India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3".&nbsp;

Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control.

Indian navy release said, "this mission is part of India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) assistance to friendly foreign countries during the ongoing pandemic."&nbsp;

Vietnam's envoy to India Sanh Chau Pham in a tweet said, "Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy!"

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Indian Navy ship Kiltan arrives in Ho Chi Minh City today as part of Mission Sagar 3, bringing 10 tons of humanitarian assistance to Vietnam’s floods victims. Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy! <a href="https://twitter.com/SanhChauPham?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SanhChauPham</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Vietnam?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Vietnam</a> <a href="https://t.co/ipdNO5SDSK">pic.twitter.com/ipdNO5SDSK</a>
— SanhChau Pham (@SanhChauPham) <a href="https://twitter.com/SanhChauPham/status/1342117542119178244?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Central Vietnam has been impacted by massive floods in which more than 100 people have died and 50 people still missing. Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had offered his condolences due to the floods during his virtual summit with Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday.

India and Vietnam has seen increased engagement, ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016. India sees the country as an important pillar of its act east and Indo pacific vision. The Navy release explained that the mission highlights the "importance accorded to ASEAN countries and further strengthens the existing bonds."

2020 saw Indian Navy reaching out with COVID-19 aid with medicines and food to countries under its mission Sagar 1 and 2.&nbsp;

Under mission Sagar 1, it reached out to five Indian Ocean countries-- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles followed by Mission Sagar 2 under which it reached out to four African countries - Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Eritrea.

India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3". Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control.

India has sent 15 tons of flood support to Vietnam under its "Mission Sagar 3". Indian navy ship Kiltan arrived at Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday with the aid which will be handed over to Vietnam’s Central Steering Committee for National Disaster Prevention and Control. Indian navy release said, "this mission is part of India’s humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) assistance to friendly foreign countries during the ongoing pandemic." Vietnam's envoy to India Sanh Chau Pham in a tweet said, "Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy!" Indian Navy ship Kiltan arrives in Ho Chi Minh City today as part of Mission Sagar 3, bringing 10 tons of humanitarian assistance to Vietnam’s floods victims. Grateful to India, her government, people and Indian Navy! @SanhChauPham #Vietnam pic.twitter.com/ipdNO5SDSK — SanhChau Pham (@SanhChauPham) December 24, 2020 × Central Vietnam has been impacted by massive floods in which more than 100 people have died and 50 people still missing. Indian Prime minister Narendra Modi had offered his condolences due to the floods during his virtual summit with Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc on Monday. India and Vietnam has seen increased engagement, ties were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016. India sees the country as an important pillar of its act east and Indo pacific vision. The Navy release explained that the mission highlights the "importance accorded to ASEAN countries and further strengthens the existing bonds." 2020 saw Indian Navy reaching out with COVID-19 aid with medicines and food to countries under its mission Sagar 1 and 2. Under mission Sagar 1, it reached out to five Indian Ocean countries-- Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles followed by Mission Sagar 2 under which it reached out to four African countries - Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti, and Eritrea.

India sends flood support to Vietnam under Mission Sagar 3

Indian and Vietnamese Navy will undertake PASSEX or Passage Exercise in the South China Sea. Indian Navy Ship INS Kiltan which reached Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday will take part in the exercises which will take place on&nbsp;26&nbsp;and&nbsp;27&nbsp;December. The Indian Ship reached the country with 10 tons of humanitarian assistance under mission Sagar 3.

The Indian Navy in a release said," current visit seeks to enhance maritime cooperation between the two Navies and will further bolster the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries and contribute to security and stability in the region."

India and Vietnam have increased high-level engagement including defence engagement. New Delhi on Monday at the India-Vietnam virtual summit handed over first of the 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to the country. The boats have been handed over under $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. India is also helping in training and capacity building programmes across the three services and coast guards for the country.

The Passex exercises are a first since the Galwan incident earlier this year which saw aggressive action by Chinese forces at the Line of actual control leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers.

China has also been violative of Vietnam's sovereignty in the South China sea trying to claim large swathes of the sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line". The Nine-Dash line concept of China, under which it claims 90 per cent&nbsp;of the sea, has been dismissed by an arbitral award by UNCLOS or United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea.

Indian and Vietnamese Navy will undertake PASSEX or Passage Exercise in the South China Sea. Indian Navy Ship INS Kiltan which reached Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday will take part in the exercises which will take place on 26 and 27 December.

Indian and Vietnamese Navy will undertake PASSEX or Passage Exercise in the South China Sea. Indian Navy Ship INS Kiltan which reached Nha Rong Port, Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday will take part in the exercises which will take place on 26 and 27 December. The Indian Ship reached the country with 10 tons of humanitarian assistance under mission Sagar 3. The Indian Navy in a release said," current visit seeks to enhance maritime cooperation between the two Navies and will further bolster the strong bonds of friendship between the two countries and contribute to security and stability in the region." India and Vietnam have increased high-level engagement including defence engagement. New Delhi on Monday at the India-Vietnam virtual summit handed over first of the 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to the country. The boats have been handed over under $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. India is also helping in training and capacity building programmes across the three services and coast guards for the country. The Passex exercises are a first since the Galwan incident earlier this year which saw aggressive action by Chinese forces at the Line of actual control leading to the death of 20 Indian soldiers. China has also been violative of Vietnam's sovereignty in the South China sea trying to claim large swathes of the sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line". The Nine-Dash line concept of China, under which it claims 90 per cent of the sea, has been dismissed by an arbitral award by UNCLOS or United Nations Convention for the Law of the Sea.

Indian, Vietnam navy to undertake PASSEX exercises in South China Sea

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries. The next meeting will be hosted by India with the dates in the process of finalization.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava said, "Afghanistan as a major stakeholder will be invited for the meeting".

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-a-400-billion-china-iran-deal-where-does-it-leave-the-chabahar-project-313096/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Chabahar has been a key connectivity project by India towards its west and has been providing connectivity via Iran to Afghanistan and beyond. India built the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar as part of the India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement.

In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the Covid-19 pandemic.

The proposal for India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral was put across by Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country and is keen on several connectivity projects. And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi.

The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, where often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives.

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries.

Afghanistan has been invited for second India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral meet on the use of the Chabahar port. Earlier this month, the first meet took place at the deputy minister level between the 3 countries. The next meeting will be hosted by India with the dates in the process of finalization. Spokesperson of the Ministry of External Affairs Anurag Shrivastava said, "Afghanistan as a major stakeholder will be invited for the meeting". Watch | Chabahar has been a key connectivity project by India towards its west and has been providing connectivity via Iran to Afghanistan and beyond. India built the Shahid Beheshti Port at Chabahar as part of the India, Iran, Afghanistan 2016 agreement. In December 2018, an Indian company India Ports Global Limited took over the port operations and as of August of 2020, the port has handled 12 lakhs tons of cargo and 82000 containers. In fact, India used the port to send 75000 tons of wheat to Afghanistan as part of the humanitarian aid amidst the Covid-19 pandemic. The proposal for India, Uzbekistan, and Iran trilateral was put across by Uzbekistan, which is a doubly landlocked country and is keen on several connectivity projects. And it is just not Uzbekistan, but other Central Asian countries have shown interest in using the port, built with the help of New Delhi. The development is seen as an important shot in the arm for India's connectivity plans in the west of it, where often Pakistan has been playing an obstructionist role. India sees the Chabahar port as a fulcrum of connectivity in the region, and even the US gave an exemption to the project from Iran sanctions since it not only provided humanitarian supplies to Afghanistan but also economic alternatives.

Afghanistan invited for second India, Uzbek, Iran trilateral meet on Chabahar

Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country.&nbsp;

The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing. Bhutan is under a 7-day lockdown as a number of coronavirus cases have been detected in the country recently.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/israel-bhutan-establish-formal-diplomatic-ties-349364">Israel-Bhutan establish formal diplomatic ties</a>

India's envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "India stands alongside Bhutan. Together, we will fight the COVID-19 pandemic, through a sustainable recovery.”

Since March 2020, New Delhi has sent 9 consignments of essential medicines such as Paracetamol, Cetirizine, Hydroxychloroquine, medical Equipements like PPE kits, N95 masks, RT PCR test kits and x-ray machines. India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting phase 3 clinical trials of the coronavirus vaccine candidates.

Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "The delivery of these RT-PCR test kits will assist Bhutan’s Ministry of Health in carrying out essential testing, given the recent enforcement of a nationwide lockdown in the country".

Bhutan is the first country in South Asia to announce a seconds nationwide lockdown this year to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. 
&nbsp;

Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country. The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing.

Amid nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India has handed over 20,000 COVID-19 RT PCR test kits to the country. The kits were handed over in southern border town of Phuentsholing. Bhutan is under a 7-day lockdown as a number of coronavirus cases have been detected in the country recently. Also read | Israel-Bhutan establish formal diplomatic ties India's envoy to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, "India stands alongside Bhutan. Together, we will fight the COVID-19 pandemic, through a sustainable recovery.” Since March 2020, New Delhi has sent 9 consignments of essential medicines such as Paracetamol, Cetirizine, Hydroxychloroquine, medical Equipements like PPE kits, N95 masks, RT PCR test kits and x-ray machines. India is also collaborating with Bhutan for conducting phase 3 clinical trials of the coronavirus vaccine candidates. Indian mission in Bhutan in a release said, "The delivery of these RT-PCR test kits will assist Bhutan’s Ministry of Health in carrying out essential testing, given the recent enforcement of a nationwide lockdown in the country". Bhutan is the first country in South Asia to announce a seconds nationwide lockdown this year to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Amid second nationwide lockdown in Bhutan, India hands over 20,000 RT-PCR kits to tackle pandemic

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation.&nbsp;

On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "We have noted the recent political developments in Nepal. These are internal matters for Nepal to decide as per its democratic process."

"As a neighbour and well-wisher, India will continue to support Nepal and its people in moving forward on the path of peace prosperity and development," India's external affairs spokesman said.

In fact, it has been five days since the dissolution was announced which was followed by the split in the ruling Nepal Communist party with Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal splitting the party. On Friday, several writ petitions will be taken by a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal on the legality of the action of KP Sharma Oli.

And while political turmoil is underway, India continued its engagements to full fill the country's needs. On Wednesday, India and Nepal held inter-governmental discussions on the long-term supply of fertilizers from India to Nepal.

India's actions stand in contrast to the action of the Chinese envoy Hou Yanqi who had met Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal Communist Party fraction earlier this week.&nbsp;

In the past as well, she has been seen openly interfering in the internal political matters of the ruling Communist Party something that not only raised eyebrows but also has been making headline news in Nepal throughout this year.&nbsp;

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation. On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President.

India has said Nepal's political crisis is its "internal matter" even as New Delhi has kept its focus on developmental cooperation. On Sunday, the Nepali Parliament was dissolved and surprise elections were announced at the recommendation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli to the President. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava said, "We have noted the recent political developments in Nepal. These are internal matters for Nepal to decide as per its democratic process." "As a neighbour and well-wisher, India will continue to support Nepal and its people in moving forward on the path of peace prosperity and development," India's external affairs spokesman said. In fact, it has been five days since the dissolution was announced which was followed by the split in the ruling Nepal Communist party with Oli and Pushpa Kamal Dahal splitting the party. On Friday, several writ petitions will be taken by a constitutional bench of the Supreme Court of Nepal on the legality of the action of KP Sharma Oli. And while political turmoil is underway, India continued its engagements to full fill the country's needs. On Wednesday, India and Nepal held inter-governmental discussions on the long-term supply of fertilizers from India to Nepal. India's actions stand in contrast to the action of the Chinese envoy Hou Yanqi who had met Nepali President Bidya Devi Bhandari and Pushpa Kamal Dahal of Nepal Communist Party fraction earlier this week. In the past as well, she has been seen openly interfering in the internal political matters of the ruling Communist Party something that not only raised eyebrows but also has been making headline news in Nepal throughout this year.

Amid political turmoil in Nepal, India continues assistance

The 16th India, EU leaders summit has been proposed to be held in Portugal in May 2021, a summit that comes even as Delhi and several European capitals increase cooperation and convergence. During the summit, a key focus will be on the India-EU free trade agreement which both sides are keen on.

The15th India-EU summit took place virtually amid&nbsp;the COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic in July of this year. India was led by PM Narendra Modi, while was represented by President of the European Council Charles Michel and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen.

This year has seen engagements increase between India and the European block. Wednesday saw a virtual meet between External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Spanish FM Arancha Gonzalez Laya.

A ministry of external affairs read out said, "Both leaders undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties including the extensive cooperation between the two countries during Covid-19 pandemic and possibilities of cooperation in the post-Covid scenario."

Late October saw, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla going to France and Germany, along with the UK. The in-person visit to Paris and Berlin came amidst covid pandemic.

EU is emerging as an important support of India's Indo Pacific vision. France, Germany, and The Netherlands have recently enunciated their official policies on the concept which China sees very suspiciously.

The EU is also a key investor in India with the European Investment Bank planning to invest €550 million in the Pune and Bhopal Metro Rail Projects.

&nbsp;

The 16th India, EU leaders summit has been proposed to be held in Portugal in May 2021, a summit that comes even as Delhi and several European capitals increase cooperation and convergence.

The 16th India, EU leaders summit has been proposed to be held in Portugal in May 2021, a summit that comes even as Delhi and several European capitals increase cooperation and convergence. During the summit, a key focus will be on the India-EU free trade agreement which both sides are keen on. The15th India-EU summit took place virtually amid the COVID-19 pandemic in July of this year. India was led by PM Narendra Modi, while was represented by President of the European Council Charles Michel and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen. This year has seen engagements increase between India and the European block. Wednesday saw a virtual meet between External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar and Spanish FM Arancha Gonzalez Laya. A ministry of external affairs read out said, "Both leaders undertook a detailed review of bilateral ties including the extensive cooperation between the two countries during Covid-19 pandemic and possibilities of cooperation in the post-Covid scenario." Late October saw, Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla going to France and Germany, along with the UK. The in-person visit to Paris and Berlin came amidst covid pandemic. EU is emerging as an important support of India's Indo Pacific vision. France, Germany, and The Netherlands have recently enunciated their official policies on the concept which China sees very suspiciously. The EU is also a key investor in India with the European Investment Bank planning to invest €550 million in the Pune and Bhopal Metro Rail Projects.

16th India, EU summit proposed for May 2021 in Portugal

India has said its relations with Moscow is "important" and the annual India, Russia summit which was to take place&nbsp;this year was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both countries have an annual summit mechanism at leaders' level that alternates between India and Russia.&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in a statement said, "The India-Russia annual summit did not take place in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a mutually agreed decision between the two governments."

Last year the summit happened in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok with Indian Prime Minister travelling to Russia, before that it took place&nbsp;in Delhi in 2018 with Russian President Putin travelling to India.

Meanwhile, the Russian ambassador to Delhi&nbsp;Nikolay Kudashev said, "Special and privileged strategic partnership" between Russia and India is "progressing well despite COVID-19" and the Russian side is "staying in close touch with our Indian friends to work out new dates for the summit, postponed due to epidemiological reasons."

He highlighted that&nbsp;"we are confident that it will be held in the near future, while the Russian-Indian relations will continue its further development."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other four&nbsp;times this year.

Both Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence&nbsp;minister Rajnath Singh had travelled to Moscow in September for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meetings.

In&nbsp;fact, defence minister Rajnath Singhhad also visited the country for the Victory Day parade.

Due to COVID-19&nbsp;pandemic, international travel has significantly impacted.

For the first time this year, the annual United Nations General assembly meeting in September and other major summits like G20, BRICS and SCO happened virtually. The last foreign visit of Indian prime minister was in November of 2019 and since then he hasn't gone abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India has said its relations with Moscow is "important" and the annual India, Russia summit which was to take place this year was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India has said its relations with Moscow is "important" and the annual India, Russia summit which was to take place this year was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Both countries have an annual summit mechanism at leaders' level that alternates between India and Russia. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava in a statement said, "The India-Russia annual summit did not take place in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a mutually agreed decision between the two governments." Last year the summit happened in Russia's far eastern city of Vladivostok with Indian Prime Minister travelling to Russia, before that it took place in Delhi in 2018 with Russian President Putin travelling to India. Meanwhile, the Russian ambassador to Delhi Nikolay Kudashev said, "Special and privileged strategic partnership" between Russia and India is "progressing well despite COVID-19" and the Russian side is "staying in close touch with our Indian friends to work out new dates for the summit, postponed due to epidemiological reasons." He highlighted that "we are confident that it will be held in the near future, while the Russian-Indian relations will continue its further development." Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin have spoken to each other four times this year. Both Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and defence minister Rajnath Singh had travelled to Moscow in September for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meetings. In fact, defence minister Rajnath Singhhad also visited the country for the Victory Day parade. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, international travel has significantly impacted. For the first time this year, the annual United Nations General assembly meeting in September and other major summits like G20, BRICS and SCO happened virtually. The last foreign visit of Indian prime minister was in November of 2019 and since then he hasn't gone abroad due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

India says relation with Russia important; annual summit postponed due to COVID-19

Czech Republic's national intelligence agency, Security Information Service (BIS)&nbsp;in its annual report has highlighted increased proliferation concerns from Pakistan, a worry pointed out by a German government report earlier this year.

The annual report for 2019, released a few weeks back, lists Pakistan along with North Korea, Syria, Iran as "countries of proliferation concerns" who "continued their covert attempts to procure internationally controlled items."&nbsp;The report explained, "The countries used less&nbsp;known or purpose-created companies and third countries for re-exportation and tried to disguise&nbsp;money transfers in order to avoid being traced back."

The fact that "disguise money transfers" were used will raise the question at&nbsp;Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on&nbsp;Pakistan's stated commitment to take action on shady financial transactions.

It, however, comes as no surprise, given Pakistan's track record, especially with the infamous AQ Khan case who is called as "father of uranium enrichment project" in the country but has been involved in passing nuclear know-how to countries like Iran, North Korea, and Libya.

The report points to the role played by Chinese intelligence agencies-- Ministry of State Security (MSS) and the Military Intelligence Department (MID) in the central European country.

It said, Chinese intelligence officers, use traditional covers such as diplomats, journalists, or scholars or use social media and "took advantage of the fact that Czech businesses are welcoming towards Chinese investors."

Elaborating the modus operandi the report said Chinese entities in the Czech Republic – intelligence officers, diplomats, party officials "sought to find ways to influence public opinion, spread propaganda and present a positive image of the People's Republic of China, using both overt and covert influencing of Czech media."

Positive articles about China were "supposed to build a pro-Chinese environment and create new opportunities for Chinese expansion" and when they "reappeared later in the Chinese press, (they were) presented as the opinion of Czech mainstream media or even as the opinion of the whole Czech Republic."

The report specifically points out that Czech academia was particularly under the radar of Chinese intelligence who used the garb of exchange programmes and research to&nbsp;expand contacts and get information on domestic and foreign policy, defence, technology, energy projects.

Czech Republic's national intelligence agency, Security Information Service (BIS) in its annual report has highlighted increased proliferation concerns from Pakistan, a worry pointed out by a German government report earlier this year.

Czech Republic's national intelligence agency, Security Information Service (BIS) in its annual report has highlighted increased proliferation concerns from Pakistan, a worry pointed out by a German government report earlier this year. The annual report for 2019, released a few weeks back, lists Pakistan along with North Korea, Syria, Iran as "countries of proliferation concerns" who "continued their covert attempts to procure internationally controlled items." The report explained, "The countries used less known or purpose-created companies and third countries for re-exportation and tried to disguise money transfers in order to avoid being traced back." The fact that "disguise money transfers" were used will raise the question at Financial Action Task Force (FATF) on Pakistan's stated commitment to take action on shady financial transactions. It, however, comes as no surprise, given Pakistan's track record, especially with the infamous AQ Khan case who is called as "father of uranium enrichment project" in the country but has been involved in passing nuclear know-how to countries like Iran, North Korea, and Libya. The report points to the role played by Chinese intelligence agencies-- Ministry of State Security (MSS) and the Military Intelligence Department (MID) in the central European country. It said, Chinese intelligence officers, use traditional covers such as diplomats, journalists, or scholars or use social media and "took advantage of the fact that Czech businesses are welcoming towards Chinese investors." Elaborating the modus operandi the report said Chinese entities in the Czech Republic – intelligence officers, diplomats, party officials "sought to find ways to influence public opinion, spread propaganda and present a positive image of the People's Republic of China, using both overt and covert influencing of Czech media." Positive articles about China were "supposed to build a pro-Chinese environment and create new opportunities for Chinese expansion" and when they "reappeared later in the Chinese press, (they were) presented as the opinion of Czech mainstream media or even as the opinion of the whole Czech Republic." The report specifically points out that Czech academia was particularly under the radar of Chinese intelligence who used the garb of exchange programmes and research to expand contacts and get information on domestic and foreign policy, defence, technology, energy projects.

Czech intel report highlights proliferation concerns from Pakistan, increased Chinese propaganda

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain.

While "free and open maritime order based on the rule of law" being discussed found mention in readouts issued by both Indian and Japanese defence ministries, the Japanese readout stated ministers, "affirmed their intention to continue exchanging views in light of the current events occurring in the region" and "concurred in sending a clear message that they strongly oppose any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by coercion or any activities that escalate tension."&nbsp;

While China wasn't mentioned, nor "current events...in the region" pointed out, it is clear that Beijing's actions this year with its neighbours and beyond have changed the perception of the country drastically.

2020 saw Chinese aggressive action against&nbsp;both India and Japan. With India, the build-up by Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh continues, with Japan, China has&nbsp;staked its claim on Senkaku island&nbsp;which is under the administration of Tokyo. The year also saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in aggressive actions by Chinese troops in Galwan Valley.

In the readout, Japan listed discussions on "regional situations" in the east China Sea and South China and called for "Free and open Indo-Pacific". China has been trying to stake claim to the whole of South China Sea based on its so-called "nine-dash line" which has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2016.

Key areas both Japan and Indian defence ministers discussed were on cooperation in third countries, on ways to counter disinformation and share lessons in humanitarian aid and disaster response amidst covid pandemic.&nbsp;

In the defence sector, both sides have increased cooperation, especially with the signing of the Japan-India Agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services (ACSA). The Indian Navy and its Japanese counterpart both undertook bilateral exercise earlier this year and in the month of November under the umbrella of Malabar Naval exercises--India, Japan, US and Australian navies came together.&nbsp;

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain.

Indian defence minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese defence minister Kishi Nobuo on Tuesday discussed aggressive actions by China in the region and called for increased cooperation in the maritime domain. While "free and open maritime order based on the rule of law" being discussed found mention in readouts issued by both Indian and Japanese defence ministries, the Japanese readout stated ministers, "affirmed their intention to continue exchanging views in light of the current events occurring in the region" and "concurred in sending a clear message that they strongly oppose any attempts to unilaterally change the status quo by coercion or any activities that escalate tension." While China wasn't mentioned, nor "current events...in the region" pointed out, it is clear that Beijing's actions this year with its neighbours and beyond have changed the perception of the country drastically. 2020 saw Chinese aggressive action against both India and Japan. With India, the build-up by Chinese forces in eastern Ladakh continues, with Japan, China has staked its claim on Senkaku island which is under the administration of Tokyo. The year also saw the death of 20 Indian soldiers in aggressive actions by Chinese troops in Galwan Valley. In the readout, Japan listed discussions on "regional situations" in the east China Sea and South China and called for "Free and open Indo-Pacific". China has been trying to stake claim to the whole of South China Sea based on its so-called "nine-dash line" which has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in 2016. Key areas both Japan and Indian defence ministers discussed were on cooperation in third countries, on ways to counter disinformation and share lessons in humanitarian aid and disaster response amidst covid pandemic. In the defence sector, both sides have increased cooperation, especially with the signing of the Japan-India Agreement on Reciprocal Provision of Supplies and Services (ACSA). The Indian Navy and its Japanese counterpart both undertook bilateral exercise earlier this year and in the month of November under the umbrella of Malabar Naval exercises--India, Japan, US and Australian navies came together.

India, Japan discuss aggressive Chinese actions

India and Japan have devised a mechanism for cooperation in the steel industry at the joint secretary level and will see both sides discussed a number of issues in the sector including international trade.

India which is the second-largest producer of steel still lags behind countries Japan and China in terms of per capita consumption, and the dialogue mechanism will see New Delhi-Tokyo cooperating to increase this.

Both sides on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to herald the cooperation. It was signed by the Secretary of India's steel ministry Pradip Kumar Tripathi and Vice-Minister for International Affairs, Tanaka Shigehiro representing Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry.

India and Japan's collaboration come even as both sides are increasing cooperation in many areas including alternate supply chains in a post-pandemic world. Earlier this year, India, Japan, and Australia came together for a partnership on supply chains and increasingly more countries have shown interest in it.

One of the other key aims of the dialogue will be to increase the quality and quantity of steel being manufactured in India, something that overlaps with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India vision. India plans to expand steel production capacity to 300 million tons by 2030-31.

Both at the private and government level, a number of collaborations have happened in Steel Sector. Last year, ArcelorMittal and Nippon steel announced the acquisition of Essar Steel. Nippon Steel has established a JV with Tata Steel, which produces high-grade steel to be used for automobiles. Mitsubishi Corporation and Larsen &amp; Toubro, is working with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) for the modernization of the Rourkela Steel Plant. At the government level, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry started exchanges of experts to advance the energy efficiency of steel mills and to expand steel utilization in buildings in India.

Interestingly, it was the large volume of Indian Iron ore from India to Japan that helped rapid reconstruction and economic recovery of the country in the aftermath of World War 2. In fact, in 1960, 30% of iron ore imported to Japan came from India.

India and Japan have devised a mechanism for cooperation in the steel industry at the joint secretary level and will see both sides discussed a number of issues in the sector including international trade.

India and Japan have devised a mechanism for cooperation in the steel industry at the joint secretary level and will see both sides discussed a number of issues in the sector including international trade. India which is the second-largest producer of steel still lags behind countries Japan and China in terms of per capita consumption, and the dialogue mechanism will see New Delhi-Tokyo cooperating to increase this. Both sides on Tuesday signed a Memorandum of Cooperation to herald the cooperation. It was signed by the Secretary of India's steel ministry Pradip Kumar Tripathi and Vice-Minister for International Affairs, Tanaka Shigehiro representing Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry. India and Japan's collaboration come even as both sides are increasing cooperation in many areas including alternate supply chains in a post-pandemic world. Earlier this year, India, Japan, and Australia came together for a partnership on supply chains and increasingly more countries have shown interest in it. One of the other key aims of the dialogue will be to increase the quality and quantity of steel being manufactured in India, something that overlaps with Atmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India vision. India plans to expand steel production capacity to 300 million tons by 2030-31. Both at the private and government level, a number of collaborations have happened in Steel Sector. Last year, ArcelorMittal and Nippon steel announced the acquisition of Essar Steel. Nippon Steel has established a JV with Tata Steel, which produces high-grade steel to be used for automobiles. Mitsubishi Corporation and Larsen & Toubro, is working with Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) for the modernization of the Rourkela Steel Plant. At the government level, Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry started exchanges of experts to advance the energy efficiency of steel mills and to expand steel utilization in buildings in India. Interestingly, it was the large volume of Indian Iron ore from India to Japan that helped rapid reconstruction and economic recovery of the country in the aftermath of World War 2. In fact, in 1960, 30% of iron ore imported to Japan came from India.

India and Japan come up with a mechanism for cooperation in the steel industry

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country.

The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/quad-senior-officials-meet-second-time-this-year-india-says-focus-on-covid-vaccine-asean-centrality-350845" hreflang="en">Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality</a>

Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation.

This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-vietnam-virtual-summit-on-monday-350783" hreflang="en">India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday</a>

Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam."

New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to.

The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. ​India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body.

Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

Around 27 outcomes in the form of a memorandum of understanding, agreements will be announced on Monday at India, Vietnam virtual summit between Indian PM Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc. This is the first such virtual summit of PM Modi with an ASEAN country. The announcements will be on a range of issues from defence to energy, to development partnership to healthcare. On defence, a key focus will be on implementation of India’s Defence Line of Credit for high-speed guard boats for Vietnam. New Delhi has in the past extended defence Lines of Credit worth US $600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Also read| Quad senior officials meet second time this year; India says focus on COVID vaccine, ASEAN centrality Both countries will discuss projects in water resource management in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta region, digital connectivity, PhD fellowships, and heritage conservation. They are already engaging under Mekong–Ganga Cooperation, which is a two-decade-old mechanism involving India and five ASEAN countries including Vietnam. They will explore new opportunities in renewable energy cooperation. This is the ninth such virtual summit of PM Modi. So far, he has had virtual summits with Australia, EU, Sri Lanka, Denmark, Italy, Luxembourg, Uzbekistan, and Bangladesh counterparts. Also read| India, Vietnam virtual summit on Monday Speaking to WION last month, Vietnam's envoy to India, Pham Sanh Chau said, "Vietnam has been able to establish direct air link between the two countries, it adds to physical connectivity. Now, on infrastructure connectivity, we hope one day we will have highway connecting various countries crossing Thailand, Cambodia, Laos in order to reach Vietnam." New Delhi and Hanoi will also issue joint vision on the future development of the India-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and explore cooperation potential on India’s IPOI (Indo-Pacific Oceans' Initiative) and ASEAN’s AOIP (ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific) that Vietnam subscribes to. The virtual summit, a new form of digital diplomacy, comes amidst COVID-19 pandemic and both leaders are expectedly going to take stock of the regional and global situation and explore convergences on new and resilient supply chains. India and Vietnam will concurrently serve at the UN Security Council in 2021 as non-permanent members and will use this for a stronger voice for reforms at the 75-year-old body. Vietnam is the chair of the ASEAN grouping this year, and the last few years have seen a number of high-level visits and engagement between the two countries. Indian President Ram Nath Kovind had visited the country in 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in 2019 and PM Modi in 2016 during which ties were elevated to "comprehensive strategic partnership". President of Vietnam Tran Dai and PM Phuc both were in India in 2018.

India, Vietnam virtual summit to see around 27 key outcomes

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi.

The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam.

While listing out the outcomes on defense at the summit, secretary east, Riva Ganguly Das said, "Both sides agreed to further intensify their defense industry collaboration building on the Indian defense credit lines extended to Viet Nam. An Implementing Arrangement on Defence Industry Cooperation was also signed to this effect."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vietnam-important-pillar-of-indias-act-east-policy-pm-narendra-modi-351386">Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi</a>

Key focus areas were also on development projects and culture. India handed over seven development projects built with Indian ‘Grant-in-Aid’ Assistance of US$ 1.5 million for the local community in Vietnam's southeast Ninh Thuan province. Additionally, New Delhi has increased the number of Quick Impact Projects to 10, from the current 5 starting FY 2021-2022.

On the cultural front, India will be part of the conservation of 3 historical sites in the ASEAN country--F-block of Temple at My Son, Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery in Quang Nam province, and Nhan Cham Tower in Phu Yen province. India's Archaeological Survey team is already working on the restoration of Cham temples in Central Vietnam where recently a 9th century AD monolithic Shiva Linga was discovered. Both sides also announced the launch of a bilateral project for preparing an Encyclopedia on India - Vietnam Civilizational and Cultural Relations

But perhaps, an outcome that Beijing will keenly note is the mention of UNCLOS in the India Vietnam Joint statement --Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People.&nbsp;

The vision document said, "leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea" while "pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), without resorting to threat or use of force."

UNCLOS&nbsp;or United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was violated by China in 2016 by not accepting the award of the tribunal constituted under it. &nbsp;The tribunal had dismissed the Chinese claim to a large portion of the South China Sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line".

On the South China Sea which has seen an increased Chinese aggressiveness&nbsp;and attempts to unilaterally stake claims, the statement said, "Both leaders underscored the importance of non-militarisation and self-restraint in the conduct of all activities by claimants and all other states, and avoidance of actions that could further complicate the situation or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.".

&nbsp;

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam.

India on Monday handed over the first of 12 High-Speed Guard Boat to Vietnam under the $100 million Defence Line of Credit extended by New Delhi to Hanoi. The handing over happened at the virtual summit, between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Vietnam's PM Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during which both sides also launched manufacturing of High-speed Guard Boats and keel laying of 7 such boats which will be manufactured in Vietnam. While listing out the outcomes on defense at the summit, secretary east, Riva Ganguly Das said, "Both sides agreed to further intensify their defense industry collaboration building on the Indian defense credit lines extended to Viet Nam. An Implementing Arrangement on Defence Industry Cooperation was also signed to this effect." Also read: Vietnam 'important pillar' of India's Act East Policy: PM Narendra Modi Key focus areas were also on development projects and culture. India handed over seven development projects built with Indian ‘Grant-in-Aid’ Assistance of US$ 1.5 million for the local community in Vietnam's southeast Ninh Thuan province. Additionally, New Delhi has increased the number of Quick Impact Projects to 10, from the current 5 starting FY 2021-2022. On the cultural front, India will be part of the conservation of 3 historical sites in the ASEAN country--F-block of Temple at My Son, Dong Duong Buddhist Monastery in Quang Nam province, and Nhan Cham Tower in Phu Yen province. India's Archaeological Survey team is already working on the restoration of Cham temples in Central Vietnam where recently a 9th century AD monolithic Shiva Linga was discovered. Both sides also announced the launch of a bilateral project for preparing an Encyclopedia on India - Vietnam Civilizational and Cultural Relations But perhaps, an outcome that Beijing will keenly note is the mention of UNCLOS in the India Vietnam Joint statement --Joint Vision for Peace, Prosperity, and People. The vision document said, "leaders reaffirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the South China Sea" while "pursuing the peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), without resorting to threat or use of force." UNCLOS or United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea was violated by China in 2016 by not accepting the award of the tribunal constituted under it. The tribunal had dismissed the Chinese claim to a large portion of the South China Sea-based on its so-called "nine-dash line". On the South China Sea which has seen an increased Chinese aggressiveness and attempts to unilaterally stake claims, the statement said, "Both leaders underscored the importance of non-militarisation and self-restraint in the conduct of all activities by claimants and all other states, and avoidance of actions that could further complicate the situation or escalate disputes affecting peace and stability.".

India hands over Vietnam first high-speed boat under $100 million defense credit line

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