Highlighting yet again the issue of terror at the United Nations, India has said terror has become a "means of waging war" and requires "global action".

India's first Secretary at United Nations in New York, Ashish Sharma said, and “Terrorism has emerged as one of the means of waging war in the contemporary world. It threatens to engulf the world in a carnage similar to what we witnessed during the two World Wars. Terrorism is a global phenomenon and can only be defeated by a global action."

India has been calling for the passing of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN. CCIT calls for a common definition of terror and the criminalization of international terrorism.

Ashish Sharma, who was speaking at a UN event on the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2 highlighted the role Indian soldiers had played and how they had "participated in the war effort in the millions and suffered immense casualties".

He said, "Despite being under colonial occupation", India contributed 2.5 million soldiers who fought in "every theatre of World War II, from North Africa to Europe and as the Far East as Hong Kong"

During the war, the Indian army was the largest volunteer force ever raised in the history of which 87,000 died or went missing and over a hundred thousand suffered grave injuries.

The first secretary said, "we also cannot forget the sacrifices of our Asian, African and Arab brothers and sisters who fought and died for the freedom of the Allied powers, although they were under the yoke of colonial rule.'

Interestingly, New Delhi pointed out "Although the battlefronts of Europe were romanticized in novels, history books and films" much of the war was "fought in and over colonies controlled by the colonial powers, with front lines springing up from North Africa to East Asia."&nbsp;

The event was organized by Russia in commemoration of all victims of the Second World War. Earlier this year, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had represented India at the Victory Day Parade at Red Square in Moscow on the occasion of 75th Anniversary celebrations. A tri-services contingent of the Indian army took part in the Victory Day Parade.

Highlighting yet again the issue of terror at the United Nations, India has said terror has become a "means of waging war" and requires "global action". India's first Secretary at United Nations in New York, Ashish Sharma said, and “Terrorism has emerged as one of the means of waging war in the contemporary world.

Highlighting yet again the issue of terror at the United Nations, India has said terror has become a "means of waging war" and requires "global action". India's first Secretary at United Nations in New York, Ashish Sharma said, and “Terrorism has emerged as one of the means of waging war in the contemporary world. It threatens to engulf the world in a carnage similar to what we witnessed during the two World Wars. Terrorism is a global phenomenon and can only be defeated by a global action." India has been calling for the passing of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) at the UN. CCIT calls for a common definition of terror and the criminalization of international terrorism. Ashish Sharma, who was speaking at a UN event on the 75th anniversary of the end of World War 2 highlighted the role Indian soldiers had played and how they had "participated in the war effort in the millions and suffered immense casualties". He said, "Despite being under colonial occupation", India contributed 2.5 million soldiers who fought in "every theatre of World War II, from North Africa to Europe and as the Far East as Hong Kong" During the war, the Indian army was the largest volunteer force ever raised in the history of which 87,000 died or went missing and over a hundred thousand suffered grave injuries. The first secretary said, "we also cannot forget the sacrifices of our Asian, African and Arab brothers and sisters who fought and died for the freedom of the Allied powers, although they were under the yoke of colonial rule.' Interestingly, New Delhi pointed out "Although the battlefronts of Europe were romanticized in novels, history books and films" much of the war was "fought in and over colonies controlled by the colonial powers, with front lines springing up from North Africa to East Asia." The event was organized by Russia in commemoration of all victims of the Second World War. Earlier this year, Defence minister Rajnath Singh had represented India at the Victory Day Parade at Red Square in Moscow on the occasion of 75th Anniversary celebrations. A tri-services contingent of the Indian army took part in the Victory Day Parade.

Terror has emerged as a means of waging war, requires global action: India at UN

A top US congress mandated panel has said the Chinese government had "planned" the June Galwan incident even as Beijing ramped up a "coercion campaign" against its neighbours. The Galwan incident saw aggressive action by Chinese soldiers in Galwan valley in Eastern Ladakh, resulting in the death of 20 Indian soldiers. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-fears-admitting-galwan-valley-casualties-may-lead-to-unrest-dissident-309905">Also read | China fears admitting Galwan valley casualties may lead to unrest: Dissident</a> 
 
The just-released annual report of the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) said, "Some evidence suggested the Chinese government had planned the incident, potentially including the possibility for fatalities". 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/35-chinese-soldiers-dead-in-galwan-valley-clash-us-intelligence-sources-306447">Also read | 35 Chinese soldiers dead in Galwan Valley clash: US intelligence sources</a>

USCC was formed in 2000 and investigates national security and trade issues between China and the US. It also provides recommendations to US Congress for legislative and administrative action, on Beijing.

While the "exact motivations behind the Chinese government’s provocative behaviour" on the Line of actual control (LAC) "this year remain unclear", the report said, the "proximate cause" of the clash appeared to be India’s construction of a "strategic access road to support troops" stationed at the border areas.

It highlighted how several weeks prior to the clash Chinese "Defense Minister Wei made his statement encouraging Beijing to use fighting to promote stability" and how an editorial in Chinese communist party mouthpiece Global Times warned that India would suffer a “devastating blow” to its trade and economic ties with China if it got “involved in the U.S.-China rivalry.” 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/strategies-india-could-undertake-to-counter-chinese-aggressions-306358">Also read:&nbsp;Strategies India could undertake to counter Chinese aggressions</a>

Beijing itself has been engaged in building extensive infrastructure along the Line of actual control, and in the aftermath of the clashes asserted sovereignty over the entire Galwan Valley which was a new claim. Several months on, the China India standoff continues, with Beijing refusing to remove the troops it had sent.

The report said, "Beijing ramped up its multiyear coercion campaign against its neighbours, provoking military or paramilitary standoffs with countries from Japan to India and much of Southeast Asia.”

This year saw China amidst the COVID pandemic being aggressive not only with India but with countries like Japan, Australia, Taiwan, UK, Canada. Since the standoff, and the aggressive action, New Delhi has taken several measures such as banning Chinese apps, restrictions on state-run companies to engage with Chinese tech companies, and with Australia and Japan working on alternate resilient supply chains.

The report also mentions Pakistan saying, Chinese forces have "secured access and potential naval basing facilities in Pakistan".

On Monday, the Chinese defence minister was on a visit to Islamabad, and the close ties between Islamabad and Beijing are well known.

A top US congress mandated panel has said the Chinese government had "planned" the June Galwan incident even as Beijing ramped up a "coercion campaign" against its neighbours.

A top US congress mandated panel has said the Chinese government had "planned" the June Galwan incident even as Beijing ramped up a "coercion campaign" against its neighbours. The Galwan incident saw aggressive action by Chinese soldiers in Galwan valley in Eastern Ladakh, resulting in the death of 20 Indian soldiers. Also read | China fears admitting Galwan valley casualties may lead to unrest: Dissident The just-released annual report of the United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission (USCC) said, "Some evidence suggested the Chinese government had planned the incident, potentially including the possibility for fatalities". Also read | 35 Chinese soldiers dead in Galwan Valley clash: US intelligence sources USCC was formed in 2000 and investigates national security and trade issues between China and the US. It also provides recommendations to US Congress for legislative and administrative action, on Beijing. While the "exact motivations behind the Chinese government’s provocative behaviour" on the Line of actual control (LAC) "this year remain unclear", the report said, the "proximate cause" of the clash appeared to be India’s construction of a "strategic access road to support troops" stationed at the border areas. It highlighted how several weeks prior to the clash Chinese "Defense Minister Wei made his statement encouraging Beijing to use fighting to promote stability" and how an editorial in Chinese communist party mouthpiece Global Times warned that India would suffer a “devastating blow” to its trade and economic ties with China if it got “involved in the U.S.-China rivalry.” Also read: Strategies India could undertake to counter Chinese aggressions Beijing itself has been engaged in building extensive infrastructure along the Line of actual control, and in the aftermath of the clashes asserted sovereignty over the entire Galwan Valley which was a new claim. Several months on, the China India standoff continues, with Beijing refusing to remove the troops it had sent. The report said, "Beijing ramped up its multiyear coercion campaign against its neighbours, provoking military or paramilitary standoffs with countries from Japan to India and much of Southeast Asia.” This year saw China amidst the COVID pandemic being aggressive not only with India but with countries like Japan, Australia, Taiwan, UK, Canada. Since the standoff, and the aggressive action, New Delhi has taken several measures such as banning Chinese apps, restrictions on state-run companies to engage with Chinese tech companies, and with Australia and Japan working on alternate resilient supply chains. The report also mentions Pakistan saying, Chinese forces have "secured access and potential naval basing facilities in Pakistan". On Monday, the Chinese defence minister was on a visit to Islamabad, and the close ties between Islamabad and Beijing are well known.

Violent clash at Galwan valley was ‘planned’ by Chinese government: Top US panel

Several foreign envoys will be visiting Hyderabad on&nbsp;December 9 to see India's covid vaccine development programme. The visit, organised by India's Ministry of External Affairs is expected to be a one day visit.

India is expected to be a major centre&nbsp;of the global covid vaccine manufacturing and supply. Amidst the COVID pandemic, India has emerged as the Pharma Capital of the world supplying medicines such as HCQ, Paracetamol to more than 150 countries.

The visit was one of the key outcomes of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's meet with the envoy earlier this month in Delhi. On 6th November, India's FS along with Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary, Department of Science &amp; Technology, &nbsp;Ashutosh Sharma briefed More than 190 heads of diplomatic missions on India's action on COVID pandemic.

On vaccine development programme, New Delhi has organised training programmes on clinical trials for neighbouring countries in which nearly 90 experts from 8 countries participated. &nbsp;It has sent aid, in terms of food and medicines to 5 Indian ocean countries--Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles and 4 African countries--Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea.

Several foreign envoys will be visiting Hyderabad on December 9 to see India's covid vaccine development programme. The visit, organised by India's Ministry of External Affairs is expected to be a one day visit.

Several foreign envoys will be visiting Hyderabad on December 9 to see India's covid vaccine development programme. The visit, organised by India's Ministry of External Affairs is expected to be a one day visit. India is expected to be a major centre of the global covid vaccine manufacturing and supply. Amidst the COVID pandemic, India has emerged as the Pharma Capital of the world supplying medicines such as HCQ, Paracetamol to more than 150 countries. The visit was one of the key outcomes of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla's meet with the envoy earlier this month in Delhi. On 6th November, India's FS along with Principal Scientific Advisor to the Government of India, Prof. K. Vijay Raghavan, Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan, Secretary, Department of Biotechnology, Dr. Renu Swarup, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology, Ashutosh Sharma briefed More than 190 heads of diplomatic missions on India's action on COVID pandemic. On vaccine development programme, New Delhi has organised training programmes on clinical trials for neighbouring countries in which nearly 90 experts from 8 countries participated. It has sent aid, in terms of food and medicines to 5 Indian ocean countries--Maldives, Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles and 4 African countries--Sudan, South Sudan, Djibouti and Eritrea.

Foreign envoys to visit Hyderabad on Dec 9 to see India's covid vaccine programme

India has invited UK Prime Minister<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uks-johnson-urges-lawmakers-to-back-regional-covid-19-restrictions-346753"> Boris Johnson</a> as the guest for Republic Day. The invite was extended during PM Modi's call to UK PM last week.&nbsp;

The telephonic talks that happened on 27th November, focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other related issues.&nbsp;

Indian government readout of the meet said, "The leaders reiterated their shared desire to impart a quantum jump to the India-UK partnership in the post-COVID-19, post-Brexit&nbsp;era, and agreed that there was tremendous potential for enhancing collaboration in trade and investment, scientific research, mobility of professionals and students, and defence and security."

Earlier in November, acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson&nbsp; hadsaid Boris Johnson will soon make an "in person" visit to India.

"We are expecting UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be paying an in-person visit to India in the next few months. Beyond that, PM Boris Johnson is very very keen to come to India. So we hope, over the next few months, we will visit, by both FS Raab and PM Johnson,"&nbsp;Thompson added.

The visit, as of now, will be the first in-person visit of any head of government to India. High-level physical visits have been suspended globally due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The last world leader to visit India was the President of Myanmar&nbsp;Win Myint&nbsp;and US President Donald Trump in February.&nbsp;

India has invited UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson as the guest for Republic Day. The invite was extended during PM Modi's call to UK PM last week. The telephonic talks that happened on 27th November, focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other related issues.

India has invited UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson as the guest for Republic Day. The invite was extended during PM Modi's call to UK PM last week. The telephonic talks that happened on 27th November, focused on the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change and other related issues. Indian government readout of the meet said, "The leaders reiterated their shared desire to impart a quantum jump to the India-UK partnership in the post-COVID-19, post-Brexit era, and agreed that there was tremendous potential for enhancing collaboration in trade and investment, scientific research, mobility of professionals and students, and defence and security." Earlier in November, acting British High Commissioner to India Jan Thompson hadsaid Boris Johnson will soon make an "in person" visit to India. "We are expecting UK foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be paying an in-person visit to India in the next few months. Beyond that, PM Boris Johnson is very very keen to come to India. So we hope, over the next few months, we will visit, by both FS Raab and PM Johnson," Thompson added. The visit, as of now, will be the first in-person visit of any head of government to India. High-level physical visits have been suspended globally due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The last world leader to visit India was the President of Myanmar Win Myint and US President Donald Trump in February.

India invites UK PM Boris Johnson for Republic Day celebrations

Pakistan has sent approval for the appointment of India's new Charge d’Affaires (CDA) at its mission in Islamabad. India had proposed the name of Suresh Kumar for CDA or deputy high commissioner and is soon expected to take charge.

Suresh had served on the Pakistan desk of India's Ministry of External Affairs. Gaurav Ahluwalia is the current Indian Charge d’ Affaires or top diplomat at the Indian mission in Pakistan.

As a protocol, countries send names of the envoys and diplomats, it will appoint to the country of the appointment. Usually, not much of a problem comes and the country of appointment accepts the name without much ado but when ties are between India and Pakistan, things can go in a different way.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Ministry of external affairs had sent the name of Jayant Khobragade, whose name was earlier proposed by New Delhi in June. Islamabad had rejected Khobragade's name, giving the rationale that he was senior for the post.

Khobragade had served in Russia, Kazakhstan, Spain, Pakistan was India's envoy to Kyrgyz Republic between 2013 to 2017.

The Indian mission in Pakistan and the Pakistani mission in Delhi are headed by Deputy high commissioners. Ties between the 2 countries had deteriorated last year after New Delhi removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into 2 union territories(UT)--UT of Jammu and Kashmir and UT of Ladakh.

Pakistan in reaction had expelled the then Indian Envoy to Islamabad, while refused to send its newly appointed envoy to New Delhi. With the espionage scandal earlier this year involving Pakistani diplomats, New Delhi announced the cutting of staff of Pakistani high commission by 50% and reduced its mission strength in Islamabad by half.

Pakistan has sent approval for the appointment of India's new Charge d’Affaires (CDA) at its mission in Islamabad. India had proposed the name of Suresh Kumar for CDA or deputy high commissioner and is soon expected to take charge.

Pakistan has sent approval for the appointment of India's new Charge d’Affaires (CDA) at its mission in Islamabad. India had proposed the name of Suresh Kumar for CDA or deputy high commissioner and is soon expected to take charge. Suresh had served on the Pakistan desk of India's Ministry of External Affairs. Gaurav Ahluwalia is the current Indian Charge d’ Affaires or top diplomat at the Indian mission in Pakistan. As a protocol, countries send names of the envoys and diplomats, it will appoint to the country of the appointment. Usually, not much of a problem comes and the country of appointment accepts the name without much ado but when ties are between India and Pakistan, things can go in a different way. Earlier, the Ministry of external affairs had sent the name of Jayant Khobragade, whose name was earlier proposed by New Delhi in June. Islamabad had rejected Khobragade's name, giving the rationale that he was senior for the post. Khobragade had served in Russia, Kazakhstan, Spain, Pakistan was India's envoy to Kyrgyz Republic between 2013 to 2017. The Indian mission in Pakistan and the Pakistani mission in Delhi are headed by Deputy high commissioners. Ties between the 2 countries had deteriorated last year after New Delhi removed the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcated it into 2 union territories(UT)--UT of Jammu and Kashmir and UT of Ladakh. Pakistan in reaction had expelled the then Indian Envoy to Islamabad, while refused to send its newly appointed envoy to New Delhi. With the espionage scandal earlier this year involving Pakistani diplomats, New Delhi announced the cutting of staff of Pakistani high commission by 50% and reduced its mission strength in Islamabad by half.

Pakistan agrees on the name of Suresh Kumar as India's top diplomat in Islamabad

Reiterating its stance yet again, India refused to extend support to China's mega connectivity project OBOR or One Belt One Road initiative at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO. India was the only country in the 8 member grouping, which refused to support the project that has often been in news for its lack of transparency and whooping cost for the host country.

The joint communique after India hosted SCO Heads of Government meet said, "The Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan, reaffirming their support for China’s "One Belt, One Road” (OBOR) Initiative (BRI)."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/factually-incorrect-and-unwarranted-india-hits-out-at-islamic-nations-for-pak-sponsored-references-to-kashmir-in-oic-resolutions-346358">‘Factually incorrect and unwarranted’: India hits out at Islamic Nations for Pak-sponsored references to Kashmir in OIC resolutions</a>

At previous SCO meets, India has stayed away from supporting OBOR. India had become a member of the Beijing headquartered grouping in 2017.&nbsp;

A key portion of One Belt One Road is the CPEC or China Pakistan economic corridor, which passes through PoK or Pakistani occupied Kashmir. New Delhi has several times protested against it with Beijing on OBOR being violative of territorial integrity and asked them to cease such activities.

New Delhi, at various forums, has also highlighted that connectivity projects should "follow principles of openness, transparency and financial responsibility".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-can-china-afford-to-be-so-aggressive-346554">WATCH|</a>

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OBOR has led to debt issues in many countries and has been associated with China's debt diplomacy, given its financial impact on many countries who have joined it. &nbsp;A European Commission report of March 2019 titled ‘EU-China- A Strategic Outlook’ has pointed out how Chinese investments in third countries have neglected socioeconomic and financial sustainability and may result in high-level indebtedness. In some cases, it may also lead to the transfer of control over strategic assets and resources.

Reiterating its stance yet again, India refused to extend support to China's mega connectivity project OBOR or One Belt One Road initiative at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO.

Reiterating its stance yet again, India refused to extend support to China's mega connectivity project OBOR or One Belt One Road initiative at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO. India was the only country in the 8 member grouping, which refused to support the project that has often been in news for its lack of transparency and whooping cost for the host country. The joint communique after India hosted SCO Heads of Government meet said, "The Republic of Kazakhstan, the Kyrgyz Republic, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, the Russian Federation, the Republic of Tajikistan and the Republic of Uzbekistan, reaffirming their support for China’s "One Belt, One Road” (OBOR) Initiative (BRI)." Also read | ‘Factually incorrect and unwarranted’: India hits out at Islamic Nations for Pak-sponsored references to Kashmir in OIC resolutions At previous SCO meets, India has stayed away from supporting OBOR. India had become a member of the Beijing headquartered grouping in 2017. A key portion of One Belt One Road is the CPEC or China Pakistan economic corridor, which passes through PoK or Pakistani occupied Kashmir. New Delhi has several times protested against it with Beijing on OBOR being violative of territorial integrity and asked them to cease such activities. New Delhi, at various forums, has also highlighted that connectivity projects should "follow principles of openness, transparency and financial responsibility". WATCH| × OBOR has led to debt issues in many countries and has been associated with China's debt diplomacy, given its financial impact on many countries who have joined it. A European Commission report of March 2019 titled ‘EU-China- A Strategic Outlook’ has pointed out how Chinese investments in third countries have neglected socioeconomic and financial sustainability and may result in high-level indebtedness. In some cases, it may also lead to the transfer of control over strategic assets and resources.

Reiterating stance, India refuses to support China's mega connectivity project at SCO

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed".

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes."

Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-says-farmers-being-misled-calls-new-laws-historic-agriculture-reform-346468" hreflang="en">PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform'</a>

"The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said.

"Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added.

While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country.

India has strongly reacted to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's remarks on ongoing farmer protests, calling it "ill-informed". Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Such comments are unwarranted, especially when pertaining to the internal affairs of a democratic country. It is also best that diplomatic conversations are not misrepresented for political purposes." Speaking at the Gurpurab event, the Canadian PM said he is "concerned" about the protest and has raised the matter with Indian authorities. Also read| PM Modi says farmers being 'misled', calls new laws 'historic agriculture reform' "The news coming out of India, about the protest by farmers, the situation is concerning. We are all worried about families and friends..," the PM said. "Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protests, we believe in the importance of dialogue, that is why we have reached out through multiple means, directly to Indian authorities, to highlight concerns," he added. While some MP from the UK has also spoken about it, Justin Trudeau is the first world leader to make such public remarks about the ongoing protests by farmers, drawing criticism. Canada has a huge Indian diaspora, substantially from the northern Indian state of Punjab.

India slams Canadian PM Justin Trudeau's 'Ill-informed' comments on farmer protests

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be visiting India in December, the first such high-level visit from the country to Delhi this year. The visit comes days after India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited Kathmandu. Shringla's visit was 3rd major visit from India, after the visit of Army Chief and Intelligence chief.

A release from the Indian mission during FS'&nbsp;visit said, "Foreign Secretary conveyed an invitation, from External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Hon'ble Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali to visit India for the next Joint Commission Meeting."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/day-long-visit-of-chinese-defence-minister-to-nepal-begins-346226" hreflang="en">Day long visit of Chinese defence minister to Nepal begins</a>

The joint commission meeting, which alternates between the two countries, will take place in New Delhi this year. The Fifth Joint Commission Meeting was held in August 2019 in Kathmandu with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visiting the country.

India has been involved in a number of projects in the country and plans to operationalise Jayanagar-Kurtha cross-border rail line. Earlier, both countries inaugurated the Motihari–Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline, the first cross-country pipeline in South Asia. The pipeline can carry two million metric tonnes of petroleum products into Nepal and so far has led to a saving of over 800 million Nepali rupees.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-rejects-prachandas-accusations-through-38-page-document-346170" hreflang="en">Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document</a>

The visit comes, even as this year saw strained ties between New Delhi and Kathmandu, after Nepal Government led by PM KP Sharma Oli issued a new map of the country that showed Indian territories as Nepali territories. This had irked New Delhi, which called the development "unjustified cartographic assertion".

Chinese influence is also another issue, that New Delhi is closely watching. Chinese envoy in Nepal has been openly and unabashedly engaging in the crisis on the ruling Nepal Communist Party, something that has been under the scanner in the country itself.

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be visiting India in December, the first such high-level visit from the country to Delhi this year. The visit comes days after India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited Kathmandu.

Nepal foreign minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali will be visiting India in December, the first such high-level visit from the country to Delhi this year. The visit comes days after India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited Kathmandu. Shringla's visit was 3rd major visit from India, after the visit of Army Chief and Intelligence chief. A release from the Indian mission during FS' visit said, "Foreign Secretary conveyed an invitation, from External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar to Hon'ble Foreign Minister Pradeep Gyawali to visit India for the next Joint Commission Meeting." Also read| Day long visit of Chinese defence minister to Nepal begins The joint commission meeting, which alternates between the two countries, will take place in New Delhi this year. The Fifth Joint Commission Meeting was held in August 2019 in Kathmandu with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visiting the country. India has been involved in a number of projects in the country and plans to operationalise Jayanagar-Kurtha cross-border rail line. Earlier, both countries inaugurated the Motihari–Amlekhgunj petroleum pipeline, the first cross-country pipeline in South Asia. The pipeline can carry two million metric tonnes of petroleum products into Nepal and so far has led to a saving of over 800 million Nepali rupees. Also read| Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document The visit comes, even as this year saw strained ties between New Delhi and Kathmandu, after Nepal Government led by PM KP Sharma Oli issued a new map of the country that showed Indian territories as Nepali territories. This had irked New Delhi, which called the development "unjustified cartographic assertion". Chinese influence is also another issue, that New Delhi is closely watching. Chinese envoy in Nepal has been openly and unabashedly engaging in the crisis on the ruling Nepal Communist Party, something that has been under the scanner in the country itself.

Nepal foreign minister to visit India in December

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy."

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect..

Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries...

Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds.

Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it.

Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society.

Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation.

Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed.&nbsp;

Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia.

Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy." Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect.. Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries... Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds. Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it. Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society. Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation. Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed. Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia. Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakh President to visit India in early 2021

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet.

India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu said, "The most important challenge faced by us in the region is terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism. Terrorism is truly the enemy of humanity. It is a scourge we need to collectively combat."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-and-imran-khan-to-skip-meeting-of-sco-heads-346423" hreflang="en">PM Modi and Imran khan to skip meeting of SCO heads</a>

Pointing at Pakistan Naidu explained, "We remain concerned about threats emerging from ungoverned spaces and are particularly concerned about States that leverage terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Such an approach is entirely against the spirit and ideals and the Charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization."

This is the first time since India became a member of the SCO in 2017, that it hosted such a large meet of SCO leaders. It was expected to take place physically but took place virtually due to the COVID pandemic.

India's Vice President also raise the issue of Pakistan trying to raise bilateral issues at the grouping. He said, "It is unfortunate to note that there have been attempts to deliberately bring bilateral issues into SCO and blatantly violate the well-established principles and norms of SCO Charter safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO Member States."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-appreciates-scientists-efforts-to-come-out-with-vaccine-solution-to-combat-covid-19-346419" hreflang="en">PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19</a>

Pakistani NSA earlier this year, sat in SCO virtual meet with a map of Pakistan which showed incorrect boundaries of India, irking New Delhi. In fact, Russia, which is the host of the grouping this year, also said, bilateral matters should not be raised at the body.

Meanwhile, COVID also remained a key focus of New Delhi, which highlighted how it has "been at the forefront of producing quality medicines and vaccines at low cost."

But Naidu also called for, "much needed reforms to our global institutions, including WHO, and rework our development strategies to face a post-COVID-19 world."

World Health Organisation or WHO has been at found missing when the pandemic broke towards the end of 2019, for which it has been criticised.

India offered to annually host the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation and also the SCO Startup Forum. On the shared cultural front, India earlier on Monday inaugurated an Exhibition on Buddhist Heritage of SCO Member States in a virtual format, hosted by the National Museum of India.

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet.

India strongly raised the issue of cross border terrorism from Pakistan and attempts to raise the bilateral issue at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) heads of government meet. India's vice president Venkaiah Naidu said, "The most important challenge faced by us in the region is terrorism, particularly cross-border terrorism. Terrorism is truly the enemy of humanity. It is a scourge we need to collectively combat." Also read| PM Modi and Imran khan to skip meeting of SCO heads Pointing at Pakistan Naidu explained, "We remain concerned about threats emerging from ungoverned spaces and are particularly concerned about States that leverage terrorism as an instrument of state policy. Such an approach is entirely against the spirit and ideals and the Charter of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization." This is the first time since India became a member of the SCO in 2017, that it hosted such a large meet of SCO leaders. It was expected to take place physically but took place virtually due to the COVID pandemic. India's Vice President also raise the issue of Pakistan trying to raise bilateral issues at the grouping. He said, "It is unfortunate to note that there have been attempts to deliberately bring bilateral issues into SCO and blatantly violate the well-established principles and norms of SCO Charter safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO Member States." Also read| PM Modi appreciates scientists' efforts to come out with vaccine solution to combat COVID-19 Pakistani NSA earlier this year, sat in SCO virtual meet with a map of Pakistan which showed incorrect boundaries of India, irking New Delhi. In fact, Russia, which is the host of the grouping this year, also said, bilateral matters should not be raised at the body. Meanwhile, COVID also remained a key focus of New Delhi, which highlighted how it has "been at the forefront of producing quality medicines and vaccines at low cost." But Naidu also called for, "much needed reforms to our global institutions, including WHO, and rework our development strategies to face a post-COVID-19 world." World Health Organisation or WHO has been at found missing when the pandemic broke towards the end of 2019, for which it has been criticised. India offered to annually host the Special Working Group on Startups and Innovation and also the SCO Startup Forum. On the shared cultural front, India earlier on Monday inaugurated an Exhibition on Buddhist Heritage of SCO Member States in a virtual format, hosted by the National Museum of India.

Cross border terror from Pakistan, reforms at WHO top focus of India at SCO meet

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable."

The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda."

The resolution after the 47th foreign ministers' meeting in Niger's capital Niamey had made a mention on Kashmir. This year's statement by India stands out since for the first time New Delhi has pointed out Pakistan's infructuous role at OIC.

MEA said that (we) "strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India" in the resolution, reminding, "OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India, including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral and inalienable part of India."

"We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future," MEA added.

India has strongly reacted every time OIC has made reference to Kashmir, and MEA's statements after the recent OIC FMs meet in Abu Dhabi (2019), Dhaka (2018), Abidjan (2017), Tashkent (2016) reminded the grouping not to make comments on matters internal to the country.

While this year's OIC resolution did mention Kashmir, which happens every year, it wasn't something high on the agenda with no public discussion on it at the meet in Niger. Pakistan has been demanding a special meet of OIC FMs on Kashmir since India in 2019 removed the special status for the erstwhile status of Jammu and Kashmir, but failed to garner support. In fact, at the Niamey meet last week, no OIC contact group on Kashmir met.

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable.

With Kashmir being once again mentioned at the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) resolution, India has called out on the Islamic Grouping for being used by Pakistan, terming it "regrettable." The Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, "It is regrettable that OIC continues to allow itself to be used by a certain country, which has an abominable record on religious tolerance, radicalism and persecution of minorities, to indulge in anti-India propaganda." The resolution after the 47th foreign ministers' meeting in Niger's capital Niamey had made a mention on Kashmir. This year's statement by India stands out since for the first time New Delhi has pointed out Pakistan's infructuous role at OIC. MEA said that (we) "strongly and categorically reject the factually incorrect, gratuitous and unwarranted references to India" in the resolution, reminding, "OIC has no locus standi in matters strictly internal to India, including that of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, which is an integral and inalienable part of India." "We strongly advise the OIC to refrain from making such references in future," MEA added. India has strongly reacted every time OIC has made reference to Kashmir, and MEA's statements after the recent OIC FMs meet in Abu Dhabi (2019), Dhaka (2018), Abidjan (2017), Tashkent (2016) reminded the grouping not to make comments on matters internal to the country. While this year's OIC resolution did mention Kashmir, which happens every year, it wasn't something high on the agenda with no public discussion on it at the meet in Niger. Pakistan has been demanding a special meet of OIC FMs on Kashmir since India in 2019 removed the special status for the erstwhile status of Jammu and Kashmir, but failed to garner support. In fact, at the Niamey meet last week, no OIC contact group on Kashmir met.

'Regrettable' that OIC continues to be used by Pakistan: India

Chinese defense minister Wei Fenghe on Sunday began his one day visit to Kathmandu, the highest-level visit after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Wei, who came with around 20-member delegation was welcomed by the Nepali Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on his arrival.

"My visit is aimed at enhancing mutual military assistance and strengthening the existing ties between the two countries. Ties between China and Nepal are strong and I am here to take this relationship to a new height. I am confident about having a result-oriented visit," he said on his arrival,&nbsp;according to local media present at the airport.

During his visit, he will call on President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli and Nepal Army Chief General Purna Chandra Thapa.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-pm-oli-rejects-prachandas-accusations-through-38-page-document-346170" hreflang="en">Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document</a>

The visit is significant even as Chinese influence has been seen in Nepali politics. Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi has been meeting with key stakeholder in ruling Nepal communist party, including PM KP Sharma Oli as the party faces a split. The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) faces a division with PM Oli threatening to walk away from the alliance with Prachanda.

The high profile visit comes days after India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country. Shringla's visit was the 3rd high-level visit from India to Nepal after the visit of Indian Army chief and intelligence chief.

While Chinese influence in Kathmandu has grown, Nepal Government's ties with India deteriorated in the back of new Nepali map that showed Indian territories as its own. India had strongly reacted to the new Nepal map issued by KP Sharma Oli government, calling it "unjustified cartographic assertion”.

Chinese defense minister Wei Fenghe on Sunday began his one day visit to Kathmandu, the highest-level visit after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Wei, who came with around 20-member delegation was welcomed by the Nepali Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on his arrival.

Chinese defense minister Wei Fenghe on Sunday began his one day visit to Kathmandu, the highest-level visit after the visit of Chinese President Xi Jinping. Wei, who came with around 20-member delegation was welcomed by the Nepali Home Minister Ram Bahadur Thapa on his arrival. "My visit is aimed at enhancing mutual military assistance and strengthening the existing ties between the two countries. Ties between China and Nepal are strong and I am here to take this relationship to a new height. I am confident about having a result-oriented visit," he said on his arrival, according to local media present at the airport. During his visit, he will call on President Bidya Devi Bhandari, Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli and Nepal Army Chief General Purna Chandra Thapa. Also read| Nepal PM Oli rejects Prachanda's accusations through 38-page document The visit is significant even as Chinese influence has been seen in Nepali politics. Chinese envoy to Nepal Hou Yanqi has been meeting with key stakeholder in ruling Nepal communist party, including PM KP Sharma Oli as the party faces a split. The ruling Nepal Communist Party (NCP) faces a division with PM Oli threatening to walk away from the alliance with Prachanda. The high profile visit comes days after India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country. Shringla's visit was the 3rd high-level visit from India to Nepal after the visit of Indian Army chief and intelligence chief. While Chinese influence in Kathmandu has grown, Nepal Government's ties with India deteriorated in the back of new Nepali map that showed Indian territories as its own. India had strongly reacted to the new Nepal map issued by KP Sharma Oli government, calling it "unjustified cartographic assertion”.

Day long visit of Chinese defence minister to Nepal begins

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