Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan&nbsp;50,000 doses of the vaccines&nbsp;and will soon send 150,000 more.

Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, standing alongside Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said in Islamabad,&nbsp;"We have a number of foreign partners to produce the vaccines. Vaccine production is up and running in India, Korea, Belarus, and other countries. So these vaccines can be supplied to Pakistan. As much we can, we will be helping Pakistan to order to cover the demand."

The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which is behind Sputnik V, and Indian company Virchow Biotech have announced an agreement to produce 200 million doses per year of Sputnik V.&nbsp;Pakistan had given approval for Sputnik V in February and was the 22nd country to do so. The two-shot vaccine has an efficacy of 91.6 per cent.

Qureshi said, "Russia is a fairly advance country in health care... We have expressed our interest in commercial import of this vaccine, but keeping in view the population of the country... We feel there are great opportunities of local production, we would be very keen to discuss with Russian to facilitate local production".

Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov is in Pakistan for a two-day visit, the first such visit by Russian FM since 2012. During his visit, he held talks with his counterpart Qureshi and called on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan 50,000 doses of the vaccines and will soon send 150,000 more.

Russia has offered to provide Pakistan with its Sputnik V COVID-19 vaccines which are being produced in countries like India. Moscow has already sent Pakistan 50,000 doses of the vaccines and will soon send 150,000 more. Visiting Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, standing alongside Pakistan Foreign Minister SM Qureshi said in Islamabad, "We have a number of foreign partners to produce the vaccines. Vaccine production is up and running in India, Korea, Belarus, and other countries. So these vaccines can be supplied to Pakistan. As much we can, we will be helping Pakistan to order to cover the demand." The Russian Direct Investment Fund, which is behind Sputnik V, and Indian company Virchow Biotech have announced an agreement to produce 200 million doses per year of Sputnik V. Pakistan had given approval for Sputnik V in February and was the 22nd country to do so. The two-shot vaccine has an efficacy of 91.6 per cent. Qureshi said, "Russia is a fairly advance country in health care... We have expressed our interest in commercial import of this vaccine, but keeping in view the population of the country... We feel there are great opportunities of local production, we would be very keen to discuss with Russian to facilitate local production". Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov is in Pakistan for a two-day visit, the first such visit by Russian FM since 2012. During his visit, he held talks with his counterpart Qureshi and called on Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Russia offers vaccines to Pakistan from production lines in India, other countries

The 11th round of India-China military talks is expected to take place on Friday, April 9. The key focus will be early disengagement in other areas of Eastern Ladakh such as Hot&nbsp;Springs, Gogra and Depsang Plains.

Both countries were able to achieve complete disengagement at Pangong lake in February.&nbsp;

Last week, in response to a question, the spokesperson of India's external affairs ministry said the country "hopes&nbsp;that the Chinese side will work with us to ensure that disengagement in the remaining areas is completed at the earliest".

He pointed out that this "would allow both sides to consider de-escalation of forces in Eastern Ladakh" as that "alone will lead to the restoration of peace and tranquility and provide conditions for the progress of our bilateral relationship."

Last year, there were&nbsp;aggressive actions from the Chinese side at the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, including at the Galwan in which India lost 20 soldiers. Since then, ties remain strained, even as New Delhi undertook measures to cut investment from China. &nbsp;

The 10th round of &nbsp;India-China military talks happened in February, after complete disengagement at the Pangong Lake. The same month saw telephonic talks between External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese FM Wang Yi. During the talks, both sides decided to establish a hotline for "timely communication".

The 11th round of India-China military talks is expected to take place on Friday, April 9. The key focus will be early disengagement in other areas of Eastern Ladakh such as Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang Plains.

The 11th round of India-China military talks is expected to take place on Friday, April 9. The key focus will be early disengagement in other areas of Eastern Ladakh such as Hot Springs, Gogra and Depsang Plains. Both countries were able to achieve complete disengagement at Pangong lake in February. Last week, in response to a question, the spokesperson of India's external affairs ministry said the country "hopes that the Chinese side will work with us to ensure that disengagement in the remaining areas is completed at the earliest". He pointed out that this "would allow both sides to consider de-escalation of forces in Eastern Ladakh" as that "alone will lead to the restoration of peace and tranquility and provide conditions for the progress of our bilateral relationship." Last year, there were aggressive actions from the Chinese side at the Line of Actual Control in eastern Ladakh, including at the Galwan in which India lost 20 soldiers. Since then, ties remain strained, even as New Delhi undertook measures to cut investment from China. The 10th round of India-China military talks happened in February, after complete disengagement at the Pangong Lake. The same month saw telephonic talks between External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese FM Wang Yi. During the talks, both sides decided to establish a hotline for "timely communication".

India, China to hold military talks on April 9

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process.

The Turkey meet will see the fresh impetus for the Afghan peace process, under the UN umbrella as proposed by the new Biden administration in the US.

Afghan government sources told WION that the president "has presented his peace plan literally to all international partners and sides".

According to Afghan media reports, President Ghani's proposal includes "preservation of constitution", a transitional government, and holding of presidential elections. The proposal is expected to be formally unveiled at the Turkey meet.

The US has also proposed a regional framework for talks with the involvement of six countries--Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and the US-- under the United Nations for a "unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan".

Last week, at the Heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had called for a "genuine ‘double peace’" in Afghanistan, which is "peace within Afghanistan and peace around Afghanistan" that&nbsp;"requires harmonising the interests of all, both within and around that country."

Last year, India&nbsp;attended both the US-Taliban pact signing and the start of the intra-Afghan talks in Doha.

On the Afghan peace process, India has been engaging with the Afghan government and other stakeholders.

March saw the visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar to India, while last year saw high-level visits by senior Afghan leaders Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Ata Noor and Abdul Rashid Dostum. Earlier this year, India's National Security Adviser&nbsp;Ajit Doval was in Kabul, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi and the Afghan President also held a virtual meet for the inauguration for work on Shahtoot dam that will provide clean drinking water to people of the national capital Kabul.

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process.

Ahead of the meeting in Turkey on the Afghan peace process later this month, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani has briefed envoys all Kabul-based ambassadors, including Indian envoy to the country Rudrendra Tandon, on his three-stage peace process. The Turkey meet will see the fresh impetus for the Afghan peace process, under the UN umbrella as proposed by the new Biden administration in the US. Afghan government sources told WION that the president "has presented his peace plan literally to all international partners and sides". According to Afghan media reports, President Ghani's proposal includes "preservation of constitution", a transitional government, and holding of presidential elections. The proposal is expected to be formally unveiled at the Turkey meet. The US has also proposed a regional framework for talks with the involvement of six countries--Russia, China, Pakistan, Iran, India, and the US-- under the United Nations for a "unified approach to supporting peace in Afghanistan". Last week, at the Heart of Asia meet in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had called for a "genuine ‘double peace’" in Afghanistan, which is "peace within Afghanistan and peace around Afghanistan" that "requires harmonising the interests of all, both within and around that country." Last year, India attended both the US-Taliban pact signing and the start of the intra-Afghan talks in Doha. On the Afghan peace process, India has been engaging with the Afghan government and other stakeholders. March saw the visit of Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar to India, while last year saw high-level visits by senior Afghan leaders Dr Abdullah Abdullah, Ata Noor and Abdul Rashid Dostum. Earlier this year, India's National Security Adviser Ajit Doval was in Kabul, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Afghan President also held a virtual meet for the inauguration for work on Shahtoot dam that will provide clean drinking water to people of the national capital Kabul.

Ahead of Turkey meet, Afghan President Ghani briefs Indian, other envoys on his peace plan

Ahead of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry's New Delhi visit, the US has said that India is a "critical part of the solution to the climate crisis". Kerry will arrive in New Delhi on Monday (April 5) for a 4-day visit. During his visit, Kerry will call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also hold talks with India's Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar.

"In New Delhi, Special Presidential Envoy Kerry will meet with representatives of the Indian government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations," said a spokesperson at the US Embassy in New Delhi.

"As one of the world’s largest economies and a global leader in science and innovation, India is a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis. &nbsp;We see India as an important partner on future clean energy research, development, and deployment, not least because of their successful domestic agenda in this area," the spokesperson added further.

John Kerry's visit comes ahead of US President Joe Biden's Climate Summit from April 22nd to 23rd, and the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in November. India has been invited to the Climate Summit that will take place virtually later this month. This will be 2nd time that Indian PM Modi, and US President Biden will be together at a virtual summit. They were last together at last month's Quad meeting.

"A key focus for our Administration is supporting and encouraging India’s decarbonization efforts through clean, zero, and low-carbon investment, and supporting India in mitigating its fossil energy use,” said US Embassy spokesperson.

During his India visit, Kerry will also meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Petroleum &amp; Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan 
&nbsp;

Ahead of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry's New Delhi visit, the US has said that India is a "critical part of the solution to the climate crisis".

Ahead of Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry's New Delhi visit, the US has said that India is a "critical part of the solution to the climate crisis". Kerry will arrive in New Delhi on Monday (April 5) for a 4-day visit. During his visit, Kerry will call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also hold talks with India's Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar. "In New Delhi, Special Presidential Envoy Kerry will meet with representatives of the Indian government, private sector, and non-governmental organizations," said a spokesperson at the US Embassy in New Delhi. "As one of the world’s largest economies and a global leader in science and innovation, India is a critical part of the solution to the climate crisis. We see India as an important partner on future clean energy research, development, and deployment, not least because of their successful domestic agenda in this area," the spokesperson added further. John Kerry's visit comes ahead of US President Joe Biden's Climate Summit from April 22nd to 23rd, and the 26th Conference of the Parties (COP26) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in November. India has been invited to the Climate Summit that will take place virtually later this month. This will be 2nd time that Indian PM Modi, and US President Biden will be together at a virtual summit. They were last together at last month's Quad meeting. "A key focus for our Administration is supporting and encouraging India’s decarbonization efforts through clean, zero, and low-carbon investment, and supporting India in mitigating its fossil energy use,” said US Embassy spokesperson. During his India visit, Kerry will also meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Petroleum & Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan

India critical in solving climate crisis, says US ahead of Kerry's visit

Sri Lanka is planning to host the BIMSTEC heads of government summit in mid-August, with dates still to be finalised.

This will be the fifth summit of the grouping after the 2018 session which&nbsp;took place in Kathmandu and&nbsp;was also attended by India prime minister Narendra Modi.

Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has seven members — India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Formed in 1997, the grouping is more than 20 years old.

While the authorities are hoping to conduct the summit offline, the final decision will be taken considering the coronavirus pandemic. Although, Sri Lanka, as the chair of the grouping this year, is eyeing a physical summit.&nbsp;

On the agenda will be approval of the BIMSTEC Charter, BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity and BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. Grouping is also working on the finalisation of BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the Motor Vehicles Agreement.

India is very keen on the grouping, with SAARC unable to function well due to Pakistan's politicisation of many proposals of New Delhi.

At the foreign minister virtual meet, External affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "BIMSTEC over the years has emerged as a promising sub-regional grouping with growing strategic and economic interests of the Member States, as well as of the international community in the Bay of Bengal region."

In 2019, India had invited BIMSTEC heads of government and states for PM Modi's oath taking ceremony for his second term.

After Sri Lanka, Thailand will be the host of the grouping.

Sri Lanka is planning to host the BIMSTEC heads of government summit in mid-August, with dates still to be finalised. This will be the fifth summit of the grouping after the 2018 session which took place in Kathmandu and was also attended by India prime minister Narendra Modi.

Sri Lanka is planning to host the BIMSTEC heads of government summit in mid-August, with dates still to be finalised. This will be the fifth summit of the grouping after the 2018 session which took place in Kathmandu and was also attended by India prime minister Narendra Modi. Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) has seven members — India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. Formed in 1997, the grouping is more than 20 years old. While the authorities are hoping to conduct the summit offline, the final decision will be taken considering the coronavirus pandemic. Although, Sri Lanka, as the chair of the grouping this year, is eyeing a physical summit. On the agenda will be approval of the BIMSTEC Charter, BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity and BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. Grouping is also working on the finalisation of BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the Motor Vehicles Agreement. India is very keen on the grouping, with SAARC unable to function well due to Pakistan's politicisation of many proposals of New Delhi. At the foreign minister virtual meet, External affairs minister S Jaishankar said, "BIMSTEC over the years has emerged as a promising sub-regional grouping with growing strategic and economic interests of the Member States, as well as of the international community in the Bay of Bengal region." In 2019, India had invited BIMSTEC heads of government and states for PM Modi's oath taking ceremony for his second term. After Sri Lanka, Thailand will be the host of the grouping.

Sri Lanka planning to host BIMSTEC summit in August

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit.

Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8.

Modi had last visited France in 2019 -- as French President Emmanuel Macron's invitee for the G7 summit in Biarritz.

Ahead of the visit by the Indian prime minister, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will be in India from April 13 to 15. He is scheduled to participate in the Raisina Dialogue and India-France-Australia foreign ministers trilateral meet.

Paris and New Delhi have recently increased engagement at multiple levels -- from dealing with Covid crisis to defence ties.

Indian ships will be a part of France-led La Perouse exercises in Bay Of Bengal from April 5 to 7. The exercise will involve France plus Quad naval ships coming together for the first time.&nbsp;

France has also delivered 21 out of 36 contracted Rafale jets to India. More deliveries are expected in April and May.

India's Europe focus will continue in the coming month as Modi is also expected to visit Denmark for the second India-Nordic summit.&nbsp;

The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Italy is scheduled to host a health summit in May, but chances are that the summit will take place virtually.&nbsp;

Italy is also host of the G20 summit -- on October 30-31.

Last year's G20 summit under Saudi Arabia's leadership was a virtual one -- due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

India will host the summit in 2023.

In addition to these, India is also on track to enhance ties with the UK.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India on April 26. And Modi will be in the UK for the G7 summit from June 11 to 13. He has already been invited for the United Nations Climate Change Conference summit that will take place in Glasgow in November.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit. Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is slated to visit France in May -- when he will be in Europe for the India-EU summit. Modi will visit Portugal for the India-EU summit on May 8. Modi had last visited France in 2019 -- as French President Emmanuel Macron's invitee for the G7 summit in Biarritz. Ahead of the visit by the Indian prime minister, French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian will be in India from April 13 to 15. He is scheduled to participate in the Raisina Dialogue and India-France-Australia foreign ministers trilateral meet. Paris and New Delhi have recently increased engagement at multiple levels -- from dealing with Covid crisis to defence ties. Indian ships will be a part of France-led La Perouse exercises in Bay Of Bengal from April 5 to 7. The exercise will involve France plus Quad naval ships coming together for the first time. France has also delivered 21 out of 36 contracted Rafale jets to India. More deliveries are expected in April and May. India's Europe focus will continue in the coming month as Modi is also expected to visit Denmark for the second India-Nordic summit. The first such summit took place in 2018 in Stockholm. Meanwhile, Italy is scheduled to host a health summit in May, but chances are that the summit will take place virtually. Italy is also host of the G20 summit -- on October 30-31. Last year's G20 summit under Saudi Arabia's leadership was a virtual one -- due to the Covid-19 pandemic. India will host the summit in 2023. In addition to these, India is also on track to enhance ties with the UK. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will visit India on April 26. And Modi will be in the UK for the G7 summit from June 11 to 13. He has already been invited for the United Nations Climate Change Conference summit that will take place in Glasgow in November.

Indian PM Modi to visit France in May; to engage with Denmark and Italy later this year

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/russian-foreign-minister-sergey-lavrov-to-visit-india-next-week-374518">Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week</a>

WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year.&nbsp;

Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic.

Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov will be in New Delhi on a two-day visit on April 5-6, with a focus on Russian President Vladimir Putin's India visit and Afghanistan. Lavrov will hold a meeting with his Indian counterpart External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and call on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "On April 5th and 6th, Russian FM will visit New Delhi and hold talks with his Indian counterpart. They will discuss the current status of bilateral relations and preparation of the summit meeting, cooperation in fighting the pandemic" Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova announced. Also read | Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov to visit India next week WION broke the story first on Wednesday, with all the details. This is the first visit of any top Russian government official to India this year. Lavrov will be accompanied by the Russian special envoy on Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov. The development comes even as Moscow had hosted the troika plus talks--US, Russia, China and Pakistan on Afghanistan. India was not invited to the meet. Earlier this year, India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla was on a visit to Moscow during which he extended invitation to Lavrov to visit India. During FS's Moscow visit, a roadmap was decided on the high-level visits and engagement. The big focus will be the visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin for the annual India Russia summit. The summit could not happen last year due to the Covid pandemic. Interestingly, from Delhi, Lavrov will be going to Islamabad from April 6 to 7, accompanied by Kabulov again. Zakharova said, "He is going to have talks with his Pak counterpart on the status of ties, and strengthening of trade, counter-terror and Afghanistan".

Russian foreign minister to arrive in New Delhi next week, with focus on Putin's India visit, Afghanistan

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame will be visiting India later this month, the first head of state visit from Africa to India amid Covid pandemic. The visit comes even as India is increasing its engagement with Africa, with a number of high-level visits from both sides before the pandemic.

Both India and Rwanda have seen high-level engagement, with Indian PM Modi visiting the country in 2018. Remember during that visit, India had gifted 200 Indian cows that helped in improving the availability of milk for Rwandan children and also increased the income of farmers.

In the month of March, India had supplied Rwanda India made vaccines. 2.9 lakh doses of India made vaccines were sent, of which 2.40 lakh were sent under COVAX, and 0.5 lakh as a gift.

This year, Rwanda's capital Kigali will be hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the month of June. &nbsp;Kagame while making the announcement had said, “CHOGM Rwanda 2021 will be an exceptional occasion to deliberate together on the enormous technological, ecological, and economic challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth, particularly our young people, and which are all the more pressing as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Indian PM Modi is expected to attend the summit, with India being one of the largest members of the Commonwealth, in terms of size and in terms of population. PM Modi had attended the 2018 Commonwealth Summit in London.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame will be visiting India later this month, the first head of state visit from Africa to India amid Covid pandemic. The visit comes even as India is increasing its engagement with Africa, with a number of high-level visits from both sides before the pandemic.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame will be visiting India later this month, the first head of state visit from Africa to India amid Covid pandemic. The visit comes even as India is increasing its engagement with Africa, with a number of high-level visits from both sides before the pandemic. Both India and Rwanda have seen high-level engagement, with Indian PM Modi visiting the country in 2018. Remember during that visit, India had gifted 200 Indian cows that helped in improving the availability of milk for Rwandan children and also increased the income of farmers. In the month of March, India had supplied Rwanda India made vaccines. 2.9 lakh doses of India made vaccines were sent, of which 2.40 lakh were sent under COVAX, and 0.5 lakh as a gift. This year, Rwanda's capital Kigali will be hosting the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in the month of June. Kagame while making the announcement had said, “CHOGM Rwanda 2021 will be an exceptional occasion to deliberate together on the enormous technological, ecological, and economic challenges and opportunities facing the Commonwealth, particularly our young people, and which are all the more pressing as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic. Indian PM Modi is expected to attend the summit, with India being one of the largest members of the Commonwealth, in terms of size and in terms of population. PM Modi had attended the 2018 Commonwealth Summit in London.

Rwanda's President Paul Kagame to visit India this month

The Indian government in its first ever official response to the influx of refugees from Myanmar has said that it is dealing with the situation "as per our laws and humanitarian considerations". Many states in India's northeast have seen an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup in the country on February 1. &nbsp;

Chief Minister of the Indian state of Mizoram Zoramthanga has called the centre to accept the incoming refugees from Myanmar, as many cross the international border. India is not a party to the UN Refugee Convention of 1951 and its 1967 Protocol and the issue is dealt with administratively by New Delhi.

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/myanmar-aung-san-suu-kyi-faces-new-charge-under-official-secrets-law-374960/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In response to a number of questions on the situation in Myanmar, the new spokesperson of India's ministry of external affairs Arindam Bagchi said, "we condemn any use of violence. We believe that the rule of law should prevail. We stand for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar."

He reiterated New Delhi's stance, calling for "release of political prisoners" and extended support to "any attempts at resolving the current situation, including through the efforts of ASEAN", pointing further that, India has been engaging with its "international interlocutors and at the UN Security Council in an effort to play a balanced and constructive role."

The situation in Myanmar has deteriorated in a major way, with an increased level of violence and deaths and internet shut down. The issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council.&nbsp;

Asked about, Indian Defense Attache's (DA) presence at an event of Myanmar Military, the spokesperson said, "we have a functioning embassy in Myanmar. Our ambassador, defence attaché and other diplomatic officers continue to discharge their regular diplomatic responsibility. Nothing more should be read into this event" which saw Indian DA's attendance.

The Indian government in its first ever official response to the influx of refugees from Myanmar has said that it is dealing with the situation "as per our laws and humanitarian considerations".

The Indian government in its first ever official response to the influx of refugees from Myanmar has said that it is dealing with the situation "as per our laws and humanitarian considerations". Many states in India's northeast have seen an influx of refugees from Myanmar following the coup in the country on February 1. Chief Minister of the Indian state of Mizoram Zoramthanga has called the centre to accept the incoming refugees from Myanmar, as many cross the international border. India is not a party to the UN Refugee Convention of 1951 and its 1967 Protocol and the issue is dealt with administratively by New Delhi. Watch | In response to a number of questions on the situation in Myanmar, the new spokesperson of India's ministry of external affairs Arindam Bagchi said, "we condemn any use of violence. We believe that the rule of law should prevail. We stand for the restoration of democracy in Myanmar." He reiterated New Delhi's stance, calling for "release of political prisoners" and extended support to "any attempts at resolving the current situation, including through the efforts of ASEAN", pointing further that, India has been engaging with its "international interlocutors and at the UN Security Council in an effort to play a balanced and constructive role." The situation in Myanmar has deteriorated in a major way, with an increased level of violence and deaths and internet shut down. The issue has been discussed several times at the United Nations Security Council. Asked about, Indian Defense Attache's (DA) presence at an event of Myanmar Military, the spokesperson said, "we have a functioning embassy in Myanmar. Our ambassador, defence attaché and other diplomatic officers continue to discharge their regular diplomatic responsibility. Nothing more should be read into this event" which saw Indian DA's attendance.

Dealing with influx from Myanmar as per laws, humanitarian consideration: India

Indian Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/narendra-modi">Narendra Modi </a>will be attending the 2-day virtual summit on climate change being hosted by US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a>. Washington has invited 40 countries for the summit that will take place from April 22 to April 23. In South Asia, Prime Minister of India, Bhutan's Lotay Tshering and Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina have been invited, with the notable absence of Pakistani PM Imran Khan. &nbsp;

Confirming PM Modi attending the summit, Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs Arindam Bagchi said, "President Biden of US, invited PM Modi to attend the climate leaders' summit that will happen virtually...PM welcomed President Biden's initiative and accepted the invitation".

Summit will reconvene the US-led Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate, which brings together 17 countries responsible for approximately 80 per cent of global emissions and global GDP. The is the 2nd time both leaders will take part in a virtual meet. March saw both leaders together for the first Quad virtual summit.

Ahead of the summit, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry will be in India from April 5 to April 8. John Kerry will be the second top Biden Administration official to visit India in the last one month. March saw the visit of US Defense secretary Lloyd Austin.

Arindam said, "purpose of the visit will be discussing the forthcoming climate leaders' summit and climate issues in general in the context of 26th 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference."

 
&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 2-day virtual summit on climate change being hosted by US President Joe Biden. Washington has invited 40 countries for the summit that will take place from April 22 to April 23.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be attending the 2-day virtual summit on climate change being hosted by US President Joe Biden. Washington has invited 40 countries for the summit that will take place from April 22 to April 23. In South Asia, Prime Minister of India, Bhutan's Lotay Tshering and Bangladesh's Sheikh Hasina have been invited, with the notable absence of Pakistani PM Imran Khan. Confirming PM Modi attending the summit, Spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs Arindam Bagchi said, "President Biden of US, invited PM Modi to attend the climate leaders' summit that will happen virtually...PM welcomed President Biden's initiative and accepted the invitation". Summit will reconvene the US-led Major Economies Forum on Energy and Climate, which brings together 17 countries responsible for approximately 80 per cent of global emissions and global GDP. The is the 2nd time both leaders will take part in a virtual meet. March saw both leaders together for the first Quad virtual summit. Ahead of the summit, US Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry will be in India from April 5 to April 8. John Kerry will be the second top Biden Administration official to visit India in the last one month. March saw the visit of US Defense secretary Lloyd Austin. Arindam said, "purpose of the visit will be discussing the forthcoming climate leaders' summit and climate issues in general in the context of 26th 2021 United Nations Climate Change Conference."

Indian PM Modi to attend US President Biden's climate summit

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has called BIMSTEC a "promising sub-regional grouping", as&nbsp;the&nbsp;Indian side raised&nbsp;issues of connectivity, security and disaster management&nbsp;at a virtual meeting of its foreign ministers.

BIMSTEC, or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is more than 20 years old, and has seven members--India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka.

At the meet hosted by BIMSTEC Chair Sri Lanka, Jaishankar said, "Robust connectivity is an essential pre-requisite for economic integration of the region with smooth cross-border movement of people and goods. The grouping is working on finalising the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the Motor Vehicles Agreement to smoothen the connectivity."

The group has finalised BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity, which will be adopted at the fifth BIMSTEC Summit that is expected to happen later this year in Sri Lanka.

EAM termed the finalisation of the master plan as an "important step towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of our region for better connectivity and integration."

On security issue, Jaishankar said, "Development and prosperity go hand in hand with peace and security. We face both traditional and non-traditional security challenges".

National security advisers of BIMSTEC&nbsp; countries have met thrice&nbsp;since 2017 and plans are afoot to increase cooperation.&nbsp; Similarly&nbsp;on disaster management, Jaishankar pointed out that the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate, being hosted in India, is "fully functional with the state-of-the-art facilities to provide disaster early warnings."

India plans to invite all BIMSTEC countries for International Buddhist Conclave it will be hosting later this year. New Delhi has been keen on the grouping, since SAARC has been dysfunctional because of Pakistan's approach.

In 2019, during the oathtaking ceremony of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the second term, all the heads of governments/states of BIMSTEC grouping were present.

Thursday's BIMSTEC foreign ministers'&nbsp;meeting also saw the presence of Myanmar Army-appointed Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has called BIMSTEC a "promising sub-regional grouping", as the Indian side raised issues of connectivity, security and disaster management at a virtual meeting of its foreign ministers.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has called BIMSTEC a "promising sub-regional grouping", as the Indian side raised issues of connectivity, security and disaster management at a virtual meeting of its foreign ministers. BIMSTEC, or Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation, is more than 20 years old, and has seven members--India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand and Sri Lanka. At the meet hosted by BIMSTEC Chair Sri Lanka, Jaishankar said, "Robust connectivity is an essential pre-requisite for economic integration of the region with smooth cross-border movement of people and goods. The grouping is working on finalising the BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and the Motor Vehicles Agreement to smoothen the connectivity." The group has finalised BIMSTEC Master Plan for Transport Connectivity, which will be adopted at the fifth BIMSTEC Summit that is expected to happen later this year in Sri Lanka. EAM termed the finalisation of the master plan as an "important step towards fulfilling the aspirations of the people of our region for better connectivity and integration." On security issue, Jaishankar said, "Development and prosperity go hand in hand with peace and security. We face both traditional and non-traditional security challenges". National security advisers of BIMSTEC countries have met thrice since 2017 and plans are afoot to increase cooperation. Similarly on disaster management, Jaishankar pointed out that the BIMSTEC Centre for Weather and Climate, being hosted in India, is "fully functional with the state-of-the-art facilities to provide disaster early warnings." India plans to invite all BIMSTEC countries for International Buddhist Conclave it will be hosting later this year. New Delhi has been keen on the grouping, since SAARC has been dysfunctional because of Pakistan's approach. In 2019, during the oathtaking ceremony of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the second term, all the heads of governments/states of BIMSTEC grouping were present. Thursday's BIMSTEC foreign ministers' meeting also saw the presence of Myanmar Army-appointed Foreign minister Wunna Maung Lwin.

BIMSTEC a promising sub regional grouping, says Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

Bangladeshi's high commissioner to India&nbsp;Muhammad Imran has highlighted his country's economic progress and how the country is developing fast.

Speaking at the Independence Day celebration of his country at the high commission, he said, "Bangladesh has become a role model for fighting poverty, empowering women, disaster management. We have made commendable progress in achieving food security despite frequent natural disasters...The economy of Bangladesh is developing rapidly"

The economic size of Bangladesh is $330 billion,&nbsp;with GDP growth during COVID times standing at 5.2%. Now 99% of the country has access to electricity, 150 million people have a mobile phone and 100 mn are connected to the internet. It has its own satellite in space since 2018, and second one will be launched soon.

Bangladesh's textile industry is second largest in the world, fourth largest rice producer and is self-sufficient in food. Foodgrain production increased more than four times, from 1971 to 2020. This year, it fulfilled all the criteria to get the status of a developing country, from the Least Developed Country&nbsp;status.

Imran also paid tributes to Indian soldiers who laid down their lives for the liberation of his country in 1971. This year, the country is celebrating its 50th year of Independence from the then West Pakistan. March saw an almost a month-long celebration, including visits of leaders of India, Maldives, Nepali, Bhutan and Sri Lanka.

Imran said, "We recall with deep gratitude, the contribution of people and government of India for their moral and material support during our difficult days".

"Bangladesh acknowledges the support received from our neighbours and remember our friends around the world who stood beside us for our just cause."

Bangladesh will be building a memorial for Indian soldiers in Ashuganj near Dhaka, the foundation stone for which was laid during PM Modi's Bangladesh visit in March.

He pointed out&nbsp;that the "emotional bonds between India and Bangladesh stem from the invaluable contribution from the people and government of India in the war of liberation in 1971. In the last decade, relations have reached a golden chapter, achieving a comprehensive partnership covering all possible area of cooperation"

Both countries have seen high-level visits, including the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to Bangladesh in March. That was Modi's first foreign visit during Covid pandemic. Dhaka and Delhi are working to revive old connectivity routes and establish new ones.

"India will be able to use both land and water routes in Bangladesh, to go to northeastern states from the mainland", Imran said.

Earlier this year, a bridge over the Feni river was inaugurated, connecting India's North East with Bangladesh. The countries share 54 rives, maximum for any two countries globally.

Imran also spoke about the issue of Rohingyas, the displaced minority community from Myanmar that has taken refugee in the country. Bangladesh is hosting 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and is keen for "safe and early" repatriation of the community.

He said, "to keep on supporting them for an indefinite period would be asking too much for a country like us which has its own domestic development targets to achieve with limited resources...we all want to avoid the rise of any radicalism, which can seriously impact peace, stability, economic growth in the region and beyond".

The Independence Day celebration at the high commission saw large presence of Delhi's diplomatic community. India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal was the chief guest.

Bangladeshi's high commissioner to India Muhammad Imran has highlighted his country's economic progress and how the country is developing fast. Speaking at the Independence Day celebration of his country at the high commission, he said, "Bangladesh has become a role model for fighting poverty, empowering women, disaster management.

Bangladeshi's high commissioner to India Muhammad Imran has highlighted his country's economic progress and how the country is developing fast. Speaking at the Independence Day celebration of his country at the high commission, he said, "Bangladesh has become a role model for fighting poverty, empowering women, disaster management. We have made commendable progress in achieving food security despite frequent natural disasters...The economy of Bangladesh is developing rapidly" The economic size of Bangladesh is $330 billion, with GDP growth during COVID times standing at 5.2%. Now 99% of the country has access to electricity, 150 million people have a mobile phone and 100 mn are connected to the internet. It has its own satellite in space since 2018, and second one will be launched soon. Bangladesh's textile industry is second largest in the world, fourth largest rice producer and is self-sufficient in food. Foodgrain production increased more than four times, from 1971 to 2020. This year, it fulfilled all the criteria to get the status of a developing country, from the Least Developed Country status. Imran also paid tributes to Indian soldiers who laid down their lives for the liberation of his country in 1971. This year, the country is celebrating its 50th year of Independence from the then West Pakistan. March saw an almost a month-long celebration, including visits of leaders of India, Maldives, Nepali, Bhutan and Sri Lanka. Imran said, "We recall with deep gratitude, the contribution of people and government of India for their moral and material support during our difficult days". "Bangladesh acknowledges the support received from our neighbours and remember our friends around the world who stood beside us for our just cause." Bangladesh will be building a memorial for Indian soldiers in Ashuganj near Dhaka, the foundation stone for which was laid during PM Modi's Bangladesh visit in March. He pointed out that the "emotional bonds between India and Bangladesh stem from the invaluable contribution from the people and government of India in the war of liberation in 1971. In the last decade, relations have reached a golden chapter, achieving a comprehensive partnership covering all possible area of cooperation" Both countries have seen high-level visits, including the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Jaishankar to Bangladesh in March. That was Modi's first foreign visit during Covid pandemic. Dhaka and Delhi are working to revive old connectivity routes and establish new ones. "India will be able to use both land and water routes in Bangladesh, to go to northeastern states from the mainland", Imran said. Earlier this year, a bridge over the Feni river was inaugurated, connecting India's North East with Bangladesh. The countries share 54 rives, maximum for any two countries globally. Imran also spoke about the issue of Rohingyas, the displaced minority community from Myanmar that has taken refugee in the country. Bangladesh is hosting 1.2 million Rohingya refugees and is keen for "safe and early" repatriation of the community. He said, "to keep on supporting them for an indefinite period would be asking too much for a country like us which has its own domestic development targets to achieve with limited resources...we all want to avoid the rise of any radicalism, which can seriously impact peace, stability, economic growth in the region and beyond". The Independence Day celebration at the high commission saw large presence of Delhi's diplomatic community. India's Trade Minister Piyush Goyal was the chief guest.

Bangladesh envoy highlights country's economic progress, pays tributes to Indian soldiers for Liberation War

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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