union. So we will not only continue to be invested, but we will also increase our investments. And I think this is heavily important that we look how we can bring the strengths of different regions in a partnership together, how we can be interrelated. Because if you are building up strong relationships and strong friendships, then this is a better world than very complicated, isolating structures around the globe.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-salwan-momika-the-man-shot-dead-in-sweden-for-burning-quran-8674357" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><span data-teams="true">Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran?</span></a></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> You talked about partnership. How do you see India as a partner?<br><strong>Nicola Beer:</strong> India is a very important partner, especially for the European Union. You are a very well skilled, very rapidly increasing developing country with citizens who are very creative. The demand, especially for such skilled persons all over the globe, is very high. But I think we should look about partnerships that create win-win situations for India and also for Europe. So we always, with our projects, want to have these advantages on both sides, to invest in a better way of life for citizens all over the globe, here in India, but also for a better future for all generations to come. And so we look not only at India but also the whole region. And I think India is really a leader in the region, but a leader should be a leader on fair conditions, especially when it comes to interconnectivity of energy projects, mobility projects, transport questions, and international trade. And we really hope with the upcoming India EU summit that we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the sake of the citizens in India.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World | India News: The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India.

The Vice President of European Investment Bank (EIB), Nicola Beer, has said that the bank is looking for a ‘win-win’ partnership with India. Speaking to our correspondent, Sidhant Sibal, in Luxembourg, she said, “India is really a leader in the region...and we really hope that with the upcoming India EU summit, we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the citizens in India.” EIB, one of the largest multilateral financial institutions globally, is notably active in financing projects that address climate change, aiming to align its investment with the Paris Agreement. The bank’s vice president pointed out, “Especially in the Global South, our investments are merely 90% for climate action or climate adaptation.” Also read | Donald Trump unveils plan to detain 30,000 'criminal illegal aliens' at notorious Guantanamo Bay military prison The EIB has been a major financier of renewable energy projects in India, including solar, wind, and more recently, green hydrogen. The bank has made significant investments in urban rail mobility projects across major cities in India, including Lucknow, Bengaluru, Pune, Bhopal, Kanpur, and Agra. Here is the transcript of the full interview. Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the European Investment Bank and its role in projects in India, if you can talk about it, if you can shed some light on it? Nicola Beer: First, thank you that you are interested in the European Investment Bank, and the European Investment Bank is engaged in India since 1993. We did invest about 5.5 billion euros so far, with a huge emphasis on decarbonisation. So in energy, renewable energy, on transport, and also on all that is helping people, so water projects, especially when it comes up to the quality of drinking water. The largest engagement of the European Investment Bank in India is about decarbonisation of public transport, especially when it comes to railways, suburbs, and urban ones. Here we invested 3.6 billion euros, and I think this is maybe the best example to show how we really try to have with our partners on the ground here in India an impact for citizens, because, of course, if you have this public transport, then first, you are travelling faster because you do not have the traffic jams. You have safe access for all kinds of citizens, especially but for vulnerable groups like women or handicapped, they can travel safer and they have access, quicker access, also to working places, education places all over a city or a region. So for us, this is very important that this comes together and is then, in this kind, answering the need of fast-growing cities and regions like you have it in India. Also read | Meta’s former COO Sheryl Sandberg sanctioned by Delaware judge over alleged email deletions Sidhant Sibal: Moving to the larger Global South. Now, the role of the European Investment Bank in the Global South, if you can shed some light on it, the projects you have been involved in the Global South? Nicola Beer: Coming to the Global South, it is important for us that we deliver on projects that lead to better life conditions for the citizens and that we do it together with partners on the ground. But we come merely with the European family, which means that we, in the context of the team Europe approach. We come as a European anchor investor, but we often bring them other financial institutions, for example, from the member states, or we are cooperating, for example, with the Asian Development Bank to bring better living conditions, drinking water, and health. So, investing huge amounts, especially in vaccine development, health condition and infrastructure, in better mobility on the ground, and in renewable energy, so that you have really affordable and safe energy around all the places. Also read | Lee Zeldin confirmed as Trump's pick for Environmental Protection Agency Sidhant Sibal: Climate change, that is another big issue. How is the European Investment Bank helping the world in terms of dealing with it? Nicola Beer: Thank you very much for the question, because we as the climate bank of European Union are of course, heavily engaged in climate action. We have a goal every year to at least have investments of 50% of what all the business we are doing related to climate action. And we always overcoming it, and especially in the Global South, our investments are 90% for climate action or climate adaptation. And so for us, it’s important that what we do and what we build with our projects is resilient, so, for example, that we reduce the risk of drought for people, so that this is helping in agriculture, but also it’s a prevention, for example, for fire and other climate related crisis all over different places, that we help to have more circularity projects, so that you are having, for example, good quality drinking water, but also then having a management system for the water, which is then also related to wastewater and sewage, so also to recycle the water, for example, for industry purposes, and to prevent diseases, because if you do not have a managed and treatment system, then there will come up diseases with the wastewater, which is then a health issue for a lot of people, especially in growing urban situations. So this is then also related to climate, but in the same time, having a positive impact on the life and better life for citizens. Sidhant Sibal: Now we know that there is a cutting off of aid and support to many developing countries with the change of guard in Washington. Now do you think that the European Investment Bank has to take a much bigger lead in terms of providing support to the Global South? Nicola Beer: You’re totally right. A lot of challenges we have are not European or Indian or Global South challenges. These are challenges for the whole globe. So we have to act in partnership. And European Investment Bank is stepping up this investment. We got a top-up from our stakeholders, shareholders. So the 27 member states, we can do more business. We can especially also do more business outside the European Union. So we will not only continue to be invested, but we will also increase our investments. And I think this is heavily important that we look how we can bring the strengths of different regions in a partnership together, how we can be interrelated. Because if you are building up strong relationships and strong friendships, then this is a better world than very complicated, isolating structures around the globe. Also read: Who is Salwan Momika, the man shot dead in Sweden for burning Quran? Sidhant Sibal: You talked about partnership. How do you see India as a partner? Nicola Beer: India is a very important partner, especially for the European Union. You are a very well skilled, very rapidly increasing developing country with citizens who are very creative. The demand, especially for such skilled persons all over the globe, is very high. But I think we should look about partnerships that create win-win situations for India and also for Europe. So we always, with our projects, want to have these advantages on both sides, to invest in a better way of life for citizens all over the globe, here in India, but also for a better future for all generations to come. And so we look not only at India but also the whole region. And I think India is really a leader in the region, but a leader should be a leader on fair conditions, especially when it comes to interconnectivity of energy projects, mobility projects, transport questions, and international trade. And we really hope with the upcoming India EU summit that we will foster this common partnership for the sake of the whole region and for the sake of the citizens in India.

‘European Investment Bank looking for a win-win partnership with India’

<p>Indian Army officials have emphasised that Indian United Nations peacekeepers stationed in Congo's Goma are safe amid the rebel assault. Goma has seen intense fighting between the Congolese army (FARDC) and various militia groups including the M23 rebels. Indian Army officials told WION that 'all Indian soldiers are safe..' and are 'committed to fullfilling the mandate of United Nations under chapter 7'.</p>
<p>India is among the largest troop-contributing countries to MONUSCO. It has around 1,218 of its peacekeepers in MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Established in 2010 to succeed the earlier MONUC mission, it is mandated with focusing on the protection of civilians, support to the stabilisation and peace consolidation process etc.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canadian-report-vindicates-india-of-direct-role-in-nijjar-killing-but-flags-disinformation-campaign-8669476" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Canadian report vindicates India's stance on Nijjar killing, says no definitive link</a></p>
<p>Around 800 Indian peacekeepers are in Goma, while 2 companies, which means 400 Indian soldiers are in another city called Sake. The Indian Army officials explained that while no 'direct firing' has been undertaken by either side of the current conflict in Goma, some of the "Indian locations are closer to area of conflict, and have seen some sporadically firing nearby but no damage to property".&nbsp;</p>
<p>Describing the situation 'tense', the Army officials pointed that 'precautionary measures are being taken'. Important to point, during 2022 anti UN protests, 2 Indian peacekeepers from BSF stationed in MONUSCO died in Congo's North Kivu province.</p>
<p>India is among the largest providers of military personnel to UN peacekeeping missions globally, especially in Congo, Lebanon and South Sudan.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read: </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rg-kar-rape-and-murder-case-victims-parents-withdraw-plea-filed-before-sc-seeking-reinvestigation-8664260" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">RG Kar rape-murder case: Victim&rsquo;s parents withdraw plea filed before SC seeking reinvestigation</a></p>

World India | India has around 1218 of its peacekeepers in MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Indian Army officials have emphasised that Indian United Nations peacekeepers stationed in Congo's Goma are safe amid the rebel assault. Goma has seen intense fighting between the Congolese army (FARDC) and various militia groups including the M23 rebels. Indian Army officials told WION that 'all Indian soldiers are safe..' and are 'committed to fullfilling the mandate of United Nations under chapter 7'. India is among the largest troop-contributing countries to MONUSCO. It has around 1,218 of its peacekeepers in MONUSCO, the United Nations Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Established in 2010 to succeed the earlier MONUC mission, it is mandated with focusing on the protection of civilians, support to the stabilisation and peace consolidation process etc. Also Read: Canadian report vindicates India's stance on Nijjar killing, says no definitive link Around 800 Indian peacekeepers are in Goma, while 2 companies, which means 400 Indian soldiers are in another city called Sake. The Indian Army officials explained that while no 'direct firing' has been undertaken by either side of the current conflict in Goma, some of the "Indian locations are closer to area of conflict, and have seen some sporadically firing nearby but no damage to property". Describing the situation 'tense', the Army officials pointed that 'precautionary measures are being taken'. Important to point, during 2022 anti UN protests, 2 Indian peacekeepers from BSF stationed in MONUSCO died in Congo's North Kivu province. India is among the largest providers of military personnel to UN peacekeeping missions globally, especially in Congo, Lebanon and South Sudan. Also Read: RG Kar rape-murder case: Victim’s parents withdraw plea filed before SC seeking reinvestigation

All Indian peacekeepers in Goma are safe: Army officials

<p>The policy director of Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the think tank of Europe's Largest Party, the European People's Party (EPP) has called for the need to have skilled Indians in the European Union. Speaking to Wion's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Peter Hefele said, 'We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground'.</p>
<p>The EPP is the largest political party in the European Parliament, with members from various national centre-right parties across EU member states. Its think tank, Wilfried Martens Centre, named after the former EPP president, aims to advance centre-right thought, contributing to EU and national policy formulation.</p>
<p>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/auschwitz-survivors-mark-80th-anniversary-holocaust-remembrance-day-auschwitz-commemoration-event-olaf-scholz-king-charles-8658708" rel="dofollow">'We&rsquo;ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation</a></p>
<p>Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" &amp; hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long." India and the EU have been negotiating FTA talks for years now, but not much headway has been made. Last week Indian trade minister Goyal visited Belgium &amp; it is hoped that it will provide much-needed impetus to talks.</p>
<p>The policy director also spoke about China &amp; impact of the Trump Presidency on Europe.</p>
<h2>Full interview with Dr Peter Hefele</h2>
<p><br><strong>Sidhant Sibal: </strong>How do you see Donald Trump's presidency impacting European politics?<br><strong>Dr Peter Hefele: </strong>Well, we had a lot of discussion before the final elections. But we know a lot of homework has to be done, regardless of who is ruling in Washington, maybe defence, our economic revitalisation, and relations with other nations so they are not impacted always by the United States. We have to go on with India, for example, regardless of what is happening in the United States. The same goes for Africa or Latin America.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><iframe width="600" height="auto" style="width: 100%; aspect-ratio: 4/3;" allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" class="external-video publive-iframes-block" src="https://cdn.thepublive.com/wion/static/kaltura_player/wion_video_player_iframe.html?thumbnail=wion/media/post_attachments/screenshot/INTV_2801_SID_PETER_HEFELE_IV/00000002.jpg&amp;videourl=https://vodakm.zeenews.com/vod/WION/INTV_2801_SID_PETER_HEFELE_IV.mp4/index.m3u8&amp;duration=266&amp;tags=europe, india, european union, dr peter hefele," title="Think tank of Europe's largest political party, calls for more skilled Indian professionals in EU " id="PL_iframe_block-m6g28qz8-y4egq0v7-skks8v3f"></iframe></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: </strong>But Donald Trump has essentially said that he will impose tariffs. And of course, there is the question of Greenland as well. We know that he has been staking claim to Greenland, and there was a conversation between Trump &amp; Denmark's PM. So how do you see these challenges when it comes to the presidency of Donald Trump?<br><strong>Dr Peter Hefele: </strong>Well, we know how Trump is negotiating. He puts a lot of demands on the ground. The issue is, what can put Europe on the table? And I think a lot of things which Europe is still interested in. So we should avoid these huge conflicts. But well, we have to deliver something. Trade is an issue, opening European markets, and doing more for our defence. That's what the United States, at the very end, wants now.</p>
<p><br><strong>Sidhant Sibal: </strong>So coming to India, you mentioned about India, you are someone who is leading a think tank with a party which is one of the largest parties in the European Union. So essentially, how do you see a relationship between the European Union and India in terms of how it can be a factor of stability in an increasingly geopolitical world?<br><strong>Dr Peter Hefele: </strong>Well, there are a lot of topics where India and the European Union can work much better together. I hope that there will be progress in the trade issue, which unfortunately lasted already way too long. Security is an issue, not on a large scale, but in a lot of the industrial sectors, for example, and in certain regions to create stability, mainly in the Indo-Pacific region. Science cooperation is a big issue that is an under-exploited issue. We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground, also as a fight of very skilled migration. That is an issue, again, which should be dealt with and must be dealt with on the European level.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: </strong>How much China is an issue in terms of the European Union's internal politics and an issue for Europe?<br><strong>Dr Peter Hefele:</strong> Well, China is everywhere. Whatever you discuss, somehow China is in it. It is in trade and security. It has a role in the conflict, for example, Russia and Ukraine. It's in the trans-Atlantic relations because these are impacted by the China-US relations. There's a lot of uncertainty. Europe has to find its own way, not following only the United States' interests, but it also has to make clear what our interests are. We have also to protect our markets against unfair competition.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal: </strong>My final question, you mentioned about immigration. You mentioned about skilled Indians as well. So essentially, how do you see that issue as well?<br><strong>Dr Peter Hefele: </strong>Well, we need immigration, that is definitely, but really skilled immigration. India is an interesting partner in this respect. It should not always be a one-sided immigration. I think what we call is sometimes circular migration. So this is another new way of migration, and we need to make progress on the ground. A lot of these challenges are not on the European level. It's on the very local level. It's administrative issues and financial issues. These are the things we have to focus on now.</p>

Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" & hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long."

The policy director of Wilfried Martens Centre for European Studies, the think tank of Europe's Largest Party, the European People's Party (EPP) has called for the need to have skilled Indians in the European Union. Speaking to Wion's Sidhant Sibal in Brussels, Dr Peter Hefele said, 'We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground'. The EPP is the largest political party in the European Parliament, with members from various national centre-right parties across EU member states. Its think tank, Wilfried Martens Centre, named after the former EPP president, aims to advance centre-right thought, contributing to EU and national policy formulation. Also Read: 'We’ll never forget': World leaders join as Auschwitz survivors mark 80th anniversary of liberation Dr Hefele pointed out that "there are a lot of topics where India and European Union can work much better together" & hoped that there "will be progress in the trade issue, which has unfortunately lasted already way too long." India and the EU have been negotiating FTA talks for years now, but not much headway has been made. Last week Indian trade minister Goyal visited Belgium & it is hoped that it will provide much-needed impetus to talks. The policy director also spoke about China & impact of the Trump Presidency on Europe. Full interview with Dr Peter Hefele Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Donald Trump's presidency impacting European politics? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we had a lot of discussion before the final elections. But we know a lot of homework has to be done, regardless of who is ruling in Washington, maybe defence, our economic revitalisation, and relations with other nations so they are not impacted always by the United States. We have to go on with India, for example, regardless of what is happening in the United States. The same goes for Africa or Latin America. Sidhant Sibal: But Donald Trump has essentially said that he will impose tariffs. And of course, there is the question of Greenland as well. We know that he has been staking claim to Greenland, and there was a conversation between Trump & Denmark's PM. So how do you see these challenges when it comes to the presidency of Donald Trump? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we know how Trump is negotiating. He puts a lot of demands on the ground. The issue is, what can put Europe on the table? And I think a lot of things which Europe is still interested in. So we should avoid these huge conflicts. But well, we have to deliver something. Trade is an issue, opening European markets, and doing more for our defence. That's what the United States, at the very end, wants now. Sidhant Sibal: So coming to India, you mentioned about India, you are someone who is leading a think tank with a party which is one of the largest parties in the European Union. So essentially, how do you see a relationship between the European Union and India in terms of how it can be a factor of stability in an increasingly geopolitical world? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, there are a lot of topics where India and the European Union can work much better together. I hope that there will be progress in the trade issue, which unfortunately lasted already way too long. Security is an issue, not on a large scale, but in a lot of the industrial sectors, for example, and in certain regions to create stability, mainly in the Indo-Pacific region. Science cooperation is a big issue that is an under-exploited issue. We have many Indians here in Europe already. I think this is our potential, which we have not exploited. And we need, of course, qualified Indian people here on the European ground, also as a fight of very skilled migration. That is an issue, again, which should be dealt with and must be dealt with on the European level. Sidhant Sibal: How much China is an issue in terms of the European Union's internal politics and an issue for Europe? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, China is everywhere. Whatever you discuss, somehow China is in it. It is in trade and security. It has a role in the conflict, for example, Russia and Ukraine. It's in the trans-Atlantic relations because these are impacted by the China-US relations. There's a lot of uncertainty. Europe has to find its own way, not following only the United States' interests, but it also has to make clear what our interests are. We have also to protect our markets against unfair competition. Sidhant Sibal: My final question, you mentioned about immigration. You mentioned about skilled Indians as well. So essentially, how do you see that issue as well? Dr Peter Hefele: Well, we need immigration, that is definitely, but really skilled immigration. India is an interesting partner in this respect. It should not always be a one-sided immigration. I think what we call is sometimes circular migration. So this is another new way of migration, and we need to make progress on the ground. A lot of these challenges are not on the European level. It's on the very local level. It's administrative issues and financial issues. These are the things we have to focus on now.

Think tank of Europe's largest political party, EPP, calls for more skilled Indian professionals in EU

<p><strong>Brussels:</strong> India and the European Union are looking to firm up ties in the defence and security domain this year, with a series of proposals being on the anvil. The proposals include a new strategic dialogue on foreign-related issues and the elevation of security and defence partnerships at the level of the defence secretary.</p>
<p>Earlier this month, in Davos, President of EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced that her first visit will be to India, clearly indicating that India-EU ties will further firm up this year. She said, &ldquo;The first trip of my new Commission will be to India. Together, with Prime Minister Modi, we want to upgrade the strategic partnership with the largest country and democracy in the world.&rdquo; India&rsquo;s trade minister Piyush Goyal has already been to Brussels for India-EU FTA talks.</p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-home-secretary-warns-tech-giants-of-a-second-southport-if-extreme-content-isnt-removed-8655016" target="_blank" rel="noopener">UK's Home Secretary warns tech giants of a 'second Southport' if extreme content isn't removed</a></span></strong></p>
<p>In terms of naval cooperation, the European Union is keen to place a liaison officer at Information Fusion Centre &ndash; Indian Ocean region in Gurugram.&nbsp;<br>The Indian Navy&rsquo;s Information Fusion Centre &ndash; Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) is India&rsquo;s eye in the Indian Ocean, from the Strait of Malacca to the Gulf of Aden, and enhances maritime security through cooperation with regional partners.</p>
<p><strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true">Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-president-donald-trump-says-uk-pm-keir-starmer-elon-musk-criticism-8655008" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism</a></span></strong></p>
<p>Ahead of the planned India-EU summit this year, European Union sources said, &ldquo;We are bullish on developing relationships with India.&rdquo; The 15th India-EU summit took place in 2020, with leaders endorsing the India-EU strategic partnership and a common roadmap on a joint action plan. Of the over 100 action plans that were agreed on, 80% have been delivered.</p>
<p>Both sides, for the first time, are looking at the India-EU Homeland security conversation with big ticket announcements expected this year. As part of counter-terror cooperation, the EU organised a workshop on the use of commercial drones for terror activities to deal with terrorist threats online.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-preparing-to-send-more-troops-to-ukraine-war-despite-suffering-high-casualties-8650644" target="_blank" rel="noopener">North Korea preparing to send more troops to Ukraine war despite suffering high casualties</a></strong></p>
<p>Other areas of cooperation between the two sides are green hydrogen, EV batteries, while an expected MoU on semiconductors, space, water management technology is also in the works. The plan is also on linking India&rsquo;s UPI with a proposed European digital wallet.</p>
<p>Connectivity remains a key pillar of ties, especially the Indian push on the India-Middle East-Europe corridor that was launched on the sidelines of the Delhi G20 summit last year. While the conflicts in West Asia remain a challenge, European Union sources remain optimistic, saying, &ldquo;This will happen, this is the direction of history. On the European side, we want to do...&rdquo;&nbsp;<br>Under the mega connectivity project, that connects two large markets, both India and EU will also be looking at more undersea cable connections.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-investigators-recomment-insurrection-and-abuse-of-power-charges-against-impeached-president-yoon-suk-yeol-8645767" target="_blank" rel="noopener">South Korea investigators recommend 'insurrection and abuse of power' charges against Yoon</a></strong></p>

World | India News: Earlier this month, in Davos, President of EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced that her first visit will be to India, clearly indicating that India-EU ties will further firm up this year.

Brussels: India and the European Union are looking to firm up ties in the defence and security domain this year, with a series of proposals being on the anvil. The proposals include a new strategic dialogue on foreign-related issues and the elevation of security and defence partnerships at the level of the defence secretary. Earlier this month, in Davos, President of EU Commission Ursula von der Leyen announced that her first visit will be to India, clearly indicating that India-EU ties will further firm up this year. She said, “The first trip of my new Commission will be to India. Together, with Prime Minister Modi, we want to upgrade the strategic partnership with the largest country and democracy in the world.” India’s trade minister Piyush Goyal has already been to Brussels for India-EU FTA talks. Also read: UK's Home Secretary warns tech giants of a 'second Southport' if extreme content isn't removed In terms of naval cooperation, the European Union is keen to place a liaison officer at Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean region in Gurugram. The Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre – Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) is India’s eye in the Indian Ocean, from the Strait of Malacca to the Gulf of Aden, and enhances maritime security through cooperation with regional partners. Also read: Trump says UK PM Starmer is doing 'very good job' despite 'first buddy' Elon Musk's criticism Ahead of the planned India-EU summit this year, European Union sources said, “We are bullish on developing relationships with India.” The 15th India-EU summit took place in 2020, with leaders endorsing the India-EU strategic partnership and a common roadmap on a joint action plan. Of the over 100 action plans that were agreed on, 80% have been delivered. Both sides, for the first time, are looking at the India-EU Homeland security conversation with big ticket announcements expected this year. As part of counter-terror cooperation, the EU organised a workshop on the use of commercial drones for terror activities to deal with terrorist threats online. Also read: North Korea preparing to send more troops to Ukraine war despite suffering high casualties Other areas of cooperation between the two sides are green hydrogen, EV batteries, while an expected MoU on semiconductors, space, water management technology is also in the works. The plan is also on linking India’s UPI with a proposed European digital wallet. Connectivity remains a key pillar of ties, especially the Indian push on the India-Middle East-Europe corridor that was launched on the sidelines of the Delhi G20 summit last year. While the conflicts in West Asia remain a challenge, European Union sources remain optimistic, saying, “This will happen, this is the direction of history. On the European side, we want to do...” Under the mega connectivity project, that connects two large markets, both India and EU will also be looking at more undersea cable connections. Also read: South Korea investigators recommend 'insurrection and abuse of power' charges against Yoon

India, EU looking to firm up security, defence partnerships

<p><strong>New Delhi:</strong> Food security, energy security, and health security will be the key focus points in the discussions for Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his India visit. President Subianto is the chief guest at India&rsquo;s Republic Day parade, an honour India extends to countries with which it has a close relationship. Diplomatic sources pointed out that Indonesia needs 160,000 doctors and nurses, and &ldquo;India has been the champion of the health sector&rdquo;. This matter also came up during PM Modi and President Subianto&rsquo;s meeting in November 2024.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/pakistani-lawmakers-demand-elon-musks-apology-before-starlink-licence-approval-report-8647766" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Pakistani lawmakers demand 'apology' from Elon Musk before Starlink licence approval: Report</a></strong></p>
<p>This is the fourth time an Indonesian President will be the chief guest at India&rsquo;s Republic Day after 2018, 2011, and 1950. An Indonesian military contingent will also march on the Kartavya Path in the Republic Day parade.&nbsp;<br><br>Moreover, the 3rd CEO Forum will be held on the sidelines. Several MoUs are likely to be signed and announcements made during the state visit of the Indonesian President.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-elon-musk-nazi-salute-israel-hitler-8647897" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute</a></strong></p>
<p>Asked if the discussions will include any conversation on the Brahmos deal, diplomatic sources pointed out that conversation has continued and a key &ldquo;priority&rdquo; from the Indonesian side has been on the transfer of technology in such defence conversations. The deal, which has been in the works for some time, came up for conversation during Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi&rsquo;s visit to Indonesia last month.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-accuses-russian-military-of-killing-six-captured-troops-8647966" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Ukraine accuses Russian military of killing six captured troops</a></strong></p>
<p>In a post, Indonesia&rsquo;s defence minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said, &ldquo;Advanced technology collaboration, such as BrahMos, was also highlighted, presenting opportunities for Indonesia to learn and grow.&rdquo;</p>
<p>On plans for Andaman and Aceh connectivity, diplomatic sources pointed out that due to political developments in Aceh, a delay is seen, but one of the key features of the plan is direct air connectivity and port development. Aceh has enjoyed special autonomy since the 2005 peace agreement. Focus will also be on direct flight connectivity between Delhi and Jakarta, even though direct flights between Delhi and Mumbai to Bali, a key tourist destination in Indonesia, are already operating.</p>
<p><strong>Also read:<span> </span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-gaza-war-truce-in-place-air-india-to-start-tel-aviv-delhi-flights-from-march-2-8647989" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Gaza war truce in place, Air India to start Tel Aviv-Delhi flights from March 2</a></strong></p>

World | India News: This is the fourth time an Indonesian President will be the chief guest at India’s Republic Day after 2018, 2011, and 1950. An Indonesian military contingent will also march on the Kartavya Path in the Republic Day parade.

New Delhi: Food security, energy security, and health security will be the key focus points in the discussions for Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto during his India visit. President Subianto is the chief guest at India’s Republic Day parade, an honour India extends to countries with which it has a close relationship. Diplomatic sources pointed out that Indonesia needs 160,000 doctors and nurses, and “India has been the champion of the health sector”. This matter also came up during PM Modi and President Subianto’s meeting in November 2024. Also read: Pakistani lawmakers demand 'apology' from Elon Musk before Starlink licence approval: Report This is the fourth time an Indonesian President will be the chief guest at India’s Republic Day after 2018, 2011, and 1950. An Indonesian military contingent will also march on the Kartavya Path in the Republic Day parade. Moreover, the 3rd CEO Forum will be held on the sidelines. Several MoUs are likely to be signed and announcements made during the state visit of the Indonesian President. Also read: 'Great friend of Israel': Netanyahu defends Elon Musk after his 'Nazi' salute Asked if the discussions will include any conversation on the Brahmos deal, diplomatic sources pointed out that conversation has continued and a key “priority” from the Indonesian side has been on the transfer of technology in such defence conversations. The deal, which has been in the works for some time, came up for conversation during Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh Kumar Tripathi’s visit to Indonesia last month. Also read: Ukraine accuses Russian military of killing six captured troops In a post, Indonesia’s defence minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin said, “Advanced technology collaboration, such as BrahMos, was also highlighted, presenting opportunities for Indonesia to learn and grow.” On plans for Andaman and Aceh connectivity, diplomatic sources pointed out that due to political developments in Aceh, a delay is seen, but one of the key features of the plan is direct air connectivity and port development. Aceh has enjoyed special autonomy since the 2005 peace agreement. Focus will also be on direct flight connectivity between Delhi and Jakarta, even though direct flights between Delhi and Mumbai to Bali, a key tourist destination in Indonesia, are already operating. Also read: Gaza war truce in place, Air India to start Tel Aviv-Delhi flights from March 2

Food, energy and health security to be key focus areas during Indonesian President’s India visit

<div class="x_elementToProof">
<div data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">New Delhi:<i> Biden era is over and while history will judge its wider implications, here is a lowdown of how India- US ties fared under his presidency. Joe Biden took charge on 20th January 2021 and left the office on 19th January 2025. With him at the helm in Washington, there were some big-ticket developments in India-US ties, but a lot of irritants as well. The overall trajectory remained positive, something that started with Bill Clinton's India visit in 2020 and continued to see increased engagement in successive Bush, Obama, Trump administrations.&nbsp;</i></div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
<div>2020</div>
<div>With the Democrat winning the 2020 US elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Biden and vice president Kamala Harris on social media. On 17 November, 2020 PM Modi had a telephone conversation with President Biden as they agreed to work closely to further advance the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and discussed their priorities, including containing the Covid-19 pandemic, promoting access to affordable vaccines, tackling climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region.</div>
<div></div>
<div>2021</div>
<div>It was a significant year, as Quad, a grouping of US, India, Australia and Japan was elevated to summit level after years of working at officials' and foreign minister's level. For China, it was a big development, with four like-minded countries of the Indo-Pacific region coming together. The first summit took place virtually on 12th March, followed by an in-person summit in Washington on 24th September. PM Modi travelled to Washington for the Quad summit and met US President Biden, which was the first in-person meeting between the two leaders in a COVID year. During the visit, the US Government handed over 157 stolen Indian artifacts. PM Modi and President Biden also engaged on the sidelines of G20 Rome Summit and COP26 Glasgow summit. The Indian Navy formally took over the first two of its MH-60R Multi Role Helicopters (MRH) from the US Navy in a ceremony in San Diego on 16 July 2021. Since 2021 was a Covid year, both US and India worked with each other on dealing with the pandemic. The US had provided India medical supplies, vaccines, and oxygen support when India was hit by the deadly second wave of COVID. In Afghanistan, as the Taliban took over the country, both worked with each other, from UN to evacuation.</div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/trump-inauguration-from-elon-musks-nazi-salute-to-mark-zuckerbergs-bad-boy-moment-these-are-the-viral-moments-you-cannot-miss-8640494">Trump inauguration: From Elon Musk's Nazi salute to Mark Zuckerberg's 'bad boy' moment, these are the viral moments you cannot miss</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>2022</div>
<div>Both leaders met on the sidelines of Quad summit in Japan. They also interacted on the sidelines of the G7 Germany summit and G20 Bali summit. The engagement was undertaken at India, US 2+2 meet and first I2U2 meet.</div>
<div></div>
<div>2022&nbsp;was the year of the start of the Russia -Ukraine war, which had global implications. As the West, led by the US, announced sanctions on Russia, India emerged as the biggest importer of Russian energy. While India was criticised by Washington, as the months passed, the criticism became muted. That year, the then US deputy national security advisor Daleep Singh saw a lot of controversy. During his Delhi visit, he warned of "consequences" for violating US sanctions against Russia. His visit came just before Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-thanks-trump-for-crucial-role-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-8626330" rel="dofollow">https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-thanks-trump-for-crucial-role-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-8626330</a></div>
<div></div>
<div>2023</div>
<div>It was a breakout year for ties. PM Modi visited the US on a state visit, while US President Biden travelled to India for the G20 summit. The iCET initiative for Critical and Emerging Technologies was formally launched. Both leaders also engaged on the sidelines of the G7 and Quad Hiroshima summit. That year saw India signing to the Artemis Accords, MoU on HAL GE F-414 deal, launch of the US-India Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X), announcement on India&rsquo;s plans to procure General Atomics MQ-9B HALE UAVs, &nbsp;"Innovation Handshake&rdquo;, resolution of WTO disputes, semiconductor cooperation, Pakistan being slammed for its support to terror, MoU on recovery from India of the remains of fallen US service members who served in World War II among many things.</div>
<div></div>
<div>On the sidelines of the G20 Delhi summit, India and the US, along with other countries, launched the India Middle East Europe corridor, a key project that connects India to Europe via the Arab world.</div>
<div></div>
<div>But 2023 was also when ties were hit as US prosecutors claimed Indian involvement in an alleged plot to kill US national India-listed terrorists Gurpatwant Singh Pannun even as the India-Canada diplomatic row was underway over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Following the allegations from the US about an Indian government employee's involvement in a plot to assassinate Pannun, a high-powered inquiry committee was set up by the Indian government. This committee was tasked with investigating the inputs provided by the United States concerning an alleged assassination plot against Pannun. Two names - Nikhil Gupta and Vikash Yadav - cropped up as the investigations proceeded, and next year, it dominated the public conversation on ties. Open Khalistani threats against the Indian diplomatic mission and diplomats became a big issue. The Indian consulate in San Francisco was smoke-bombed. India called for action against attackers, and the US condemned the attack.</div>
<div></div>
<div>2024</div>
<div>The year saw the shadow of the Pannun killing plot but continued engagement as well. PM Modi again travelled to the US in September, but this time for the Quad Delaware summit. He held a bilateral meeting with President Biden in his home state of Delaware and addressed the diaspora. Coopeartion on ICET, semiconductors and people-to-people engagement continued but also concerns of Khalistani extremists like Pannu and alleged Indian links over attempts to kill him remained sore points. Add to this the US prosecutors charging one of India's richest persons. The charges were against Gautam Adani, his relative Sagar Adani, and others over alleged conspiracy to pay over $265 million in bribes to secure solar energy supply contracts.</div>
<div></div>
<div>2025</div>
<div>As the Biden Presidency ended, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's last international visit was to India, during which it was announced that three Indian entities, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR) and the Indian Rare Earths (IRE), will be removed from US restrictive list to spur India-US civil nuclear cooperation. Sullivan briefed the Indian side on updates to US missile export control policies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) to boost US commercial space cooperation with India.&nbsp; A high-powered inquiry committee, set up by the Indian government on US claims regarding Indian links to attempted killing of Pannun, recommended legal action against an individual identified during their inquiry. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) confirmed that the committee had investigated and recommended action, though they didn't name the individual explicitly in public statements.</div>
<div class="x_elementToProof"></div>
</div>

world, india : Biden era is over and while history will judge its wider implications, here is a lowdown of how India- US ties fared under his presidency

New Delhi: Biden era is over and while history will judge its wider implications, here is a lowdown of how India- US ties fared under his presidency. Joe Biden took charge on 20th January 2021 and left the office on 19th January 2025. With him at the helm in Washington, there were some big-ticket developments in India-US ties, but a lot of irritants as well. The overall trajectory remained positive, something that started with Bill Clinton's India visit in 2020 and continued to see increased engagement in successive Bush, Obama, Trump administrations. 2020 With the Democrat winning the 2020 US elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated Biden and vice president Kamala Harris on social media. On 17 November, 2020 PM Modi had a telephone conversation with President Biden as they agreed to work closely to further advance the India-U.S. Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership and discussed their priorities, including containing the Covid-19 pandemic, promoting access to affordable vaccines, tackling climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region. 2021 It was a significant year, as Quad, a grouping of US, India, Australia and Japan was elevated to summit level after years of working at officials' and foreign minister's level. For China, it was a big development, with four like-minded countries of the Indo-Pacific region coming together. The first summit took place virtually on 12th March, followed by an in-person summit in Washington on 24th September. PM Modi travelled to Washington for the Quad summit and met US President Biden, which was the first in-person meeting between the two leaders in a COVID year. During the visit, the US Government handed over 157 stolen Indian artifacts. PM Modi and President Biden also engaged on the sidelines of G20 Rome Summit and COP26 Glasgow summit. The Indian Navy formally took over the first two of its MH-60R Multi Role Helicopters (MRH) from the US Navy in a ceremony in San Diego on 16 July 2021. Since 2021 was a Covid year, both US and India worked with each other on dealing with the pandemic. The US had provided India medical supplies, vaccines, and oxygen support when India was hit by the deadly second wave of COVID. In Afghanistan, as the Taliban took over the country, both worked with each other, from UN to evacuation. Trump inauguration: From Elon Musk's Nazi salute to Mark Zuckerberg's 'bad boy' moment, these are the viral moments you cannot miss 2022 Both leaders met on the sidelines of Quad summit in Japan. They also interacted on the sidelines of the G7 Germany summit and G20 Bali summit. The engagement was undertaken at India, US 2+2 meet and first I2U2 meet. 2022 was the year of the start of the Russia -Ukraine war, which had global implications. As the West, led by the US, announced sanctions on Russia, India emerged as the biggest importer of Russian energy. While India was criticised by Washington, as the months passed, the criticism became muted. That year, the then US deputy national security advisor Daleep Singh saw a lot of controversy. During his Delhi visit, he warned of "consequences" for violating US sanctions against Russia. His visit came just before Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov's India visit. https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-administration-thanks-trump-for-crucial-role-in-israel-hamas-ceasefire-deal-8626330 2023 It was a breakout year for ties. PM Modi visited the US on a state visit, while US President Biden travelled to India for the G20 summit. The iCET initiative for Critical and Emerging Technologies was formally launched. Both leaders also engaged on the sidelines of the G7 and Quad Hiroshima summit. That year saw India signing to the Artemis Accords, MoU on HAL GE F-414 deal, launch of the US-India Defense Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS-X), announcement on India’s plans to procure General Atomics MQ-9B HALE UAVs, "Innovation Handshake”, resolution of WTO disputes, semiconductor cooperation, Pakistan being slammed for its support to terror, MoU on recovery from India of the remains of fallen US service members who served in World War II among many things. On the sidelines of the G20 Delhi summit, India and the US, along with other countries, launched the India Middle East Europe corridor, a key project that connects India to Europe via the Arab world. But 2023 was also when ties were hit as US prosecutors claimed Indian involvement in an alleged plot to kill US national India-listed terrorists Gurpatwant Singh Pannun even as the India-Canada diplomatic row was underway over the killing of a Khalistani separatist. Following the allegations from the US about an Indian government employee's involvement in a plot to assassinate Pannun, a high-powered inquiry committee was set up by the Indian government. This committee was tasked with investigating the inputs provided by the United States concerning an alleged assassination plot against Pannun. Two names - Nikhil Gupta and Vikash Yadav - cropped up as the investigations proceeded, and next year, it dominated the public conversation on ties. Open Khalistani threats against the Indian diplomatic mission and diplomats became a big issue. The Indian consulate in San Francisco was smoke-bombed. India called for action against attackers, and the US condemned the attack. 2024 The year saw the shadow of the Pannun killing plot but continued engagement as well. PM Modi again travelled to the US in September, but this time for the Quad Delaware summit. He held a bilateral meeting with President Biden in his home state of Delaware and addressed the diaspora. Coopeartion on ICET, semiconductors and people-to-people engagement continued but also concerns of Khalistani extremists like Pannu and alleged Indian links over attempts to kill him remained sore points. Add to this the US prosecutors charging one of India's richest persons. The charges were against Gautam Adani, his relative Sagar Adani, and others over alleged conspiracy to pay over $265 million in bribes to secure solar energy supply contracts. 2025 As the Biden Presidency ended, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan's last international visit was to India, during which it was announced that three Indian entities, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Centre (IGCAR) and the Indian Rare Earths (IRE), will be removed from US restrictive list to spur India-US civil nuclear cooperation. Sullivan briefed the Indian side on updates to US missile export control policies under the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) to boost US commercial space cooperation with India. A high-powered inquiry committee, set up by the Indian government on US claims regarding Indian links to attempted killing of Pannun, recommended legal action against an individual identified during their inquiry. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) confirmed that the committee had investigated and recommended action, though they didn't name the individual explicitly in public statements.

India-US ties under Biden administration: A timeline

<p>Donald Trump will be taking oath as the US President later today for the 2nd term. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C and the oath will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, with the ceremony including traditional elements such as an inaugural address and a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The high-profile event will be closely watched by foreign representatives as well. But what has been India's representation? Here we explain that.</p>
<p><strong>Trump oath taking Ceremony&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is representing the Prime Minister as his Special Envoy at the inaugural function of President Donald Trump in Washington DC. He is carrying a letter from the Prime Minister for President Trump. EAM Dr S Jaishankar is present at the "invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee", India's ministry of external affairs made an announcement on 12th January. Important to point out, foreign ministers of all Quad countries, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Australia's FM Penny Wong and Japan FM Iwaya are present, and likely to hold a Quad FM's meet with incoming US Secretary of state Marco Rubio. Rubio is likely to get a full senate confirmation, paving way for him to discharge his official duties as incoming US Secretary of state.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/donald-trump-inauguration-5-things-to-know-about-donald-trumps-political-journey-8637954" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">5 Things to know about Donald Trump's Political Journey</a></p>
<p><strong>Past Practice</strong></p>
<p>Typically, India does not send its Prime Minister or President to the swearing-in ceremonies of other countries' leaders. India's general practice has been to send Special Envoys of the Prime Minister to attend the swearing in ceremony of Heads of State and Government. This practice is based on an unspoken policy to maintain a certain level of diplomatic protocol.</p>
<p><strong>History of Indian representation</strong></p>
<p>Indian ministers have represented Indian government at the oath taking ceremonies. A history of such representation:</p>
<p>May 2023: Indian Defence Minsiter Rajnath Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Nigeria President</p>
<p>November 2023: Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President</p>
<p>July 2024: Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President</p>
<p>October 2024: MoS for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the swearing in ceremony of Indonesian President, Mexico President.</p>
<p><strong>Also Read:</strong> <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/america-visa-h1b-visa-american-visa-for-indians-americas-h1b-protectionism-is-set-to-benefit-india-8580394" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">America's H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here's why</a></p>
<p>June 2022: MoS for External Affairs &nbsp;Raj Kumar Ranjan Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Philippines President.</p>
<p>August 2021: EAM Dr S Jaishankar attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President Ebrahim Raisi.</p>
<p><strong>Only Exception</strong></p>
<p>The only exception to this rule was when PM Modi attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President Solih in November 2018. The 2018 visit was the first visit of PM Modi to Maldives and was seen as a significant in the context of India's neighbourhood first policy. After the swearing in ceremony, PM held bilateral talks with the Maldives President &nbsp;Solih during which he conveyed India&rsquo;s desire to work closely for the realization of Maldives&rsquo; developmental priorities, esp in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity.</p>

World India News | At President Donald Trump's inauguration, Dr. S Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister, represents the Prime Minister, underscoring diplomatic ties in Washington DC.

Donald Trump will be taking oath as the US President later today for the 2nd term. The ceremony will take place at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C and the oath will be administered by Chief Justice John Roberts, with the ceremony including traditional elements such as an inaugural address and a parade down Pennsylvania Avenue. The high-profile event will be closely watched by foreign representatives as well. But what has been India's representation? Here we explain that. Trump oath taking Ceremony India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar is representing the Prime Minister as his Special Envoy at the inaugural function of President Donald Trump in Washington DC. He is carrying a letter from the Prime Minister for President Trump. EAM Dr S Jaishankar is present at the "invitation of the Trump-Vance Inaugural Committee", India's ministry of external affairs made an announcement on 12th January. Important to point out, foreign ministers of all Quad countries, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Australia's FM Penny Wong and Japan FM Iwaya are present, and likely to hold a Quad FM's meet with incoming US Secretary of state Marco Rubio. Rubio is likely to get a full senate confirmation, paving way for him to discharge his official duties as incoming US Secretary of state. Also Read: 5 Things to know about Donald Trump's Political Journey Past Practice Typically, India does not send its Prime Minister or President to the swearing-in ceremonies of other countries' leaders. India's general practice has been to send Special Envoys of the Prime Minister to attend the swearing in ceremony of Heads of State and Government. This practice is based on an unspoken policy to maintain a certain level of diplomatic protocol. History of Indian representation Indian ministers have represented Indian government at the oath taking ceremonies. A history of such representation: May 2023: Indian Defence Minsiter Rajnath Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Nigeria President November 2023: Minister of Earth Sciences Kiren Rijiju attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President July 2024: Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President October 2024: MoS for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita attended the swearing in ceremony of Indonesian President, Mexico President. Also Read: America's H1B protectionism is set to benefit India. Here's why June 2022: MoS for External Affairs Raj Kumar Ranjan Singh attended the swearing in ceremony of Philippines President. August 2021: EAM Dr S Jaishankar attended the swearing in ceremony of Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. Only Exception The only exception to this rule was when PM Modi attended the swearing in ceremony of Maldives President Solih in November 2018. The 2018 visit was the first visit of PM Modi to Maldives and was seen as a significant in the context of India's neighbourhood first policy. After the swearing in ceremony, PM held bilateral talks with the Maldives President Solih during which he conveyed India’s desire to work closely for the realization of Maldives’ developmental priorities, esp in areas of infrastructure, health care, connectivity.

Explainer: India's representation at oath taking ceremonies

<p>Argentina is keen to have energy ties and cooperation on lithium with India, even as Delhi and Buenos Aires firm up relations in various sectors. Speaking to WION&rsquo;s Sidhant Sibal, Argentina&rsquo;s ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, said, &ldquo;We are convinced that Argentina can become an energy provider and provide energy security to a large country like India, whose economy is becoming one of the largest in the world.&rdquo; Currently, a big delegation of Argentina&rsquo;s largest integrated energy company, YPF, or Yacimientos Petrol&iacute;feros Fiscale, is in Delhi and will be signing a key pact on Tuesday. YPF is central to the South American country&rsquo;s energy sector, operating one of the world&rsquo;s largest unconventional gas reserves in Vaca Muerta, alongside significant oil production.</p>
<p>On lithium cooperation, the ambassador said, &ldquo;There are Indian companies investing in some sense, in some provinces in the north of Argentina, for example, Catamarca, and they are working very well. And I think they are enhancing those investments.&rdquo;&nbsp;<br>In January 2024, India, through its state-owned Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), signed an agreement with Argentina&rsquo;s state-owned mining and energy company, CAMYEN, to explore and develop five lithium brine blocks in Catamarca, Argentina. This was India&rsquo;s first overseas lithium exploration and mining deal, aimed at diversifying its supply chain for critical minerals essential for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. Detailed interview:</p>
<p>Also Read | <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-accuses-obama-biden-of-sabotaging-us-russia-ties-before-trumps-return-8635484" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'First Obama, then Biden': Russia accuses Democratic presidents of sabotaging US-Russia ties before Trump's return</a></span></strong></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> How do you see India-Argentina ties?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino</strong>: Argentina and India are enjoying and celebrating the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations that happened last year (2024), and the link is very good. It&rsquo;s based on common values, we are two democracies, it is based on historic friendship, and it&rsquo;s based on mutual benefit.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> How do you see India and Argentina's energy cooperation?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino:</strong> Well, we are convinced that Argentina can become an energy provider and provide energy security to a large country like India, whose economy is becoming one of the largest in the world. As well as we are food security providers. And we are enjoying a very important relationship in terms of agricultural cooperation.</p>
<p>Also read <strong>|<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-90-palestinian-prisoners-hamas-releases-3-hostages-in-landmark-gaza-ceasefire-8636229#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> You also have one of the biggest deposits of lithium as well, and India needs lithium for its growing economy. So any cooperation happening?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino:</strong> Well, we are very happy because India is invested in lithium. We have a huge reserve of lithium in the north of Argentina, and we are already working on that. And I think it&rsquo;s very beneficial for you, for your EV achievements and development. Now at this moment, there are Indian companies investing in some sense, in some provinces in the north of Argentina, for example, Catamarca, and they are working very well. And I think they are enhancing those investments.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> When is President of Argentina Javier Milei planning to come to India? Can we expect any visits this year?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino:</strong> Well, seven Argentine Presidents have been to India. The last one, in fact, was during the G20, but it was not a bilateral visit. In terms of state visits or official visits, the last one was in 2019, but seven Argentine presidents have come to India since independence. We hope President Milei comes to India, and I hope PM Modi visits Argentina as well. The only time an Indian Prime Minister went to Argentina on a state visit was during Indira Gandhi&rsquo;s tenure more than 50 years ago. PM Modi has been to Argentina, but for the G20 summit, in 2018.</p>
<p>Also read<strong> |<span>&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guns-in-gaza-have-gone-silent-joe-biden-delivers-final-remark-on-gaza-ceasefire-as-us-president-8635721" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remarks on Gaza ceasefire as US president</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> How do you see Trump&rsquo;s presidency and US-Argentina ties?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino:</strong> Argentina and the US have a historical relation, more than 200 years of bilateral relations, and we are in a period of time in which that link is very, very close, and there is a personal chemistry, I would say, between the two leaders. President Trump has expressed his support to Argentine economic reforms, as well as members of his cabinet that is going to take office precisely today. We think that it will be a successful and very good time for the two countries. The US is the most important country in the world, is the most powerful country in the world, and for us, it&rsquo;s very important. And we belong to the Western Hemisphere, and the President has said that the relationship with the US is a main face of its foreign policy. So it&rsquo;s very important for us. We are very happy with that, with those developments, and we wish the best for the American people in their inauguration.</p>
<p><strong>Sidhant Sibal:</strong> What kind of conversation have India and Argentina had on Malvinas?<br><strong>Mariano Caucino:</strong> We always thank the support that India gave to us in the case of the Malvinas issue, and we are very thankful for that. And we hope we are going to be able to recover the full sovereignty of the islands as soon as possible. But we have, as you know, in the constitution of Argentina that has been incorporated at the request of that cause, but through diplomatic means.</p>
<p>Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-my-nature-to-go-quietly-into-the-night-harris-vows-against-backing-down-after-losing-elections-to-trump-8637885" rel="dofollow">'Not my nature to go quietly into the night,' Harris vows against backing down after losing elections to Trump</a></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World | India News: In January 2024, India's state-owned Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL) signed an agreement with Argentina’s state-owned mining and energy company, CAMYEN, to explore and develop five lithium brine blocks in Catamarca, Argentina.

Argentina is keen to have energy ties and cooperation on lithium with India, even as Delhi and Buenos Aires firm up relations in various sectors. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Argentina’s ambassador to India, Mariano Caucino, said, “We are convinced that Argentina can become an energy provider and provide energy security to a large country like India, whose economy is becoming one of the largest in the world.” Currently, a big delegation of Argentina’s largest integrated energy company, YPF, or Yacimientos Petrolíferos Fiscale, is in Delhi and will be signing a key pact on Tuesday. YPF is central to the South American country’s energy sector, operating one of the world’s largest unconventional gas reserves in Vaca Muerta, alongside significant oil production. On lithium cooperation, the ambassador said, “There are Indian companies investing in some sense, in some provinces in the north of Argentina, for example, Catamarca, and they are working very well. And I think they are enhancing those investments.” In January 2024, India, through its state-owned Khanij Bidesh India Ltd (KABIL), signed an agreement with Argentina’s state-owned mining and energy company, CAMYEN, to explore and develop five lithium brine blocks in Catamarca, Argentina. This was India’s first overseas lithium exploration and mining deal, aimed at diversifying its supply chain for critical minerals essential for electric vehicles (EVs) and energy storage systems. Detailed interview: Also Read | 'First Obama, then Biden': Russia accuses Democratic presidents of sabotaging US-Russia ties before Trump's return Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Argentina ties? Mariano Caucino: Argentina and India are enjoying and celebrating the 75th anniversary of bilateral relations that happened last year (2024), and the link is very good. It’s based on common values, we are two democracies, it is based on historic friendship, and it’s based on mutual benefit. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India and Argentina's energy cooperation? Mariano Caucino: Well, we are convinced that Argentina can become an energy provider and provide energy security to a large country like India, whose economy is becoming one of the largest in the world. As well as we are food security providers. And we are enjoying a very important relationship in terms of agricultural cooperation. Also read | Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire Sidhant Sibal: You also have one of the biggest deposits of lithium as well, and India needs lithium for its growing economy. So any cooperation happening? Mariano Caucino: Well, we are very happy because India is invested in lithium. We have a huge reserve of lithium in the north of Argentina, and we are already working on that. And I think it’s very beneficial for you, for your EV achievements and development. Now at this moment, there are Indian companies investing in some sense, in some provinces in the north of Argentina, for example, Catamarca, and they are working very well. And I think they are enhancing those investments. Sidhant Sibal: When is President of Argentina Javier Milei planning to come to India? Can we expect any visits this year? Mariano Caucino: Well, seven Argentine Presidents have been to India. The last one, in fact, was during the G20, but it was not a bilateral visit. In terms of state visits or official visits, the last one was in 2019, but seven Argentine presidents have come to India since independence. We hope President Milei comes to India, and I hope PM Modi visits Argentina as well. The only time an Indian Prime Minister went to Argentina on a state visit was during Indira Gandhi’s tenure more than 50 years ago. PM Modi has been to Argentina, but for the G20 summit, in 2018. Also read | 'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remarks on Gaza ceasefire as US president Sidhant Sibal: How do you see Trump’s presidency and US-Argentina ties? Mariano Caucino: Argentina and the US have a historical relation, more than 200 years of bilateral relations, and we are in a period of time in which that link is very, very close, and there is a personal chemistry, I would say, between the two leaders. President Trump has expressed his support to Argentine economic reforms, as well as members of his cabinet that is going to take office precisely today. We think that it will be a successful and very good time for the two countries. The US is the most important country in the world, is the most powerful country in the world, and for us, it’s very important. And we belong to the Western Hemisphere, and the President has said that the relationship with the US is a main face of its foreign policy. So it’s very important for us. We are very happy with that, with those developments, and we wish the best for the American people in their inauguration. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversation have India and Argentina had on Malvinas? Mariano Caucino: We always thank the support that India gave to us in the case of the Malvinas issue, and we are very thankful for that. And we hope we are going to be able to recover the full sovereignty of the islands as soon as possible. But we have, as you know, in the constitution of Argentina that has been incorporated at the request of that cause, but through diplomatic means. Also Read | 'Not my nature to go quietly into the night,' Harris vows against backing down after losing elections to Trump

Argentina keen on energy ties, lithium cooperation with India: Ambassador

<p><strong>New Delhi:</strong> With the ceasefire in Gaza coming into effect on Sunday, Palestine is keen to get Indian support for the reconstruction of the strip after devastation during the months-long conflict. Palestine&rsquo;s top diplomat in Delhi, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, while speaking to WION, said India can provide &ldquo;things to the Gaza people....Many countries will participate in giving support to Gaza. Indians have experience in medical things, we hope to see Indian hospitals in Gaza, in reconstruction of Gaza.&rdquo;</p>
<p>Also Read | <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-releases-90-palestinian-prisoners-hamas-releases-3-hostages-in-landmark-gaza-ceasefire-8636229#google_vignette" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire</a></strong><br><br>Israel and Hamas finally agreed to a multiphase ceasefire after several rounds of talks, aiming to end the conflict in Gaza. The ceasefire deal in place includes the cessation of hostilities, a surge in humanitarian aid to the region, and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.</p>
<p>Ambassador Abu Jazer added, &ldquo;We need new schools, Indians can be part of this, and build new schools by the name of Indian leaders, by the name of India. Indian companies can be part of the reconstruction of Gaza. We need Indian experience in many things, like they can bring injured people for treatment to India or they can send doctors to Gaza, specialised doctors. India can create field hospitals.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Also Read | <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-releases-names-of-3-israeli-women-hostages-to-be-freed-sunday-8634774" rel="dofollow noopener" target="_blank">Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages</a></strong></p>
<p>On being asked if a request has been made in this regard to India, he said, &ldquo;This is via media but will come through an official channel.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p>The first phase of the ceasefire involves a six-week pause in fighting, during which there will be an exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody. The agreement has been celebrated by both Palestinian civilians in Gaza and by families of Israeli hostages, bringing a sense of relief and hope for peace after more than 15 months of conflict.</p>
<p>Also Read | <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guns-in-gaza-have-gone-silent-joe-biden-delivers-final-remark-on-gaza-ceasefire-as-us-president-8635721" target="_blank" rel="noopener">'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remark on Gaza ceasefire as US president</a></span></strong></p>
<p>The top Palestinian diplomat further said, "The Indian private sector can be part of the reconstruction of Gaza. It will take 20 years to rebuild Gaza,&rdquo; and added, &ldquo;Indian flags on Indian projects, whatever India decides, we encourage. We have belief on Shri Narendra Modi, PM of India, from his personal considerations, his support to Palestinian people.&rdquo;</p>
<p>India has consistently advocated for a two-state solution as the path to enduring peace between Israel and Palestine. This position was reiterated by India&rsquo;s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has emphasised Delhi&rsquo;s commitment to supporting a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine living alongside Israel in peace.</p>
<p>He welcomed India&rsquo;s support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and said, &ldquo;Since 2018, India has increased UNRWA support. India will continue the support, we welcome the step, the Indian contribution to refugees.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Also Read | <strong><span data-preserver-spaces="true"><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/gaza-ceasefire-three-israeli-hostages-romi-gonen-emily-damari-doron-steinbrecher-handed-over-to-red-cross-israel-hamas-war-8635634" target="_blank" rel="noopener">First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do&nbsp;they&nbsp;go&nbsp;next?</a></span></strong></p>
<p>Delhi has been a consistent donor to UNRWA. Over the years, India&rsquo;s contributions have increased from $2.5 million annually to $5 million per year, which has helped in the agency&rsquo;s core services like education, health care, and social services, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian crisis has been acute.</p>
<p>He also paid his homage to former Indian PM Manmohan Singh, pointing out, &ldquo;He gave us land for the Palestine embassy and inaugurated the embassy.&rdquo;&nbsp;<br>Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a State Visit to India from 10-12 September 2012. During the visit, he inaugurated the Embassy of Palestine in New Delhi, along with then Indian PM Manmohan Singh.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>

World | Middle East | India News: Israel and Hamas finally agreed to a multiphase ceasefire. The deal includes cessation of hostilities, a surge in humanitarian aid, and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners.

New Delhi: With the ceasefire in Gaza coming into effect on Sunday, Palestine is keen to get Indian support for the reconstruction of the strip after devastation during the months-long conflict. Palestine’s top diplomat in Delhi, Abed Elrazeg Abu Jazer, while speaking to WION, said India can provide “things to the Gaza people....Many countries will participate in giving support to Gaza. Indians have experience in medical things, we hope to see Indian hospitals in Gaza, in reconstruction of Gaza.” Also Read | Israel releases 90 Palestinian prisoners, Hamas releases 3 hostages in landmark Gaza ceasefire Israel and Hamas finally agreed to a multiphase ceasefire after several rounds of talks, aiming to end the conflict in Gaza. The ceasefire deal in place includes the cessation of hostilities, a surge in humanitarian aid to the region, and the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners. Ambassador Abu Jazer added, “We need new schools, Indians can be part of this, and build new schools by the name of Indian leaders, by the name of India. Indian companies can be part of the reconstruction of Gaza. We need Indian experience in many things, like they can bring injured people for treatment to India or they can send doctors to Gaza, specialised doctors. India can create field hospitals.” Also Read | Gaza ceasefire comes into effect after brief delay as Hamas releases list of hostages On being asked if a request has been made in this regard to India, he said, “This is via media but will come through an official channel.” The first phase of the ceasefire involves a six-week pause in fighting, during which there will be an exchange of hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian detainees in Israeli custody. The agreement has been celebrated by both Palestinian civilians in Gaza and by families of Israeli hostages, bringing a sense of relief and hope for peace after more than 15 months of conflict. Also Read | 'Guns in Gaza have gone silent': Joe Biden delivers final remark on Gaza ceasefire as US president The top Palestinian diplomat further said, "The Indian private sector can be part of the reconstruction of Gaza. It will take 20 years to rebuild Gaza,” and added, “Indian flags on Indian projects, whatever India decides, we encourage. We have belief on Shri Narendra Modi, PM of India, from his personal considerations, his support to Palestinian people.” India has consistently advocated for a two-state solution as the path to enduring peace between Israel and Palestine. This position was reiterated by India’s leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who has emphasised Delhi’s commitment to supporting a sovereign, independent, and viable state of Palestine living alongside Israel in peace. He welcomed India’s support for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) and said, “Since 2018, India has increased UNRWA support. India will continue the support, we welcome the step, the Indian contribution to refugees.” Also Read | First three Israeli hostages released by Hamas after Gaza ceasefire: Where do they go next? Delhi has been a consistent donor to UNRWA. Over the years, India’s contributions have increased from $2.5 million annually to $5 million per year, which has helped in the agency’s core services like education, health care, and social services, particularly in Gaza, where the humanitarian crisis has been acute. He also paid his homage to former Indian PM Manmohan Singh, pointing out, “He gave us land for the Palestine embassy and inaugurated the embassy.” Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas paid a State Visit to India from 10-12 September 2012. During the visit, he inaugurated the Embassy of Palestine in New Delhi, along with then Indian PM Manmohan Singh.

With ceasefire in effect, Palestine seeks Indian support for reconstruction of Gaza

<div>New Delhi:<span>&nbsp;</span>On Monday (Jan 20), Donald Trump takes over as the US president for the second time, something that can change geopolitics radically. Trump was earlier the US president in 2017-2020, during which he took several decisions that changed international relations. These include withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and Iran nuclear deal, meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and the Abraham Accords in West Asia. Let us understand how India-US ties fared during Trump's first term.</div>
<h2><br><b>2016:</b></h2>
<div></div>
<div>During the US elections, Trump famously said, "I am a big fan of Hindus, big fan of India, big big fan". The speech of course went viral several times since then. His Republican Party has been trying to woo Indian-American voters, and during 2024 US elections, most Indian-Americans, one of the richest communities in the US, voted for him.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>The formation of the Republican Hindu and Indian American Coalition by the Republican National Committee (RNC) reflects an attempt to court Indian-American Hindu voters. India-born Shalabh Kumar was a prominent backer of Trump. Post Trump's 2016 election victory, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to have a conversation with him, and congratulated him on 9th November 2016.</div>
<div></div>
<div><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vows-to-end-american-decline-says-will-prevent-world-war-3-from-happening-8636424">Trump vows to end 'American decline', says 'will prevent World War 3' at inauguration eve rally</a></strong></div>
<h2><b>2017:</b></h2>
<div><b></b></div>
<div>2017 was the year when both PM Modi and Donald Trump engaged several times. Modi paid an official visit to the US on 26-27 July that year, which saw significant outcomes. Their joint statement called out Pakistan for its support of terrorism. The US extended support for India's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group or NSG , Wassenaar Arrangement, Australia Group and permenant seat at the UN Security Council. During the visit, Trump called for "fair, reciprocal" trade and asked India to remove trade barriers. Both leaders again met in August on the sidelines of the G20 Hamburg summit, and then again in Manila, on the sidelines of Asean summit meetings in November. In 2017, India got first shipments of US crude oil as well, something that Trump welcomed. A US readout of PM Modi and President Trump at the Manila meeting said, "Trump expressed appreciation that Indian purchases of oil from the US have surpassed 10 million barrels in recent months". Importantly, Quad was revived after a gap of 10 years when Indian, American, Australian and Japanese leaders met on the sidelines of Asean summit in Manila.</div>
<div></div>
<h2><b>2018:</b></h2>
<div></div>
<div>The year started with Trump slamming Pakistan. In a tweet on 1st January 2018, Trump said, "The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies &amp; deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!".&nbsp; Both India and the US firmed up ties with the signing of the COMCASA pact at the 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meeting in Delhi. COMCASA or &nbsp;Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement allows for the transfer of secure communication equipment from the US to India, facilitating real-time operational information exchange. India also got Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 or STA-1 status, which allows for easier export controls for high-technology product sales, particularly in defense and dual-use technologies. PM Modi, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and US President Trump met as part of "JAI" Group on the sidelines of the G20 Argentina summit. That year, India and Russia signed a $5.43 billionn S-400 missile defence system deal, and while the threat of US CAATSA law was present, it was never applied on Delhi, which shows ties remained in positive trajectory. CAATSA stands for the US law, Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<h2><b>2019:</b></h2>
<div></div>
<div>This was the year of more positive developments, but new irritants come up in the relationship. PM Modi visited the US in September and met with Trump on the sidelines of UN General Assembly. But the showstopper was the "Howdy Modi" mega diaspora event. The event saw a significant gathering of Indian-Americans, but for the first time, the sitting US president addressed the diaspora alongside PM Modi. It was seen as a celebration of ties, and the diaspora which was described as the "living bridge". Many people at the event chanted "Abki Baar Trump Sarkar", which translates to 'this time, Trump government', a play on the Hindi slogan given by PM Modi for his election campaigns. Both leaders had earlier met on the sidelines of the G7 Biarritz summit in August, and then on the sidelines of G20 Osaka summit in June, both bilaterally and under the JAI grouping format.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>But irritants came in the form of Trump's 'Kashmir mediation' proposal and the US terminating India's GSP status in June 2019 due to market access issues, a withdrawal that meant higher tariffs for Indian goods in the US and Washington's Iran Sanctions regime. GSP or Generalized System of Preferences is a trade agreement that allows developing countries to export certain products to developed countries with low or zero customs duties.&nbsp;
<p>&nbsp;</p>
</div>
<div>The year 2019 saw the Pulwama attack by Pakistani terrorists, and India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Trump publicly offered to mediate between India and Pakistan. Sitting alongside Imran Khan, the then Pakistani prime minister, Trump said, "I would love to be a mediator".</div>
<div></div>
<div>Delhi was quick to reject any proposal, because for India, the Shimla pact is the last word for any India-Pakistan issue. On the sidelines of G7 summit in France, it was made clear that Trump's mediation is not required, to which he pointed, "they (India and Pakistan) can do it themselves"</div>
<div></div>
<div>On Iran, a special waiver given to India lapsed in May 2019, and Delhi had to cut its oil imports from the country. A year earlier, Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, had publicly given warnings on India importing oil from Iran. India, of couse got a waiver on Chabahar port development. The year saw the conclusion of Industrial Security Annex to India-US General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), finalisation of Defense Technology &amp; Trade Initiative SOP, US' appointment of liaison officer to Indian Ocean Fusion Center, and the US agreeing to join CDRI or the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.</div>
<div></div>
<h2><b>2020:</b></h2>
<div></div>
<div>This year, Trump visited India and got a grand welcome with the&nbsp; "Namaste Trump". The event in Ahmedabad, on the lines of "Howdy Modi", saw crowds gathering to welcome the US president. Trump made a rousing speech on India-US ties, but also made a few mispronunciations that started a meme fest on social media.</div>
<div></div>
<div>India and US elevated ties to "comprehensive global strategic partnership", and Delhi decided to procure MH-60R naval and AH-64E Apache helicopters. Both sides called out Pakistan for its support of terrorism. The US president and the First Lady Melania Trump also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>In October that year, India and the US signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA), the last of the four foundational agreements on defence cooperation.</div>
<div></div>
<div>BECA helps in sharing advanced satellite and sensor data and its signing coincided with India-China border tensions.</div>
<div></div>
<div>2020 was also the year when the Covid pandemic started, and the US reached out to India, the "pharmacy of the world". The US needed Hydroxychloroquine and Trump called PM Modi. India decided to supply HCQ to the US in April 2020, following the talks, despite India's ban on its exports.</div>
<div></div>
<div>Trump also proposed to mediate between India and China in the aftermath of the Galwan incident as border tensions increased. Both Delhi and Beijing rejected his proposal. On Afghanistan, the US continued to engage India, as its special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, appointed by Trump, visited Delhi several times. India was invited to attend the US-Taliban peace agreement that was officially signed on February 29, 2020, in Doha, Qatar and eventually paved the way for US withdrawal from Afghanistan under the Biden administration, though chaotic.</div>
<div></div>
<h2><b>Looking forward</b></h2>
<div></div>
<div>Trump 2.0 is expected to bring a lot of changes in the world. His team has Marco Rubio, proposed as the US Secretary of state, and Mike Waltz, named as National Security Advisor, both of whom have worked on India and with India.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Mike Waltz, a Republican representative from Florida, co-chaired the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans. In an interview to WION in 2023 when he was in India to attend India's Independence day celebration, he said, "I think the trajectory is only getting higher and only going stronger and it's across so many spheres. It's in pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy and liquid natural gas and of course, military and defense. So there's so many industries that the relationships coming together".</div>
<div></div>
<div>Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met him in December 2024, one of the first set of engagements between the Indian government and the incoming Trump administration.&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div>Marco Rubio, a US Senator from Florida and a China hawk, has been a strong India supporter. In July 2024, he introduced the "US-India Defense Cooperation Act" in the US Congress, aiming to elevate India's status to that of key US allies like Japan, Israel, South Korea, and NATO members in terms of technology transfers and military cooperation. After the 2020 Galwan aggression by China, Rubio had publicly expressed his "solidarity with the people of India as they firmly confront unwarranted and lawless armed aggression by the communist party of China".&nbsp;</div>
<div></div>
<div><br><strong>Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/from-famous-celebs-to-musicians-to-perform-at-us-president-elect-donald-trumps-inauguration-8636500">From famous celebs to musicians to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration</a></strong><br><br></div>
<div>Immigration and trade can be an issue under Trump 2.0. During the recent "MAGA Civil war" over the issue of H1B visa progamme, Trump supported having more skilled workers in the US, but trade can be a thorny point. During the election campaign, Trump termed India as "Tariff King".</div>
<div><br>The incoming US president is expected to travel to India later this year for the Quad summit. This will be also for the first time that a sitting US president will travel to India in the first year of his presidency, unlike in the past when US presidents travelled to India late into their terms.</div>
<div></div>

World, India: Donald Trump takes over as the US president for the second time.  How was US-India ties during his term? What can happen in Trump 2.0?

New Delhi: On Monday (Jan 20), Donald Trump takes over as the US president for the second time, something that can change geopolitics radically. Trump was earlier the US president in 2017-2020, during which he took several decisions that changed international relations. These include withdrawal from the Paris climate agreement and Iran nuclear deal, meeting with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and the Abraham Accords in West Asia. Let us understand how India-US ties fared during Trump's first term. 2016: During the US elections, Trump famously said, "I am a big fan of Hindus, big fan of India, big big fan". The speech of course went viral several times since then. His Republican Party has been trying to woo Indian-American voters, and during 2024 US elections, most Indian-Americans, one of the richest communities in the US, voted for him. The formation of the Republican Hindu and Indian American Coalition by the Republican National Committee (RNC) reflects an attempt to court Indian-American Hindu voters. India-born Shalabh Kumar was a prominent backer of Trump. Post Trump's 2016 election victory, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was among the first world leaders to have a conversation with him, and congratulated him on 9th November 2016. Also read: Trump vows to end 'American decline', says 'will prevent World War 3' at inauguration eve rally 2017: 2017 was the year when both PM Modi and Donald Trump engaged several times. Modi paid an official visit to the US on 26-27 July that year, which saw significant outcomes. Their joint statement called out Pakistan for its support of terrorism. The US extended support for India's membership of the Nuclear Suppliers Group or NSG , Wassenaar Arrangement, Australia Group and permenant seat at the UN Security Council. During the visit, Trump called for "fair, reciprocal" trade and asked India to remove trade barriers. Both leaders again met in August on the sidelines of the G20 Hamburg summit, and then again in Manila, on the sidelines of Asean summit meetings in November. In 2017, India got first shipments of US crude oil as well, something that Trump welcomed. A US readout of PM Modi and President Trump at the Manila meeting said, "Trump expressed appreciation that Indian purchases of oil from the US have surpassed 10 million barrels in recent months". Importantly, Quad was revived after a gap of 10 years when Indian, American, Australian and Japanese leaders met on the sidelines of Asean summit in Manila. 2018: The year started with Trump slamming Pakistan. In a tweet on 1st January 2018, Trump said, "The United States has foolishly given Pakistan more than 33 billion dollars in aid over the last 15 years, and they have given us nothing but lies & deceit, thinking of our leaders as fools. They give safe haven to the terrorists we hunt in Afghanistan, with little help. No more!". Both India and the US firmed up ties with the signing of the COMCASA pact at the 2+2 foreign and defence ministers meeting in Delhi. COMCASA or Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement allows for the transfer of secure communication equipment from the US to India, facilitating real-time operational information exchange. India also got Strategic Trade Authorisation-1 or STA-1 status, which allows for easier export controls for high-technology product sales, particularly in defense and dual-use technologies. PM Modi, Japanese PM Shinzo Abe and US President Trump met as part of "JAI" Group on the sidelines of the G20 Argentina summit. That year, India and Russia signed a $5.43 billionn S-400 missile defence system deal, and while the threat of US CAATSA law was present, it was never applied on Delhi, which shows ties remained in positive trajectory. CAATSA stands for the US law, Countering America's Adversaries Through Sanctions Act. 2019: This was the year of more positive developments, but new irritants come up in the relationship. PM Modi visited the US in September and met with Trump on the sidelines of UN General Assembly. But the showstopper was the "Howdy Modi" mega diaspora event. The event saw a significant gathering of Indian-Americans, but for the first time, the sitting US president addressed the diaspora alongside PM Modi. It was seen as a celebration of ties, and the diaspora which was described as the "living bridge". Many people at the event chanted "Abki Baar Trump Sarkar", which translates to 'this time, Trump government', a play on the Hindi slogan given by PM Modi for his election campaigns. Both leaders had earlier met on the sidelines of the G7 Biarritz summit in August, and then on the sidelines of G20 Osaka summit in June, both bilaterally and under the JAI grouping format. But irritants came in the form of Trump's 'Kashmir mediation' proposal and the US terminating India's GSP status in June 2019 due to market access issues, a withdrawal that meant higher tariffs for Indian goods in the US and Washington's Iran Sanctions regime. GSP or Generalized System of Preferences is a trade agreement that allows developing countries to export certain products to developed countries with low or zero customs duties. The year 2019 saw the Pulwama attack by Pakistani terrorists, and India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Trump publicly offered to mediate between India and Pakistan. Sitting alongside Imran Khan, the then Pakistani prime minister, Trump said, "I would love to be a mediator". Delhi was quick to reject any proposal, because for India, the Shimla pact is the last word for any India-Pakistan issue. On the sidelines of G7 summit in France, it was made clear that Trump's mediation is not required, to which he pointed, "they (India and Pakistan) can do it themselves" On Iran, a special waiver given to India lapsed in May 2019, and Delhi had to cut its oil imports from the country. A year earlier, Mike Pompeo, the US secretary of state, had publicly given warnings on India importing oil from Iran. India, of couse got a waiver on Chabahar port development. The year saw the conclusion of Industrial Security Annex to India-US General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), finalisation of Defense Technology & Trade Initiative SOP, US' appointment of liaison officer to Indian Ocean Fusion Center, and the US agreeing to join CDRI or the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure. 2020: This year, Trump visited India and got a grand welcome with the "Namaste Trump". The event in Ahmedabad, on the lines of "Howdy Modi", saw crowds gathering to welcome the US president. Trump made a rousing speech on India-US ties, but also made a few mispronunciations that started a meme fest on social media. India and US elevated ties to "comprehensive global strategic partnership", and Delhi decided to procure MH-60R naval and AH-64E Apache helicopters. Both sides called out Pakistan for its support of terrorism. The US president and the First Lady Melania Trump also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra. In October that year, India and the US signed the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA), the last of the four foundational agreements on defence cooperation. BECA helps in sharing advanced satellite and sensor data and its signing coincided with India-China border tensions. 2020 was also the year when the Covid pandemic started, and the US reached out to India, the "pharmacy of the world". The US needed Hydroxychloroquine and Trump called PM Modi. India decided to supply HCQ to the US in April 2020, following the talks, despite India's ban on its exports. Trump also proposed to mediate between India and China in the aftermath of the Galwan incident as border tensions increased. Both Delhi and Beijing rejected his proposal. On Afghanistan, the US continued to engage India, as its special envoy Zalmay Khalilzad, appointed by Trump, visited Delhi several times. India was invited to attend the US-Taliban peace agreement that was officially signed on February 29, 2020, in Doha, Qatar and eventually paved the way for US withdrawal from Afghanistan under the Biden administration, though chaotic. Looking forward Trump 2.0 is expected to bring a lot of changes in the world. His team has Marco Rubio, proposed as the US Secretary of state, and Mike Waltz, named as National Security Advisor, both of whom have worked on India and with India. Mike Waltz, a Republican representative from Florida, co-chaired the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans. In an interview to WION in 2023 when he was in India to attend India's Independence day celebration, he said, "I think the trajectory is only getting higher and only going stronger and it's across so many spheres. It's in pharmaceuticals, biotech, space, maritime shipping, energy, renewable energy and liquid natural gas and of course, military and defense. So there's so many industries that the relationships coming together". Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar met him in December 2024, one of the first set of engagements between the Indian government and the incoming Trump administration. Marco Rubio, a US Senator from Florida and a China hawk, has been a strong India supporter. In July 2024, he introduced the "US-India Defense Cooperation Act" in the US Congress, aiming to elevate India's status to that of key US allies like Japan, Israel, South Korea, and NATO members in terms of technology transfers and military cooperation. After the 2020 Galwan aggression by China, Rubio had publicly expressed his "solidarity with the people of India as they firmly confront unwarranted and lawless armed aggression by the communist party of China". Also read: From famous celebs to musicians to perform at Donald Trump's inauguration Immigration and trade can be an issue under Trump 2.0. During the recent "MAGA Civil war" over the issue of H1B visa progamme, Trump supported having more skilled workers in the US, but trade can be a thorny point. During the election campaign, Trump termed India as "Tariff King". The incoming US president is expected to travel to India later this year for the Quad summit. This will be also for the first time that a sitting US president will travel to India in the first year of his presidency, unlike in the past when US presidents travelled to India late into their terms.

India-US ties during Donald Trump's first term as president: A total recall and what to expect in Trump 2.0

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Zee News Rajasthan

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