India, as a member of the United Nations Security Council will be heading 3 crucial committees — the Taliban sanctions committee, the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022, and the Libya sanctions committee.&nbsp;

With New Delhi chairing the Taliban sanctions and counter-terror committees, India gets a crucial multilateral say in the Afghan peace process and Pakistan's terror record, which will increase the heat on Islamabad.&nbsp;

India's envoy for UN TS Tirumurti said, "The UNSC establishes subsidiary bodies on specific issues, including on sanctions regime....The Taliban sanctions committee also called the 1988 sanctions committee has always been a high priority for India keeping in mind our strong interest and commitment for peace, security, development, and progress of Afghanistan."

With a clear foothold in the Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight will come even more on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror.

The Indian envoy highlighted, "our chairing of the committee in this juncture will help keep the focus on the presence of terrorists and their sponsors threatening peace process in Afghanistan. It has been our view, which peace process and violence cannot go hand in hand"

It is important to recall, that the Taliban has to take approval from the sanctions committee members for travel. Recently the top members of the group including, Abdul Ghani Baradar was in Pakistan and met the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi. An increased level of violence may dissuade members to give future approval on travel for the Taliban.

India already has a bilateral focus in Afghanistan, by building a number of major infrastructure projects in the country and be part of the capacity building. The current development increases New Delhi's engagement in a global format. 
&nbsp; 
On chairing the Counter Terror body, the envoy said, "The chairing of this committee has been a special resonance for India which has not only been in the forefront of fighting terrorism especially cross border terrorism but has also been one of its biggest victims"

India chairs the committee in 2022, which is also its 75th Independence year with New Delhi expected to put further scrutiny on terror sponsors by being part of the body. The committee was formed after the 9/11 attacks in New York and bolsters the ability of United Nations Member States to prevent terrorist acts both within their borders and across regions. India had chaired the committee in its last tenure at UNSC in 2011-2012.

When it comes to the Libya Sanctions Committee, also known as the 1970 sanctions committee, the Indian envoy said, "we will be assuming the chair of the committee at a critical juncture when there is international focus on Libya and on the peace process"

The committee implements the sanctions regime, a 2-way arms embargo on Libya, assets freeze, travel ban, measures on the illicit exports of petroleum etc. The permanent five members of the UNSC play an important role in this committee and development comes as New Delhi increases its wider engagement in that part of the world.

India, as a member of the United Nations Security Council will be heading 3 crucial committees — the Taliban sanctions committee, the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022, and the Libya sanctions committee.

India, as a member of the United Nations Security Council will be heading 3 crucial committees — the Taliban sanctions committee, the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022, and the Libya sanctions committee. With New Delhi chairing the Taliban sanctions and counter-terror committees, India gets a crucial multilateral say in the Afghan peace process and Pakistan's terror record, which will increase the heat on Islamabad. India's envoy for UN TS Tirumurti said, "The UNSC establishes subsidiary bodies on specific issues, including on sanctions regime....The Taliban sanctions committee also called the 1988 sanctions committee has always been a high priority for India keeping in mind our strong interest and commitment for peace, security, development, and progress of Afghanistan." With a clear foothold in the Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight will come even more on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror. The Indian envoy highlighted, "our chairing of the committee in this juncture will help keep the focus on the presence of terrorists and their sponsors threatening peace process in Afghanistan. It has been our view, which peace process and violence cannot go hand in hand" It is important to recall, that the Taliban has to take approval from the sanctions committee members for travel. Recently the top members of the group including, Abdul Ghani Baradar was in Pakistan and met the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and FM Shah Mehmood Qureshi. An increased level of violence may dissuade members to give future approval on travel for the Taliban. India already has a bilateral focus in Afghanistan, by building a number of major infrastructure projects in the country and be part of the capacity building. The current development increases New Delhi's engagement in a global format. On chairing the Counter Terror body, the envoy said, "The chairing of this committee has been a special resonance for India which has not only been in the forefront of fighting terrorism especially cross border terrorism but has also been one of its biggest victims" India chairs the committee in 2022, which is also its 75th Independence year with New Delhi expected to put further scrutiny on terror sponsors by being part of the body. The committee was formed after the 9/11 attacks in New York and bolsters the ability of United Nations Member States to prevent terrorist acts both within their borders and across regions. India had chaired the committee in its last tenure at UNSC in 2011-2012. When it comes to the Libya Sanctions Committee, also known as the 1970 sanctions committee, the Indian envoy said, "we will be assuming the chair of the committee at a critical juncture when there is international focus on Libya and on the peace process" The committee implements the sanctions regime, a 2-way arms embargo on Libya, assets freeze, travel ban, measures on the illicit exports of petroleum etc. The permanent five members of the UNSC play an important role in this committee and development comes as New Delhi increases its wider engagement in that part of the world.

India gets multilateral foothold in Afghan peace process, Pakistan's terror record as it heads crucial UNSC committees

French President Macron's top diplomatic advisor who is in India for talks has assured his country's support to New Delhi at the United Nations Security Council and has highlighted how Paris did not allow China "play..games"

Emmanuel Bonne said, "I mean the direct threats to India, we have always been very clear. Whether on Kashmir we have been very supportive of India in the Security Council, we have not let the Chinese play any kind of procedural games."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ties-with-pakistan-at-historic-low-says-french-presidents-top-diplomatic-advisor-355209">Ties with Pakistan at 'historic low', says French President's top diplomatic advisor</a>

Since 2019, after India removed the special status for the erstwhile Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, China in cohorts with Pakistan has been attempting to raise the issue at the council, irking New Delhi.

The French Diplomat said, "India will be a member of the UN security council for 2 years, that is a critical occasion for us to take initiatives on....Indo pacific region, or generally speaking about addressing the terrorist threats...We will be available to work with you at the security council."

France has always backed India's permanent membership of the council. Earlier this month, India became a non-permanent member of the council for a 2-year term period. Interestingly, Bonne was a member of the French team when India was last at the UNSC in the 2011-2012 period.

Asked about Chinese aggressiveness with India, he said, "Let us not go for confrontation and it's much easier to say this from Paris, than from Delhi when you almost have a problem in the Himalayas and when you have Pakistan at your border...When it comes to the Himalayas, just check our statement we are perfectly clear. What we say publicly, we say to the Chinese also privately."

Last year saw the visit of French Defence Minister to India amid the India China Line of actual control row. She was in India for the induction ceremony of Rafales in the Indian airforce.

French President Macron's top diplomatic advisor who is in India for talks has assured his country's support to New Delhi at the United Nations Security Council and has highlighted how Paris did not allow China "play.

French President Macron's top diplomatic advisor who is in India for talks has assured his country's support to New Delhi at the United Nations Security Council and has highlighted how Paris did not allow China "play..games" Emmanuel Bonne said, "I mean the direct threats to India, we have always been very clear. Whether on Kashmir we have been very supportive of India in the Security Council, we have not let the Chinese play any kind of procedural games." Also read | Ties with Pakistan at 'historic low', says French President's top diplomatic advisor Since 2019, after India removed the special status for the erstwhile Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, China in cohorts with Pakistan has been attempting to raise the issue at the council, irking New Delhi. The French Diplomat said, "India will be a member of the UN security council for 2 years, that is a critical occasion for us to take initiatives on....Indo pacific region, or generally speaking about addressing the terrorist threats...We will be available to work with you at the security council." France has always backed India's permanent membership of the council. Earlier this month, India became a non-permanent member of the council for a 2-year term period. Interestingly, Bonne was a member of the French team when India was last at the UNSC in the 2011-2012 period. Asked about Chinese aggressiveness with India, he said, "Let us not go for confrontation and it's much easier to say this from Paris, than from Delhi when you almost have a problem in the Himalayas and when you have Pakistan at your border...When it comes to the Himalayas, just check our statement we are perfectly clear. What we say publicly, we say to the Chinese also privately." Last year saw the visit of French Defence Minister to India amid the India China Line of actual control row. She was in India for the induction ceremony of Rafales in the Indian airforce.

French Prez's top advisor extends support to India at UNSC, says Paris did not allow Chinese 'games' at the council

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year.

Emmanuel Bonne who is in Delhi for India France Strategic dialogue said: "During this crisis, after the campaign against us, our relations with Pakistan probably are at a historic low. This is not exactly what we want, we assume it because our priorities and language are clear."

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indian-pm-speaks-to-macron-conveyed-condolences-for-france-terror-attacks-348303/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan criticised French President Emmanuel Macron last year after the latter called for upholding his country's right to expression over terror attacks involving beheading after caricatures of Prophet Muhammad were shown. Later widespread protests were seen in Pakistan against France by hardline groups and calls by lawmakers to recall the country's envoy to Paris.

Bonne, who was speaking at Vivekananda Foundation thanked India for support amid Islamabad's criticism. He said, "We very much appreciate the support we got not only from your authorities but also from Indian civil society, when our country was under attack by some leaders in Turkey and Pakistan and in other countries".

Adding how they were trying to "create distance between us and the Muslim world and this was certainly not what we were doing, certainly what we don't want, this is for the simple reason that we have a long history with the Muslim world. We have affinities with countries in the Muslim world. It was critical for us to able to say, India is reverse in this, which means you are countering disinformation, fighting terrorism."

India had issued a strong statement, deploring the "personal attacks in unacceptable language" on President Macron which the Ministry of external affairs said was "in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse". What stood out was the spontaneous support by Indian society for France, with the Twitter trend #StandWithFrance also seen.

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year.

French President's top diplomatic advisor has said Paris's ties with Pakistan are at a "historic low" in the backdrop of comments by its leadership against the country amid the terror attacks last year. Emmanuel Bonne who is in Delhi for India France Strategic dialogue said: "During this crisis, after the campaign against us, our relations with Pakistan probably are at a historic low. This is not exactly what we want, we assume it because our priorities and language are clear." Watch | Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan criticised French President Emmanuel Macron last year after the latter called for upholding his country's right to expression over terror attacks involving beheading after caricatures of Prophet Muhammad were shown. Later widespread protests were seen in Pakistan against France by hardline groups and calls by lawmakers to recall the country's envoy to Paris. Bonne, who was speaking at Vivekananda Foundation thanked India for support amid Islamabad's criticism. He said, "We very much appreciate the support we got not only from your authorities but also from Indian civil society, when our country was under attack by some leaders in Turkey and Pakistan and in other countries". Adding how they were trying to "create distance between us and the Muslim world and this was certainly not what we were doing, certainly what we don't want, this is for the simple reason that we have a long history with the Muslim world. We have affinities with countries in the Muslim world. It was critical for us to able to say, India is reverse in this, which means you are countering disinformation, fighting terrorism." India had issued a strong statement, deploring the "personal attacks in unacceptable language" on President Macron which the Ministry of external affairs said was "in violation of the most basic standards of international discourse". What stood out was the spontaneous support by Indian society for France, with the Twitter trend #StandWithFrance also seen.

Ties with Pakistan at 'historic low', says French President's top diplomatic advisor

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has made a pitch for New Delhi's support to Africa at the United Nations Security Council, not only backing an African seat at the council but also highlighting India's partnership for the continent.&nbsp; &nbsp;

He said, "India&nbsp;welcomes the evolution and rise of Africa as a key factor in the contemporary world. We are committed to supporting African countries in this endeavour, as per African priorities and without conditionalities."&nbsp;

Adding, "India will continue to support Africa’s aspirations and work towards empowering Africa for a future that is founded on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, transparency, and socio-economic development with dignity and respect."

India has executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries and currently, around 77 projects are under execution. New Delhi has committed US$ 1.7 billion as soft loans for solar projects in the continent and has offered 50,000 scholarships to African students.

On no African representation at the UNSC, Shringla said, "the African continent does not even have a single voice amongst the permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council to defend its own interests. This historical anomaly needs to be corrected by supporting the Ezulwini consensus."

African Union's Ezulwini Consensus calls for African seats at the top UN body which is 5 permanent members, none from Africa.&nbsp;&nbsp;

India's top diplomat also pointed out how India reached out to the continent amid the pandemic. He said,"&nbsp;India has supplied critical medicines to several countries in Africa to help them fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Premier Indian institutions and hospitals have been linked to 16 African countries to offer tele-education and tele-medicine services through the e-Vidya Bharati and e-Arogya Bharati portals."

In addition to India's FS, other world leaders present at the UNSC meeting were UN&nbsp;Secretary-General Antonio Guterres,&nbsp;Chairperson of the African Union Commission&nbsp;Moussa Faki Mahamat,&nbsp;Former President of Liberia&nbsp;Ellen Johnson Sirleaf,&nbsp;Tunisian President,&nbsp;Kaïs Saïed, Niger's President Issoufou Mahamadou, Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta,&nbsp;Prime Minister&nbsp;of&nbsp;Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph E. Gonsalves, Ireland's&nbsp;Taoiseach&nbsp;Micheál Martin, Norway's Foreign minister Ine Eriksen Søreide, Mexico's FM Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón, UK's&nbsp;Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa&nbsp;James Cleverly, Vietnam's&nbsp;Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs&nbsp;Le Hoai Trung and France's&nbsp;Minister of State for Tourism, French Nationals Abroad and Francophonie,&nbsp;Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has made a pitch for New Delhi's support to Africa at the United Nations Security Council, not only backing an African seat at the council but also highlighting India's partnership for the continent.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla has made a pitch for New Delhi's support to Africa at the United Nations Security Council, not only backing an African seat at the council but also highlighting India's partnership for the continent. He said, "India welcomes the evolution and rise of Africa as a key factor in the contemporary world. We are committed to supporting African countries in this endeavour, as per African priorities and without conditionalities." Adding, "India will continue to support Africa’s aspirations and work towards empowering Africa for a future that is founded on the principles of inclusivity, sustainability, transparency, and socio-economic development with dignity and respect." India has executed 189 developmental projects in 37 African countries and currently, around 77 projects are under execution. New Delhi has committed US$ 1.7 billion as soft loans for solar projects in the continent and has offered 50,000 scholarships to African students. On no African representation at the UNSC, Shringla said, "the African continent does not even have a single voice amongst the permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council to defend its own interests. This historical anomaly needs to be corrected by supporting the Ezulwini consensus." African Union's Ezulwini Consensus calls for African seats at the top UN body which is 5 permanent members, none from Africa. India's top diplomat also pointed out how India reached out to the continent amid the pandemic. He said," India has supplied critical medicines to several countries in Africa to help them fight the COVID-19 pandemic. Premier Indian institutions and hospitals have been linked to 16 African countries to offer tele-education and tele-medicine services through the e-Vidya Bharati and e-Arogya Bharati portals." In addition to India's FS, other world leaders present at the UNSC meeting were UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Chairperson of the African Union Commission Moussa Faki Mahamat, Former President of Liberia Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, Tunisian President, Kaïs Saïed, Niger's President Issoufou Mahamadou, Kenya's President Uhuru Kenyatta, Prime Minister of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Ralph E. Gonsalves, Ireland's Taoiseach Micheál Martin, Norway's Foreign minister Ine Eriksen Søreide, Mexico's FM Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón, UK's Minister of State for the Middle East and North Africa James Cleverly, Vietnam's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung and France's Minister of State for Tourism, French Nationals Abroad and Francophonie, Jean-Baptiste Lemoyne.

India welcomes the rise of Africa, says Foreign Secretary Shringla at UNSC

India has warned that Syrian Chemical weapons can fall into the hands of terrorists, in the first public statement after New Delhi began its two-year term at the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member.

India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti said, "India remains concerned about the possibility of such weapons falling into the hands of terrorist organizations and individuals. Terrorist groups have taken advantage of the decade long conflict in Syria to entrench themselves posing a threat to the entire region."

"The world cannot afford to give these terrorists any sanctuary or dilute its fight against these terrorist groups,"&nbsp;Tirumurti added.

The Security Council on Tuesday took up the latest report on the activities of Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in implementing Security Council resolution and its Executive Council decisions in relation to the elimination of the Syrian chemical weapons programme.

Ambassador Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi policy on chemical weapons, saying "India has been firmly opposed to any use of chemical weapons anywhere, at any time, by anybody, and under any circumstances. We strongly condemn the use of chemical weapons, and there can be no justification for their use."

It is important to note that India has provided a financial contribution of US$ 1 million to the OPCW Trust Fund for activities relating to the destruction of chemical stockpiles and related facilities in Syria.

On the situation in Syria, the Indian envoy emphasized that New Delhi "has consistently called for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict through a Syrian-led dialogue, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria."

Pointing out that,"We have also contributed to the return of normalcy and rebuilding of Syria through humanitarian assistance and human resource development."

India supports both the Geneva and the Astana processes for peace in Syria.&nbsp;

India has warned that Syrian Chemical weapons can fall into the hands of terrorists, in the first public statement after New Delhi began its two-year term at the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member.

India has warned that Syrian Chemical weapons can fall into the hands of terrorists, in the first public statement after New Delhi began its two-year term at the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member. India's envoy to UN, TS Tirumurti said, "India remains concerned about the possibility of such weapons falling into the hands of terrorist organizations and individuals. Terrorist groups have taken advantage of the decade long conflict in Syria to entrench themselves posing a threat to the entire region." "The world cannot afford to give these terrorists any sanctuary or dilute its fight against these terrorist groups," Tirumurti added. The Security Council on Tuesday took up the latest report on the activities of Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) in implementing Security Council resolution and its Executive Council decisions in relation to the elimination of the Syrian chemical weapons programme. Ambassador Tirumurti highlighted New Delhi policy on chemical weapons, saying "India has been firmly opposed to any use of chemical weapons anywhere, at any time, by anybody, and under any circumstances. We strongly condemn the use of chemical weapons, and there can be no justification for their use." It is important to note that India has provided a financial contribution of US$ 1 million to the OPCW Trust Fund for activities relating to the destruction of chemical stockpiles and related facilities in Syria. On the situation in Syria, the Indian envoy emphasized that New Delhi "has consistently called for a comprehensive and peaceful resolution of the Syrian conflict through a Syrian-led dialogue, taking into account the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria." Pointing out that,"We have also contributed to the return of normalcy and rebuilding of Syria through humanitarian assistance and human resource development." India supports both the Geneva and the Astana processes for peace in Syria.

At UNSC, India warns of Syrian chemical weapons falling into the hands of terrorists

In her New Year's address to the nation, Myanmar's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi has announced that her country will get the COVID-19 <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-begin-coronavirus-vaccine-roll-out-in-10-days-government-354599">vaccine</a> from India and that a contract has been signed regarding it.&nbsp;

&nbsp;"The purchase contract for buying the first batch of the vaccines from India has already been signed. As soon as the authorities concerned in India have issued permission to use this vaccine, we have made arrangements for the import of these vaccines into Myanmar,"

Last year the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Army Chief MM Naravane had jointly visited the country. The visit saw high-level assurances from India that Myanmar will be a priority when it comes to the vaccine. Shringla also handed over 3000 vials of Remdesivir as a symbol of India‘s commitment to helping Myanmar mitigate the impact of COVID-19.

Myanmar has signed MoU with the Serum Institute of India for Covishield. Over the weekend, India's drug regulator gave approval for its use.

The state counsellor highlighted that the first priority group to get the vaccine will be medical professionals and medical personnel which will take place in February.&nbsp;

"There is a lot of competition as all the countries of the world are trying to get this vaccine. However, we believe that the vaccination programme could be carried out all over the country step-by-step," San Suu Kyi added.

"During the period when the vaccines are still not available, I wish to appeal to the people to abide by the health rules and regulations and give support to our efforts to beat COVID-19. Please be vigilant; please be patient. Please brace yourself by visioning the future. We are all in this together," she added.

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India reaffirmed its position as the pharma capital of the world by sending medicines like HCQ, paracetamol to more than 150 countries.&nbsp;

New Delhi also organised training to build capacity. In fact, for the neighbourhood, India has organized two training modules in which about 90 health experts and scientists have participated.

In her New Year's address to the nation, Myanmar's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi has announced that her country will get the COVID-19 vaccine from India and that a contract has been signed regarding it.

In her New Year's address to the nation, Myanmar's state counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi has announced that her country will get the COVID-19 vaccine from India and that a contract has been signed regarding it. "The purchase contract for buying the first batch of the vaccines from India has already been signed. As soon as the authorities concerned in India have issued permission to use this vaccine, we have made arrangements for the import of these vaccines into Myanmar," Last year the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Shringla and Army Chief MM Naravane had jointly visited the country. The visit saw high-level assurances from India that Myanmar will be a priority when it comes to the vaccine. Shringla also handed over 3000 vials of Remdesivir as a symbol of India‘s commitment to helping Myanmar mitigate the impact of COVID-19. Myanmar has signed MoU with the Serum Institute of India for Covishield. Over the weekend, India's drug regulator gave approval for its use. The state counsellor highlighted that the first priority group to get the vaccine will be medical professionals and medical personnel which will take place in February. "There is a lot of competition as all the countries of the world are trying to get this vaccine. However, we believe that the vaccination programme could be carried out all over the country step-by-step," San Suu Kyi added. "During the period when the vaccines are still not available, I wish to appeal to the people to abide by the health rules and regulations and give support to our efforts to beat COVID-19. Please be vigilant; please be patient. Please brace yourself by visioning the future. We are all in this together," she added. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, India reaffirmed its position as the pharma capital of the world by sending medicines like HCQ, paracetamol to more than 150 countries. New Delhi also organised training to build capacity. In fact, for the neighbourhood, India has organized two training modules in which about 90 health experts and scientists have participated.

In New Year speech, Myanmar's Aung San Suu Kyi announces contract to get COVID-19 vaccine from India

Kazakhstan has backed the use of Chabahar&nbsp;port, with its envoy saying by June of this year, a link will be established that will connect the country via the Caspian sea. Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy&nbsp;Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done"

Kazakhstan is the world's largest landlocked country, bordering the Aral and Caspian seas, both of which are inland seas with no access to oceans.&nbsp;The comments by the envoy come even as India is keen that the port expands India's connection not only to Afghanistan but to the wider Central Asian region. Last month India, Uzbekistan, and Iran had a trilateral talk on the use of the port. The trilateral talk has been expanded with India set to Invite Afghanistan as well.

The Kazakh envoy also spoke on the upcoming parliamentary elections in his country. In October of 2021, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree setting the date for the elections to the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan to be held on 10th January.&nbsp;

WION: Elections are going to happen in your country. If you can give some details.

Yerlan Alimbayev:&nbsp;We will have the parliamentary elections on January 10, 2021, to the lower chamber of the Parliament of Kazakhstan --Majlis. Given in the situation, we are having the elections after new political reforms conducted by the first president then taken by our President. So far, we have five&nbsp;parties participating in the elections. And we are expecting the results the next day on 11. Some papers/voting will be brought from abroad. So final results by 12 January.

WION: Will Indian observers also be present?

Yerlan Alimbayev:&nbsp;Our election commission sent an invitation to the election commission of India but due to the pandemic and absence of direct flight they could not make it. They sent, the election commission of India sent a letter explaining this. Within the framework of the Shanghai cooperation organization, we have some Indian observers.

WION: How have the ties been between the two&nbsp;countries? We know a number of high-level visits are being planned...including of the Kazakh President.

Yerlan Alimbayev:&nbsp;We have some highest- and high-level visits postponed from 2020. The visit of Lok Sabha speaker to Kazakhstan, visit of high-level Parliament delegation from Kazakhstan to India. We expect this to happen this year. We have this year, some high-level meetings between the ministries. We have the 14th intergovernmental commission meeting--by the minister of trade of Kazakhstan and from India, minister of petroleum and gas. We have several joint working groups headed by ministers. For example, on trade and economy, transport, and logistics. We have a special working group on pharmacy, on military-technical cooperation. All these events were postponed in 2020, so we will have them this year.

WION: How keen is Kazakhstan on the Chabahar port project?

Yerlan Alimbayev: Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done and hopefully, as set by the transport ministry of Iran, it will be done, finish by June of this year. A small part of the connection will be done by Zahedan--Babar Abbas which will be done to the Caspian seaport of Iran. From that place, Kazakhstan will be part of the North-South International transport corridor. So we already part of NSITC. India, during the virtual summit with Uzbekistan, invited to join that. Chabahar is part of it. Kazakhstan is the east part of NSITC. As a country, being the biggest trade partner of India in Central Asia, we are in a position to support any kind of communication links to make our trade and people-to-people contact much easier and wider.

WION: So, will it be right to say, we will join the project by year-end?

Yerlan Alimbayev: Yes, we are already part of Chabahar.&nbsp; It's a process. My minister of foreign affairs mentioned last year that, even before in 2019 that Chabahar port is the most appropriate connecting point if logistic companies, trade partners from India, and other countries hesitate to use Bander Abbas due to restrictions, Chabahar is the best option. We are continuously talking about the use of Chabahar since 2015 and Kazakhstan announced and proposed a consortium for use of the port. In 2017 we had a joint meeting between Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, India, and Kazakhstan for use of the Chabahar port. Finally, it is coming to a realization and we will have it with India Uzbekistan having a working group with Iran. Kazakhstan is much eager to be part of it.

WION: Amid the COVID crisis, how have both the countries continued talks. Also any talks on COVID vaccine?

Yerlan Alimbayev: Despite the pandemic, we had several bilateral events. Our foreign ministers met in Moscow, they had also virtual meet within the framework of the India Central Asia Dialogue. We have several cultural events online, we have joined several meetings. We have lost 2000 people due to covid. We are developing our own vaccines. Three&nbsp;vaccines are on the way, two&nbsp;of them under trial. We are working with our partner Russia, and Pfizer. With India, we are ready and open to discuss but it is up to India. As you know yesterday, it was announced India will not allow the export of vaccines till April. We are open and we can discuss with the Indian government.

&nbsp;

Kazakhstan has backed the use of Chabahar port, with its envoy saying by June of this year, a link will be established that will connect the country via the Caspian sea.

Kazakhstan has backed the use of Chabahar port, with its envoy saying by June of this year, a link will be established that will connect the country via the Caspian sea. Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done" Kazakhstan is the world's largest landlocked country, bordering the Aral and Caspian seas, both of which are inland seas with no access to oceans. The comments by the envoy come even as India is keen that the port expands India's connection not only to Afghanistan but to the wider Central Asian region. Last month India, Uzbekistan, and Iran had a trilateral talk on the use of the port. The trilateral talk has been expanded with India set to Invite Afghanistan as well. The Kazakh envoy also spoke on the upcoming parliamentary elections in his country. In October of 2021, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev signed a decree setting the date for the elections to the Majilis of the Parliament of Kazakhstan to be held on 10th January. WION: Elections are going to happen in your country. If you can give some details. Yerlan Alimbayev: We will have the parliamentary elections on January 10, 2021, to the lower chamber of the Parliament of Kazakhstan --Majlis. Given in the situation, we are having the elections after new political reforms conducted by the first president then taken by our President. So far, we have five parties participating in the elections. And we are expecting the results the next day on 11. Some papers/voting will be brought from abroad. So final results by 12 January. WION: Will Indian observers also be present? Yerlan Alimbayev: Our election commission sent an invitation to the election commission of India but due to the pandemic and absence of direct flight they could not make it. They sent, the election commission of India sent a letter explaining this. Within the framework of the Shanghai cooperation organization, we have some Indian observers. WION: How have the ties been between the two countries? We know a number of high-level visits are being planned...including of the Kazakh President. Yerlan Alimbayev: We have some highest- and high-level visits postponed from 2020. The visit of Lok Sabha speaker to Kazakhstan, visit of high-level Parliament delegation from Kazakhstan to India. We expect this to happen this year. We have this year, some high-level meetings between the ministries. We have the 14th intergovernmental commission meeting--by the minister of trade of Kazakhstan and from India, minister of petroleum and gas. We have several joint working groups headed by ministers. For example, on trade and economy, transport, and logistics. We have a special working group on pharmacy, on military-technical cooperation. All these events were postponed in 2020, so we will have them this year. WION: How keen is Kazakhstan on the Chabahar port project? Yerlan Alimbayev: Kazakhstan will not only join, we are actually in a process. We initiated this process and we were expected the Chabahar connection will be done and hopefully, as set by the transport ministry of Iran, it will be done, finish by June of this year. A small part of the connection will be done by Zahedan--Babar Abbas which will be done to the Caspian seaport of Iran. From that place, Kazakhstan will be part of the North-South International transport corridor. So we already part of NSITC. India, during the virtual summit with Uzbekistan, invited to join that. Chabahar is part of it. Kazakhstan is the east part of NSITC. As a country, being the biggest trade partner of India in Central Asia, we are in a position to support any kind of communication links to make our trade and people-to-people contact much easier and wider. WION: So, will it be right to say, we will join the project by year-end? Yerlan Alimbayev: Yes, we are already part of Chabahar. It's a process. My minister of foreign affairs mentioned last year that, even before in 2019 that Chabahar port is the most appropriate connecting point if logistic companies, trade partners from India, and other countries hesitate to use Bander Abbas due to restrictions, Chabahar is the best option. We are continuously talking about the use of Chabahar since 2015 and Kazakhstan announced and proposed a consortium for use of the port. In 2017 we had a joint meeting between Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, India, and Kazakhstan for use of the Chabahar port. Finally, it is coming to a realization and we will have it with India Uzbekistan having a working group with Iran. Kazakhstan is much eager to be part of it. WION: Amid the COVID crisis, how have both the countries continued talks. Also any talks on COVID vaccine? Yerlan Alimbayev: Despite the pandemic, we had several bilateral events. Our foreign ministers met in Moscow, they had also virtual meet within the framework of the India Central Asia Dialogue. We have several cultural events online, we have joined several meetings. We have lost 2000 people due to covid. We are developing our own vaccines. Three vaccines are on the way, two of them under trial. We are working with our partner Russia, and Pfizer. With India, we are ready and open to discuss but it is up to India. As you know yesterday, it was announced India will not allow the export of vaccines till April. We are open and we can discuss with the Indian government.

Kazakhstan bats for Chabahar port; envoy says process underway for use via Caspian sea

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body.&nbsp;

Monday marked the first working day at the UN with the term starting on January 1, 2021.

Speaking at the ceremony, India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, that "India will be a voice for the developing world" and will use its "tenure to bring human-centric and inclusive solutions to matters of international peace and security" highlighting that, "India comes into the Security Council" as the "largest democracy representing 1/6th of humanity" and with a "strong commitment" to "reformed multilateralism, rule of law, a fair and equitable international system and to peace, security and development."

"From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, we stand united as one, bound by our ethos of democracy, pluralism, and commitment to fundamental rights," Tirumurti added.&nbsp;

It is the eighth time India assumes membership at the UNSC. Along with India--Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway also began their two-year term at the body.

On terror, the Indian envoy said, "We will not shy away from raising our voice against the common enemies of humanity like terrorism." Other key Focus Areas for India during its tenure will be "peacekeeping, peace-building, maritime security, women and youth, especially in conflict situations, and technology with a human face."

He also mentioned the COVID -19crisis, recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda who said “Each nation must give, in order to live. When you give life, you will have life; when you receive, you must pay for it by giving to all others.”&nbsp;

The practice of flag installation was started by Kazakhstan.

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body.

The Indian flag has been raised at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) stakeout in a ceremony marking the beginning two-year term of New Delhi as a non-permanent member of the top UN body. Monday marked the first working day at the UN with the term starting on January 1, 2021. Speaking at the ceremony, India's envoy to United Nations TS Tirumurti said, that "India will be a voice for the developing world" and will use its "tenure to bring human-centric and inclusive solutions to matters of international peace and security" highlighting that, "India comes into the Security Council" as the "largest democracy representing 1/6th of humanity" and with a "strong commitment" to "reformed multilateralism, rule of law, a fair and equitable international system and to peace, security and development." "From Kashmir to Kanyakumari, we stand united as one, bound by our ethos of democracy, pluralism, and commitment to fundamental rights," Tirumurti added. It is the eighth time India assumes membership at the UNSC. Along with India--Ireland, Kenya, Mexico and Norway also began their two-year term at the body. On terror, the Indian envoy said, "We will not shy away from raising our voice against the common enemies of humanity like terrorism." Other key Focus Areas for India during its tenure will be "peacekeeping, peace-building, maritime security, women and youth, especially in conflict situations, and technology with a human face." He also mentioned the COVID -19crisis, recalling the words of Swami Vivekananda who said “Each nation must give, in order to live. When you give life, you will have life; when you receive, you must pay for it by giving to all others.” The practice of flag installation was started by Kazakhstan.

Indian flag raised at UNSC; envoy Tirumurti says New Delhi will be voice of developing world

In the first incoming visit by any foreign dignitary to India, diplomatic advisor to French President Macron ambassador&nbsp;Emmanuel Bonne will visit Delhi on January 7&nbsp;&amp; 8.

Bonne, who is NSA Ajit Doval's counterpart, will be in Delhi for bilateral strategic dialogue.

The visit&nbsp;which will take place&nbsp;amid the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic&nbsp;comes&nbsp;even as&nbsp;India and France increase bilateral engagement. Last year, in September, France's defence minister Florence Parly visited India for Rafale's induction ceremony.

Bonne had last visited India in 2019&nbsp;during which he had met Indian PM Narendra Modi. In that year, France had invited India for the G7 summit at Biarritz.

PM Modi and French President Macron had spoken to each other last month. Key focus areas were COVID-19&nbsp;vaccines, cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, maritime security, defense cooperation among other issues.

In the first incoming visit by any foreign dignitary to India, diplomatic advisor to French President Macron ambassador Emmanuel Bonne will visit Delhi on January 7 & 8.

In the first incoming visit by any foreign dignitary to India, diplomatic advisor to French President Macron ambassador Emmanuel Bonne will visit Delhi on January 7 & 8. Bonne, who is NSA Ajit Doval's counterpart, will be in Delhi for bilateral strategic dialogue. The visit which will take place amid the COVID-19 pandemic comes even as India and France increase bilateral engagement. Last year, in September, France's defence minister Florence Parly visited India for Rafale's induction ceremony. Bonne had last visited India in 2019 during which he had met Indian PM Narendra Modi. In that year, France had invited India for the G7 summit at Biarritz. PM Modi and French President Macron had spoken to each other last month. Key focus areas were COVID-19 vaccines, cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region, maritime security, defense cooperation among other issues.

First in-coming visit: Macron's foreign policy advisor Emmanuel Bonne on two-day visit to India

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The visit is arranged through the air-bubble due to Covid-19 travel restrictions in both countries.

During the visit, EAM will call on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-government-okays-emergency-use-of-astrazeneca-covid-vaccine-354050">Indian government okays emergency use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine</a>

A Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement said, "While this official visit marks the first arrival of a high-level foreign dignitary in Sri Lanka in 2021, it becomes also the first foreign visit for External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar in the New Year."

One of the key focuses during the visit will the Covid-19 vaccine. India has assured that it will be providing the Covid-19 vaccine to its neighbours on priority. Over the weekend India's drug regulator gave approval to vaccines: Covishield and Covaxin for use.

The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said that the visit "signifies the priority both countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest."

EAM has been to UAE, Bahrain, Seychelles, Qatar, Iran, Russia and Japan in the latter half of 2020 as the pandemic impacted the world.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar will visit Sri Lanka from 5th to 7th January. This will be EAM's first visit this year amid the Covid-19 pandemic. The visit is arranged through the air-bubble due to Covid-19 travel restrictions in both countries. During the visit, EAM will call on Sri Lankan President Gotabaya Rajapaksa, Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa and Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Also read | Indian government okays emergency use of AstraZeneca COVID vaccine A Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement said, "While this official visit marks the first arrival of a high-level foreign dignitary in Sri Lanka in 2021, it becomes also the first foreign visit for External Affairs Minister Dr. Jaishankar in the New Year." One of the key focuses during the visit will the Covid-19 vaccine. India has assured that it will be providing the Covid-19 vaccine to its neighbours on priority. Over the weekend India's drug regulator gave approval to vaccines: Covishield and Covaxin for use. The Ministry of External Affairs in its release said that the visit "signifies the priority both countries attach to strengthening their close and cordial relations in all spheres of mutual interest." EAM has been to UAE, Bahrain, Seychelles, Qatar, Iran, Russia and Japan in the latter half of 2020 as the pandemic impacted the world.

Foreign Minister Jaishankar to visit Sri Lanka in the first visit of 2021

In the first interview of 2021, Nepal's envoy to India Nilamber Acharya has said that India and Nepal have "enormous goodwill" and "close friendship at a high political level."

Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Acharya said, foreign minister of Nepal will visit India for the joint commission meet, a visit he said, "will give impetus for further development of our extensive relations."

A key focus during the visit will be on COVID vaccine — even as India has given approval to two vaccines over the weekend. Citing the approval, Nepal&nbsp;congratulated "India and its scientists" for their "achievements leading to the production of affordable vaccines suitable to our countries."

The visit by Nepal FM Pradeep Gyawali will be a first of&nbsp;such high-profile visits from Kathmandu to India in over a year. Last year, a number of such visits from New Delhi to Nepal happened as both sides showed the intent to firm up ties.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/rpp-demands-reinstatement-of-constitutional-monarchy-in-nepal-353943" hreflang="en">RPP demands reinstatement of constitutional monarchy in Nepal</a>

WION: How do you see India-Nepal ties? 
Nilamber Acharya: India-Nepal ties are historical, time-tested, exemplary, and ever-growing. The very fabric of our relationship is finely weaved through the people-to-people exchanges and cross-border social and cultural ties. There are enormous goodwill and close friendship at a high political level. We are very close neighbours and friends with a common way of life. We share many values from spiritual to political, civilisational to religious, ancient to modern. We have benefitted from our comprehensive cooperation and easy access to each other's country, thanks to open borders and cultural affinity. There have been some differences and issues to be resolved and as good friends, we agree to sort out and resolve them through dialogue. We don't allow differences in some questions to impact other areas of our extensive cooperation. We are moving ahead.

WION: How are India and Nepal engaging on COVID-19 vaccine? 
Nilamber Acharya: Our cooperation against COVID-19 has been beneficial for us and it will grow. I congratulate India and its scientists for their achievements leading to the production of affordable vaccines suitable to our countries. We have received India's assurances and expect the early availability of vaccines produced in India to meet the needs of Nepal.

WION: How do you see India’s development partnership with Nepal? 
Nilamber Acharya: India is a permanent development partner for Nepal. From highways to hydropower, cross-border railways, inland container depots (ICDs), integrated check posts (ICPs) to cross-border transmission lines; India has always remained a partner for Nepal’s development. India is also our largest trading partner — one of the largest investors — and the largest source for inbound tourists. Cross-border petroleum pipeline and power trade arrangements have become the hallmarks of strategic partnership in the energy trade. India is the major transit route for Nepal’s overseas trade through Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam ports. We'll see more cooperation in the days to come. This year is expected to be a productive year for our friendly relations.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/india-approves-astrazeneca-and-local-covid-19-vaccines-354166">WATCH|</a>

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WION: Can we see a high-level engagement from the Nepal side, as there have been a number of visits from India?

Nilamber Acharya: It is good to see that high-level visits have resumed after an interval due to some difficulties of Covid time and others. Even during these days, there were high-level contacts. For instance, Independence Day phone conversation between the two prime ministers.

Recently, Foreign Secretary of India Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla visited Nepal. Just before him, Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane visited Nepal to receive the honorary rank of General of Nepal Army. In the last week of December, a high-powered delegation led by the power secretary of Nepal visited India.

Now, we are working on the visit of the Foreign Minister of Nepal and foreign minister-level Joint Commission meeting in India. This visit will give impetus for further development of our extensive relations. We have good prospects and the overall environment is improving. We have just ushered in the year 2021, the days ahead will unfold the details about the level of exchanges and visits. We are optimistic.

In the first interview of 2021, Nepal's envoy to India Nilamber Acharya has said that India and Nepal have "enormous goodwill" and "close friendship at a high political level.

In the first interview of 2021, Nepal's envoy to India Nilamber Acharya has said that India and Nepal have "enormous goodwill" and "close friendship at a high political level." Speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Acharya said, foreign minister of Nepal will visit India for the joint commission meet, a visit he said, "will give impetus for further development of our extensive relations." A key focus during the visit will be on COVID vaccine — even as India has given approval to two vaccines over the weekend. Citing the approval, Nepal congratulated "India and its scientists" for their "achievements leading to the production of affordable vaccines suitable to our countries." The visit by Nepal FM Pradeep Gyawali will be a first of such high-profile visits from Kathmandu to India in over a year. Last year, a number of such visits from New Delhi to Nepal happened as both sides showed the intent to firm up ties. Also read| RPP demands reinstatement of constitutional monarchy in Nepal WION: How do you see India-Nepal ties? Nilamber Acharya: India-Nepal ties are historical, time-tested, exemplary, and ever-growing. The very fabric of our relationship is finely weaved through the people-to-people exchanges and cross-border social and cultural ties. There are enormous goodwill and close friendship at a high political level. We are very close neighbours and friends with a common way of life. We share many values from spiritual to political, civilisational to religious, ancient to modern. We have benefitted from our comprehensive cooperation and easy access to each other's country, thanks to open borders and cultural affinity. There have been some differences and issues to be resolved and as good friends, we agree to sort out and resolve them through dialogue. We don't allow differences in some questions to impact other areas of our extensive cooperation. We are moving ahead. WION: How are India and Nepal engaging on COVID-19 vaccine? Nilamber Acharya: Our cooperation against COVID-19 has been beneficial for us and it will grow. I congratulate India and its scientists for their achievements leading to the production of affordable vaccines suitable to our countries. We have received India's assurances and expect the early availability of vaccines produced in India to meet the needs of Nepal. WION: How do you see India’s development partnership with Nepal? Nilamber Acharya: India is a permanent development partner for Nepal. From highways to hydropower, cross-border railways, inland container depots (ICDs), integrated check posts (ICPs) to cross-border transmission lines; India has always remained a partner for Nepal’s development. India is also our largest trading partner — one of the largest investors — and the largest source for inbound tourists. Cross-border petroleum pipeline and power trade arrangements have become the hallmarks of strategic partnership in the energy trade. India is the major transit route for Nepal’s overseas trade through Kolkata and Vishakhapatnam ports. We'll see more cooperation in the days to come. This year is expected to be a productive year for our friendly relations. WATCH| × WION: Can we see a high-level engagement from the Nepal side, as there have been a number of visits from India? Nilamber Acharya: It is good to see that high-level visits have resumed after an interval due to some difficulties of Covid time and others. Even during these days, there were high-level contacts. For instance, Independence Day phone conversation between the two prime ministers. Recently, Foreign Secretary of India Shri Harsh Vardhan Shringla visited Nepal. Just before him, Chief of Army Staff General M M Naravane visited Nepal to receive the honorary rank of General of Nepal Army. In the last week of December, a high-powered delegation led by the power secretary of Nepal visited India. Now, we are working on the visit of the Foreign Minister of Nepal and foreign minister-level Joint Commission meeting in India. This visit will give impetus for further development of our extensive relations. We have good prospects and the overall environment is improving. We have just ushered in the year 2021, the days ahead will unfold the details about the level of exchanges and visits. We are optimistic.

'We have close friendship,' says Nepal envoy to India Nilamber Acharya ahead of Nepal FM's Delhi visit

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint.

India's key focus will be on reforms, strong action on terrorism and maintaining peace among others.&nbsp;

To this end, WION brings to you the team at the Indian mission at the UN, and what they said as New Delhi took over.

Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

He said, "I am confident that India will bring with it the Indian way of doing things. And contribute to more cooperative and inclusive decision making process in the Security Council. I am happy to say that our team in the permanent mission of India in New York is all geared up for the Security Council and I am confident our team will do India proud. We are grateful for the support we have received from honourable PM Modi as well as our External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and the foreign secretary Harsh Shringla who has himself served in New York earlier."

Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations

"India brings legitimacy to the council's deliberations and decision making. We look forward to our presidency of the UNSC in the month of August 2021. It is coincidental, while we are on the council, India will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. Please join us in this historic journey. We are all excited; we are all well prepared. Our teams are in place -- both in New York and New Delhi. We look forward for a very substantive and productive two year term at the council," he said.

R Ravindra, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (Political Coordinator)

He said, "The Security Council is a political body and the decision of the security council are largely political in nature. The Africa and West Asia issue dominate the council's agenda. For India, progess and prosperity of Africa, conflict free west Asia is important. While we are in the council, we will be a forceful voice and will work constructively with other council members in finding meaningfull solutions to the problems faced by Africa and West Asia."

Pratik Mathur, Counsellor

"India's approch to our tenure on the security council is guided by an emphasis on building on international system that based on respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity for all," he said.

A Amarnath, Counsellor

He said, "In its efforts to promote responsible and inclusive solutions to the challenges to international peace and security, India will bring to the security council its strong commitment to multilateralism and fare, equitable and rules based international system."

R Madhu Sudan, Counsellor

"Widespread concern that the inadequacy of the existing multilateral institutions to deliver results or meet new challenges. World order needs to be contemporary to remain credible. That is why India has called for reformed multilateralism and we will work towards this goal. This will be one our focus areas at the Security Council," he said.

Mayank Singh, Counsellor

He said, "Through bilateral assistance to member states and continue contributions to UN funds and programmes, India's approch to addressing the underline causes of conflict is also supporting demand driven and nationally owned projects."

Rajesh Parihar, First Secretary

"Solutions for post conflict recovery, not only calls for institution and capacity building but also greater involvement of women and youth in shaping the peace and security paradigm. India will work to ensure greater youth and women participation in peace process," he said.

Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary

She said, "The global security landscape is shifting. We have persistent traditional security challenges coexiting with new and emerging ones. What this demand is coherent, pragmatic, nimble and effective platform for collaboration. The post coronavirus world provides such an opportunity. India's presence at the security council at this time is essentially a clarion call for collaboration."

Siddharth Malik, First Secretary&nbsp;

"As a rule abiding democracy and a positive contributor to the secruity of the global commons, India will constructively work with our partners to overcome old and new political and economic faultlines," he said.

Mijito Vinito, First Secretary

He said, "Terrorism is an enduring and abiding critical threat to international peace and and security. India will persue concrete action at the council aimed at addressing aimed at addressing the abuse of information and communication technology by terrorist, disrupting the nexus of terrorist sponsors and trans national organised criminal entities."

Ashish Sharma, First Secretary&nbsp;

"Today's peace and security challenges require a comprehensive integrated approach. Harmonizing national choices and international priorities. India is committed to hearing and heeding the voices of all to forge consensus and common purpose," he said.

Thirugnana Sambandan S, First Secretary

He said, "Streamling of UN Peacekeeping operations is needed to infuse greater clarity, direction and professionalism. Use of innovative technology also offers promising opportunities for safe and effective mandate implementation in conflict situation."

Yedla Umasankar, First Secretary/Legal Adviser

"India during its tenure at the council will work towards the goal of saving succeeding generation from the scouge of wars by promoting peacefull settlement of international disputes," he said.

Gopal K Wadhwa, Second Secretary&nbsp;

He said, "While we are on the security council monitoring the media is important for gauging the response to our policies. We are constantly and actively engaged in this process and this works as a feedback loop for us."

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint.

India became a non permanent member of the United Nations security Council (UNSC) on January 1 for a two-year term. Monday will be the first active day of India in the stint. India's key focus will be on reforms, strong action on terrorism and maintaining peace among others. To this end, WION brings to you the team at the Indian mission at the UN, and what they said as New Delhi took over. Ambassador TS Tirumurti, Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations He said, "I am confident that India will bring with it the Indian way of doing things. And contribute to more cooperative and inclusive decision making process in the Security Council. I am happy to say that our team in the permanent mission of India in New York is all geared up for the Security Council and I am confident our team will do India proud. We are grateful for the support we have received from honourable PM Modi as well as our External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and the foreign secretary Harsh Shringla who has himself served in New York earlier." Ambassador K Nagaraj Naidu, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations "India brings legitimacy to the council's deliberations and decision making. We look forward to our presidency of the UNSC in the month of August 2021. It is coincidental, while we are on the council, India will also celebrate the 75th anniversary of Indian Independence. Please join us in this historic journey. We are all excited; we are all well prepared. Our teams are in place -- both in New York and New Delhi. We look forward for a very substantive and productive two year term at the council," he said. R Ravindra, Deputy Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations (Political Coordinator) He said, "The Security Council is a political body and the decision of the security council are largely political in nature. The Africa and West Asia issue dominate the council's agenda. For India, progess and prosperity of Africa, conflict free west Asia is important. While we are in the council, we will be a forceful voice and will work constructively with other council members in finding meaningfull solutions to the problems faced by Africa and West Asia." Pratik Mathur, Counsellor "India's approch to our tenure on the security council is guided by an emphasis on building on international system that based on respect, dialogue, cooperation, peace and prosperity for all," he said. A Amarnath, Counsellor He said, "In its efforts to promote responsible and inclusive solutions to the challenges to international peace and security, India will bring to the security council its strong commitment to multilateralism and fare, equitable and rules based international system." R Madhu Sudan, Counsellor "Widespread concern that the inadequacy of the existing multilateral institutions to deliver results or meet new challenges. World order needs to be contemporary to remain credible. That is why India has called for reformed multilateralism and we will work towards this goal. This will be one our focus areas at the Security Council," he said. Mayank Singh, Counsellor He said, "Through bilateral assistance to member states and continue contributions to UN funds and programmes, India's approch to addressing the underline causes of conflict is also supporting demand driven and nationally owned projects." Rajesh Parihar, First Secretary "Solutions for post conflict recovery, not only calls for institution and capacity building but also greater involvement of women and youth in shaping the peace and security paradigm. India will work to ensure greater youth and women participation in peace process," he said. Vidisha Maitra, First Secretary She said, "The global security landscape is shifting. We have persistent traditional security challenges coexiting with new and emerging ones. What this demand is coherent, pragmatic, nimble and effective platform for collaboration. The post coronavirus world provides such an opportunity. India's presence at the security council at this time is essentially a clarion call for collaboration." Siddharth Malik, First Secretary "As a rule abiding democracy and a positive contributor to the secruity of the global commons, India will constructively work with our partners to overcome old and new political and economic faultlines," he said. Mijito Vinito, First Secretary He said, "Terrorism is an enduring and abiding critical threat to international peace and and security. India will persue concrete action at the council aimed at addressing aimed at addressing the abuse of information and communication technology by terrorist, disrupting the nexus of terrorist sponsors and trans national organised criminal entities." Ashish Sharma, First Secretary "Today's peace and security challenges require a comprehensive integrated approach. Harmonizing national choices and international priorities. India is committed to hearing and heeding the voices of all to forge consensus and common purpose," he said. Thirugnana Sambandan S, First Secretary He said, "Streamling of UN Peacekeeping operations is needed to infuse greater clarity, direction and professionalism. Use of innovative technology also offers promising opportunities for safe and effective mandate implementation in conflict situation." Yedla Umasankar, First Secretary/Legal Adviser "India during its tenure at the council will work towards the goal of saving succeeding generation from the scouge of wars by promoting peacefull settlement of international disputes," he said. Gopal K Wadhwa, Second Secretary He said, "While we are on the security council monitoring the media is important for gauging the response to our policies. We are constantly and actively engaged in this process and this works as a feedback loop for us."

Meet India's team at UN as it becomes UNSC non-permanent member

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