In a year when Italy remembers one of its greatest poets Dante Alighieri, the country has increased its cultural outreach in India. Last week saw the Italian envoy to India, Vincenzo de Luca inaugurating the Festival of Italian Culture in India. The mega festival of Italian culture in India was opened in the presence of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs S. Jaishankar and the Director-General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Dinesh K. Patnaik.

The event was hosted at the Italian embassy in Delhi. The event which followed all the COVID-19 protocol was the first such physical event hosted by the embassy since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;

The outreach will see an important focus on Dante Alighieri whose 700th death anniversary comes this year. As part of events to remember him, programs will be held that will see a number of events such as participation of experts at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) to musical, theatrical, and cinematographic productions dedicated to his masterpiece "Divine Comedy".

During last year's India-Italy virtual summit, the then Italian PM Giuseppe Conte had invited the Indian PM Modi to his country for the anniversary celebrations of Dante Alighieri. He has made many references to India, including references to River Ganges in his "Divine Comedy".

Meanwhile, Italy will be present in the principal Indian film festivals and will promote "innovative projects" as part of the outreach. Screenings of documentaries dedicated to India by Italian film directors — Pasolini and Rossellini — are scheduled for open-air cinema sessions. The second&nbsp;half of 2021 will see an exhibition of Italian fashion inspired by India, which will be hosted in a historic monument in Delhi.

In a year when Italy remembers one of its greatest poets Dante Alighieri, the country has increased its cultural outreach in India. Last week saw the Italian envoy to India, Vincenzo de Luca inaugurating the Festival of Italian Culture in India.

In a year when Italy remembers one of its greatest poets Dante Alighieri, the country has increased its cultural outreach in India. Last week saw the Italian envoy to India, Vincenzo de Luca inaugurating the Festival of Italian Culture in India. The mega festival of Italian culture in India was opened in the presence of the Indian Minister of Foreign Affairs S. Jaishankar and the Director-General of the Indian Council for Cultural Relations, Dinesh K. Patnaik. The event was hosted at the Italian embassy in Delhi. The event which followed all the COVID-19 protocol was the first such physical event hosted by the embassy since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The outreach will see an important focus on Dante Alighieri whose 700th death anniversary comes this year. As part of events to remember him, programs will be held that will see a number of events such as participation of experts at the Jaipur Literature Festival (JLF) to musical, theatrical, and cinematographic productions dedicated to his masterpiece "Divine Comedy". During last year's India-Italy virtual summit, the then Italian PM Giuseppe Conte had invited the Indian PM Modi to his country for the anniversary celebrations of Dante Alighieri. He has made many references to India, including references to River Ganges in his "Divine Comedy". Meanwhile, Italy will be present in the principal Indian film festivals and will promote "innovative projects" as part of the outreach. Screenings of documentaries dedicated to India by Italian film directors — Pasolini and Rossellini — are scheduled for open-air cinema sessions. The second half of 2021 will see an exhibition of Italian fashion inspired by India, which will be hosted in a historic monument in Delhi.

Italy increases cultural outreach in India

The Israeli envoy to India Ron Malka has said that the blast near the country's mission in New Delhi&nbsp;was a terror attack and there was "some evidence from the scene" to suggest that. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Malka said that it was "too early to say who is standing behind this evil attack... it is a terrorist attack, the target being the Israel embassy."

The minor blast near the Israeli mission in the high-security zone of India's national capital came even as the Beating Retreat ceremony was underway just 20 minutes away from the location.

The envoy pointed out, "this kind of events only strengthen us, give us more strength to go ahead, grow, progress" and "Israel, India ties will grow and thrive, and no one will be able to stop this."&nbsp;

The incident happened as both countries celebrate 29 years of the formal establishment of diplomatic ties.&nbsp;

WION: If you can give us the details of the Friday blast that took place near your mission?

Ambassador Ron Malka: Yesterday around 5 PM, there was a blast, an explosion just outside the Israeli embassy in Delhi. Once it happened, we raised an alert, and fortunately, nobody was hurt, and all the diplomats and families of diplomats are safe. We have our guidelines in these kinds of situations, and we follow them. We are safe now.

WION: What kind of conversations are you having with your Indian counterparts? The details.

Ambassador Ron Malka: Yesterday when this evil attack happened, we celebrated the 29th anniversary of the establishment of full diplomatic relations between India and Israel. Very fruitful and rewarding 29 years of diplomatic relations, so it might not be a coincidence.&nbsp;

The collaboration between India and Israel is a shining example for the world, how 2 countries should collaborate and cooperate.&nbsp; 
Yesterday, EAM Jaishankar called our minister of foreign affairs. The foreign secretary called our DG, your NSA called our NSA, they know each other very well.&nbsp;

On a continuous basis we share, we collaborate, we joint effort in many aspects, and in this investigation, Israeli and Indian authorities' agencies are working together. Putting all the parts together, pieces together, and building the puzzle to understand what happened here as we get full support and assistance.

WION: Do you think Iran has been responsible for the incident near the Israeli embassy?

Ambassador Ron Malka: Investigation still in its early stages. Too early to say who is standing behind this evil attack. Our assumption, yes, it is a terrorist attack, the target being the Israel embassy. It will take some more time to bring all the pieces together and who is standing behind this attack. All the options on the table and will take some time. Will find those responsible for the attack and will bring them to justice.

WION: You said, it's a terror attack. What is the evidence which makes you believe that it's a terror attack?

Ambassador Ron Malka: There is some evidence from the scene. We know what kind of bomb is used in this kind of event and other pieces. I don't want to get into the details of the investigation. Its still ongoing, but can share with you, Israeli diplomats all over the world, we are considered as a target in the eyes of our enemies. We are very well prepared.&nbsp;

There was an attack in 1992 at the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, there was a terror attack against Israeli diplomats in 2012. So we are very well prepared. In the last few weeks, due to some incidents that happened all over the world, some of them are related to Israel, we raised the level of alert.

So we are not surprised, we are very well prepared and those who think they might stop us, or threaten us, this kind of events only strengthen us, give us more strength to go ahead, grow progress and Israel, India ties will grow and thrive and no one will be able to stop this.&nbsp;

WION: Since it's anniversary year, how do you see ties between India and Israel?

Ambassador Ron Malka: Even under the Pandemic, we collaborated and whatever happened under the pandemic will shape what will happen in the future.&nbsp;

Israel and India are shining examples of how countries, friend countries should collaborate and work together. After the pandemic, we did join research on a rapid test for covid, a scientist from India and Israel joined forces and conducted a very high research effort.&nbsp;

We supported and helped each other in exchange of shared practices, medicines, and all over achievements, medical supplies, and medical equipment for tackling the pandemic.

This kind of collaboration is based on mutual respect and trust is a shining example of countries that should collaborate and even under the pandemic, we signed new agreements on water projects, innovation, health care, culture. Even under the pandemic, new centers of excellence for agriculture were established. That is what is going on between India and Israel. Ties are growing and expanding.&nbsp;

WION: How has been the counter-terror collaboration between the 2 countries?

Ambassador Ron Malka: As I always say, Israel and India, not only share the same values and interests, we also have similar hostilities and threats. As far as counter-terrorism is concerned, we collaborate, share information and knowledge, and practices. This is a shining example for our countries, to get united, collaborate, and work together. If the world will get united against terror, we are going to win against terrorism. Because terrorism is a global disease, the world should internalize that and get united and once this happens, we will defeat terror.

The Israeli envoy to India Ron Malka has said that the blast near the country's mission in New Delhi was a terror attack and there was "some evidence from the scene" to suggest that.

The Israeli envoy to India Ron Malka has said that the blast near the country's mission in New Delhi was a terror attack and there was "some evidence from the scene" to suggest that. Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Malka said that it was "too early to say who is standing behind this evil attack... it is a terrorist attack, the target being the Israel embassy." The minor blast near the Israeli mission in the high-security zone of India's national capital came even as the Beating Retreat ceremony was underway just 20 minutes away from the location. The envoy pointed out, "this kind of events only strengthen us, give us more strength to go ahead, grow, progress" and "Israel, India ties will grow and thrive, and no one will be able to stop this." The incident happened as both countries celebrate 29 years of the formal establishment of diplomatic ties. WION: If you can give us the details of the Friday blast that took place near your mission? Ambassador Ron Malka: Yesterday around 5 PM, there was a blast, an explosion just outside the Israeli embassy in Delhi. Once it happened, we raised an alert, and fortunately, nobody was hurt, and all the diplomats and families of diplomats are safe. We have our guidelines in these kinds of situations, and we follow them. We are safe now. WION: What kind of conversations are you having with your Indian counterparts? The details. Ambassador Ron Malka: Yesterday when this evil attack happened, we celebrated the 29th anniversary of the establishment of full diplomatic relations between India and Israel. Very fruitful and rewarding 29 years of diplomatic relations, so it might not be a coincidence. The collaboration between India and Israel is a shining example for the world, how 2 countries should collaborate and cooperate. Yesterday, EAM Jaishankar called our minister of foreign affairs. The foreign secretary called our DG, your NSA called our NSA, they know each other very well. On a continuous basis we share, we collaborate, we joint effort in many aspects, and in this investigation, Israeli and Indian authorities' agencies are working together. Putting all the parts together, pieces together, and building the puzzle to understand what happened here as we get full support and assistance. WION: Do you think Iran has been responsible for the incident near the Israeli embassy? Ambassador Ron Malka: Investigation still in its early stages. Too early to say who is standing behind this evil attack. Our assumption, yes, it is a terrorist attack, the target being the Israel embassy. It will take some more time to bring all the pieces together and who is standing behind this attack. All the options on the table and will take some time. Will find those responsible for the attack and will bring them to justice. WION: You said, it's a terror attack. What is the evidence which makes you believe that it's a terror attack? Ambassador Ron Malka: There is some evidence from the scene. We know what kind of bomb is used in this kind of event and other pieces. I don't want to get into the details of the investigation. Its still ongoing, but can share with you, Israeli diplomats all over the world, we are considered as a target in the eyes of our enemies. We are very well prepared. There was an attack in 1992 at the Israeli embassy in Buenos Aires, there was a terror attack against Israeli diplomats in 2012. So we are very well prepared. In the last few weeks, due to some incidents that happened all over the world, some of them are related to Israel, we raised the level of alert. So we are not surprised, we are very well prepared and those who think they might stop us, or threaten us, this kind of events only strengthen us, give us more strength to go ahead, grow progress and Israel, India ties will grow and thrive and no one will be able to stop this. WION: Since it's anniversary year, how do you see ties between India and Israel? Ambassador Ron Malka: Even under the Pandemic, we collaborated and whatever happened under the pandemic will shape what will happen in the future. Israel and India are shining examples of how countries, friend countries should collaborate and work together. After the pandemic, we did join research on a rapid test for covid, a scientist from India and Israel joined forces and conducted a very high research effort. We supported and helped each other in exchange of shared practices, medicines, and all over achievements, medical supplies, and medical equipment for tackling the pandemic. This kind of collaboration is based on mutual respect and trust is a shining example of countries that should collaborate and even under the pandemic, we signed new agreements on water projects, innovation, health care, culture. Even under the pandemic, new centers of excellence for agriculture were established. That is what is going on between India and Israel. Ties are growing and expanding. WION: How has been the counter-terror collaboration between the 2 countries? Ambassador Ron Malka: As I always say, Israel and India, not only share the same values and interests, we also have similar hostilities and threats. As far as counter-terrorism is concerned, we collaborate, share information and knowledge, and practices. This is a shining example for our countries, to get united, collaborate, and work together. If the world will get united against terror, we are going to win against terrorism. Because terrorism is a global disease, the world should internalize that and get united and once this happens, we will defeat terror.

Exclusive: Evidence suggests Delhi blast was terror attack, says Israeli envoy to India

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament.

Pointing out to the "efforts made to disrupt the peace at LAC" which was done in the "utter disregard of bilateral relations and agreements" the President said, "twenty of our jawans made the supreme sacrifice and laid down their lives defending the country at Galwan Valley. Every citizen is deeply indebted to these martyrs."

In June of last year, the Chinese forces in an act of aggression tried to occupy the Galwan valley. During the act, while India lost 20 of its soldiers, China also suffered casualties but never came up with figures. 
 
The incident was a major setback to ties between the 2 countries, and since then despite multiple rounds of talks, China has refused to disengage from the region. &nbsp;

President said, "our security forces not only responded" with "promptitude, force and courage but also foiled all attempts to change the status quo at the border" and the "restraint, valour and courage displayed by our jawans, deserve utmost praise."

The soldiers who died were honoured with Gallantry awards posthumously earlier this week. The commanding officer of 16 Bihar regiment, Late Colonel B Santosh Babu was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra, the 2nd highest military award, while other soldiers who died were honoured with Vir Chakras, Sena Medals.

The President in the address which marks the beginning of the Budget session of the Parliament said, "My Government is vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the country" and "additional forces have also been deployed at the LAC to protect the sovereignty of India."

The speech of the President is an important tradition of the Indian Parliament and is a policy statement of the government. The address saw President Kovind mentioning India's covid vaccine out-reach, BRICS presidency this year, and 2-year term at the United Nations Security Council.

He said, "Living up to the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam’, India has, in addition to fulfilling its domestic requirements, supplied essential medicines to more than 150 countries. India is committed to ensuring the availability of vaccine at the global level."

India's mega repatriation mission--Vande Bharat Mission’ and diplomacy amid the covid crisis was also mentioned. President elaborated, "It is a matter of pride for the country that ‘Vande Bharat Mission’, which is the biggest mission of its kind organized anywhere in the world, is being hailed universally."

Adding, “During this period, India has further bolstered international cooperation by holding a large number of apex summits, multilateral events and official meetings"

Under the mission, about 50 lakh Indians were brought back from various parts of the world and more than 1 lakh foreign nationals were sent to their respective countries. During the Pandemic, Indian PM had virtual summits with several countries--Australia, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh etc, and the External Affairs Minister also had such meetings with his many counterparts.

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament.

The Indian President Ram Nath Kovind has paid homage to the 20 Indian soldiers who died in the Galwan incident during his address to the joint session of the Indian Parliament. Pointing out to the "efforts made to disrupt the peace at LAC" which was done in the "utter disregard of bilateral relations and agreements" the President said, "twenty of our jawans made the supreme sacrifice and laid down their lives defending the country at Galwan Valley. Every citizen is deeply indebted to these martyrs." In June of last year, the Chinese forces in an act of aggression tried to occupy the Galwan valley. During the act, while India lost 20 of its soldiers, China also suffered casualties but never came up with figures. The incident was a major setback to ties between the 2 countries, and since then despite multiple rounds of talks, China has refused to disengage from the region. President said, "our security forces not only responded" with "promptitude, force and courage but also foiled all attempts to change the status quo at the border" and the "restraint, valour and courage displayed by our jawans, deserve utmost praise." The soldiers who died were honoured with Gallantry awards posthumously earlier this week. The commanding officer of 16 Bihar regiment, Late Colonel B Santosh Babu was honoured with Maha Vir Chakra, the 2nd highest military award, while other soldiers who died were honoured with Vir Chakras, Sena Medals. The President in the address which marks the beginning of the Budget session of the Parliament said, "My Government is vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding the interests of the country" and "additional forces have also been deployed at the LAC to protect the sovereignty of India." The speech of the President is an important tradition of the Indian Parliament and is a policy statement of the government. The address saw President Kovind mentioning India's covid vaccine out-reach, BRICS presidency this year, and 2-year term at the United Nations Security Council. He said, "Living up to the spirit of ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakkam’, India has, in addition to fulfilling its domestic requirements, supplied essential medicines to more than 150 countries. India is committed to ensuring the availability of vaccine at the global level." India's mega repatriation mission--Vande Bharat Mission’ and diplomacy amid the covid crisis was also mentioned. President elaborated, "It is a matter of pride for the country that ‘Vande Bharat Mission’, which is the biggest mission of its kind organized anywhere in the world, is being hailed universally." Adding, “During this period, India has further bolstered international cooperation by holding a large number of apex summits, multilateral events and official meetings" Under the mission, about 50 lakh Indians were brought back from various parts of the world and more than 1 lakh foreign nationals were sent to their respective countries. During the Pandemic, Indian PM had virtual summits with several countries--Australia, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Uzbekistan, Bangladesh etc, and the External Affairs Minister also had such meetings with his many counterparts.

In an address to parliament, President pays homage to brave hearts of Galwan, highlights vaccine exports

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-supreme-court-orders-immediate-release-of-daniel-pearl-murder-prime-suspect-359828">Daniel Pearl</a> in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice".

Highlighting the "very low conviction rate in Pakistan" when it comes to sentencing of terror accused, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "this case truly demonstrates Pakistan’s intent on taking action on the terror front. It is a travesty of justice not to find Omar Saeed guilty of any charges in this heinous act of terror."

Saeed was acquitted by Sindh High Court but the case was put on appeal which was dismissed by Pakistani Supreme Court. Two out of the three judges on the bench headed by Justice Mushir Alam ruled in favour of upholding the Sindh High Court's verdict.

India while reacting to the development called Islamabad to take "sustained, verifiable, credible and irreversible action" against terrorism and terrorist funding "emanating from all territory under its control remain unchanged."

Sheikh was one of the terrorists released during the infamous Indian Airlines plane IC 814 hijacking case in 1999. A Pakistani-British national, he was arrested by India in the 1990s for kidnapping western tourists.

The mother and father of Daniel Pearl, Ruth and Judea Pearl also strongly reacted to the development, saying the "release of these killers puts in danger journalists everywhere and the people of Pakistan", urging US government to take all "necessary actions under the law to correct this injustice."

Incidentally, after the 26/11 terror attacks, Omar Sheikh pretended to be the then Indian FM late Pranab Mukherjee and made a hoax call to former Pakistan President Zardari leading the country to be put on high alert. He did so while being in jail using UK sims.

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice".

India has sharply reacted to Pakistan acquitting Ahmed Omar Saeed Sheikh, the main accused in the killing of American journalist Daniel Pearl in 2002, calling it "travesty of justice". Highlighting the "very low conviction rate in Pakistan" when it comes to sentencing of terror accused, ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "this case truly demonstrates Pakistan’s intent on taking action on the terror front. It is a travesty of justice not to find Omar Saeed guilty of any charges in this heinous act of terror." Saeed was acquitted by Sindh High Court but the case was put on appeal which was dismissed by Pakistani Supreme Court. Two out of the three judges on the bench headed by Justice Mushir Alam ruled in favour of upholding the Sindh High Court's verdict. India while reacting to the development called Islamabad to take "sustained, verifiable, credible and irreversible action" against terrorism and terrorist funding "emanating from all territory under its control remain unchanged." Sheikh was one of the terrorists released during the infamous Indian Airlines plane IC 814 hijacking case in 1999. A Pakistani-British national, he was arrested by India in the 1990s for kidnapping western tourists. The mother and father of Daniel Pearl, Ruth and Judea Pearl also strongly reacted to the development, saying the "release of these killers puts in danger journalists everywhere and the people of Pakistan", urging US government to take all "necessary actions under the law to correct this injustice." Incidentally, after the 26/11 terror attacks, Omar Sheikh pretended to be the then Indian FM late Pranab Mukherjee and made a hoax call to former Pakistan President Zardari leading the country to be put on high alert. He did so while being in jail using UK sims.

Omar Sheikh's acquittal by Pakistan Supreme Court 'travesty of justice', says India

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism.

Speaking to the Russian media, he said, "we do not believe in vaccine competition we do not believe in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bahrain-becomes-first-country-in-west-asia-to-get-indias-covid-19-vaccine-gift-359867">vaccine</a> nationalism, we believe in vaccine cooperation and friendship and we intend to extend our hand of friendship to support the vaccination program of a number of countries who are in need of this."

He explained, "We will work through the UN, WHO as we move forward and I am sure in the weeks ahead there will cooperation between India and Russia on the global vaccination program."

Russia has its COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, which will be produced in India. India is known as the pharmacy of the world and supplies 60 per cent of the world's vaccines.

"We wish to reach out to our dear friends and neighbours and we have done so. We have given vaccination doses, supplies have been sent by air" to several neighbouring countries," Varma said, adding "this is just the beginning."

India has so far provided vaccines to over 10 countries, a majority have been gifted and include neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Myanmar.

Interestingly, the Indian envoy has been vaccinated using Russia's Sputnik V. Asked about it, he said, "'I'm very happy to tell you that I already received my first dose of the Sputnik V vaccine last week. I feel very well, there are no side effects." 
Many of the Indian diplomats at the embassy have also been vaccinated using the same vaccine.

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism.

Highlighting India's vaccine outreach to a number of countries, India's ambassador to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma has said that New Delhi believes in "vaccine cooperation" and not vaccine competition or nationalism. Speaking to the Russian media, he said, "we do not believe in vaccine competition we do not believe in vaccine nationalism, we believe in vaccine cooperation and friendship and we intend to extend our hand of friendship to support the vaccination program of a number of countries who are in need of this." He explained, "We will work through the UN, WHO as we move forward and I am sure in the weeks ahead there will cooperation between India and Russia on the global vaccination program." Russia has its COVID-19 vaccine Sputnik V, which will be produced in India. India is known as the pharmacy of the world and supplies 60 per cent of the world's vaccines. "We wish to reach out to our dear friends and neighbours and we have done so. We have given vaccination doses, supplies have been sent by air" to several neighbouring countries," Varma said, adding "this is just the beginning." India has so far provided vaccines to over 10 countries, a majority have been gifted and include neighbouring countries like Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Seychelles, Myanmar. Interestingly, the Indian envoy has been vaccinated using Russia's Sputnik V. Asked about it, he said, "'I'm very happy to tell you that I already received my first dose of the Sputnik V vaccine last week. I feel very well, there are no side effects." Many of the Indian diplomats at the embassy have also been vaccinated using the same vaccine.

We believe in vaccine cooperation, not competition, says Indian envoy to Russia Venkatesh Varma

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift.

Overall, it is the ninth country to which India has sent the vaccine gift. Vaccines gifts have been sent to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal., Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. India has got requests for vaccines from a whole host of countries across the globe, including from half a dozen Arab countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait.

India and Bahrain ties have drawn closer with high-level engagements. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country in November last year. During the visit, India's EAM had thanked the leadership of the country for taking "exceptional care" for the Indian community in the country amid the pandemic.

New Delhi had also provided assistance to Bahrain&nbsp;with supplies of medicines, medical equipment, and medical professionals amid the pandemic. Both countries have also operationalized the air bubbles arrangement for travel between the two countries.

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift.

Bahrain has become the latest country to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift. India has sent a gift of 1 lakh COVID-19 vaccines to Bahrain. Bahrain is the first country in west Asia to which New Delhi has sent the vaccine gift. Overall, it is the ninth country to which India has sent the vaccine gift. Vaccines gifts have been sent to Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal., Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles, Mauritius, and Sri Lanka. India has got requests for vaccines from a whole host of countries across the globe, including from half a dozen Arab countries like Egypt, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Kuwait. India and Bahrain ties have drawn closer with high-level engagements. External affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar had visited the country in November last year. During the visit, India's EAM had thanked the leadership of the country for taking "exceptional care" for the Indian community in the country amid the pandemic. New Delhi had also provided assistance to Bahrain with supplies of medicines, medical equipment, and medical professionals amid the pandemic. Both countries have also operationalized the air bubbles arrangement for travel between the two countries.

Bahrain becomes first country in West Asia to get India's COVID-19 vaccine gift

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.&nbsp;

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan&nbsp;incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-china-is-playing-the-distraction-game-at-lac-to-hide-wuhan-virus-weakness-at-home-359305" hreflang="en">How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home</a>

Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility"

He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas.

Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels.

Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG &amp; UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area.

"Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests.&nbsp;He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic".

As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world. Ties between the two countries have deteriorated significantly in the last one year due to the build-up by China at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh. The Galwan incident, in which 20 Indian soldiers died due to aggressive Chinese actions further impacted the ties. Also read: How China is playing the distraction game at LAC to hide Wuhan virus weakness at home Jaishankar said, "The events in eastern Ladakh last year so profoundly disturbed the relationship" and they "not only signal a disregard for commitments of minimizing the troop levels but also showed a willingness to breach peace and tranquility" He explained, "to date, we have yet to receive a credible explanation for a change in China's stance or reasons of the massing of troops" in border areas. Under the various pacts signed by the 2 countries, to maintain peace and tranquillity at LAC, there shall be no massing of troops. China also so far has refused to disengage in the area despite repeated rounds of talks at both diplomatic and military levels. Jaishankar listed out how China's created hurdles for India, pointing to several issues--the stapled visas issue, reluctance to deal with military commands, blocking NSG & UNSC bid, stopping listing of Pak based terrorist at UNSC, the promise of market access not delivered, violation of Indian sovereignty by CPEC and friction at the border area. "Far from mitigating the differences", EAM said, "events of 2020 have actually put our relationship under exceptional stress" and "development of ties can only be based on mutuality"--mutual respect, mutual sensitivity, and mutual interests. He said, "life can't carry on undisturbed despite the situation at the border" which simply is "not realistic". As a major impact of Chinese actions, India has banned many Chinese mobile apps, increased scrutiny on investment from the country. The national sentiment in the country has also turned very negative against China. This comes as globally Chinese actions have drawn criticism due to its aggressive acts with a whole host of countries--Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Canada, Vietnam etc.

Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties, says Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation. The incident of vandalisation of the Indian embassy in Rome happened ahead of India's Republic Day.

The flags of Khalistan were put in at night, with the anti-social elements, scribbling "Khalistan Zindabad" on the walls. The video was then shot by them and used for propaganda on social media.

In the strong protest, India highlighted that it "was an act of vandalism perpetrated by Khalistani extremists in the stealth of night" with Indian government sources pointing out, "we have taken up this specific incident with the Italian authorities and conveyed our concerns".

India reminded that the "safety and security of Indian diplomats and diplomatic premises is the responsibility of the Italian authorities", expressing confidence that the "Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future." New Delhi has been constantly raising its concerns with the Italian authorities and had done so recently ahead of Republic Day.

Khalistanis, especially backed by outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) has been active in many Western European countries and North American countries. Before Republic day, the SFJ had and its leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu had called for the removal of the Indian flag from Red Fort and announced "2.5 lakh US dollars" for it.

December saw protests by Khalistani elements in front of the Indian high commission in London and the consulate in Birmingham as well. Back then, London's Metropolitan Police was swift in acting, arrested 13 due to a violation of the pandemic protocols. During the protest was present Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is on National Investigation Agency's most wanted list.

The Indian govt sources commended the London Metropolitan Police for the "proactive role in preventing any untoward incident at the Indian High Commission in London."

UK's strong action since 2019 has prevented any untoward acts by Khalistanis in London in front of the Indian mission. 2019 saw major protests by the Pakistani diaspora who broke the window-pane of the Indian high commission in London.

India has been in touch with many global capitals over the safety and security of Its diplomatic premises ahead of Republic Day. Tuesday, which was India's Republic saw some incidents by Khalistanis in front of the Indian mission in Washington. In December, Khalistani elements had defaced the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Washington sparking condemnation by New Delhi and the US government.

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation.

India has strongly raised the vandalisation of the Indian mission, in Rome by Khalistan elements with Italian authorities, even as it has complimented how the UK handled the situation. The incident of vandalisation of the Indian embassy in Rome happened ahead of India's Republic Day. The flags of Khalistan were put in at night, with the anti-social elements, scribbling "Khalistan Zindabad" on the walls. The video was then shot by them and used for propaganda on social media. In the strong protest, India highlighted that it "was an act of vandalism perpetrated by Khalistani extremists in the stealth of night" with Indian government sources pointing out, "we have taken up this specific incident with the Italian authorities and conveyed our concerns". India reminded that the "safety and security of Indian diplomats and diplomatic premises is the responsibility of the Italian authorities", expressing confidence that the "Italian authorities will take action against the perpetrators and prevent such incidents from happening in the future." New Delhi has been constantly raising its concerns with the Italian authorities and had done so recently ahead of Republic Day. Khalistanis, especially backed by outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) has been active in many Western European countries and North American countries. Before Republic day, the SFJ had and its leader Gurpatwant Singh Pannu had called for the removal of the Indian flag from Red Fort and announced "2.5 lakh US dollars" for it. December saw protests by Khalistani elements in front of the Indian high commission in London and the consulate in Birmingham as well. Back then, London's Metropolitan Police was swift in acting, arrested 13 due to a violation of the pandemic protocols. During the protest was present Paramjit Singh Pamma, who is on National Investigation Agency's most wanted list. The Indian govt sources commended the London Metropolitan Police for the "proactive role in preventing any untoward incident at the Indian High Commission in London." UK's strong action since 2019 has prevented any untoward acts by Khalistanis in London in front of the Indian mission. 2019 saw major protests by the Pakistani diaspora who broke the window-pane of the Indian high commission in London. India has been in touch with many global capitals over the safety and security of Its diplomatic premises ahead of Republic Day. Tuesday, which was India's Republic saw some incidents by Khalistanis in front of the Indian mission in Washington. In December, Khalistani elements had defaced the statue of Mahatma Gandhi in Washington sparking condemnation by New Delhi and the US government.

India strongly raises vandalisation of its mission by Khalistanis with Italy, compliments UK

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport.

Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. &nbsp;A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. "

The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka.

Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift.

India will be gifting Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of India made COVID vaccines on Thursday (January 28) on a special Air India plane. It will be the 8th country in the region to get New Delhi's vaccine gift. The gift will ceremonially be handed over by High Commissioner Gopal Baglay at the Bandaranaiake International Airport. Last week India gifted vaccines to 8 countries-- Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Seychelles and Mauritius and sent commercial consignments to 3 countries--Brazil, Morocco and Bangladesh. A release from the Indian high commission in Colombo said, "The gift from India is keeping in line with India’s continued support to Sri Lanka in fighting the COVID pandemic. " The vaccine, Oxford-Astrazeneca’s Covishield is manufactured by Serum Institute of India. It was approved for use by govt last week. Interestingly, India's vaccine consignment comes to the country on auspicious Duruthu Poya Day and marks the day when Gautama Buddha first visited Sri Lanka. Amid the pandemic, India has been supplying medicines to many countries in the region including Sri Lanka. In May 2020, India had sent 12.5 tons of medical supplies to the country to deal with the pandemic. Under mission sagar 1, supplies were sent onboard Indian navy ships to 5 Indian ocean countries including Sri Lanka.

India to gift Sri Lanka 500,000 doses of COVID vaccine on Thursday

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation".

Brazilian President said, "Brazil and India have increasingly drawn closer and closer....on this occasion today as we&nbsp;celebrate India's Republic Day, kindly convey Mr. Ambassador to PM Modi, who I see a close friend, kindly send my best wishes with prosperous India."

It is also a significant departure from usual protocol because usually Presidents, and Prime Ministers, especially of large countries don't go to national day events organized by embassies.

Recalling how "India assisted with inputs" during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bolsonaro pointed out, "India has also lived up to all of the agreement and the commitments that were undertaken towards Brazil in the course of 2020". New Delhi had sent HCQ and paracetamol to the country last year during the pandemic.

The Indian envoy to Brazil, Suresh Reddy told WION, "The two countries have realised the potential to deepen the economic and commercial partnership which is also being reflected in the growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian companies in Brazil and from Brazil in India."

And just not the president was present, the entire cabinet of the Brazilian government was present at the function, making it the most well-attended event of recent times. Present on the occasion were, foreign minister Ernesto Araujo, economy minister Paulo Guedes, minister for energy, mines &amp; petroleum, minister for infrastructure Tersio, minister for communications Fabio Faraia, minister for education, minister for justice, minister for tourism.

"The presence of a large number of congressmen also reflected the bipartisan support to this dynamic India-Brazil partnership and increasing diversification of the engagement from energy to defence from ethanol to tourism", envoy Reddy explained to WION.

Interestingly, chief of naval forces, joint chief of staff were present on the occasion. The presence of the senior defence personnel shows the increasing engagement at a strategic level in the face of common challenges.

Last week India had sent a commercial supply of 20 lakh doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines. Bolsonaro was quick to thank India and the Indian Prime Minister, tweeting an image of Lord Hanuman bringing the "Sanjivani booti" from India to Brazil. Sanjivani Booti (herb) is the medicine Lord Hanuman delivered for Laxmana, the legendary warrior and brother of Lord Rama when he was injured in battle in the Indian epic Ramayana. But in Bolsonaro's tweet, the "Sanjivani Booti" is the COVID-19 vaccine.

Last year India had invited the Brazilian President as the chief guest of India's Republic Day.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; Both countries are members of the G20, BRICS.

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation".

In a rare honour and sign of close ties between India and Brazil, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended India's Republic Day celebrations organized by the Indian embassy in the national capital Brasília, calling India a "brotherly nation". Brazilian President said, "Brazil and India have increasingly drawn closer and closer....on this occasion today as we celebrate India's Republic Day, kindly convey Mr. Ambassador to PM Modi, who I see a close friend, kindly send my best wishes with prosperous India." It is also a significant departure from usual protocol because usually Presidents, and Prime Ministers, especially of large countries don't go to national day events organized by embassies. Recalling how "India assisted with inputs" during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bolsonaro pointed out, "India has also lived up to all of the agreement and the commitments that were undertaken towards Brazil in the course of 2020". New Delhi had sent HCQ and paracetamol to the country last year during the pandemic. The Indian envoy to Brazil, Suresh Reddy told WION, "The two countries have realised the potential to deepen the economic and commercial partnership which is also being reflected in the growth in bilateral trade and the increasing presence of Indian companies in Brazil and from Brazil in India." And just not the president was present, the entire cabinet of the Brazilian government was present at the function, making it the most well-attended event of recent times. Present on the occasion were, foreign minister Ernesto Araujo, economy minister Paulo Guedes, minister for energy, mines & petroleum, minister for infrastructure Tersio, minister for communications Fabio Faraia, minister for education, minister for justice, minister for tourism. "The presence of a large number of congressmen also reflected the bipartisan support to this dynamic India-Brazil partnership and increasing diversification of the engagement from energy to defence from ethanol to tourism", envoy Reddy explained to WION. Interestingly, chief of naval forces, joint chief of staff were present on the occasion. The presence of the senior defence personnel shows the increasing engagement at a strategic level in the face of common challenges. Last week India had sent a commercial supply of 20 lakh doses of India-made COVID-19 vaccines. Bolsonaro was quick to thank India and the Indian Prime Minister, tweeting an image of Lord Hanuman bringing the "Sanjivani booti" from India to Brazil. Sanjivani Booti (herb) is the medicine Lord Hanuman delivered for Laxmana, the legendary warrior and brother of Lord Rama when he was injured in battle in the Indian epic Ramayana. But in Bolsonaro's tweet, the "Sanjivani Booti" is the COVID-19 vaccine. Last year India had invited the Brazilian President as the chief guest of India's Republic Day. Both countries are members of the G20, BRICS.

Brazil President Bolsonaro attends India's Republic day celebration in Brasilia

Twitter has taken strong action against 300 Twitter accounts which&nbsp;may&nbsp;have been used to incite violence in Delhi on January 26. Twitter was also concerned that the visuals of the violent developments in Delhi on Republic Day could be used by many for their own propaganda.

A Twitter spokesperson in response to the WION question said, “We have taken strong enforcement action to protect the conversation on the service from attempts to incite violence, abuse and threats that could trigger the risk of offline harm by blocking certain terms that violate our rules for trends."

Explaining, "Using a combination of technology and human review, Twitter worked at scale and took action on hundreds of accounts and Tweets that have been in violation of the Twitter Rules, suspending more than 300 accounts engaged in spam and platform manipulation."

The statement pointed out, regardless of any political beliefs and background, action has been taken on accounts that have violated the Twitter Rules. "We are monitoring the situation closely and remain vigilant, and strongly encourage those on the service to report anything they believe is in violation of the rules", the statement said.

Twitter also made sure any several hashtags that might have used to spread violence and incite actions are prohibited from appearing in the trends section. The Indian govt has a number of times reached out to Twitter on misinformation being spread through fake and "ghost" Twitter accounts.&nbsp;Twitter has been working with Indian Law Enforcement agencies to ensure a clear way to "report content with valid legal process", and such requests are regularly disclosed in the company's biannual Twitter Transparency Report.

In the past, outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) and its chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannu have been active on social media and have been spreading their own "Khalistani" propaganda. Pannun, who has been declared as a terrorist under the UAPA by India had announced $250,000 for anyone who will raise Khalistani flag at the India Gate on Republic day on platforms like Twitter and social media. In an attempt to incite the situation number of fake profiles have been created on Twitter, something that Indian authorities have raised concern many times--privately and publicly.

Twitter has taken strong action against 300 Twitter accounts which may have been used to incite violence in Delhi on January 26. Twitter was also concerned that the visuals of the violent developments in Delhi on Republic Day could be used by many for their own propaganda.

Twitter has taken strong action against 300 Twitter accounts which may have been used to incite violence in Delhi on January 26. Twitter was also concerned that the visuals of the violent developments in Delhi on Republic Day could be used by many for their own propaganda. A Twitter spokesperson in response to the WION question said, “We have taken strong enforcement action to protect the conversation on the service from attempts to incite violence, abuse and threats that could trigger the risk of offline harm by blocking certain terms that violate our rules for trends." Explaining, "Using a combination of technology and human review, Twitter worked at scale and took action on hundreds of accounts and Tweets that have been in violation of the Twitter Rules, suspending more than 300 accounts engaged in spam and platform manipulation." The statement pointed out, regardless of any political beliefs and background, action has been taken on accounts that have violated the Twitter Rules. "We are monitoring the situation closely and remain vigilant, and strongly encourage those on the service to report anything they believe is in violation of the rules", the statement said. Twitter also made sure any several hashtags that might have used to spread violence and incite actions are prohibited from appearing in the trends section. The Indian govt has a number of times reached out to Twitter on misinformation being spread through fake and "ghost" Twitter accounts. Twitter has been working with Indian Law Enforcement agencies to ensure a clear way to "report content with valid legal process", and such requests are regularly disclosed in the company's biannual Twitter Transparency Report. In the past, outlawed groups like Sikh for Justice (SFJ) and its chief Gurpatwant Singh Pannu have been active on social media and have been spreading their own "Khalistani" propaganda. Pannun, who has been declared as a terrorist under the UAPA by India had announced $250,000 for anyone who will raise Khalistani flag at the India Gate on Republic day on platforms like Twitter and social media. In an attempt to incite the situation number of fake profiles have been created on Twitter, something that Indian authorities have raised concern many times--privately and publicly.

Delhi clashes: Twitter suspended 300 accounts on Tuesday

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

Speaking at the meet, India's envoy to UN &nbsp;T.S. Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi's "human resource development and institutional building" for Palestine and has "currently undertaking several projects in many sectors, including health, education and, the technology of around USD 72 million."

India has also provided over 250 scholarships for Palestinian youth and officials on an annual basis. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Tirumurti said, "India has supplied critical life-saving drugs and medical equipment to Palestine as assistance."

On the peace process, the Indian envoy reaffirmed its India's policy for "just and comprehensive solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict", welcoming "all peaceful efforts to achieve the two-State solution, through direct negotiations between the two parties."

New Delhi's policy on the issue has been supporting for a sovereign and independent Palestine living side by side in peace and security with Israel.

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India has reiterated its position on the Israel-Palestine conflict and pointed out its consistent support to "Palestinian nation-building efforts" during a discussion on the issue at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Speaking at the meet, India's envoy to UN T.S. Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi's "human resource development and institutional building" for Palestine and has "currently undertaking several projects in many sectors, including health, education and, the technology of around USD 72 million." India has also provided over 250 scholarships for Palestinian youth and officials on an annual basis. Amid the coronavirus pandemic, Tirumurti said, "India has supplied critical life-saving drugs and medical equipment to Palestine as assistance." On the peace process, the Indian envoy reaffirmed its India's policy for "just and comprehensive solution to the Israel-Palestine conflict", welcoming "all peaceful efforts to achieve the two-State solution, through direct negotiations between the two parties." New Delhi's policy on the issue has been supporting for a sovereign and independent Palestine living side by side in peace and security with Israel.

Consistently supported Palestinian nation-building efforts, says India's Tirumurti

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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