Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom is aware of Khalistani group-backed farmer rally being planned in London and raised the matter with the Metropolitan police.&nbsp;

The rally is in solidarity with the ongoing protest by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/farm-bill-protest-row-indian-mission-in-canada-asks-for-additional-security-347790">farmers </a>in India.

The rally planned for December 10 is being organized by Khalistani secessionist group Sikhs for Justice(SFJ) which was banned by India just last year.&nbsp;

The UK government is still to take a call on if the rally can go ahead or not as per local regulations.&nbsp;

The Metropolitan police in an open letter to those who are organising and participating in it said, that it "strongly advises people not to attend any large gathering...We are still in the middle of a global pandemic and would urge you to consider other ways of making solidarity representations, perhaps in the form of a petition or an online forum."

"Please be advised that you may also be at risk of committing a criminal offence.....No person may participate in a gathering of more than 6 persons outdoors, unless certain exemptions apply," it said.

Last year saw two violent protests near the Indian High Commission in London in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

The protest saw huge participation of the Pakistani diaspora with several Khalistan supporters as well. One of the protests turned violent and led to the vandalization of the Indian High Commission.&nbsp;

The matter was raised at the highest level with the Indian Prime Minister raising it with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom is aware of Khalistani group-backed farmer rally being planned in London and raised the matter with the Metropolitan police.

Indian High Commission in the United Kingdom is aware of Khalistani group-backed farmer rally being planned in London and raised the matter with the Metropolitan police. The rally is in solidarity with the ongoing protest by farmers in India. The rally planned for December 10 is being organized by Khalistani secessionist group Sikhs for Justice(SFJ) which was banned by India just last year. The UK government is still to take a call on if the rally can go ahead or not as per local regulations. The Metropolitan police in an open letter to those who are organising and participating in it said, that it "strongly advises people not to attend any large gathering...We are still in the middle of a global pandemic and would urge you to consider other ways of making solidarity representations, perhaps in the form of a petition or an online forum." "Please be advised that you may also be at risk of committing a criminal offence.....No person may participate in a gathering of more than 6 persons outdoors, unless certain exemptions apply," it said. Last year saw two violent protests near the Indian High Commission in London in the aftermath of New Delhi removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The protest saw huge participation of the Pakistani diaspora with several Khalistan supporters as well. One of the protests turned violent and led to the vandalization of the Indian High Commission. The matter was raised at the highest level with the Indian Prime Minister raising it with British Prime Minister Boris Johnson.

India raises with UK's Met police Khalistani group-led rally planned in London

B Medical System, a firm from Luxembourg that will be building portable and non-portable covid vaccine refrigerators for Indian government will set up plant in India. The plant will be up and running by mid-March in Gujarat.

This is the direct outcome of the virtual summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Luxembourg PM Xavier Bettel.&nbsp;

B Medical System CEO Luc Provost and Deputy CEO Jesal Doshi are in India for a week-long visit to Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. The formalities of the plant are expected to be completed this week.

Company CEO Luc Provost said that his company will be involved in "transfer technology from Luxembourg to India to produce quality products", while Deputy CEO Jesal pointed out, India could "replicate the success for the transportation of the vaccines".

The portable covid vaccine refrigerator they will be manufacturing can carry different vaccine covid vaccine requiring different temperatures--from Pfizer's covid vaccine at -70 or Moderna COVID vaccine at -20. Their solar-powered units are capable of running for a month with one-day exposure to the Sun.

Provost and Doshi spoke with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New Delhi

WION: With what mandate you are in India vis-a-vis the setting up of plant

Luc Provost: We are here to set up manufacturing plant and transfer technology from Luxembourg to India to produce quality products in the vaccination project

WION: You will visit many cities if you can give detail of it...

Jesal Doshi: It was only in November that two prime ministers met, and all of us here are impressed with the vision that Prime Minister Modi has shown and the speed at which govt has acted to follow up on it. Less than 2 weeks, after that summit we are physically here in Delhi in COVID times. That is in itself an incredible achievement. We have a week full of meetings, we will be in Delhi, we will be in Hyderabad, we will be in Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad meeting various stakeholders as well as vaccine manufacturers.

WION: What is the differentiating factor between your products and products available?

Luc Provost: Actually, B Medical has been in this business for 4 decades and has been leading the market, and we helped build up extremely, very high intelligence of our products, high-quality products, so you will find existing products around the world which satisfy similar needs, but not as same security as B Medical can offer and same quality.&nbsp;

Just as reference points, we have products with failure rate below 0.3% and we offer 10 years warranty on our products because they are so robust and well designed. we'll produce in Luxembourg and we will live to bring the product to India.

WION: How will your company setting up plant help Indian govt's Atmanirbhar Bharat project?

Jesal Doshi: India even today manufactures 60% of the world's vaccines. And honestly, I don't find any reason why they can't replicate the success for the transportation of the vaccines, which is sometimes even more critical than even the vaccine itself.&nbsp;

Because if you transport it incorrectly, you lose the potency of the vaccine. So, I think, there is huge potential in India as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat to create many jobs in the sector and I am very very excited being Indian myself, as part of this.

WION: If you can give a detail of the portable refrigerator equipment that will be produced in India.

Luc Provost: The beauty of our equipment is that you can use the same equipment, for multiple usage. The transport container you are talking about can transport Pfizer vaccine at -70 degree, Moderna vaccine at -20 degree, in perfectly safe conditions, and also the standard vaccine at +4 degree for a week.&nbsp;

But we don't manufacture portable solutions, we manufacture stationary solutions, so vaccine refrigerators. We have products that can store refrigerated and a frozen vaccine. It gives flexibility to governments in the immunization programme is a huge risk reducer, to buy the right product.

WION: When will things move on ground, we can have the actual project working.

Jesal Doshi: From our perspective, we have already set-in place several steps. For example, the senior team that will lead our operations has been identified and recruited. We have already, placed order for equipment, in terms of assembly line that will be set up. We have done lot of things already, and I believe that we will have plant operational by March next year which is an extremely tight timeline.

B Medical System, a firm from Luxembourg that will be building portable and non-portable covid vaccine refrigerators for Indian government will set up plant in India.

B Medical System, a firm from Luxembourg that will be building portable and non-portable covid vaccine refrigerators for Indian government will set up plant in India. The plant will be up and running by mid-March in Gujarat. This is the direct outcome of the virtual summit between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Luxembourg PM Xavier Bettel. B Medical System CEO Luc Provost and Deputy CEO Jesal Doshi are in India for a week-long visit to Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. The formalities of the plant are expected to be completed this week. Company CEO Luc Provost said that his company will be involved in "transfer technology from Luxembourg to India to produce quality products", while Deputy CEO Jesal pointed out, India could "replicate the success for the transportation of the vaccines". The portable covid vaccine refrigerator they will be manufacturing can carry different vaccine covid vaccine requiring different temperatures--from Pfizer's covid vaccine at -70 or Moderna COVID vaccine at -20. Their solar-powered units are capable of running for a month with one-day exposure to the Sun. Provost and Doshi spoke with WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New Delhi WION: With what mandate you are in India vis-a-vis the setting up of plant Luc Provost: We are here to set up manufacturing plant and transfer technology from Luxembourg to India to produce quality products in the vaccination project WION: You will visit many cities if you can give detail of it... Jesal Doshi: It was only in November that two prime ministers met, and all of us here are impressed with the vision that Prime Minister Modi has shown and the speed at which govt has acted to follow up on it. Less than 2 weeks, after that summit we are physically here in Delhi in COVID times. That is in itself an incredible achievement. We have a week full of meetings, we will be in Delhi, we will be in Hyderabad, we will be in Pune, Mumbai, Ahmedabad meeting various stakeholders as well as vaccine manufacturers. WION: What is the differentiating factor between your products and products available? Luc Provost: Actually, B Medical has been in this business for 4 decades and has been leading the market, and we helped build up extremely, very high intelligence of our products, high-quality products, so you will find existing products around the world which satisfy similar needs, but not as same security as B Medical can offer and same quality. Just as reference points, we have products with failure rate below 0.3% and we offer 10 years warranty on our products because they are so robust and well designed. we'll produce in Luxembourg and we will live to bring the product to India. WION: How will your company setting up plant help Indian govt's Atmanirbhar Bharat project? Jesal Doshi: India even today manufactures 60% of the world's vaccines. And honestly, I don't find any reason why they can't replicate the success for the transportation of the vaccines, which is sometimes even more critical than even the vaccine itself. Because if you transport it incorrectly, you lose the potency of the vaccine. So, I think, there is huge potential in India as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat to create many jobs in the sector and I am very very excited being Indian myself, as part of this. WION: If you can give a detail of the portable refrigerator equipment that will be produced in India. Luc Provost: The beauty of our equipment is that you can use the same equipment, for multiple usage. The transport container you are talking about can transport Pfizer vaccine at -70 degree, Moderna vaccine at -20 degree, in perfectly safe conditions, and also the standard vaccine at +4 degree for a week. But we don't manufacture portable solutions, we manufacture stationary solutions, so vaccine refrigerators. We have products that can store refrigerated and a frozen vaccine. It gives flexibility to governments in the immunization programme is a huge risk reducer, to buy the right product. WION: When will things move on ground, we can have the actual project working. Jesal Doshi: From our perspective, we have already set-in place several steps. For example, the senior team that will lead our operations has been identified and recruited. We have already, placed order for equipment, in terms of assembly line that will be set up. We have done lot of things already, and I believe that we will have plant operational by March next year which is an extremely tight timeline.

Luxembourg firm key to India's COVID immunisation to hold talk to set-up plant

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on Friday reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amidst worsening ties with New Delhi.

In response to a question, he said,"Canada will always stand up for right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world. We are pleased to see moves towards deescalation and dialogue".

Asked if he was worried about his comments damaging ties between India and Canada, he said,"Canada will always stand up for right of peaceful protest and human rights around the world".

Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests irking New Delhi.

India has strongly reacted to the remarks. In an unprecedented move, Ministry of External Affairs on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of the remarks.

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element, is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated number of terror attacks.

This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that drEW extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism. 
&nbsp;

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on Friday reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amidst worsening ties with New Delhi. In response to a question, he said,"Canada will always stand up for right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on Friday reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amidst worsening ties with New Delhi. In response to a question, he said,"Canada will always stand up for right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world. We are pleased to see moves towards deescalation and dialogue". Asked if he was worried about his comments damaging ties between India and Canada, he said,"Canada will always stand up for right of peaceful protest and human rights around the world". Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests irking New Delhi. India has strongly reacted to the remarks. In an unprecedented move, Ministry of External Affairs on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of the remarks. The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element, is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated number of terror attacks. This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that drEW extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

Trudeau stays firm on comments on farmer protests amid row with India

The Indian mission in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canada-opposes-msp-has-scarce-interest-in-well-being-of-indian-farmers-bjp-347637"> Canada</a> has asked for additional security as Khalistani and Pakistani elements have joined the protests near the High Commission and Indian consulates in the country.&nbsp;

Watch:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/indo-canadian-relationship-deteriorate-as-indias-external-affairs-minister-refuse-to-go-to-canada-347762/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Ever since the farm bill protest started in India, fringe elements in Canada have been protesting near the Indian High Commission in Ottawa which has raised security fears on the campus.

The issue was also raised during the summoning of Canadian envoy to India Nadir Patel on Friday.&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs had summoned Patel after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commented on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/farmer-protests-fifth-round-of-talks-between-govt-and-union-leaders-underway-347708">farmers' </a>protests, expressing his "concerns".

The release by MEA said, "comments have encouraged gatherings of extremist activities in front" of Indian High Commission and Consulates in Canada that "raise issues of safety and security."&nbsp;

Calling the Canadian government to "ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel", the statement asked the Canadian leadership to "refrain from pronouncements that legitimise extremist activism."

The fringe Khalistani element has the support of Pakistani's spy agency ISI, which would be keen to see the current developments as an opportunity to create trouble for Indian diplomats and mission. Earlier this year, a Canadian think tank MacDonald-Laurier Institute said that the cause of Khalistan has considerable support of Pakistan. &nbsp;

Last year Pakistani protesters had vandalized the Indian mission in London. The protesters were protesting against India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and had considerable support among the Pakistani diaspora.

Meanwhile, Indian diplomats in Canada have been giving background briefings to the Canadian government, Parliamentarians, business, diaspora for months on farm bills, including in the larger context of reforms.

The Indian mission in Canada has asked for additional security as Khalistani and Pakistani elements have joined the protests near the High Commission and Indian consulates in the country.

The Indian mission in Canada has asked for additional security as Khalistani and Pakistani elements have joined the protests near the High Commission and Indian consulates in the country. Watch: Ever since the farm bill protest started in India, fringe elements in Canada have been protesting near the Indian High Commission in Ottawa which has raised security fears on the campus. The issue was also raised during the summoning of Canadian envoy to India Nadir Patel on Friday. Ministry of external affairs had summoned Patel after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau commented on the farmers' protests, expressing his "concerns". The release by MEA said, "comments have encouraged gatherings of extremist activities in front" of Indian High Commission and Consulates in Canada that "raise issues of safety and security." Calling the Canadian government to "ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel", the statement asked the Canadian leadership to "refrain from pronouncements that legitimise extremist activism." The fringe Khalistani element has the support of Pakistani's spy agency ISI, which would be keen to see the current developments as an opportunity to create trouble for Indian diplomats and mission. Earlier this year, a Canadian think tank MacDonald-Laurier Institute said that the cause of Khalistan has considerable support of Pakistan. Last year Pakistani protesters had vandalized the Indian mission in London. The protesters were protesting against India removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and had considerable support among the Pakistani diaspora. Meanwhile, Indian diplomats in Canada have been giving background briefings to the Canadian government, Parliamentarians, business, diaspora for months on farm bills, including in the larger context of reforms.

Farm bill protest row: Indian mission in Canada asks for additional security

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting.

The meeting takes place next week, and ahead of that Canada was told that India will not attend the meet.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-justin-trudeaus-difficult-relationship-with-india-346790/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

Jaishankar attended the 11th Ministerial Coordination Group on Covid-19 in November. That was the first time India officially took part in the meet.&nbsp;

A release from Canadian foreign ministry that time said, "Minister Champagne (Canadian Foreign minister) welcomed Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India to the group, noting the recent developments in India and emphasizing the critical role India plays in addressing global COVID-19 vaccine and pharmaceutical needs.".

Other members of the grouping include Brazil, France, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore and the United Kingdom.

Last week Canadian PM made remarks on ongoing farmers protests in India, irking New Delhi.&nbsp;

In a strong reaction to what India called "ill-informed" and "unwarranted" remarks, Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Canadian envoy Nadir Patel and told him that "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." 
&nbsp;

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting.

In what seems to be a direct fall out of remarks by Canadian Prime minister Justin Trudeau, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will not attend Canada-headed Covid-19 foreign ministers grouping meeting. The meeting takes place next week, and ahead of that Canada was told that India will not attend the meet. Watch | Jaishankar attended the 11th Ministerial Coordination Group on Covid-19 in November. That was the first time India officially took part in the meet. A release from Canadian foreign ministry that time said, "Minister Champagne (Canadian Foreign minister) welcomed Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar of India to the group, noting the recent developments in India and emphasizing the critical role India plays in addressing global COVID-19 vaccine and pharmaceutical needs.". Other members of the grouping include Brazil, France, Germany, India, Italy, Singapore and the United Kingdom. Last week Canadian PM made remarks on ongoing farmers protests in India, irking New Delhi. In a strong reaction to what India called "ill-informed" and "unwarranted" remarks, Ministry of External Affairs summoned the Canadian envoy Nadir Patel and told him that "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

India's EAM not to attend Canada's foreign ministers' grouping meet on Covid-19

Canadian PM <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/may-impact-ties-india-summons-canadian-envoy-over-trudeaus-remark-on-farmers-protest-347461">Justin Trudeau</a> on Friday once again reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amid worsening ties with New Delhi.

In response to a question, he said, "Canada will always stand up for the right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world. We are pleased to see moves towards deescalation and dialogue".

Asked if he was worried about his comments damaging ties between India and Canada, he said, "Canada will always stand up for the right of peaceful protest and human rights around the world".

Earlier this week Justin Trudeau had expressed "concerns" over the farmers' protests irking New Delhi.

India has strongly reacted to the remarks. In an unprecedented move, ministry of external affairs summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of the remarks.

The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. It is not the first time, the Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi.&nbsp;

In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on Friday once again reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amid worsening ties with New Delhi. In response to a question, he said, "Canada will always stand up for the right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on Friday once again reiterated his stance on farmer protests in India amid worsening ties with New Delhi. In response to a question, he said, "Canada will always stand up for the right of peaceful protest anywhere around the world. We are pleased to see moves towards deescalation and dialogue". Asked if he was worried about his comments damaging ties between India and Canada, he said, "Canada will always stand up for the right of peaceful protest and human rights around the world". Earlier this week Justin Trudeau had expressed "concerns" over the farmers' protests irking New Delhi. India has strongly reacted to the remarks. In an unprecedented move, ministry of external affairs summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of the remarks. The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. It is not the first time, the Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

Trudeau reiterates comments on farmer protests amid diplomatic row with India

In a first, a Pakistan back UN resolution saw over half the members of the New York headquarter body not voting for. The resolution "Promotion of interreligious &amp; intercultural dialogue", saw 52 abstentions, and 51 countries not voting for. This makes 104 members of the UN, out of 193 strength not supporting the resolution.

Most of the countries, who did not vote were from Africa and small island countries, many of whom did not wish to be identified by going for abstentions. While the resolution co-sponsored by Pakistan-Philippines was adopted by 90 countries in favour, it divided the world body.

The abstentions were majorly from the European Union and the west over a straitjacketed view of ongoing freedom of expression versus religion debate. EU saw the resolution, while barely taking a stance on freedom of expression, focused on "religious symbols".

India had its own concerns, specifically on the Kartarpur Sahib corridor, with New Delhi highlighting how Islamabad has transferred the administration of the Gurudwara to a non-Sikh body. It said, "We have protested against this very strongly with the Pakistani side since this runs against the spirit of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor as also the religious sentiments of the Sikh community at large."

India also raised concerns over Indic religions--Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism being discriminated when it comes to persecution against them vis a vis Abrahamic religion, and the stance was well received by many countries.

Pakistani mission to United Nation said the resolution is part of "diplomatic campaign to raise awareness about Islamophobia, anti-Muslim hatred &amp; defamation of religious personalities &amp; symbols", something that is seen as one-sided and coming from a country with a poor track record on safekeeping its own minorities.&nbsp;

In the last 15 years, the resolution on "culture of peace" has always been adopted without a vote and adopted with a consensus. Pakistan is now keen that United Nations declares an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia”, an action that focuses on one religion and expectedly in the future will be used to slam India.

With the resolution being taken, the UN's role has also come under scrutiny. The resolution said it, "welcomes efforts undertaken by the high representative for the United Nations Alliance of civilizations...and takes note of his recent "call for mutual respect". This irked the EU and was seen a something that went against France and the right to expression.&nbsp;

High representative for the United Nations Alliance of civilizations Miguel Ángel Moratinos in October issued a statement "call for mutual respect", saying, "Insulting religions and sacred religious symbols provokes hatred and violent extremism leading to polarization..." and "freedom of expression should be exercised in a way that fully respects the religious beliefs".&nbsp;

The statement was issued in the aftermath of terror attacks in form of knife attacks in France over the depiction of Prophet Mohammed, which is forbidden in Islam.

In fact, India in its statement at UN when the resolution was being taken up and pointed out, “The United Nations is not a body which should take sides when it comes to religion. If we are indeed selective, we will only end up proving Samuel Huntington’s “clash of civilizations”. What we are trying to build here is an “alliance of civilizations” not set up a clash. I call on the UN Alliance of Civilization to act likewise and speak for all, not just a select few."

In a first, a Pakistan back UN resolution saw over half the members of the New York headquarter body not voting for. The resolution "Promotion of interreligious & intercultural dialogue", saw 52 abstentions, and 51 countries not voting for.

In a first, a Pakistan back UN resolution saw over half the members of the New York headquarter body not voting for. The resolution "Promotion of interreligious & intercultural dialogue", saw 52 abstentions, and 51 countries not voting for. This makes 104 members of the UN, out of 193 strength not supporting the resolution. Most of the countries, who did not vote were from Africa and small island countries, many of whom did not wish to be identified by going for abstentions. While the resolution co-sponsored by Pakistan-Philippines was adopted by 90 countries in favour, it divided the world body. The abstentions were majorly from the European Union and the west over a straitjacketed view of ongoing freedom of expression versus religion debate. EU saw the resolution, while barely taking a stance on freedom of expression, focused on "religious symbols". India had its own concerns, specifically on the Kartarpur Sahib corridor, with New Delhi highlighting how Islamabad has transferred the administration of the Gurudwara to a non-Sikh body. It said, "We have protested against this very strongly with the Pakistani side since this runs against the spirit of the Kartarpur Sahib Corridor as also the religious sentiments of the Sikh community at large." India also raised concerns over Indic religions--Hinduism, Jainism, and Sikhism being discriminated when it comes to persecution against them vis a vis Abrahamic religion, and the stance was well received by many countries. Pakistani mission to United Nation said the resolution is part of "diplomatic campaign to raise awareness about Islamophobia, anti-Muslim hatred & defamation of religious personalities & symbols", something that is seen as one-sided and coming from a country with a poor track record on safekeeping its own minorities. In the last 15 years, the resolution on "culture of peace" has always been adopted without a vote and adopted with a consensus. Pakistan is now keen that United Nations declares an “International Day to Combat Islamophobia”, an action that focuses on one religion and expectedly in the future will be used to slam India. With the resolution being taken, the UN's role has also come under scrutiny. The resolution said it, "welcomes efforts undertaken by the high representative for the United Nations Alliance of civilizations...and takes note of his recent "call for mutual respect". This irked the EU and was seen a something that went against France and the right to expression. High representative for the United Nations Alliance of civilizations Miguel Ángel Moratinos in October issued a statement "call for mutual respect", saying, "Insulting religions and sacred religious symbols provokes hatred and violent extremism leading to polarization..." and "freedom of expression should be exercised in a way that fully respects the religious beliefs". The statement was issued in the aftermath of terror attacks in form of knife attacks in France over the depiction of Prophet Mohammed, which is forbidden in Islam. In fact, India in its statement at UN when the resolution was being taken up and pointed out, “The United Nations is not a body which should take sides when it comes to religion. If we are indeed selective, we will only end up proving Samuel Huntington’s “clash of civilizations”. What we are trying to build here is an “alliance of civilizations” not set up a clash. I call on the UN Alliance of Civilization to act likewise and speak for all, not just a select few."

Major embarrassment for Pakistan at UN: Over 100 countries decline to extend support to resolution backed by it

In a significant development, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane will be on a week-long two-country visit next week. He will be visiting Saudi Arabia and UAE. This is first such visit by any Indian Army chief to both the West Asian Arab countries.

He will be in Saudi Arabia from 6th to 8th December. India and Saudi Arabia have had increased engagement in defence. Riyadh-Delhi ties have seen high voltage diplomatic activity, including 2 high-level visit--first by Crown Prince to Delhi in 2018, followed by the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the country last year. India is one of the key strategic partners of the Kingdom, with trade, investment and others being the main pillars.

General Naravane's next stop will be the United Arab Emirates, another country with which India has increased engagement on several fronts. The army chief's visit comes just days after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. UAE hosts one of the largest populations of Indians outside of India.&nbsp;

This is army chief's 3rd foreign visit, amidst the Covid pandemic. He has been to Myanmar, Nepal. The focus is now on the Arab world.&nbsp;

In a significant development, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane will be on a week-long two-country visit next week. He will be visiting Saudi Arabia and UAE.

In a significant development, Indian Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane will be on a week-long two-country visit next week. He will be visiting Saudi Arabia and UAE. This is first such visit by any Indian Army chief to both the West Asian Arab countries. He will be in Saudi Arabia from 6th to 8th December. India and Saudi Arabia have had increased engagement in defence. Riyadh-Delhi ties have seen high voltage diplomatic activity, including 2 high-level visit--first by Crown Prince to Delhi in 2018, followed by the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the country last year. India is one of the key strategic partners of the Kingdom, with trade, investment and others being the main pillars. General Naravane's next stop will be the United Arab Emirates, another country with which India has increased engagement on several fronts. The army chief's visit comes just days after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's visit to the country. UAE hosts one of the largest populations of Indians outside of India. This is army chief's 3rd foreign visit, amidst the Covid pandemic. He has been to Myanmar, Nepal. The focus is now on the Arab world.

Indian Army chief to visit Saudi Arabia, UAE next week

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India.

The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada."

Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests and said, "Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue", which irked New Delhi. 
 
During the summoning, India also raised the issue of "safety and security" of Indian missions and consulates since the comments, MEA statement said "encouraging gatherings of extremist activities in front of our High Commission and Consulates".&nbsp;

It said, "We expect the Canadian Government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimize extremist activism."

Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated a number of terror attacks. The bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 from Montreal to London that killed 329 was planned by Canada-based Khalistani terrorists.

This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India.

In an unprecedented move, India on Friday summoned Canada's envoy Nadir Patel and handed over a demarche as a consequence of remarks by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on the ongoing farmers’ protests in India. The ministry of external affairs in a statement said remarks by the Canadian PM and Canadian cabinet members and members of Parliament "constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs" and "such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada." Earlier this week Justin Trudeau expressed his "concerns" over the farmers' protests and said, "Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue", which irked New Delhi. During the summoning, India also raised the issue of "safety and security" of Indian missions and consulates since the comments, MEA statement said "encouraging gatherings of extremist activities in front of our High Commission and Consulates". It said, "We expect the Canadian Government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimize extremist activism." Canada has a large number of members of the Indian diaspora, many from the northern Indian state of Punjab. A fringe element is known to have supported the cause of Khalistan, a separate homeland for Sikh, and perpetrated a number of terror attacks. The bombing of Air India Flight 182 in 1985 from Montreal to London that killed 329 was planned by Canada-based Khalistani terrorists. This is not the first time, Canadian PM has landed himself into trouble with Delhi. In 2017, he was present at the Khalsa Day parade that draws extremist elements. In 2018, during his week-long India visit, convicted Khalistani terrorist Jaspal Atwal's presence at a reception drew criticism.

‘May impact ties’: India summons Canadian envoy over Trudeau's remark on farmers' protest

The world "loneliest" elephant has reached his new home in Cambodia thanks to helping from Russia and India. The elephant "Kaavan" was in Pakistan, without a mate, and a campaign was launched by American Singer Cher, which lasted for 4 years.

The elephant reached his new home via Delhi onboard Russian airlines Aviacon Zitotrans's IL-76TD cargo aircraft.

The Russian mission in Delhi had reached out to Indian authorities and both worked in "close cooperation" for the mission. The Indian side provided a flight through and a stopover in India for the plane carrying the elephant.

Head of the Consular Section of the Russian Embassy in Delhi Andrey V.Fedorov said, "It was difficult to predict how the stopover in New Delhi would go since the animal was sleeping under drugs and could wake up. No one new how the huge male would behave in this case. However, everything went well and Kaavan was taken to his new place of residence".

Yekaterinburg based Aviacon Zitotrans is involved in a range of animal transportation projects from horse shipments to livestock airlifts to the relocation of animals.

In 2006, the Company delivered a pair of rhinos from Nepal to Europe. In 2008 it delivered eight white whales from Anapa in Russia to one of the world’s largest oceanariums located in Canada's Hamilton.

"Kaavan" the elephant was donated by Sri Lankan government in 1985 to Pakistan and he spent 35 years at the Marghazar Zoo in Islamabad. He was just one year old when he reached Pakistan.

Kaavan did get a mate in 1990--Saheli, but that elephant died in 2012 leaving him alone. In 2020, after a sustained campaign, Islamabad high court gave permission to relocate the elephant. Animal wildlife organization Four Paws, along with journalist Eric Margolis played a key role in its relocation.

The world "loneliest" elephant has reached his new home in Cambodia thanks to helping from Russia and India. The elephant "Kaavan" was in Pakistan, without a mate, and a campaign was launched by American Singer Cher, which lasted for 4 years.

The world "loneliest" elephant has reached his new home in Cambodia thanks to helping from Russia and India. The elephant "Kaavan" was in Pakistan, without a mate, and a campaign was launched by American Singer Cher, which lasted for 4 years. The elephant reached his new home via Delhi onboard Russian airlines Aviacon Zitotrans's IL-76TD cargo aircraft. The Russian mission in Delhi had reached out to Indian authorities and both worked in "close cooperation" for the mission. The Indian side provided a flight through and a stopover in India for the plane carrying the elephant. Head of the Consular Section of the Russian Embassy in Delhi Andrey V.Fedorov said, "It was difficult to predict how the stopover in New Delhi would go since the animal was sleeping under drugs and could wake up. No one new how the huge male would behave in this case. However, everything went well and Kaavan was taken to his new place of residence". Yekaterinburg based Aviacon Zitotrans is involved in a range of animal transportation projects from horse shipments to livestock airlifts to the relocation of animals. In 2006, the Company delivered a pair of rhinos from Nepal to Europe. In 2008 it delivered eight white whales from Anapa in Russia to one of the world’s largest oceanariums located in Canada's Hamilton. "Kaavan" the elephant was donated by Sri Lankan government in 1985 to Pakistan and he spent 35 years at the Marghazar Zoo in Islamabad. He was just one year old when he reached Pakistan. Kaavan did get a mate in 1990--Saheli, but that elephant died in 2012 leaving him alone. In 2020, after a sustained campaign, Islamabad high court gave permission to relocate the elephant. Animal wildlife organization Four Paws, along with journalist Eric Margolis played a key role in its relocation.

How Russia, India worked together for world's 'loneliest' elephant to reach new home

&nbsp;India has opened four&nbsp;new trade routes with Bhutan at Nagarkata, Agartala, Jogighopa, and Pandu.

The Nagarkata port in West Bengal has been notified as a "permanent" land customs station, with no restriction on commodity movement. Earlier it was a "seasonal" station, allowing only trade of certain commodities like oranges, ginger, cardamom.

The other trade route is Tripura's capital Agartala, which will facilitate the country's trade with Bangladesh. This comes, even as India plans to complete work on Agartala-Akhaura rail by next year as part of increased regional connectivity plans.

New Delhi has also given a go-ahead to Jogighopa and Pandu riverine ports for connectivity. Both ports are located on India's national waterway&nbsp;along the Brahmaputra passing through Assam. So far, Dhubri in Assam was the only riverine port designated for Bhutan's trade with India.

A release from Indian mission in Bhutan said, "Bhutan is India’s closest partner and friend" and a "special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades"

India's commerce minister Piyush Goyal had visited Bhutan in February 2020 and since then a number of virtual meetings have taken place at the trade ministries level leading to the opening of new trade routes.

In October, India had allowed gave a green signal to trade on the Ahllay-Jaigaon axis which gives an alternative and leads to substantial decongestion on Phuentsholing-Jaigaon.

The opening of trade routes come, even as New Delhi is working to open new connectivity projects in South Asia and beyond.

Towards the west, its the Chabahar project that has helped India reach out to Afghanistan, with Myanmar and beyond its the Kaladan multimodal project whose crucial link is Sittwe port.

With Nepal in the north, India opened integrated check posts (ICP) in Birgunj in April 2018, Biratnagar in 2020, and construction for the third&nbsp;ICP at Nepalgunj has started while work on fourth&nbsp;ICP at Bhairahwa has started.

Down south with the Maldives, India launched the first-ever cargo ferry service connecting India's Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male in the Maldives.

India has opened four new trade routes with Bhutan at Nagarkata, Agartala, Jogighopa, and Pandu. The Nagarkata port in West Bengal has been notified as a "permanent" land customs station, with no restriction on commodity movement.

India has opened four new trade routes with Bhutan at Nagarkata, Agartala, Jogighopa, and Pandu. The Nagarkata port in West Bengal has been notified as a "permanent" land customs station, with no restriction on commodity movement. Earlier it was a "seasonal" station, allowing only trade of certain commodities like oranges, ginger, cardamom. The other trade route is Tripura's capital Agartala, which will facilitate the country's trade with Bangladesh. This comes, even as India plans to complete work on Agartala-Akhaura rail by next year as part of increased regional connectivity plans. New Delhi has also given a go-ahead to Jogighopa and Pandu riverine ports for connectivity. Both ports are located on India's national waterway along the Brahmaputra passing through Assam. So far, Dhubri in Assam was the only riverine port designated for Bhutan's trade with India. A release from Indian mission in Bhutan said, "Bhutan is India’s closest partner and friend" and a "special bonds of trust and understanding between India and Bhutan that have existed over decades" India's commerce minister Piyush Goyal had visited Bhutan in February 2020 and since then a number of virtual meetings have taken place at the trade ministries level leading to the opening of new trade routes. In October, India had allowed gave a green signal to trade on the Ahllay-Jaigaon axis which gives an alternative and leads to substantial decongestion on Phuentsholing-Jaigaon. The opening of trade routes come, even as New Delhi is working to open new connectivity projects in South Asia and beyond. Towards the west, its the Chabahar project that has helped India reach out to Afghanistan, with Myanmar and beyond its the Kaladan multimodal project whose crucial link is Sittwe port. With Nepal in the north, India opened integrated check posts (ICP) in Birgunj in April 2018, Biratnagar in 2020, and construction for the third ICP at Nepalgunj has started while work on fourth ICP at Bhairahwa has started. Down south with the Maldives, India launched the first-ever cargo ferry service connecting India's Tuticorin and Cochin ports with Kulhudhuhfushi and Male in the Maldives.

India opens four trade routes with Bhutan

India has called out UN Selectivity on missing out on Indic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism when resolutions are passed. So far various UN resolutions have focused only on Abrahamic religions such as--Christianity, Islam or Judaism with a focus on anti-Semitism, Islamaphobia and anti-Christian acts but no mention of the persecution of followers of Indic religions.

India's First Secretary to UN, Ashish Sharma said, "We fully agree that anti-Semitism, Islamaphobia and anti-Christian acts need to be condemned and India firmly condemns such acts. However, UN resolutions on such important issues speak only of these three Abrahamic religions together."

Explaining, "This august body fails to acknowledge the rise of hatred and violence against Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism also...but the current Member States refuse to speak of these religions in the same breath as the first three “Abrahamic” religions."

India pointed out the persecution of followers of Indic or Dharmic religions, highlighting how Bamyan Buddha was destroyed by the fundamentalists, the terror attack on Sikh gurudwara in Afghanistan earlier this year killing 25 Sikh worshipers and killing of Hindus and Sikhs in several south Asian countries.

India's First Secretary asked "Why is this selectivity? It is time that attacks against these religions are also added to the earlier list of the three Abrahamic religions when such resolutions are passed. Culture of peace cannot be only for Abrahamic religions."

Culture of peace is an annual resolution passed by the UN and calls for promotion of peace, non-violence etc. &nbsp;Overall, Hinduism has more than 1.2 billion, Buddhism has more 535 million, and Sikhism around 30 million followers but seldom any UN resolution has talked about the persecution of these communities.

In fact, India also brought to notice, how Pakistan recently "arbitrarily transferred" the management of Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara from a Sikh Community body to a totally non-Sikh body.

The Indian diplomat said, "This act goes against Sikh religion and its preservation and protection".

He said, till when will we be "mute witness to Pakistan driving away their minorities by threat, coercion, conversion and killing. Even people of the same religion are not spared due to encouragement given to sectarian killing."

While the minority population has substantially reduced in the country, even the Ahmadiyya sect which follows many tenants of Islam are considered heretics.

India has called out UN Selectivity on missing out on Indic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism when resolutions are passed. So far various UN resolutions have focused only on Abrahamic religions such as--Christianity, Islam or Judaism with a focus on anti-Semitism, Islamaphobia and anti-Christian acts but no mention of the persecution of followers of Indic religions.

India has called out UN Selectivity on missing out on Indic religions such as Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism when resolutions are passed. So far various UN resolutions have focused only on Abrahamic religions such as--Christianity, Islam or Judaism with a focus on anti-Semitism, Islamaphobia and anti-Christian acts but no mention of the persecution of followers of Indic religions. India's First Secretary to UN, Ashish Sharma said, "We fully agree that anti-Semitism, Islamaphobia and anti-Christian acts need to be condemned and India firmly condemns such acts. However, UN resolutions on such important issues speak only of these three Abrahamic religions together." Explaining, "This august body fails to acknowledge the rise of hatred and violence against Buddhism, Hinduism and Sikhism also...but the current Member States refuse to speak of these religions in the same breath as the first three “Abrahamic” religions." India pointed out the persecution of followers of Indic or Dharmic religions, highlighting how Bamyan Buddha was destroyed by the fundamentalists, the terror attack on Sikh gurudwara in Afghanistan earlier this year killing 25 Sikh worshipers and killing of Hindus and Sikhs in several south Asian countries. India's First Secretary asked "Why is this selectivity? It is time that attacks against these religions are also added to the earlier list of the three Abrahamic religions when such resolutions are passed. Culture of peace cannot be only for Abrahamic religions." Culture of peace is an annual resolution passed by the UN and calls for promotion of peace, non-violence etc. Overall, Hinduism has more than 1.2 billion, Buddhism has more 535 million, and Sikhism around 30 million followers but seldom any UN resolution has talked about the persecution of these communities. In fact, India also brought to notice, how Pakistan recently "arbitrarily transferred" the management of Kartarpur Sahib Gurudwara from a Sikh Community body to a totally non-Sikh body. The Indian diplomat said, "This act goes against Sikh religion and its preservation and protection". He said, till when will we be "mute witness to Pakistan driving away their minorities by threat, coercion, conversion and killing. Even people of the same religion are not spared due to encouragement given to sectarian killing." While the minority population has substantially reduced in the country, even the Ahmadiyya sect which follows many tenants of Islam are considered heretics.

India calls out UN selectivity on missing out Indic religions

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Sidhant Sibal

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