Denmark Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen will be visiting New Delhi next month and will be the first head of government to visit India amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She is expected to visit&nbsp;around March 15.

There has been significant outreach from New Delhi to Nordic countries. Last year saw a virtual summit between Denmark's PM and Indian Prime Minister Narendra&nbsp;Modi, which was the first such summit between the two countries.

India and Denmark have a unique "Green Strategic Partnership" that will see both sides focus&nbsp;on "green and climate-friendly technologies", said a joint statement released after the September virtual summit.

Interestingly, the Indian prime minister will be travelling to Denmark later this year for the second India-Nordic summit. The last such summit was in 2018 in Stockholm. Around 200 Danish companies have invested in India in sectors such as shipping, renewable energy, environment, agriculture, food processing and smart urban development. Around 25 Indian companies are present in Denmark in IT, renewable energy and engineering.

So far, India has held a virtual summit with three Nordic countries:&nbsp;Denmark, Sweden and Finland. During these summits, a number of issues like technology, clean energy and COVID-19 pandemic were discussed.

During the India-Sweden virtual summit, Sweden's PM Stefan Löfven said, "India and EU as democratic superpowers" and "we join forces, to build back more inclusive societies, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our shared values and mutual commitment to democracy, rule of law, gender equality, human rights and fundamental rights". Both Denmark and Sweden have joined India's International Solar Alliance (ISA).

While there have been visits during the pandemic&nbsp;- both incoming and outcoming at foreign ministers' level, no head of state or government has visited so far.

The last visit to India from a&nbsp;head of state was in February, when the then Myanmar President U Win Myint had visited the country, during which he travelled to Agra and Bodh Gaya.

Denmark Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen will be visiting New Delhi next month and will be the first head of government to visit India amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Denmark Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen will be visiting New Delhi next month and will be the first head of government to visit India amid the COVID-19 pandemic. She is expected to visit around March 15. There has been significant outreach from New Delhi to Nordic countries. Last year saw a virtual summit between Denmark's PM and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which was the first such summit between the two countries. India and Denmark have a unique "Green Strategic Partnership" that will see both sides focus on "green and climate-friendly technologies", said a joint statement released after the September virtual summit. Interestingly, the Indian prime minister will be travelling to Denmark later this year for the second India-Nordic summit. The last such summit was in 2018 in Stockholm. Around 200 Danish companies have invested in India in sectors such as shipping, renewable energy, environment, agriculture, food processing and smart urban development. Around 25 Indian companies are present in Denmark in IT, renewable energy and engineering. So far, India has held a virtual summit with three Nordic countries: Denmark, Sweden and Finland. During these summits, a number of issues like technology, clean energy and COVID-19 pandemic were discussed. During the India-Sweden virtual summit, Sweden's PM Stefan Löfven said, "India and EU as democratic superpowers" and "we join forces, to build back more inclusive societies, it is more important than ever to reaffirm our shared values and mutual commitment to democracy, rule of law, gender equality, human rights and fundamental rights". Both Denmark and Sweden have joined India's International Solar Alliance (ISA). While there have been visits during the pandemic - both incoming and outcoming at foreign ministers' level, no head of state or government has visited so far. The last visit to India from a head of state was in February, when the then Myanmar President U Win Myint had visited the country, during which he travelled to Agra and Bodh Gaya.

Nordic outreach: Denmark PM to be first head of government to visit India amid COVID-19 crisis

Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara was just 29 years old in 1971, when he went along with two soldiers&nbsp;to save the life of the family of Bangladesh's father of the nation&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. During a daring rescue from the clutches of the Pakistani Army, Tara saved the life of Sheikh Hasina and her newborn child.&nbsp;Hasina is the current PM of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

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Meet Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara, who saved Sheikh Hasina from Pakistan Army in 1971 
 
"My message to the people of Bangladesh is, that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers....We must live together as a family," said Col Ashok Tara to WION's <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidhant</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PriyankaSh25?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PriyankaSh25</a> <a href="https://t.co/S81oNOyyd1">pic.twitter.com/S81oNOyyd1</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1371675088446091266?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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50 years later, speaking to our&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he opened up on the events of that day in December of 1971 in the midst of Bangladesh's liberation war. Recalling his meeting with Mujibur Rahman, the Vir Chakra awardee said, "Can see the pain and how to heal the wounds of the people and get their dignity, pride, culture, language and get back the economy of the country."

<img alt="WION" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1b8638d6-18a0-4874-ad1d-d47361b0ec58" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/oof%20%281%29.jpg" />

He saved the family from a place called&nbsp;Dhanmondi in Dhaka. This is the place Indian PM Modi is expected to visit during his upcoming Bangladesh trip&nbsp;as the country celebrates 50 years of independence. Tara said, "&nbsp;My message to the people of Bangladesh is&nbsp;that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers....We must live together as a family."

Sheikh Hasina had lauded his role, during the December 2020 virtual summit with Modi, saying, "Col Ashok Tara, who was a major at that time, on the morning of December 17, he freed us from the hands of the Pakistani forces....I express my gratitude to the colonel, to the people of India, to the Muktibahini".

WION: Could you&nbsp;give us the details of the incident when you saved the family of Bangladesh's father of the nation, including&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina, the present PM of Bangladesh?

Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: In the 1971 war, she was rescued in a very sensitive situation because the Pakistanis were guarding the house, and they were firing at anyone who was trying to reach the house. When I reached near the house, I was stopped&nbsp;and pointed at a dead body of a media person. I had only two&nbsp;men and no question of attacking the house because it had people inside and their lives could be in danger.

I decided to face the Pakistanis with my guts and wits. I left my weapon with my two&nbsp;jawans and told them to stay behind. I, alone without a weapon moved towards the house. I reached near the house and asked if there was anyone. They told me in Punjabi, and being a Punjabi I can understand the language. They told me to stop or otherwise, they will fire. I told them, in uniform an army officer has come to tell you that a Pakistani Army has surrounded. They did not believe it and in response, they abused me with nasty language, but I kept quiet as I knew what my task is, what is my aim.

I later again told them to understand the situation, by chance, by luck an Indian helicopter flew over the house. I immediately told them to look at the helicopter, have you ever seen an Indian helicopter over your head. They were impressed but said they will ask their senior officers about the surrender.

During that time, I was just at the gate, the bayonet of the rifle was touching the right side of my body. While I was talking, Mrs Sheikh Mujibur Rahman shouted, boldly said, that they are brutes, they can do anything. While we were talking, I had same apprehensions. I told them there was no communication, as the telephone line has been cut off. I told them if you delay, the&nbsp;Mukti Bahini&nbsp;will come, Indian Amry will come and kill you.

Your family, which is waiting in Pakistan, will not able to meet you and what will happen to your body, you can't imagine. Somehow, these kinds of talks continued for 25 minutes, during which the commander of the Pakistani force ordered to load the guns. He even fired on the people of other houses.

I stood, I told them that this fear will not impact me, because it will damage you more than me. You are 12 people, you all will be killed and never reach your home. If you surrender, I as an Indian Army officer, promise you, that I will take you to your headquarter so that you could reach to your home in Pakistan. Somehow, they agreed and surrendered.

I then opened the door of the house, and the first lady who came out was Mrs Shiek Mujibur Rehman. She embraced me and said you are my son and God has sent you to save us. During that time, Mr Kokha, the cousin of&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman&nbsp;and freedom&nbsp;fighter, handed over me the Bangladeshi flag, the national flag of Bangladesh, and [asked me] to go up and host this flag and throw the Pakistani flag on the ground.

I went up, hoisted the flag and threw the Pakistani flag on the ground. Mrs&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, like a tigress, she roared and put her foot on the Pakistan flag and said, "Joy Bangla". Other people also joined. Those who surrendered, I sent them. The Pakistani commander told media personnel&nbsp;that his person is&nbsp;Bekhauf&nbsp;or fearless person. After that, I was told to look after the security of the family. Somehow,&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman&nbsp;got to know his family has been rescued by me, he wanted to see me.&nbsp;After few days my battalion moved towards Mizoram while I was told to stay behind.

After a few days,&nbsp;Mrs&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gave me a gift for saving them. On 10th January 1972,&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman came to Dhaka, and on 12th he invited me to his house. We had breakfast, and during the talks, I could&nbsp;see the pain... [wondering]&nbsp;how to heal the wounds of the people and get their dignity, pride, culture, language and get back the economy of the country. He was thankful to India. On 23rd January, I was again invited by Mujibur Rahman and his family because they wanted to see me off.

At that time, the present PM of Bangladesh gave a photo of her&nbsp;three-month-old son and wrote on the back, "Joy Bangla". I came to Delhi, and I got two&nbsp;letters from the younger sister of&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In 2012, I was invited to Bangladesh to be bestowed with an award by Present PM&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina. The award was a friend of Liberation war Honour. It was given on 20 October&nbsp;2012. There has been some correspondence, the High Commission in Delhi always invites me for ceremonies.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the ties between the two countries?

Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: The relationship immediately after the war was very close to each other. But after three&nbsp;&nbsp;years, when&nbsp;Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated, after the military rule, the relationship was in a bad shape. However, when present PM&nbsp;Sheikh Hasina came back to power, the relationship became very good. The present government also wants a very good relationship with them. There is a brotherhood between the two nations. PM Modi has told this number of times. At present, the relationship is very good and I wish that such relationship carries on.&nbsp;

WION: What is your message to the people of Bangladesh as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of independence?

Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: My message to the people of Bangladesh is, that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers. They have the same culture, same dignity. We must respect each other and help each other, economically, socially and [in] whatever [way] possible. We must live together as a family.&nbsp;

WION: Are there plans of a monument for Indian soldiers in Bangladesh?

Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: We must display Bangladeshi soldiers also. We must have Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers with their national flags. We fought together for the liberation of Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara was just 29 years old in 1971, when he went along with two soldiers to save the life of the family of Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara was just 29 years old in 1971, when he went along with two soldiers to save the life of the family of Bangladesh's father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. During a daring rescue from the clutches of the Pakistani Army, Tara saved the life of Sheikh Hasina and her newborn child. Hasina is the current PM of Bangladesh. Meet Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara, who saved Sheikh Hasina from Pakistan Army in 1971 "My message to the people of Bangladesh is, that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers....We must live together as a family," said Col Ashok Tara to WION's @sidhant @PriyankaSh25 pic.twitter.com/S81oNOyyd1 — WION (@WIONews) March 16, 2021 × 50 years later, speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, he opened up on the events of that day in December of 1971 in the midst of Bangladesh's liberation war. Recalling his meeting with Mujibur Rahman, the Vir Chakra awardee said, "Can see the pain and how to heal the wounds of the people and get their dignity, pride, culture, language and get back the economy of the country." He saved the family from a place called Dhanmondi in Dhaka. This is the place Indian PM Modi is expected to visit during his upcoming Bangladesh trip as the country celebrates 50 years of independence. Tara said, " My message to the people of Bangladesh is that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers....We must live together as a family." Sheikh Hasina had lauded his role, during the December 2020 virtual summit with Modi, saying, "Col Ashok Tara, who was a major at that time, on the morning of December 17, he freed us from the hands of the Pakistani forces....I express my gratitude to the colonel, to the people of India, to the Muktibahini". WION: Could you give us the details of the incident when you saved the family of Bangladesh's father of the nation, including Sheikh Hasina, the present PM of Bangladesh? Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: In the 1971 war, she was rescued in a very sensitive situation because the Pakistanis were guarding the house, and they were firing at anyone who was trying to reach the house. When I reached near the house, I was stopped and pointed at a dead body of a media person. I had only two men and no question of attacking the house because it had people inside and their lives could be in danger. I decided to face the Pakistanis with my guts and wits. I left my weapon with my two jawans and told them to stay behind. I, alone without a weapon moved towards the house. I reached near the house and asked if there was anyone. They told me in Punjabi, and being a Punjabi I can understand the language. They told me to stop or otherwise, they will fire. I told them, in uniform an army officer has come to tell you that a Pakistani Army has surrounded. They did not believe it and in response, they abused me with nasty language, but I kept quiet as I knew what my task is, what is my aim. I later again told them to understand the situation, by chance, by luck an Indian helicopter flew over the house. I immediately told them to look at the helicopter, have you ever seen an Indian helicopter over your head. They were impressed but said they will ask their senior officers about the surrender. During that time, I was just at the gate, the bayonet of the rifle was touching the right side of my body. While I was talking, Mrs Sheikh Mujibur Rahman shouted, boldly said, that they are brutes, they can do anything. While we were talking, I had same apprehensions. I told them there was no communication, as the telephone line has been cut off. I told them if you delay, the Mukti Bahini will come, Indian Amry will come and kill you. Your family, which is waiting in Pakistan, will not able to meet you and what will happen to your body, you can't imagine. Somehow, these kinds of talks continued for 25 minutes, during which the commander of the Pakistani force ordered to load the guns. He even fired on the people of other houses. I stood, I told them that this fear will not impact me, because it will damage you more than me. You are 12 people, you all will be killed and never reach your home. If you surrender, I as an Indian Army officer, promise you, that I will take you to your headquarter so that you could reach to your home in Pakistan. Somehow, they agreed and surrendered. I then opened the door of the house, and the first lady who came out was Mrs Shiek Mujibur Rehman. She embraced me and said you are my son and God has sent you to save us. During that time, Mr Kokha, the cousin of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and freedom fighter, handed over me the Bangladeshi flag, the national flag of Bangladesh, and [asked me] to go up and host this flag and throw the Pakistani flag on the ground. I went up, hoisted the flag and threw the Pakistani flag on the ground. Mrs Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, like a tigress, she roared and put her foot on the Pakistan flag and said, "Joy Bangla". Other people also joined. Those who surrendered, I sent them. The Pakistani commander told media personnel that his person is Bekhauf or fearless person. After that, I was told to look after the security of the family. Somehow, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman got to know his family has been rescued by me, he wanted to see me. After few days my battalion moved towards Mizoram while I was told to stay behind. After a few days, Mrs Sheikh Mujibur Rahman gave me a gift for saving them. On 10th January 1972, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman came to Dhaka, and on 12th he invited me to his house. We had breakfast, and during the talks, I could see the pain... [wondering] how to heal the wounds of the people and get their dignity, pride, culture, language and get back the economy of the country. He was thankful to India. On 23rd January, I was again invited by Mujibur Rahman and his family because they wanted to see me off. At that time, the present PM of Bangladesh gave a photo of her three-month-old son and wrote on the back, "Joy Bangla". I came to Delhi, and I got two letters from the younger sister of Sheikh Hasina. In 2012, I was invited to Bangladesh to be bestowed with an award by Present PM Sheikh Hasina. The award was a friend of Liberation war Honour. It was given on 20 October 2012. There has been some correspondence, the High Commission in Delhi always invites me for ceremonies. WION: How do you see the ties between the two countries? Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: The relationship immediately after the war was very close to each other. But after three years, when Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was assassinated, after the military rule, the relationship was in a bad shape. However, when present PM Sheikh Hasina came back to power, the relationship became very good. The present government also wants a very good relationship with them. There is a brotherhood between the two nations. PM Modi has told this number of times. At present, the relationship is very good and I wish that such relationship carries on. WION: What is your message to the people of Bangladesh as they celebrate the 50th anniversary of independence? Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: My message to the people of Bangladesh is, that Indians and Bangladeshi are brothers. They have the same culture, same dignity. We must respect each other and help each other, economically, socially and [in] whatever [way] possible. We must live together as a family. WION: Are there plans of a monument for Indian soldiers in Bangladesh? Col. (Retd) Ashok Tara: We must display Bangladeshi soldiers also. We must have Indian and Bangladeshi soldiers with their national flags. We fought together for the liberation of Bangladesh.

Meet Indian Army's Col Ashok Tara, who saved Sheikh Hasina from Pakistan Army in 1971

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen who was in India for the foreign office consultations has called ties with India "deep and historic".

Speaking to WION's&nbsp;Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Masud lauded India's Vaccine diplomacy, saying, "India has made available not only to Bangladesh but also to other Neighbours, as part of the Neighbourhood first policy of India and we are deeply appreciative of this."

India earlier this month gifted 2 million COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines to Bangladesh. From 20 January 2021 onwards, New Delhi has gifted over 55 lakh doses of vaccines to its 9 countries part of its neighbourhood and extended neighbourhood.

During the foreign office consultations and his meeting with India's External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Ambassador Masud also discussed the Rohingya issue. He said, Dhaka is "hopeful, maybe by the second quarter of this year, we can start repatriation (of Rohingya), maybe in small batches". Adding, "It should start and it can start provided Myanmar has the necessary political will."

WION: How were your conversations with the Indian counterpart?

Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: We had a very fruitful discussion with Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and earlier he visited Bangladesh and had a brief conversation with him. This is more of a regular contact at the foreign secretary-level. We discussed a lot of issues, but the meeting was also about the visit of Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi to Bangladesh to take part in Independence Day celebrations and also 50th anniversary of ties. This year is very important for us, this year we are celebrating Mujib Barsho, the 100th birth centenary of our father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, silver jubilee of our Independence, and the establishment of ties. India was one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh, on 6th December. So we like to have year-long programs, it will start with PM Modi's visit to Bangladesh, but it will not be a one of thing.

Throughout the year we will have joint programmes, in Delhi, In Bangladesh and also in other parts of the world--jointly by our high commissions. So that was something, we shared a tentative programme with my counterpart with PM Modi's proposed visit. We would like to make it a special one. Other than that, we discussed trade and commerce issues, connectivity issues, water issues, border management issues, so we have so many mechanisms between Bangladesh and India. We have, from time to time kept track and coordinated and integrated so that we have results from these interactions. Very soon we will have a home secretary-level meeting, water secretary-level meetings, all these before PM's visit. So hopefully, we will have more concrete developments to report. During PM's visit, we are identifying a few deliverables which would be important for both the countries, mostly connectivity related issues also symbolic. We have Swadhinata Sarak road between the first place where our govt in exile was sworn in, its in Meherpur. A small patch has been prepared before the summit.

WION: How do you see India's covid vaccine diplomacy?

Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: From early days we are cooperating, and PM Modi convened the SAARC summit level meet digitally to discuss covid cooperation and time to time we have received valuable supplies. Now we have a new chapter of vaccine cooperation and India has made available not only to Bangladesh but also to other Neighbours, as part of the Neighbourhood first policy of India and we are deeply appreciative of this. 2 million vaccines India has made available to Bangladesh. The administering of which has already begun in Dhaka but will also spread to other cities.

We have also purchased 30 million from Serum Institute and some of it has already arrived and we are expecting rest of it to come in phases so that sequencing is done in a manner so that the first shots, 2nd shot get in time. Also, the shelf life of this vaccine has to be taken into consideration. The next stage is India's own Bharat biotech. they have also offered Bangladesh to have some 3rd stage of human trial which is under process in Bangladesh. We are also looking at co-production. Some of our pharma companies, they are capable to handle production as well. Thereby joint initiative can help us and help out other countries in Africa, Latin America. As far as Bangladesh is concerned, we are happy to start vaccination in Bangladesh. India, Bangladesh, Nepal the prevalence of covid is coming down, that is good news. May be by march or April we will win over the crisis if new strain doesn't come.

WION: Bangladesh-India Ties going through "golden age", but how do you see ties between Bangladesh and China?

Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: Our ties with Bejing are mostly economic and we import from China billions of dollars of worth of goods, which is true for many countries. India used to import from China but during COVID, we have seen interruption of supply chain and it has given us the realisation that countries in the neighbourhood should cooperate more, in terms of helping each other, enhancing trade relations. thereby, China is helping us economically and we have some big projects which are currently done through Chinese contractors. therefore, I don't see, our relations with China should have any serious implications for our very deep and historic relationship with India. We should not compare the two.

WION: If you can update us on the Rohingya crisis?

Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: This is a major problem for us. You have seen it personally, both in Cox's Bazar and now we are relocating some of them in Bhashan char island. This is a temporary solution because Bangladesh landmass size is a very small country. 1.1 million Rohingya in a small place like Cox's Bazar fraught with all sorts of challenges and risks. We would like to see the early resolution of the crisis and only permanent solution is if these people can go back from where they came, that is the Rakhine province of Myanmar.

We have restarted our discussion with Myanmar with the help of China though a trilateral arrangement. We are hopeful, maybe by the second quarter of this year, we can start repatriation, maybe in small batches. It should start and it can start provided Myanmar has the necessary political will. Once these people are identified, verified and ready to cross over to Myanmar, India and countries like Japan, who have good relations with Myanmar can really help. I raised the issue with my counterpart and also EAM Jaishankar, they promised, they already working towards that and when the time comes, they will be more active, especially, another side of the border to ensure safety security and ensure the sustainable livelihood of these people. In other words to give, them more confidence in going back.

&nbsp;

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen who was in India for the foreign office consultations has called ties with India "deep and historic". Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Masud lauded India's Vaccine diplomacy, saying, "India has made available not only to Bangladesh but also to other Neighbours, as part of the Neighbourhood first policy of India and we are deeply appreciative of this.

Bangladesh's Foreign Secretary Ambassador Masud Bin Momen who was in India for the foreign office consultations has called ties with India "deep and historic". Speaking to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Masud lauded India's Vaccine diplomacy, saying, "India has made available not only to Bangladesh but also to other Neighbours, as part of the Neighbourhood first policy of India and we are deeply appreciative of this." India earlier this month gifted 2 million COVID-19 vaccines to Bangladesh. From 20 January 2021 onwards, New Delhi has gifted over 55 lakh doses of vaccines to its 9 countries part of its neighbourhood and extended neighbourhood. During the foreign office consultations and his meeting with India's External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, Ambassador Masud also discussed the Rohingya issue. He said, Dhaka is "hopeful, maybe by the second quarter of this year, we can start repatriation (of Rohingya), maybe in small batches". Adding, "It should start and it can start provided Myanmar has the necessary political will." WION: How were your conversations with the Indian counterpart? Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: We had a very fruitful discussion with Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and earlier he visited Bangladesh and had a brief conversation with him. This is more of a regular contact at the foreign secretary-level. We discussed a lot of issues, but the meeting was also about the visit of Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi to Bangladesh to take part in Independence Day celebrations and also 50th anniversary of ties. This year is very important for us, this year we are celebrating Mujib Barsho, the 100th birth centenary of our father of the nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, silver jubilee of our Independence, and the establishment of ties. India was one of the first countries to recognize Bangladesh, on 6th December. So we like to have year-long programs, it will start with PM Modi's visit to Bangladesh, but it will not be a one of thing. Throughout the year we will have joint programmes, in Delhi, In Bangladesh and also in other parts of the world--jointly by our high commissions. So that was something, we shared a tentative programme with my counterpart with PM Modi's proposed visit. We would like to make it a special one. Other than that, we discussed trade and commerce issues, connectivity issues, water issues, border management issues, so we have so many mechanisms between Bangladesh and India. We have, from time to time kept track and coordinated and integrated so that we have results from these interactions. Very soon we will have a home secretary-level meeting, water secretary-level meetings, all these before PM's visit. So hopefully, we will have more concrete developments to report. During PM's visit, we are identifying a few deliverables which would be important for both the countries, mostly connectivity related issues also symbolic. We have Swadhinata Sarak road between the first place where our govt in exile was sworn in, its in Meherpur. A small patch has been prepared before the summit. WION: How do you see India's covid vaccine diplomacy? Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: From early days we are cooperating, and PM Modi convened the SAARC summit level meet digitally to discuss covid cooperation and time to time we have received valuable supplies. Now we have a new chapter of vaccine cooperation and India has made available not only to Bangladesh but also to other Neighbours, as part of the Neighbourhood first policy of India and we are deeply appreciative of this. 2 million vaccines India has made available to Bangladesh. The administering of which has already begun in Dhaka but will also spread to other cities. We have also purchased 30 million from Serum Institute and some of it has already arrived and we are expecting rest of it to come in phases so that sequencing is done in a manner so that the first shots, 2nd shot get in time. Also, the shelf life of this vaccine has to be taken into consideration. The next stage is India's own Bharat biotech. they have also offered Bangladesh to have some 3rd stage of human trial which is under process in Bangladesh. We are also looking at co-production. Some of our pharma companies, they are capable to handle production as well. Thereby joint initiative can help us and help out other countries in Africa, Latin America. As far as Bangladesh is concerned, we are happy to start vaccination in Bangladesh. India, Bangladesh, Nepal the prevalence of covid is coming down, that is good news. May be by march or April we will win over the crisis if new strain doesn't come. WION: Bangladesh-India Ties going through "golden age", but how do you see ties between Bangladesh and China? Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: Our ties with Bejing are mostly economic and we import from China billions of dollars of worth of goods, which is true for many countries. India used to import from China but during COVID, we have seen interruption of supply chain and it has given us the realisation that countries in the neighbourhood should cooperate more, in terms of helping each other, enhancing trade relations. thereby, China is helping us economically and we have some big projects which are currently done through Chinese contractors. therefore, I don't see, our relations with China should have any serious implications for our very deep and historic relationship with India. We should not compare the two. WION: If you can update us on the Rohingya crisis? Ambassador Masud Bin Momen: This is a major problem for us. You have seen it personally, both in Cox's Bazar and now we are relocating some of them in Bhashan char island. This is a temporary solution because Bangladesh landmass size is a very small country. 1.1 million Rohingya in a small place like Cox's Bazar fraught with all sorts of challenges and risks. We would like to see the early resolution of the crisis and only permanent solution is if these people can go back from where they came, that is the Rakhine province of Myanmar. We have restarted our discussion with Myanmar with the help of China though a trilateral arrangement. We are hopeful, maybe by the second quarter of this year, we can start repatriation, maybe in small batches. It should start and it can start provided Myanmar has the necessary political will. Once these people are identified, verified and ready to cross over to Myanmar, India and countries like Japan, who have good relations with Myanmar can really help. I raised the issue with my counterpart and also EAM Jaishankar, they promised, they already working towards that and when the time comes, they will be more active, especially, another side of the border to ensure safety security and ensure the sustainable livelihood of these people. In other words to give, them more confidence in going back.

Bangladesh foreign secretary says ties with India 'deep and historic'; lauds New Delhi's vaccine diplomacy

The Bangladeshi high commission on Sunday commemorated the famous March 7 speech in 1971 on Bangabandhu, Bangladesh's father of Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recalling and lauding Indian support for the cause of their liberation. &nbsp;

The speech on March 7 by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a turning point as it galvanized the people of then East Pakistan leading to the formation of Bangladesh.

Bangladeshi's envoy to India, Muhammad Imran speaking at the event said, "We received the spontaneous support of our Neighbours and from our friends all over the world. We are grateful to the people and government of India, for the moral and material support for our cause"

The March 7 speech in 1971, made from Racecourse ground in Dhaka has been enlisted in "memory of the world register" by UNESCO. The register lists the world's important documentary heritage.

Bangladesh is currently celebrating Mujib Borsho, the centennial birth anniversary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and has declared the year 2020-21 as the Mujib Year.

The Bangladeshi high commissioner said, "the speech was extempore and became the most memorable speeches given by a politician. The speech was unique in many aspects, he touched upon every aspect struggle of economic and political emancipation of people of Bangladesh "

The event saw a gathering of many diplomats, with Bhutan's envoy Maj. Gen. Vetsop Namgyel also addressing the gathering. This year marks the 50th year of Bangladesh's independence and for that Indian PM Modi will be travelling to Dhaka on 26th and 27th March. Ahead of the visit, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had travelled to the country.&nbsp;

Amid the COVID&nbsp;pandemic, New Delhi reached out to Bangladesh with COVID vaccines for which envoy Muhammad Imran thanked "friend India".

India has sent, 90 lakh doses of COVID&nbsp;vaccines to Bangladesh, 20 lakh of which is gifted, 70 lakh sent commercially. Bangladesh started its vaccination drive using India made the vaccine. It will start the vaccination of foreign workers in the country.

The Bangladeshi high commission on Sunday commemorated the famous March 7 speech in 1971 on Bangabandhu, Bangladesh's father of Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recalling and lauding Indian support for the cause of their liberation.

The Bangladeshi high commission on Sunday commemorated the famous March 7 speech in 1971 on Bangabandhu, Bangladesh's father of Nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, recalling and lauding Indian support for the cause of their liberation. The speech on March 7 by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a turning point as it galvanized the people of then East Pakistan leading to the formation of Bangladesh. Bangladeshi's envoy to India, Muhammad Imran speaking at the event said, "We received the spontaneous support of our Neighbours and from our friends all over the world. We are grateful to the people and government of India, for the moral and material support for our cause" The March 7 speech in 1971, made from Racecourse ground in Dhaka has been enlisted in "memory of the world register" by UNESCO. The register lists the world's important documentary heritage. Bangladesh is currently celebrating Mujib Borsho, the centennial birth anniversary of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and has declared the year 2020-21 as the Mujib Year. The Bangladeshi high commissioner said, "the speech was extempore and became the most memorable speeches given by a politician. The speech was unique in many aspects, he touched upon every aspect struggle of economic and political emancipation of people of Bangladesh " The event saw a gathering of many diplomats, with Bhutan's envoy Maj. Gen. Vetsop Namgyel also addressing the gathering. This year marks the 50th year of Bangladesh's independence and for that Indian PM Modi will be travelling to Dhaka on 26th and 27th March. Ahead of the visit, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had travelled to the country. Amid the COVID pandemic, New Delhi reached out to Bangladesh with COVID vaccines for which envoy Muhammad Imran thanked "friend India". India has sent, 90 lakh doses of COVID vaccines to Bangladesh, 20 lakh of which is gifted, 70 lakh sent commercially. Bangladesh started its vaccination drive using India made the vaccine. It will start the vaccination of foreign workers in the country.

Bangladesh mission in Delhi commemorates March 7 speech of Bangabandhu; lauds Indian support

While history always reverberates in present, the current envoy to India from Bhutan, Maj&nbsp;Gen&nbsp;Vetsop Namgyel, recalled a very interesting personal anecdote of his meeting with Bangladesh's father of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The meeting happened when the envoy was aide de camp&nbsp;during the then King of Bhutan&nbsp;Jigme Singye Wangchuck's Bangladesh visit in 1974.

He said, "After establishing diplomatic relations, my king, the father of the present king, was invited for a state visit in winter of 1974 and I was the aide de camp and I had the opportunity of accompanying him."

"My king had several meetings with&nbsp;Bangabandhu.. I had the opportunity to meet him. Being with my king, I had the opportunity to meet him..he had a very impressive personality," he said, adding what also "struck me (was) the love, affection, respect, and awe he was held".

Lauding his "illustrious daughter" and present PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, the envoy said she has "fulfilled the vision of her father" and "Bangladesh has been doing very well under Sheikh Hasina".&nbsp;

Bangladesh, with its fast economic growth, has graduated from the least developed country (LDC) status to the developing one. The recommendation has been made by the Committee for Development Policy of the United Nations.

The envoy&nbsp;was speaking at the Bangladesh High commission, which had organised an event to commemorate the 7th March speech of&nbsp;Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The speech changed the course of history and was pivotal in galvanising the struggle against the Pakistani Army. When the speech was being delivered, envoy&nbsp;Namgyel&nbsp;was doing his military officer training at Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun, and was "very aware of what was happening in Bangladesh at that time".

He said, "when freedom struggle of Bangladesh took place, we used to follow it on newspapers, radio and one thing that struck me, after the independence of Bangladesh and successful liberation war...and listen to coverage on Doordarshan when Bangabandhu landed in Palam from Pakistan to Bangladesh".

"I remember to this day...what struck me, the excitement, the person who was covering the news...he was giving step by step account...describing his personality. The excitement and admiration, I can still remember to this day".

Bangladesh was the second&nbsp;country with which Bhutan established a diplomatic relationship&nbsp;after India.&nbsp;Bhutanese envoy said, "Bhutan and Bangladesh have very very close relations...we have very close economic and political relations".&nbsp;

In 2012, the third&nbsp;King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck was posthumously honoured with the “Bangladesh Liberation War Honour” by the Bangladeshi government for his support during the 1971 War of Liberation.&nbsp;Last year, both countries signed a Preferential trade agreement with an aim to increase economic engagement.&nbsp;

While history always reverberates in present, the current envoy to India from Bhutan, Maj Gen Vetsop Namgyel, recalled a very interesting personal anecdote of his meeting with Bangladesh's father of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman.

While history always reverberates in present, the current envoy to India from Bhutan, Maj Gen Vetsop Namgyel, recalled a very interesting personal anecdote of his meeting with Bangladesh's father of the nation, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The meeting happened when the envoy was aide de camp during the then King of Bhutan Jigme Singye Wangchuck's Bangladesh visit in 1974. He said, "After establishing diplomatic relations, my king, the father of the present king, was invited for a state visit in winter of 1974 and I was the aide de camp and I had the opportunity of accompanying him." "My king had several meetings with Bangabandhu.. I had the opportunity to meet him. Being with my king, I had the opportunity to meet him..he had a very impressive personality," he said, adding what also "struck me (was) the love, affection, respect, and awe he was held". Lauding his "illustrious daughter" and present PM of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina, the envoy said she has "fulfilled the vision of her father" and "Bangladesh has been doing very well under Sheikh Hasina". Bangladesh, with its fast economic growth, has graduated from the least developed country (LDC) status to the developing one. The recommendation has been made by the Committee for Development Policy of the United Nations. The envoy was speaking at the Bangladesh High commission, which had organised an event to commemorate the 7th March speech of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The speech changed the course of history and was pivotal in galvanising the struggle against the Pakistani Army. When the speech was being delivered, envoy Namgyel was doing his military officer training at Indian Military Academy (IMA) Dehradun, and was "very aware of what was happening in Bangladesh at that time". He said, "when freedom struggle of Bangladesh took place, we used to follow it on newspapers, radio and one thing that struck me, after the independence of Bangladesh and successful liberation war...and listen to coverage on Doordarshan when Bangabandhu landed in Palam from Pakistan to Bangladesh". "I remember to this day...what struck me, the excitement, the person who was covering the news...he was giving step by step account...describing his personality. The excitement and admiration, I can still remember to this day". Bangladesh was the second country with which Bhutan established a diplomatic relationship after India. Bhutanese envoy said, "Bhutan and Bangladesh have very very close relations...we have very close economic and political relations". In 2012, the third King of Bhutan Jigme Dorji Wangchuck was posthumously honoured with the “Bangladesh Liberation War Honour” by the Bangladeshi government for his support during the 1971 War of Liberation. Last year, both countries signed a Preferential trade agreement with an aim to increase economic engagement.

Tryst with history! Bhutanese envoy recalls his meeting with Bangladesh's 'Father of the Nation'

The early implementation of the Teesta water pact and flood management were discussed during the &nbsp;secretary-level meeting of the water resources ministries of India and Bangladesh.&nbsp;

The Indian delegation was led by Pankaj Kumar, secretary, water resources while the Bangladeshi side was led by senior secretary Kabir Bin Anwar.

Bangladesh's side reiterated their request for an early conclusion of the pact with the Indian side expressing their sincere commitment and continued efforts in this regard.&nbsp;

Water is a state issue in India and elections in the Indian state of West Bengal that borders Bangladesh hold the key to full implementation of the pact. The elections to the West Bengal legislative assembly will take place between March 27 to April 29 with results to announced on May 2.

The Indian high commission in Dhaka in a release said, "both sides commended the close cooperation that exists between India and Bangladesh" on issues related to rivers.&nbsp;

India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers. During the almost day-long talks in Delhi, both sides agreed to expand cooperation to include mitigation of pollution, riverbank protection and basin management.&nbsp;

A joint technical working group will provide inputs on the matter. The next talks at the secretary level will be held in Dhaka.

The talks come ahead of PM Modi's Bangladesh visit later this month. It will be the first visit by PM Modi in more than a year.

PM Modi's&nbsp;last visit was in November 2019 since then due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian prime minister hasn't travelled abroad.

The early implementation of the Teesta water pact and flood management were discussed during the secretary-level meeting of the water resources ministries of India and Bangladesh.

The early implementation of the Teesta water pact and flood management were discussed during the secretary-level meeting of the water resources ministries of India and Bangladesh. The Indian delegation was led by Pankaj Kumar, secretary, water resources while the Bangladeshi side was led by senior secretary Kabir Bin Anwar. Bangladesh's side reiterated their request for an early conclusion of the pact with the Indian side expressing their sincere commitment and continued efforts in this regard. Water is a state issue in India and elections in the Indian state of West Bengal that borders Bangladesh hold the key to full implementation of the pact. The elections to the West Bengal legislative assembly will take place between March 27 to April 29 with results to announced on May 2. The Indian high commission in Dhaka in a release said, "both sides commended the close cooperation that exists between India and Bangladesh" on issues related to rivers. India and Bangladesh share 54 common rivers. During the almost day-long talks in Delhi, both sides agreed to expand cooperation to include mitigation of pollution, riverbank protection and basin management. A joint technical working group will provide inputs on the matter. The next talks at the secretary level will be held in Dhaka. The talks come ahead of PM Modi's Bangladesh visit later this month. It will be the first visit by PM Modi in more than a year. PM Modi's last visit was in November 2019 since then due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indian prime minister hasn't travelled abroad.

India, Bangladesh discuss Teesta pact, flood management at water secretaries' talks

Keen on increasing connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region, Indian and Bangladeshi foreign minister discussed Japan as a third country for partnership on connectivity in the region. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar was on a one-day Dhaka visit on Thursday during which he held talks with Bangladeshi foreign minister&nbsp;Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen with one of the key focus areas being on connectivity.

During the joint statements, EAM Jaishankar said, "If we can get connectivity right between India and Bangladesh, I can tell u the entire logistics, the whole geo-economics of the region will change, the Bay of Bengal will look very different."

He explained, "both of us believed that this is possible, lot of our conversation was on this specific subject, we actually feel, we should even involve 3rd countries we talked about Japan as a possibility because both of us have very good relations with Japan and Japan is involved in connectivity projects in the Bay of Bengal. I would pick connectivity as a big goal."

Japan has been involved in a number of connectivity projects in India's northeast. Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) stands at over Rs 1600 cr in India's northeast with projects, many of them connectivity in seven&nbsp;states of the region. The projects include Guwahati sewerage projects, Sikkim major district roads projects.

In Bangladesh, Japan is involved in projects like Dhaka mass rapid transit development project, kanchpur, Meghna, Gumti second bridge Construction, Chittagong city outer ring road project, Jamuna railway bridge construction project.&nbsp;

EAM's visit comes ahead of Indian PM Narendra Modi's visit to the country on March 26 and 27 as the country celebrates its 50th Independence anniversary. During EAM's visit, the Teesta water issue was also discussed, with EAM in response to a question saying, "We did discuss it. And we have a meeting of our water resources secretaries soon. The will be discussing it further. I think you all know the position of the Indian Government. That position has no change. “

Prime Minister Modi will be in Dhaka for the Mujib Borsho celebrations as well as the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh’s independence and 50 years of Bangladesh-India diplomatic relations.&nbsp;Amid the covid pandemic, India reached out to Bangladesh and just recently sent covid vaccines to the country.

Bangladesh FM&nbsp;A.K. Abdul Momen said, "We thankfully acknowledge the collaborative initiative of the two countries in implementing the vaccination program against the ongoing pandemic. As you all are aware, Bangladesh has purchased the COVID vaccine from Serum Institute of India and the Government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is implementing the nationwide vaccination program free of cost."

Keen on increasing connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region, Indian and Bangladeshi foreign minister discussed Japan as a third country for partnership on connectivity in the region.

Keen on increasing connectivity in the Bay of Bengal region, Indian and Bangladeshi foreign minister discussed Japan as a third country for partnership on connectivity in the region. India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar was on a one-day Dhaka visit on Thursday during which he held talks with Bangladeshi foreign minister Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen with one of the key focus areas being on connectivity. During the joint statements, EAM Jaishankar said, "If we can get connectivity right between India and Bangladesh, I can tell u the entire logistics, the whole geo-economics of the region will change, the Bay of Bengal will look very different." He explained, "both of us believed that this is possible, lot of our conversation was on this specific subject, we actually feel, we should even involve 3rd countries we talked about Japan as a possibility because both of us have very good relations with Japan and Japan is involved in connectivity projects in the Bay of Bengal. I would pick connectivity as a big goal." Japan has been involved in a number of connectivity projects in India's northeast. Japanese Official Development Assistance (ODA) stands at over Rs 1600 cr in India's northeast with projects, many of them connectivity in seven states of the region. The projects include Guwahati sewerage projects, Sikkim major district roads projects. In Bangladesh, Japan is involved in projects like Dhaka mass rapid transit development project, kanchpur, Meghna, Gumti second bridge Construction, Chittagong city outer ring road project, Jamuna railway bridge construction project. EAM's visit comes ahead of Indian PM Narendra Modi's visit to the country on March 26 and 27 as the country celebrates its 50th Independence anniversary. During EAM's visit, the Teesta water issue was also discussed, with EAM in response to a question saying, "We did discuss it. And we have a meeting of our water resources secretaries soon. The will be discussing it further. I think you all know the position of the Indian Government. That position has no change. “ Prime Minister Modi will be in Dhaka for the Mujib Borsho celebrations as well as the Golden Jubilee of Bangladesh’s independence and 50 years of Bangladesh-India diplomatic relations. Amid the covid pandemic, India reached out to Bangladesh and just recently sent covid vaccines to the country. Bangladesh FM A.K. Abdul Momen said, "We thankfully acknowledge the collaborative initiative of the two countries in implementing the vaccination program against the ongoing pandemic. As you all are aware, Bangladesh has purchased the COVID vaccine from Serum Institute of India and the Government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is implementing the nationwide vaccination program free of cost."

India, Bangladesh keen on Japan for partnership on connectivity

India will organise the famous "Concert for Bangladesh" later year this even as Dhaka marks the 50th year of its Independence.

The original 1971 concert was led by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar at New York's Madison Square Garden, and was key to raising international awareness regarding Bangladesh's war of liberation and the refugee crisis in East Pakistan.

The concert will be led by Dhani Harrison and Anoushka Shankar, the son, and daughter of the original "stars" of the concert -- George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. The entire event is being done under the aegis of India's Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Ravi Shankar is known for taking Indian classical music to the West, while George Harrison, the lead guitarist of The Beatles, has been a famous cultural icon.

There can be an official announcement on the concert during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka from March 26 and 27. This will be the first foreign visit of the Indian prime minister in more than a year. His last foreign visit was to Dhaka in November, 2018.

According to estimates, the 1971 concert raised $12 million for Bangladesh. As many as 40,000 people came for the event.&nbsp;

Such was the magnitude of the concert that it became hard for the US to support Pakistan fearing a backlash domestically. So much so that the naval ship the US had sent into the Bay Of Bengal to help the then ally West Pakistan remained only a show of force achieving nothing on ground.

India will organise the famous "Concert for Bangladesh" later year this even as Dhaka marks the 50th year of its Independence. The original 1971 concert was led by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar at New York's Madison Square Garden, and was key to raising international awareness regarding Bangladesh's war of liberation and the refugee crisis in East Pakistan.

India will organise the famous "Concert for Bangladesh" later year this even as Dhaka marks the 50th year of its Independence. The original 1971 concert was led by George Harrison and Ravi Shankar at New York's Madison Square Garden, and was key to raising international awareness regarding Bangladesh's war of liberation and the refugee crisis in East Pakistan. The concert will be led by Dhani Harrison and Anoushka Shankar, the son, and daughter of the original "stars" of the concert -- George Harrison and Ravi Shankar. The entire event is being done under the aegis of India's Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). Ravi Shankar is known for taking Indian classical music to the West, while George Harrison, the lead guitarist of The Beatles, has been a famous cultural icon. There can be an official announcement on the concert during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Dhaka from March 26 and 27. This will be the first foreign visit of the Indian prime minister in more than a year. His last foreign visit was to Dhaka in November, 2018. According to estimates, the 1971 concert raised $12 million for Bangladesh. As many as 40,000 people came for the event. Such was the magnitude of the concert that it became hard for the US to support Pakistan fearing a backlash domestically. So much so that the naval ship the US had sent into the Bay Of Bengal to help the then ally West Pakistan remained only a show of force achieving nothing on ground.

India to organise 'Concert for Bangladesh' with Anoushka Shankar, Dhani Harrison later this year

The 1971 concert for Bangladesh by Pandit Ravi Shankar and George Harrison changed the course of history by raising awareness about the refugee crisis in the then East Pakistan.

The 1971 concert for Bangladesh by Pandit Ravi Shankar and George Harrison changed the course of history by raising awareness about the refugee crisis in the then East Pakistan. It also impacted the West's view about India and influenced a 14-year boy in Germany. Now 65-years-old Walter J Lindner, Germany's envoy to India, still recalls its impact on him personally and also culturally in the West. Speaking to WION Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Walter J Lindner said it brought "Indian spirit right to the heart of Manhattan" and the concert had its influence "throughout my whole life." So inspired was the envoy, particularly in his youth, that he did many jobs to collect money and come to India. He explained, "You saw these Indian musicians, the mystics of the East coming into our living room" via the famous concert in Manhattan that was attended by 40,000 people. The concert, the first of its kind, became a model for future charity events in the West. According to estimates, it raised $12 million for Bangladesh. WION: How did the concert change or impact your life? Walter J Lindner: I have a very clear recollection because even 50 years later this is still in my head because it influenced me in many ways, through all the decades and many years. It is very difficult to explain but almost comparable to the Woodstock concert, which was a year before. I was 14 years old at that time and I saw it on television, it was in New York in Madison Square garden. For several reasons it was mind-blowing. For 14 years old, for not only me but for the whole generation, many, many of my generation were influenced. What was new about it? First of all, it brought together for the first time musicians from the East and the West. We were used to the rock generation, Led Zeppelin...so all these western rock music heroes which we had posters in our rooms. They were dressed in jeans [and had] beards, long hair. This group we knew very well. On the other hand, the Indian musicians were dressed in white cloths with instruments we didn't know--sitar, tabla, and soft-spoken like Ravi Shankar. This was the complete opposite, different kind of atmosphere, western and eastern musicians that played together. Secondly, it was the first time this kind of solidarity concert, a benefit concert was staged 50 years ago. After this came other concerts which just copied it, like for Africa. This was the first concert of this magnitude which brought together a lot of money, all together it was $12 million, and 40,000 people watched it. What was most important to me was to get this Indian approach. You saw these Indian musicians, the mystics of the East, coming into our living room. For me, and many people, it was a clue to say, I have to see what is happening in the East. I have to see, to go to the country where the Sun goes up, where people are meditating, where people like Ravi Shankar are praying. For me it was a kind of a pulling effect, it didn't stop pulling me until I went there. I worked as a taxi driver, did jobs, just enough [so that] I had money to go to India to see where this mystic came from. It lasted my whole life, and if you see the fact I am here as an ambassador has to do with it as well, because it nurtured my eagerness to travel and to see exotic countries and come back to the country where I started 40 years ago. WION: How has the concert impressed a whole generation in the West? Walter J Lindner: The Beatles in 1971 had just dissolved, so it was the first big concert where George Harrison participated. A lot of myths were connected to the concert. They not only had to stage the concert, the Beatles, when they were still the Beatles had come to India two years before and they went to Ashram in Rishikesh but they also went to Taj Mahal, they went to Dal Lake. So there was a connection between Indian and the Beatles music. #Throwback Exactly 1 year ago last pre-Covid concert “Under the Banyan Tree on a Fullmoon Night”, spectacular setting near Qutub Minar. Jammin’ with great urban funk-jazz musicians (Delhi’s Revisit Band), event organized by @TeamworkArts #utbt We’re getting back there soon... pic.twitter.com/lL4RrihDNx — Walter J. Lindner (@AmbLindnerIndia) February 14, 2021 × They took the sitar in their own composition and they went to Connaught Place to get the first sitar for George Harrison. So there was a connection between the Beatles and India. Since Ravi Shankar was from Varanasi, his parents were from Bengal. He told George Harrison of the tragedy, millions of millions of refugees, and so they decided together to make a solidarity concert. That time it may be different than today, because of a lot of these musicians had a lot of charisma and for us they were heroes. John Lennon wanted to come but he wanted to bring Yoko Ono. Yoko Ono was not really liked by other musicians, so they said you come alone. Lennon said he won't come. All these stories were around this. We were not prepared for people in white dresses and they came silently and they tuned for hours. They would tune in for hours, taking the time, bringing this Indian spirit right to the heart of Manhattan. This was something we were flabbergasted, what is this? We weren't prepared for this and it was a myth that opened our eyes for many of us and implanted in us the wish to come to India. WION: How do you see the initiative holding the concert yet again... Walter J Lindner: I don't know what organisers have planned, the idea is good to say to have another concert of the memory there. But this was such a huge concert, you just can't redo it because the spirit from then is not here and the charismatic musicians are not there. The time, lifestyle is different. So it would have to be something different, and not copying. Even if the son of George Harrison and daughter of Pandit Ravi Shankar would be there, these are good names, but I don't know who would be performing there. I would just recommend not to make a copy of or try to make a copy of the 1971 concert because the 1971 concert, just like the Woodstock concert, is really, really very unique. So 50 years later this concert will be different, different goal and angle. The idea is good, but it has to be worked out well not to raise expectations. It influenced me, I am 65 now, the concert influenced me through my whole life.

How 1971 'concert for Bangladesh' changed the life of current German envoy to India

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said that New Delhi's Covid-19 vaccine outreach raised its stature in the world, and also generated great international goodwill.

India sent indigenous vaccines to 72 countries, in form of commercial deals and gifts. The outreach named "Vaccine Maitri" started with countries in the neighbourhood, followed by Gulf, African, and CARICOM countries. New Delhi also sent vaccines under the COVAX deal.

Jaishankar, to this end, said while addressing the Rajya Sabha: "The House should recognise the enormous feeling for India that our initiative has generated. Our ambassadors feel the warmth of ordinary people across the world for India everyday. This has been people-centric diplomacy at work in the truest sense."&nbsp;

"The world sees not just the selfless outlook of India but also of the quality of our products and capabilities."

India supplied drugs like HCQ and Paracetamol to 150 countries -- of which 82 were gifts.&nbsp;

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took the initiative of holding a meeting of SAARC heads of government in order to deal with the coronavirus crisis. Earlier this year, another meeting of health secretaries of SAARC and Indian ocean countries took place -- in which PM Modi suggested a special visa scheme for doctors and nurses and a regional air ambulance pact.

Jaishankar said, "Our reputation as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’ has been reinforced in that process. So has the faith in ‘Make in India’. But more than the vaccines themselves, our policies and conduct have emerged as a source of strength for the stressed and vulnerable nations of the world".

"They can see that there is at least one major nation that truly believes in making vaccines accessible and affordable to others in dire need."

As part of increasing capacity, India conducted 14 e-ITEC courses in partnership with premier institutions like AIIMS and PGI Chandigarh. These 14 courses had a total of 1131 professional participants from 47 countries. There was even an exclusive one conducted in Bangla for Bangladeshi professionals. Interestingly, the Armed Forces Medical Services conducted a programme for military doctors in Southeast Asia.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said that New Delhi's Covid-19 vaccine outreach raised its stature in the world, and also generated great international goodwill.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday said that New Delhi's Covid-19 vaccine outreach raised its stature in the world, and also generated great international goodwill. India sent indigenous vaccines to 72 countries, in form of commercial deals and gifts. The outreach named "Vaccine Maitri" started with countries in the neighbourhood, followed by Gulf, African, and CARICOM countries. New Delhi also sent vaccines under the COVAX deal. Jaishankar, to this end, said while addressing the Rajya Sabha: "The House should recognise the enormous feeling for India that our initiative has generated. Our ambassadors feel the warmth of ordinary people across the world for India everyday. This has been people-centric diplomacy at work in the truest sense." "The world sees not just the selfless outlook of India but also of the quality of our products and capabilities." India supplied drugs like HCQ and Paracetamol to 150 countries -- of which 82 were gifts. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also took the initiative of holding a meeting of SAARC heads of government in order to deal with the coronavirus crisis. Earlier this year, another meeting of health secretaries of SAARC and Indian ocean countries took place -- in which PM Modi suggested a special visa scheme for doctors and nurses and a regional air ambulance pact. Jaishankar said, "Our reputation as the ‘Pharmacy of the World’ has been reinforced in that process. So has the faith in ‘Make in India’. But more than the vaccines themselves, our policies and conduct have emerged as a source of strength for the stressed and vulnerable nations of the world". "They can see that there is at least one major nation that truly believes in making vaccines accessible and affordable to others in dire need." As part of increasing capacity, India conducted 14 e-ITEC courses in partnership with premier institutions like AIIMS and PGI Chandigarh. These 14 courses had a total of 1131 professional participants from 47 countries. There was even an exclusive one conducted in Bangla for Bangladeshi professionals. Interestingly, the Armed Forces Medical Services conducted a programme for military doctors in Southeast Asia.

India's vaccine outreach raised its stature and generated goodwill, EAM Jaishankar says

In his first foreign visit since the Brexit, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be visiting India on April 26. He announced the visit in the British Parliament.

"I am delighted to announce that I will visit India next month to strengthen our friendship with the world's biggest democracy," he said.

It is expected that Johnson will visit Pune as well. No details are yet known about his schedule in Pune. World's largest vaccine manufacture Serum Institute of India (SII) is based in Pune. SII has been manufacturing Oxford-AstraZeneca's COVID vaccine Covishield. It has been exported to many countries.

The visit has been in the making for a long time, with Boris Johnson was expected to visit India in January for Indian Republic Day but could not due to outbreak of new strain of COVID in UK.

Johnson's visit comes as UK releases its key foreign policy document that sees India as key to London's "Indo-Pacific tilt". The just-released "Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy" mentioned India over 15 times, calling India an "international actor of growing importance."

The document said, "The UK-India relationship is already strong, but over the next ten years we seek transformation in our cooperation across the full range of our shared interests. India – as the largest democracy in the world".

UK as the chair of G7 grouping, has invited India for the meeting of the grouping in June. Indian PM Modi will be travelling to the country for the summit, which could see its first in-person Quad meeting as well. Both sides are also working on a trade deal.

In his first foreign visit since the Brexit, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be visiting India on April 26. He announced the visit in the British Parliament.

In his first foreign visit since the Brexit, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson will be visiting India on April 26. He announced the visit in the British Parliament. "I am delighted to announce that I will visit India next month to strengthen our friendship with the world's biggest democracy," he said. It is expected that Johnson will visit Pune as well. No details are yet known about his schedule in Pune. World's largest vaccine manufacture Serum Institute of India (SII) is based in Pune. SII has been manufacturing Oxford-AstraZeneca's COVID vaccine Covishield. It has been exported to many countries. The visit has been in the making for a long time, with Boris Johnson was expected to visit India in January for Indian Republic Day but could not due to outbreak of new strain of COVID in UK. Johnson's visit comes as UK releases its key foreign policy document that sees India as key to London's "Indo-Pacific tilt". The just-released "Integrated Review of Security, Defence, Development and Foreign Policy" mentioned India over 15 times, calling India an "international actor of growing importance." The document said, "The UK-India relationship is already strong, but over the next ten years we seek transformation in our cooperation across the full range of our shared interests. India – as the largest democracy in the world". UK as the chair of G7 grouping, has invited India for the meeting of the grouping in June. Indian PM Modi will be travelling to the country for the summit, which could see its first in-person Quad meeting as well. Both sides are also working on a trade deal.

UK PM Boris Johnson to visit Delhi on April 26, will head to Pune too

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom&nbsp;from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members. The group met last week at the leaders level for the first time, but the meet was virtual amid the covid pandemic.

The G7 summit will happen in Carbis Bay, Cornwall and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping for 2021 has invited Indian PM Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison to attend it. G7 will be for the first-time leaders of all these countries will be together physically. While the UK could oversee the Quad meet, the US is keen on hosting the first in-person meet as well.&nbsp;

Last week's leadership summit saw a major announcement with the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative, seen as major practical cooperation between the members of the grouping. Basically, American vaccines will be produced by India, financed by the US and Japan, and provided logistical support by Australia. These vaccines will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific, the first being the countries in South East Asia.&nbsp;

Japan, through JICA, is in discussions to provide concessional yen loans for the Indian govt to expand manufacturing for COVID-19 vaccines for export. The US&nbsp;International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) will work with Hyderabad-based Indian manufacturer Biological E to increase its capacity to produce at least 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2022.

The group comes together at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness from Line of Actual Control row with India, issues with Japan over Senkaku Island, trade tiff with Australia and the US. While China obviously wasn't mentioned in the first-ever joint statement, it did call for "a region that is free, open, inclusive, healthy, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion."

The statement mentioned&nbsp;prioritising the "role of international law in the maritime domain, particularly as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)" and ".. to meet challenges to the rules-based maritime order in the East and South China Seas". China has been known to not only violate UNCLOS but also based on its nine-dash line policy claiming the entire south china sea, much to the dismay of the members of ASEAN grouping.&nbsp;

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members.

The first Quad in-person meeting could happen on the sidelines of the G7 summit that will take place in the United Kingdom from 11th-13th June 2021. The Quad has US President Joe Biden, India's PM Narendra Modi, Australian PM Scott Morrison and Japan's PM Yoshihide Suga as its members. The group met last week at the leaders level for the first time, but the meet was virtual amid the covid pandemic. The G7 summit will happen in Carbis Bay, Cornwall and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson who is the chair of the grouping for 2021 has invited Indian PM Narendra Modi and Australian PM Scott Morrison to attend it. G7 will be for the first-time leaders of all these countries will be together physically. While the UK could oversee the Quad meet, the US is keen on hosting the first in-person meet as well. Last week's leadership summit saw a major announcement with the Quad Covid Vaccine initiative, seen as major practical cooperation between the members of the grouping. Basically, American vaccines will be produced by India, financed by the US and Japan, and provided logistical support by Australia. These vaccines will be given to countries in the Indo-Pacific, the first being the countries in South East Asia. Japan, through JICA, is in discussions to provide concessional yen loans for the Indian govt to expand manufacturing for COVID-19 vaccines for export. The US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) will work with Hyderabad-based Indian manufacturer Biological E to increase its capacity to produce at least 1 billion doses of COVID-19 vaccines by the end of 2022. The group comes together at a time of increased Chinese aggressiveness from Line of Actual Control row with India, issues with Japan over Senkaku Island, trade tiff with Australia and the US. While China obviously wasn't mentioned in the first-ever joint statement, it did call for "a region that is free, open, inclusive, healthy, anchored by democratic values, and unconstrained by coercion." The statement mentioned prioritising the "role of international law in the maritime domain, particularly as reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)" and ".. to meet challenges to the rules-based maritime order in the East and South China Seas". China has been known to not only violate UNCLOS but also based on its nine-dash line policy claiming the entire south china sea, much to the dismay of the members of ASEAN grouping.

G7 meet in UK could witness first in-person Quad meet

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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