India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of&nbsp;top five Indian&nbsp;energy&nbsp;PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector.&nbsp;The 5 main Indian energy PSUs who will be present are--ONGC VIDESH Limited, Indian Oil Corp, GAIL (India), Oil India Limited, and Engineers India.

The office at the 45th floor of the&nbsp;Federation Tower&nbsp;was inaugurated during the presence of visiting&nbsp;Secretary, India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Tarun Kapoor, Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma and deputy minister of energy of Russia Pavel Sorokin.

The Indian secretary said, "We already have a big collaboration with the Russian federation. Big investments have been made by Indian companies in Russia, and big investments have been made by Russian companies in India. Bilateral trade has also grown"

The sides are working towards the realisation of an ‘Energy Bridge’ between the two countries.&nbsp;India's&nbsp;Secretary in the&nbsp;Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas was in Russia for two&nbsp;days having a number of meetings.&nbsp;

Calling the opening of office "a huge step in our energy future"&nbsp;Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "energy vertical is now one of the most promising pillars of our special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia...India stand firmly with Russia in promoting its energy security and this is a strong message we want to give, including via the opening of this office"

Energy will be the main area of cooperation between India and Russia during Russian President Putin's India visit later this year. Russian President will be visiting India later this year for the annual India Russia summit and for the BRICS summit as India is the chair of the grouping.

Sorokin explained, "we hope it will be a new step and open the flow of investments in the country which is already in tens of billions of dollars" and will help us "drive new projects in the energy space...we hope to continue to work together"

India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of top five Indian energy PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector.

India has opened an "energy office" in Moscow's well-known landmark Federation Tower that will presence of top five Indian energy PSUs even as Moscow and Delhi increase engagement in the sector. The 5 main Indian energy PSUs who will be present are--ONGC VIDESH Limited, Indian Oil Corp, GAIL (India), Oil India Limited, and Engineers India. The office at the 45th floor of the Federation Tower was inaugurated during the presence of visiting Secretary, India's Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Tarun Kapoor, Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma and deputy minister of energy of Russia Pavel Sorokin. The Indian secretary said, "We already have a big collaboration with the Russian federation. Big investments have been made by Indian companies in Russia, and big investments have been made by Russian companies in India. Bilateral trade has also grown" The sides are working towards the realisation of an ‘Energy Bridge’ between the two countries. India's Secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas was in Russia for two days having a number of meetings. Calling the opening of office "a huge step in our energy future" Indian envoy to Russia D. Bala Venkatesh Varma said, "energy vertical is now one of the most promising pillars of our special and privileged strategic partnership between India and Russia...India stand firmly with Russia in promoting its energy security and this is a strong message we want to give, including via the opening of this office" Energy will be the main area of cooperation between India and Russia during Russian President Putin's India visit later this year. Russian President will be visiting India later this year for the annual India Russia summit and for the BRICS summit as India is the chair of the grouping. Sorokin explained, "we hope it will be a new step and open the flow of investments in the country which is already in tens of billions of dollars" and will help us "drive new projects in the energy space...we hope to continue to work together"

India opens energy office in Moscow to increase focus in the sector

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.&nbsp;

Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations."&nbsp;

Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer.&nbsp;

According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo.&nbsp;

Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists."&nbsp;

Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights."&nbsp;

Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'.&nbsp;

The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities."&nbsp;

Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination.&nbsp;

"Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."&nbsp;

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror.

At the United Nations Human Rights Council, India has highlighted Pakistan is providing pensions to United Nations-listed terrorists even as New Delhi expressed concerns over Islamabad's continued support to cross border terror. Indian diplomat at the Indian mission in UN, Geneva Pawan Badhe said, "The members of this Council are well aware that Pakistan has provided pensions to dreaded and listed terrorists out of state funds and has the dubious distinction of hosting the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the United Nations." Pakistan approached United Nations Security Council for 'basic expense' for 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed, Lakshar-e-Taiba's leader Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi and Mahmood Sultan Bashiruddin, a Pakistani nuclear engineer. According to the security council resolution concerning its sanctions regime, asset freeze exemptions can be granted for what is called 'basic expenses'. These 'expense' or 'pensions' include provisions, such as payment for foodstuffs, rent or mortgage, medicines and medical treatment, taxes, insurance premiums. The 1267 sanctions regime of UNSC includes three main areas, assets freeze, travel ban, and arms embargo. Pawan in India's right of reply after Pakistan raked up Kashmir at the council, pointed out, "Pakistani leaders have admitted the fact that it has become a factory for producing terrorists." Adding," Pakistan has ignored that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse and the supporters of terrorism are the worst abusers of human rights." Pakistani PM Imran Khan has publicly admitted in the past that his country has hosted terror groups and once even called Al Qaeda leader Osama Bin Laden as a 'Martyr'. The Indian diplomat said, "Pakistan, a country in dire economic situation, will be well advised to ... stop state-sponsored cross-border terrorism and end institutionalised violation of human rights of its minority and other communities." Islamabad's track record in protecting its minorities has been criticised several times, with Hindus, Sikhs and Christians facing regular discrimination. "Council should ask Pakistan", Pawan said, "Why the size of its minority communities, such as Christians, Hindus and Sikhs has drastically shrunk since independence" and "why they and other communities, such as Ahmadiyyas, Shias, Pashtuns, Sindhis and Baloch, have been subjected to draconian blasphemy laws, systemic persecution, blatant abuses and forced conversions."

At UNHRC, India highlights Pakistan providing 'pensions' to terrorists

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region."

The UAE is the first country in West Asia to welcome last week's development. It joins the likes of the US, UN and EU.&nbsp;

Highlighting the "close historical ties" UAE has with both India and Pakistan, the foreign ministry of the country in a statement said, "it commends the efforts of the two countries to reach this achievement", emphasizing the "importance of adhering to a permanent ceasefire" between the "two friendly countries in Kashmir" to the "benefit of both sides and committing to diplomatic means - through dialogue - to build bridges of confidence and establish a lasting peace that achieves the aspirations of both peoples."

Last week in a surprise development India and Pakistan agreed to lower the temperature at the line of control with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement.&nbsp;

While no formal dialogue has taken place between India and Pakistan for years, ties have been completely frayed after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by a Pakistan-based terror group. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, Pakistan had cut all people-to-people ties and recalled its envoy.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has welcomed India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance calling it "an important step towards achieving security, stability, and prosperity in the region." The UAE is the first country in West Asia to welcome last week's development. It joins the likes of the US, UN and EU. Highlighting the "close historical ties" UAE has with both India and Pakistan, the foreign ministry of the country in a statement said, "it commends the efforts of the two countries to reach this achievement", emphasizing the "importance of adhering to a permanent ceasefire" between the "two friendly countries in Kashmir" to the "benefit of both sides and committing to diplomatic means - through dialogue - to build bridges of confidence and establish a lasting peace that achieves the aspirations of both peoples." Last week in a surprise development India and Pakistan agreed to lower the temperature at the line of control with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement. While no formal dialogue has taken place between India and Pakistan for years, ties have been completely frayed after the 2019 Pulwama terror attack whose responsibility was taken by a Pakistan-based terror group. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, Pakistan had cut all people-to-people ties and recalled its envoy.

UAE welcomes India-Pakistan joint statement on ceasefire observance

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar&nbsp;has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had assured supplies to the foreign minister of Madagascar&nbsp;Tehindrazanarivelo Liva during the telephonic talks on Monday.&nbsp;

He tweeted, "Good conversation with FM of Madagascar @Tehindrazanari1 . Informed him that Indian humanitarian assistance would be delivered in the coming days. Will include food and medical supplies."

This is the&nbsp;first-ever telephonic conversation between the foreign ministers of India and Madagascar and shows signs of increased engagement between the two&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;The last bilateral visit of the President of Madagascar to India was in 1980, with the Indian President visiting the country in 2018.&nbsp;In fact,&nbsp;Madagascar's defence minister had visited India in February for the Aero India show and participated in the Indian ocean defence ministers meet in Bangalore.

In March of 2020, Indian Navy ship INS Shardul had sent 600 tonnes of rice to the country. Under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to the country to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

Last week, Madagascar’s President inaugurated the advanced digital cobalt therapy machine Bhabhatron-II donated by the Government&nbsp;of India to Madagascar in presence of the country's Health Minister and Indian Ambassador Abhay Kumar. It can treat 50 cancer patients every day.

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects.

Reaching out to Madagascar yet again, India will be sending 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicine to the Indian Ocean island country. Southern Madagascar has been impacted by devastating famine and according to a November 2020 report by the World Food Programme, families are forced to eat insects. India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar had assured supplies to the foreign minister of Madagascar Tehindrazanarivelo Liva during the telephonic talks on Monday. He tweeted, "Good conversation with FM of Madagascar @Tehindrazanari1 . Informed him that Indian humanitarian assistance would be delivered in the coming days. Will include food and medical supplies." This is the first-ever telephonic conversation between the foreign ministers of India and Madagascar and shows signs of increased engagement between the two countries. The last bilateral visit of the President of Madagascar to India was in 1980, with the Indian President visiting the country in 2018. In fact, Madagascar's defence minister had visited India in February for the Aero India show and participated in the Indian ocean defence ministers meet in Bangalore. In March of 2020, Indian Navy ship INS Shardul had sent 600 tonnes of rice to the country. Under mission Sagar 1, India had sent aid to the country to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Last week, Madagascar’s President inaugurated the advanced digital cobalt therapy machine Bhabhatron-II donated by the Government of India to Madagascar in presence of the country's Health Minister and Indian Ambassador Abhay Kumar. It can treat 50 cancer patients every day.

India-Madagascar FMs talk; New Delhi to send 1000 tonnes of rice and malaria medicines

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.

"India is moving very fast in the maritime sector from Port development to port-led industrialization, ship-building, cruise tourism, ship breaking. All these sectors have seen the world taking note of India. The world community has taken a keen interest in the maritime sector development of India.... the world is joining it and&nbsp;seeing it as inspiration", Minister of state for ports and Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya told WION.

The ministry of ports is the main coordinating ministry for the event. 1.70 lakh people have registered and over 100 companies across the world will be taking part in it. Thursday will see "Chabahar day" which will see the participation of ministers from Armenia, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan. All in all, 24 countries will be joining the summit

India's key focus has been on connectivity via the sea in recent days, with Chabahar in the West becoming key in connecting to Afghanistan and beyond. January saw India giving two&nbsp;cranes for the port to Iran.

Mandaviya explained, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. two&nbsp;cranes have been put in. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important."

The minister is expected to visit Iran soon as part of India's increased engagement for the port. Towards the east, it is Kaladan Multimodal project in Myanmar being built by India. The minister said," Sittwe port has been built. Using the Kaladan river we will connect Mizoram to Sittwe port. Road work is ongoing, port work has been completed. Port is operationalized. In presence of PM, we could inaugurate the port soon"

Recent years have seen increased connectivity with Bangladesh using inland waterways. These inland waterways have provided connectivity to Tripura and lower Assam, with Bangladesh's Chattogram and Mongla port providing outlets to the sea for India's northeast.

&nbsp;

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow.

India's Maritime investment summit starting Tuesday will see investment announcements worth Rs 3 lakh crore, with 400 MoUs being signed. The summit, from 2nd to 4th March will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi tomorrow. "India is moving very fast in the maritime sector from Port development to port-led industrialization, ship-building, cruise tourism, ship breaking. All these sectors have seen the world taking note of India. The world community has taken a keen interest in the maritime sector development of India.... the world is joining it and seeing it as inspiration", Minister of state for ports and Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya told WION. The ministry of ports is the main coordinating ministry for the event. 1.70 lakh people have registered and over 100 companies across the world will be taking part in it. Thursday will see "Chabahar day" which will see the participation of ministers from Armenia, Afghanistan, Iran, Russia, Uzbekistan. All in all, 24 countries will be joining the summit India's key focus has been on connectivity via the sea in recent days, with Chabahar in the West becoming key in connecting to Afghanistan and beyond. January saw India giving two cranes for the port to Iran. Mandaviya explained, "Chabahar port is an important destination, and we are developing it. two cranes have been put in. I will be going and inaugurating it. Chabahar connects us to CIS countries... which will increase connectivity to Europe. Chabahar port is important." The minister is expected to visit Iran soon as part of India's increased engagement for the port. Towards the east, it is Kaladan Multimodal project in Myanmar being built by India. The minister said," Sittwe port has been built. Using the Kaladan river we will connect Mizoram to Sittwe port. Road work is ongoing, port work has been completed. Port is operationalized. In presence of PM, we could inaugurate the port soon" Recent years have seen increased connectivity with Bangladesh using inland waterways. These inland waterways have provided connectivity to Tripura and lower Assam, with Bangladesh's Chattogram and Mongla port providing outlets to the sea for India's northeast.

India's Maritime investment summit to see Rs 3 lakh crore investment announcements

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence &amp; the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.&nbsp;

India's comments come after the UN High commissioner raked protest by farmers, Jammu &amp; Kashmir during her oral statement during the ongoing session of the human rights council criticising New Delhi.

Watch |&nbsp;

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During an India statement, the Permanent Representative of India in Geneva Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey said, "The unprovoked violence on our Republic Day in the name of farmers’ rights, apparently, left her unmoved. Her indifference to terrorism is, of course, not new. Objectivity and impartiality have to be the hallmarks of any Human Rights assessment."

Pointing, "We are sorry to see that the High Commissioner’s oral update is lacking in both"

In the past as well there has been a number of run-ins between the Indian govt &amp; the UN high commissioner, especially on her silence on the issue of cross-border terror.

Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey during Friday's statement yet again reminded that "she appeared as oblivious of the enormous efforts made by my Government to address the challenges, as indeed of many of the factors driving these challenges."

Importantly, India during its statement mentioned the farm laws and situation in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

On farm laws, the envoy said, "the purpose of enacting three farm Acts is to enable farmers to realise better price for their products and enhance their income" and the Indian govt has "shown utmost respect" for protests by farmers and has "remained engaged in dialogue" with them to address their concerns.

On Jammu and Kashmir, he highlighted the rationale of "constitutional changes" of August 2019 of removal of special status which has "given impetus to socio-economic development, ended decades of discrimination". The union territory recently saw the District Development Council (DDC) elections.

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi.

Indian govt has questioned the silence of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet on Red Fort violence & the issue of terrorism even as the latter continues to rake Kashmir irking Delhi. India's comments come after the UN High commissioner raked protest by farmers, Jammu & Kashmir during her oral statement during the ongoing session of the human rights council criticising New Delhi. Watch | During an India statement, the Permanent Representative of India in Geneva Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey said, "The unprovoked violence on our Republic Day in the name of farmers’ rights, apparently, left her unmoved. Her indifference to terrorism is, of course, not new. Objectivity and impartiality have to be the hallmarks of any Human Rights assessment." Pointing, "We are sorry to see that the High Commissioner’s oral update is lacking in both" In the past as well there has been a number of run-ins between the Indian govt & the UN high commissioner, especially on her silence on the issue of cross-border terror. Ambassador Indra Mani Pandey during Friday's statement yet again reminded that "she appeared as oblivious of the enormous efforts made by my Government to address the challenges, as indeed of many of the factors driving these challenges." Importantly, India during its statement mentioned the farm laws and situation in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. On farm laws, the envoy said, "the purpose of enacting three farm Acts is to enable farmers to realise better price for their products and enhance their income" and the Indian govt has "shown utmost respect" for protests by farmers and has "remained engaged in dialogue" with them to address their concerns. On Jammu and Kashmir, he highlighted the rationale of "constitutional changes" of August 2019 of removal of special status which has "given impetus to socio-economic development, ended decades of discrimination". The union territory recently saw the District Development Council (DDC) elections.

India questions UN High Commissioner's silence on terror, Red Fort violence

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later.&nbsp;

Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January.

Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Additional Secretary at India's Ministry of Shipping said, "Recently, we sent two mobile harbour cranes to the Chabahar port. In March, two more cranes will be sent. They are ready to be loaded to the ship near Venice. Two more will reach by June end.

"There are plans to procure more rail-mounted gantry cranes/rail-mounted cranes, for which bidding is going on, and this infrastructure is presently sufficient for the operation of the port. As it picks up for products, cargos going to Afghanistan and beyond, we will add more infrastructure."

India will host Maritime India Summit from March 2 to 4. The summit will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

Ministers from Afghanistan, Armenia, Iran, Russia and Uzbekistan will participate. More than 1 lakh registrations have taken place for the summit.&nbsp;

Bandyopadhyay said, "Chabahar has been a very ambitious project of the country. We have sent consignments of wheat and pesticides as required by Afghanistan."

At present, there are eight cranes at the port and four lifters.&nbsp;

Chabahar is key to India's westwards connectivity -- providing connectivity to Afghanistan and beyond.&nbsp;

Chabahar is also key to the International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and reduces the distance between the location by 40 per cent and cost by 30 per cent.

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later. Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January.

India will send four cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June. Out of these, two will be sent in March and remaining two later. Two cranes have already been sent in the month of January. Sanjay Bandyopadhyay, Additional Secretary at India's Ministry of Shipping said, "Recently, we sent two mobile harbour cranes to the Chabahar port. In March, two more cranes will be sent. They are ready to be loaded to the ship near Venice. Two more will reach by June end. "There are plans to procure more rail-mounted gantry cranes/rail-mounted cranes, for which bidding is going on, and this infrastructure is presently sufficient for the operation of the port. As it picks up for products, cargos going to Afghanistan and beyond, we will add more infrastructure." India will host Maritime India Summit from March 2 to 4. The summit will be inaugurated by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Ministers from Afghanistan, Armenia, Iran, Russia and Uzbekistan will participate. More than 1 lakh registrations have taken place for the summit. Bandyopadhyay said, "Chabahar has been a very ambitious project of the country. We have sent consignments of wheat and pesticides as required by Afghanistan." At present, there are eight cranes at the port and four lifters. Chabahar is key to India's westwards connectivity -- providing connectivity to Afghanistan and beyond. Chabahar is also key to the International North-South Transport Corridor that connects Mumbai to Moscow and reduces the distance between the location by 40 per cent and cost by 30 per cent.

India to send four more cranes to Iran for Chabahar port by June

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister spoke for one hour and fifteen minutes on Thursday afternoon, the first such talks since the disengagement at Pangong Lake in eastern Ladakh was completed.&nbsp;

One of the key outcomes of the talks was the establishment of hotlines between the 2 countries at the Foreign minister level for timely communication.&nbsp;

EAM recalled the Moscow pact of September 2020 between the 2 countries that laid emphasis on the disengagement. Both ministers had met on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization FMs meet to discuss the situation at LAC. During the talks, the message from India's side was to "quickly resolve" the remaining issues at the Line of actual control.&nbsp;

The MEA readout said, "Once disengagement is completed at all friction points, then the two sides could also look at broader de-escalation of troops in the area and work towards the restoration of peace and tranquillity." India's focus is on disengagement at Depsang plains, hot springs, and Gogra.

The statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday read: "Foreign Minister Wang Yi also noted that the Indian side had proposed ‘three mutuals’ (mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests) as the approach to the relationship. He also agreed on the importance of taking the long view of our ties. The two Ministers agreed to remain in touch and establish a hotline."

The Chinese read out making a conciliatory note said both sides "should handle the boundary question properly to prevent the bilateral relationship from sinking into a negative cycle".&nbsp;

It explained, "As two big emerging economies, China and India need to pursue development alongside each other move forward in partnership instead of hindrance, and work together for shared progress rather than erecting walls against each other."

In the aftermath of Galwan incident of June 2020 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers, New Delhi had taken number of measures like banning Chinese apps, increasing scrutiny on Chinese investment.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister spoke for one hour and fifteen minutes on Thursday afternoon, the first such talks since the disengagement at Pangong Lake in eastern Ladakh was completed.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister spoke for one hour and fifteen minutes on Thursday afternoon, the first such talks since the disengagement at Pangong Lake in eastern Ladakh was completed. One of the key outcomes of the talks was the establishment of hotlines between the 2 countries at the Foreign minister level for timely communication. EAM recalled the Moscow pact of September 2020 between the 2 countries that laid emphasis on the disengagement. Both ministers had met on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization FMs meet to discuss the situation at LAC. During the talks, the message from India's side was to "quickly resolve" the remaining issues at the Line of actual control. The MEA readout said, "Once disengagement is completed at all friction points, then the two sides could also look at broader de-escalation of troops in the area and work towards the restoration of peace and tranquillity." India's focus is on disengagement at Depsang plains, hot springs, and Gogra. The statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs on Friday read: "Foreign Minister Wang Yi also noted that the Indian side had proposed ‘three mutuals’ (mutual respect, mutual sensitivity and mutual interests) as the approach to the relationship. He also agreed on the importance of taking the long view of our ties. The two Ministers agreed to remain in touch and establish a hotline." The Chinese read out making a conciliatory note said both sides "should handle the boundary question properly to prevent the bilateral relationship from sinking into a negative cycle". It explained, "As two big emerging economies, China and India need to pursue development alongside each other move forward in partnership instead of hindrance, and work together for shared progress rather than erecting walls against each other." In the aftermath of Galwan incident of June 2020 in which India lost 20 of its soldiers, New Delhi had taken number of measures like banning Chinese apps, increasing scrutiny on Chinese investment.

Jaishankar-Wang Yi talks: Hotline to be established, Moscow pact recalled

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar. &nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ethiopian envoy Tizita Mulugeta to India, said, "Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to Indian side" regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment".&nbsp;

The Tigray crisis has been making global headlines after worsening the situation in that part of Ethiopia. The development comes after clashes broken between the Ethiopian government forces and the local Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Tigray is a region in the northern part of Ethiopia and shares borders with Eritrea, Sudan.&nbsp;

The envoy also spoke on India's outreach amid the Covid pandemic. She said, "Always whenever there have been any kinds of difficulties, India has been there to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia." Adding, "We know India is the hub of pharma" and it has the "capacity to support many countries and we have seen them supporting neighbouring and African countries."&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India-Ethiopia ties?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: First of all, when we see the relationship between these two countries, we have to see that the relationship has been there for a long period of time and is historical. It started in the first century BC, and Indians went to Ethiopia to sell different kinds of items including silk, spices and they used to get ivory and gold from Ethiopia. So, this relationship is historic, and the trade relationship has grown very well, and we started our diplomatic ties in 1948, just immediately after India got its independence. So, from then onwards we have got a very profound kind of relationship, especially one that focuses on capacity building. When we have seen a capacity building with a lot of Indian professors and teachers going to Ethiopia to teach in Ethiopian high schools and universities. This means Indians were playing a very good role in producing generation in Ethiopia, which is the base for development and growth also. This relationship has grown into trade and investment relation, especially for last 15 years number of Indian investors have been growing in Ethiopia. Trade relations, I can say we have good trade ties, so generally social, political, diplomatic, we have profound relation. We are working to develop this relationship into strategic relationship.&nbsp;

WION: Key outcome of Ethiopian FM's India visit?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: Basically, we have been waiting for this visit for a long time, it means something for us. During the visit, bilateral issues were discussed especially the Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to the Indian side, the Indian government regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray, and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment. Ethiopian government explained to its Indian counterpart, how much access is open to providing humanitarian assistance to the needy over there and how much the Ethiopian govt is ready to respect the human rights, of the Tigrayan people, and also the refugees, especially Eritrean refugees in the Tigrayan region. Beyond that, it was an opportunity to explain regarding border conflict between Ethiopia and Sudan. Ethiopian government explained that the position is to amicably solve this problem based on negotiation. We managed to sign different agreements, especially, visa wavier agreements for diplomats and also agreements on education between two different institutions. It will help us to go further to the next level and develop a relationship into a strategic relationship.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's role in Africa?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: When we talk about Indian Involvement in Africa, it is not recent history. It has been like a long period of time. We could find a lot of Indian Diaspora in any part of the Africa that has been there for a long period of time, in addition to that, Indians have been playing a very big role in the national movement of independence. So, I can say, relationship between India and Africa is very profound, and India and Africa have worked a lot for the development of capacity in African countries, and the trade and investment relationship has also grown very well. So, they share a lot of commonalities especially in UN reforms and the International agenda. So far, Indians playing a very good role in entering Africa and making their presence better than the previous ones. India and Africa share lot of development trajectories. There is a lot, Africa can learn and a lot Africa can get from India especially in terms of adaptable technologies, because we really share many things, for instance, both Indian and African societies based on agriculture. We can learn how India is trying to get to a high level in terms of the economy and many levels. We can learn from Indian democracy, governance. I can say so far role of India is really, it means a lot. We can refer to three India-Africa summits, that has been there for last 15 years. All these summits have seen different development issues as agenda. Current PM Modi has given priority to presence of India in Africa, taking this into consideration, I can say India could be one of the great partners of Africa and for African development.&nbsp;

WION: How has been covid cooperation between India and Ethiopia?&nbsp;

Tizita Mulugeta: Always whenever there has been any kind of difficulties India has been there, to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia. So, when covid pandemic came last year, India was one of the first country that sent different kinds of medical equipment to Ethiopia. We are really grateful to that. Our PM has spoken to PM Modi, they have talked a lot on how to cooperate in terms of covid and other related issues. We know India is the hub of pharma and it has capacity to support many countries and we have seen they are supporting neighboring and African countries. We are studying on how to get support from India and my government will consider on how to benefit from this relation.&nbsp;

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar.

Ethiopia has briefed India about the crisis in the Tigray Region, during the country's foreign minister's New Delhi visit last week. Ethiopia's Deputy Prime Minister and foreign minister Demeke Mekonnen Hassen visited India last week and held talks with his Indian counterpart EAM Jaishankar. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Ethiopian envoy Tizita Mulugeta to India, said, "Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to Indian side" regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment". The Tigray crisis has been making global headlines after worsening the situation in that part of Ethiopia. The development comes after clashes broken between the Ethiopian government forces and the local Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF). Tigray is a region in the northern part of Ethiopia and shares borders with Eritrea, Sudan. The envoy also spoke on India's outreach amid the Covid pandemic. She said, "Always whenever there have been any kinds of difficulties, India has been there to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia." Adding, "We know India is the hub of pharma" and it has the "capacity to support many countries and we have seen them supporting neighbouring and African countries." WION: How do you see India-Ethiopia ties? Tizita Mulugeta: First of all, when we see the relationship between these two countries, we have to see that the relationship has been there for a long period of time and is historical. It started in the first century BC, and Indians went to Ethiopia to sell different kinds of items including silk, spices and they used to get ivory and gold from Ethiopia. So, this relationship is historic, and the trade relationship has grown very well, and we started our diplomatic ties in 1948, just immediately after India got its independence. So, from then onwards we have got a very profound kind of relationship, especially one that focuses on capacity building. When we have seen a capacity building with a lot of Indian professors and teachers going to Ethiopia to teach in Ethiopian high schools and universities. This means Indians were playing a very good role in producing generation in Ethiopia, which is the base for development and growth also. This relationship has grown into trade and investment relation, especially for last 15 years number of Indian investors have been growing in Ethiopia. Trade relations, I can say we have good trade ties, so generally social, political, diplomatic, we have profound relation. We are working to develop this relationship into strategic relationship. WION: Key outcome of Ethiopian FM's India visit? Tizita Mulugeta: Basically, we have been waiting for this visit for a long time, it means something for us. During the visit, bilateral issues were discussed especially the Ethiopian side took an opportunity to explain to the Indian side, the Indian government regarding the existing political situation in the country especially the conflict in Tigray, and humanitarian assistance being delivered to the Tigrayan people at this moment. Ethiopian government explained to its Indian counterpart, how much access is open to providing humanitarian assistance to the needy over there and how much the Ethiopian govt is ready to respect the human rights, of the Tigrayan people, and also the refugees, especially Eritrean refugees in the Tigrayan region. Beyond that, it was an opportunity to explain regarding border conflict between Ethiopia and Sudan. Ethiopian government explained that the position is to amicably solve this problem based on negotiation. We managed to sign different agreements, especially, visa wavier agreements for diplomats and also agreements on education between two different institutions. It will help us to go further to the next level and develop a relationship into a strategic relationship. WION: How do you see India's role in Africa? Tizita Mulugeta: When we talk about Indian Involvement in Africa, it is not recent history. It has been like a long period of time. We could find a lot of Indian Diaspora in any part of the Africa that has been there for a long period of time, in addition to that, Indians have been playing a very big role in the national movement of independence. So, I can say, relationship between India and Africa is very profound, and India and Africa have worked a lot for the development of capacity in African countries, and the trade and investment relationship has also grown very well. So, they share a lot of commonalities especially in UN reforms and the International agenda. So far, Indians playing a very good role in entering Africa and making their presence better than the previous ones. India and Africa share lot of development trajectories. There is a lot, Africa can learn and a lot Africa can get from India especially in terms of adaptable technologies, because we really share many things, for instance, both Indian and African societies based on agriculture. We can learn how India is trying to get to a high level in terms of the economy and many levels. We can learn from Indian democracy, governance. I can say so far role of India is really, it means a lot. We can refer to three India-Africa summits, that has been there for last 15 years. All these summits have seen different development issues as agenda. Current PM Modi has given priority to presence of India in Africa, taking this into consideration, I can say India could be one of the great partners of Africa and for African development. WION: How has been covid cooperation between India and Ethiopia? Tizita Mulugeta: Always whenever there has been any kind of difficulties India has been there, to support Africa and particularly Ethiopia. So, when covid pandemic came last year, India was one of the first country that sent different kinds of medical equipment to Ethiopia. We are really grateful to that. Our PM has spoken to PM Modi, they have talked a lot on how to cooperate in terms of covid and other related issues. We know India is the hub of pharma and it has capacity to support many countries and we have seen they are supporting neighboring and African countries. We are studying on how to get support from India and my government will consider on how to benefit from this relation.

Ethiopia briefs India about Tigray, says humanitarian aid being delivered

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation.&nbsp;

The proposal for waiver was given by India and South Africa jointly last year. It, however, faces stiff opposition from western countries, including the EU.

The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines."

Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale."

The development comes ahead of the European Council meeting on Thursday and the crucial decision to be made by all Member States at the WTO General Council on March 1-2.

The European Parliament is made up of 705 members elected in the 27 member states of the enlarged European Union. The MEPs, who have backed the declaration, include Kathleen Van Brempt, Anna Cavazzini, Benoît Lutgen, Philippe Lamberts, and Marie Arena etc.

Calling for "constructive dialogue" with partner countries, the declaration highlighted that the action will "enable local production capacities (for covid vaccine) and increase their access to COVID-19 treatments."

It reminded COVID-19 medical products are "global public goods" and the statements by the European Commission, which is the executive branch of the European Union have not "translated into actionable realities."

The WTO met on Tuesday to discuss the proposal and with consensus yet to be achieved.

The LDC group (least developed countries) -- consisting of 35 members -- have come out in support of the proposal.

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation.

As many as 114 European Union Parliamentarians or MEPs have issued a declaration calling European Commission and the European Council to not block waiver for Covid vaccine intellectual property rights (IPR) at the World Trade Organisation. The proposal for waiver was given by India and South Africa jointly last year. It, however, faces stiff opposition from western countries, including the EU. The declaration said, "EU’s open opposition to the TRIPS waiver risks exacerbating a dangerous North-South divide when it comes to affordable access to COVID-19 diagnostics, personal protective equipment, treatments, and vaccines." Pointing out to the need for an IPR waiver, it said, "WTO decision on a potential waiver offers a crucial and much-needed act of effective solidarity as it is an important step towards increasing local production in partner countries and, ultimately, suppressing this pandemic on a global scale." The development comes ahead of the European Council meeting on Thursday and the crucial decision to be made by all Member States at the WTO General Council on March 1-2. The European Parliament is made up of 705 members elected in the 27 member states of the enlarged European Union. The MEPs, who have backed the declaration, include Kathleen Van Brempt, Anna Cavazzini, Benoît Lutgen, Philippe Lamberts, and Marie Arena etc. Calling for "constructive dialogue" with partner countries, the declaration highlighted that the action will "enable local production capacities (for covid vaccine) and increase their access to COVID-19 treatments." It reminded COVID-19 medical products are "global public goods" and the statements by the European Commission, which is the executive branch of the European Union have not "translated into actionable realities." The WTO met on Tuesday to discuss the proposal and with consensus yet to be achieved. The LDC group (least developed countries) -- consisting of 35 members -- have come out in support of the proposal.

More than 100 EU parliamentarians back India-South Africa proposal for Covid vaccine IPR waiver

In a breakthrough development, India and Pakistan have agreed to lower the temperature at the Line of Control(LoC) with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement.

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/will-pakistan-come-off-the-fatf-grey-list-365323/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The joint statement issued simultaneously said, "both sides agreed for strict observance of all agreements, understandings and cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from midnight 24/25 Feb 2021"

The statement was issued after the Indian and Pakistani Director Generals of Military Operations(DGMOs) had held "hotline" talks in which both sides "reviewed" the situation along the Line of Control and all other sectors in a "free, frank and cordial atmosphere."

The ceasefire at LoC has been only in name with firing on a daily basis impacting civilians. The development will be beneficial for the region and the civilian population residing in the area. Largely, it is an attempt to bring down violence level along&nbsp;the LoC.

The statement said, "in the interest of achieving mutually beneficial and sustainable peace along the borders" the two DGMOs agreed to address "each other’s core issues and concerns which have the propensity to disturb the peace and lead to violence."&nbsp;

In fact, both have agreed to use the hotline mechanism, and border flag meetings as a mechanism to "resolve any unforeseen situation or misunderstanding."

WION has learnt&nbsp;operation against terrorists and infiltrators will not be stopped by the Indian Army at the LC and in the hinterland.&nbsp;

Interestingly, the Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane had on Wednesday at an event said, "with continuous engagement with Pakistan, we will be able to prevail over them and come to an understanding that violence at the border helps no one."

India and Pakistani ties since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack have gone in downhill.&nbsp;

The attack killed over 40 Indian paramilitary men was perpetrated by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM).&nbsp;

After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, the situation had gone further downhill with people-to-people contact being suspended by Islamabad.

In a breakthrough development, India and Pakistan have agreed to lower the temperature at the Line of Control(LoC) with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement.

In a breakthrough development, India and Pakistan have agreed to lower the temperature at the Line of Control(LoC) with "strict observance" of the 2003 ceasefire pact with both the militaries issuing a rare joint statement. Watch: The joint statement issued simultaneously said, "both sides agreed for strict observance of all agreements, understandings and cease firing along the Line of Control and all other sectors with effect from midnight 24/25 Feb 2021" The statement was issued after the Indian and Pakistani Director Generals of Military Operations(DGMOs) had held "hotline" talks in which both sides "reviewed" the situation along the Line of Control and all other sectors in a "free, frank and cordial atmosphere." The ceasefire at LoC has been only in name with firing on a daily basis impacting civilians. The development will be beneficial for the region and the civilian population residing in the area. Largely, it is an attempt to bring down violence level along the LoC. The statement said, "in the interest of achieving mutually beneficial and sustainable peace along the borders" the two DGMOs agreed to address "each other’s core issues and concerns which have the propensity to disturb the peace and lead to violence." In fact, both have agreed to use the hotline mechanism, and border flag meetings as a mechanism to "resolve any unforeseen situation or misunderstanding." WION has learnt operation against terrorists and infiltrators will not be stopped by the Indian Army at the LC and in the hinterland. Interestingly, the Indian Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane had on Wednesday at an event said, "with continuous engagement with Pakistan, we will be able to prevail over them and come to an understanding that violence at the border helps no one." India and Pakistani ties since the 2019 Pulwama terror attack have gone in downhill. The attack killed over 40 Indian paramilitary men was perpetrated by Pakistan based Jaish-e-Mohammed(JeM). After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir in August 2019, the situation had gone further downhill with people-to-people contact being suspended by Islamabad.

India, Pakistan agree on 'strict observance' of ceasefire along LoC

Pakistani Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/imran-khan">Imran Khan </a>on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago. India had given permission on Monday.

As a protocol. whenever heads of state or governments pass through the air space of any other country, the country is alerted&nbsp;with due permission taken. It is likely that Pak PM Imran Khan will use the same route to return back from Sri Lanka to Pakistan later today.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-is-imran-khan-doing-in-sri-lanka-365765/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

It is noteworthy that in the aftermath of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had denied permission for overflight for President Kovind's plane one time, and PM Modi's plane two times.&nbsp;

In September 2019, Pakistan denied the use of its airspace for President Kovind's plane during his Europe visit. In the same month, it denied overflight to PM Modi's plane to attend the UNGA session, followed by no permission to Air India one during PM's Saudi Arabia visit in October 2019. India had taken the matter with the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on Tuesday while arriving at Colombo had crossed into the airspace of India's exclusive economic zone. The permission for it was sought from New Delhi from Islamabad a few days ago. India had given permission on Monday. As a protocol. whenever heads of state or governments pass through the air space of any other country, the country is alerted with due permission taken. It is likely that Pak PM Imran Khan will use the same route to return back from Sri Lanka to Pakistan later today. Watch | It is noteworthy that in the aftermath of India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan had denied permission for overflight for President Kovind's plane one time, and PM Modi's plane two times. In September 2019, Pakistan denied the use of its airspace for President Kovind's plane during his Europe visit. In the same month, it denied overflight to PM Modi's plane to attend the UNGA session, followed by no permission to Air India one during PM's Saudi Arabia visit in October 2019. India had taken the matter with the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Imran Khan crossed airspace of India's exclusive economic zone

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