India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November&nbsp;23 and&nbsp;24

The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations. The event will see the participation of representatives from 70 countries, international organizations, and comes at a time when America substantially plans to reduce its troops in the country.&nbsp;

This year saw a Taliban-US govt pact in February, followed by the start of intra-Afghan talks but has not resulted in peace in the country. The violence level in the country remains high.

India meanwhile has increased its outreach with all stakeholders in Afghanistan. In September, EAM had represented India virtually at the start of intra-Afghan talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government.&nbsp;

It was followed by 3 high profile visits to New Delhi, first by Senior Afghan leader Abdul Rashid Dostum, followed by the Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and then by former Governor of Balkh Atta Muhammad Noor.

New Delhi has been a close partner of Afghan govt and has been helping in capacity building and infrastructure development in the country. Amid&nbsp;the Covid pandemic, it sent 75000 MT of Wheat to the country via Chabahar port in Iran.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November 23 and 24 The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November 23 and 24 The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations. The event will see the participation of representatives from 70 countries, international organizations, and comes at a time when America substantially plans to reduce its troops in the country. This year saw a Taliban-US govt pact in February, followed by the start of intra-Afghan talks but has not resulted in peace in the country. The violence level in the country remains high. India meanwhile has increased its outreach with all stakeholders in Afghanistan. In September, EAM had represented India virtually at the start of intra-Afghan talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. It was followed by 3 high profile visits to New Delhi, first by Senior Afghan leader Abdul Rashid Dostum, followed by the Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and then by former Governor of Balkh Atta Muhammad Noor. New Delhi has been a close partner of Afghan govt and has been helping in capacity building and infrastructure development in the country. Amid the Covid pandemic, it sent 75000 MT of Wheat to the country via Chabahar port in Iran.

Foreign minister S Jaishankar to represent India at Afghan conference in Geneva

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet said, "Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spent-childhood-listening-to-ramayana-and-mahabharata-barack-obama-in-memoir-343642">Also read|&nbsp;Spent childhood listening to Ramayana and Mahabharata: Barack Obama in memoir&nbsp;</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Spoke to US President-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1328761821302464517?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

He also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I also conveyed warm congratulations for VP-elect <a href="https://twitter.com/KamalaHarris?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KamalaHarris</a>. Her success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1328761973140439041?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

As vice president under Obama's administration,&nbsp;he had engaged with the Indian PM. In fact, he has chaired a Joint Session of the Congress in June 2016 which was addressed by PM Modi.

A readout from Biden-Harris transition team said, president-elect "expressed his desire to strengthen and expand the US-India strategic partnership" alongside the "first vice president of South Asian descent."

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/prime-minister-narendra-modi-to-attend-virtual-summit-of-brics-on-tuesday-343512" hreflang="en">Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday</a>

The readout highlighted key areas in which the Biden administration "looks forward to working closely" with Prime Minister Modi which include "containing COVID-19 and defending against future health crises, tackling the threat of climate change, launching the global economic recovery, strengthening democracy at home and abroad" and "maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region."

On area which both readout mention is Indo-Pacific, a concept that was the key focus of Trump Admin and New Delhi and shows continuity on the issue. The concept, backed by India, the US, and like-minded partners is seen suspiciously by China.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-what-prime-minister-modi-told-joe-biden-343982/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Biden has been a supporter of close New Delhi-Washington ties, in his capacity as a senator and the vice president. In August 2001, Joe Biden had written a letter to then-President George W. Bush calling on the new administration to drop U.S. sanctions against India and during his tenure as the Chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he worked towards the U.S. Senate’s approval of US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008.

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific.

In first-ever talks between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Joe Biden as the President-elect of the United States, the focus was on cooperation on how to deal with the COVID pandemic, its economic impact, and Indo Pacific. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a tweet said, "Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region." Also read| Spent childhood listening to Ramayana and Mahabharata: Barack Obama in memoir Spoke to US President-elect @JoeBiden on phone to congratulate him. We reiterated our firm commitment to the Indo-US strategic partnership and discussed our shared priorities and concerns - Covid-19 pandemic, climate change, and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific Region. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2020 × He also conveyed congratulations for VP-elect Kamala Harris to Biden saying her, "success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations." I also conveyed warm congratulations for VP-elect @KamalaHarris. Her success is a matter of great pride and inspiration for members of the vibrant Indian-American community, who are a tremendous source of strength for Indo-US relations. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2020 × As vice president under Obama's administration, he had engaged with the Indian PM. In fact, he has chaired a Joint Session of the Congress in June 2016 which was addressed by PM Modi. A readout from Biden-Harris transition team said, president-elect "expressed his desire to strengthen and expand the US-India strategic partnership" alongside the "first vice president of South Asian descent." Also read| Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend virtual summit of BRICS on Tuesday The readout highlighted key areas in which the Biden administration "looks forward to working closely" with Prime Minister Modi which include "containing COVID-19 and defending against future health crises, tackling the threat of climate change, launching the global economic recovery, strengthening democracy at home and abroad" and "maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region." On area which both readout mention is Indo-Pacific, a concept that was the key focus of Trump Admin and New Delhi and shows continuity on the issue. The concept, backed by India, the US, and like-minded partners is seen suspiciously by China. × Biden has been a supporter of close New Delhi-Washington ties, in his capacity as a senator and the vice president. In August 2001, Joe Biden had written a letter to then-President George W. Bush calling on the new administration to drop U.S. sanctions against India and during his tenure as the Chairman of Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he worked towards the U.S. Senate’s approval of US-India Civil Nuclear Agreement in 2008.

Modi-Biden speak; discuss cooperation on COVID, Indo-pacific

In a bid to highlight the close historic people to people ties, India is all set to produce a musical on an Indian princess from Ayodhya who went on to become a South Korean Queen, and many South Koreans trace their lineage to her.&nbsp;

Legend has it, the Princess Suriratna of India went to Korea, some 2000 years ago in 48 AD and married King Kim Suro of Geumgwan Gaya. She is well known today in South Korea as Queen Heo Hwang-ok.

Director-General of ICCR Dinesh Patnaik told WION, "On the musical, it is basically a joint production, but right now we are looking at doing it first in India, with Indian actors and then take it to Korea. At some stage, it will have both Korean and Indian actors"

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-host-conference-on-buddhist-studies-from-next-year-344041" hreflang="en">India to host conference on Buddhist studies from next year</a>

Queen Heo Hwang-ok's story will also be a part of one of the many stories in a book being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) that will showcase the millennia-old people-to-people connection between India and countries across the world.

In fact, according to legend, all South Koreans who have the surname "Heo" are the descendants of Queen Heo. She had 10 sons, 2 retained Queen's name and it continues till date.

The government of Uttar Pradesh government is expanding a memorial dedicated to Heo Hwang-ok in Ayodhya, whose foundation stone was laid by South Korea's first lady Kim Jung-sook in November of 2018.

In a bid to highlight the close historic people to people ties, India is all set to produce a musical on an Indian princess from Ayodhya who went on to become a South Korean Queen, and many South Koreans trace their lineage to her.

In a bid to highlight the close historic people to people ties, India is all set to produce a musical on an Indian princess from Ayodhya who went on to become a South Korean Queen, and many South Koreans trace their lineage to her. Legend has it, the Princess Suriratna of India went to Korea, some 2000 years ago in 48 AD and married King Kim Suro of Geumgwan Gaya. She is well known today in South Korea as Queen Heo Hwang-ok. Director-General of ICCR Dinesh Patnaik told WION, "On the musical, it is basically a joint production, but right now we are looking at doing it first in India, with Indian actors and then take it to Korea. At some stage, it will have both Korean and Indian actors" Also read| India to host conference on Buddhist studies from next year Queen Heo Hwang-ok's story will also be a part of one of the many stories in a book being planned by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) that will showcase the millennia-old people-to-people connection between India and countries across the world. In fact, according to legend, all South Koreans who have the surname "Heo" are the descendants of Queen Heo. She had 10 sons, 2 retained Queen's name and it continues till date. The government of Uttar Pradesh government is expanding a memorial dedicated to Heo Hwang-ok in Ayodhya, whose foundation stone was laid by South Korea's first lady Kim Jung-sook in November of 2018.

India planning musical on South Korea's Indian Queen

India will be hosting a major conference on Buddhist studies starting next year that will see the participation of Buddhist scholars from across the world. The annual event will be hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations or ICCR.

In response to a WION question, President of ICCR Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said, "This new initiative is about Buddhist studies. India is a major centre for Buddhist studies, we have universities dedicated to Buddhist studies. and the world over scholars into Buddhist studies. India initiated a platform to bring all of them together is the need of the hour."

The event will be a structured event and comes even as India has been sponsoring several Buddhist-related works across the world. India already hosts a conference on Indology.&nbsp;

Sahasrabuddhe explained, "scholars who are into Buddhist studies will come over here and discuss, deliberate and at the same time we will be honouring the eminent scholars from various countries, that is the scheme of things and will be in a structured manner and come into effect from next financial year for sure. "&nbsp;

Earlier this year, India announced a $15 million grant to Sri Lanka to deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism. The grant will be used for the construction and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian ocean country, archaeological cooperation, the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy.

With ASEAN, India shares cultural heritage especially Buddhism and sees an increase in tourists from the block. In a bid to promote Buddhist tourism, Kushinagar Airport has been designated as an international airport. Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana. 
&nbsp;

India will be hosting a major conference on Buddhist studies starting next year that will see the participation of Buddhist scholars from across the world. The annual event will be hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations or ICCR.

India will be hosting a major conference on Buddhist studies starting next year that will see the participation of Buddhist scholars from across the world. The annual event will be hosted by the Indian Council for Cultural Relations or ICCR. In response to a WION question, President of ICCR Vinay Sahasrabuddhe said, "This new initiative is about Buddhist studies. India is a major centre for Buddhist studies, we have universities dedicated to Buddhist studies. and the world over scholars into Buddhist studies. India initiated a platform to bring all of them together is the need of the hour." The event will be a structured event and comes even as India has been sponsoring several Buddhist-related works across the world. India already hosts a conference on Indology. Sahasrabuddhe explained, "scholars who are into Buddhist studies will come over here and discuss, deliberate and at the same time we will be honouring the eminent scholars from various countries, that is the scheme of things and will be in a structured manner and come into effect from next financial year for sure. " Earlier this year, India announced a $15 million grant to Sri Lanka to deepening people-to-people linkages between the two countries in the sphere of Buddhism. The grant will be used for the construction and renovation of Buddhist cultural sites in the Indian ocean country, archaeological cooperation, the reciprocal study of Lord Buddha’s relics, strengthening of Buddhist scholarship, and supporting the clergy. With ASEAN, India shares cultural heritage especially Buddhism and sees an increase in tourists from the block. In a bid to promote Buddhist tourism, Kushinagar Airport has been designated as an international airport. Kushinagar in Uttar Pradesh is the place where it is believed that Buddha attained Parinirvana or death after achieving Nirvana.

India to host conference on Buddhist studies from next year

The organizers of the Russian govt back mega Artificial intelligence event have said that they see increase collaboration between Indian and Russian companies under the BRICS umbrella.

First Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank and Alexander Vedyakhin told WION that, "R&amp;D in AI is gaining momentum in Russia and India as both countries aspire to gain leading positions in the global market. Close interaction within BRICS could give an additional impetus to future joint AI projects between Russia and India as the two countries share a time-tested strategic partnership. "

Sberbank, the largest bank of Russia is the main organizer of the "artificial intelligence journey" event that will take place in December and will see considerable Indian participation.

Alexander Vedyakhin said,"India tops the list of foreign participants at the international artificial intelligence conference AIJ-2020, to be held online December 3-5. This is yet another manifestation of the untapped potential of cooperation between Russia and India in this high-tech field. I am quite confident that by joining effort we can achieve tremendously great results”

3 Indian origin speakers will also speak at the event this year. The event was inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin last year and saw the participation of 9,000 participants from around the world.

The organizers of the Russian govt back mega Artificial intelligence event have said that they see increase collaboration between Indian and Russian companies under the BRICS umbrella.

The organizers of the Russian govt back mega Artificial intelligence event have said that they see increase collaboration between Indian and Russian companies under the BRICS umbrella. First Deputy Chairman of the Executive Board, Sberbank and Alexander Vedyakhin told WION that, "R&D in AI is gaining momentum in Russia and India as both countries aspire to gain leading positions in the global market. Close interaction within BRICS could give an additional impetus to future joint AI projects between Russia and India as the two countries share a time-tested strategic partnership. " Sberbank, the largest bank of Russia is the main organizer of the "artificial intelligence journey" event that will take place in December and will see considerable Indian participation. Alexander Vedyakhin said,"India tops the list of foreign participants at the international artificial intelligence conference AIJ-2020, to be held online December 3-5. This is yet another manifestation of the untapped potential of cooperation between Russia and India in this high-tech field. I am quite confident that by joining effort we can achieve tremendously great results” 3 Indian origin speakers will also speak at the event this year. The event was inaugurated by Russian President Vladimir Putin last year and saw the participation of 9,000 participants from around the world.

BRICS umbrella to increase India, Russia collaboration on artificial intelligence

Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact.&nbsp;

Between 2012 and 2018, Chinese entities signed contracts between $2 to $3 billion, some at exorbitant repayment interest rates. &nbsp;This when compared to the size of the economy of the country, is not such a rosy picture, saddling it with huge debt. The true figures of Maldives debt to China are still not known, such as the magnitude of the crisis.&nbsp;

The sovereignty of islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu in Kaafu Atoll, Fahala in Thaa Atoll and the alarming plan to set up Joint Ocean Meteorological Observation Stations on strategically located Islands across the Maldives, would have been exchanged for debt-relief. Add to this, the rushed though Maldives China Free trade agreement in 2017.&nbsp;

But that chapter is closed with the new government under President Solih taking charge. The first thing New Delhi did was announce of $1.b billion in 2018 during New Maldives President's India visit. &nbsp;And since then the support has been in every way possible, from grant to currency swap to line of credit. In fact, during the covid crisis, India had reached out to Male with medical and food aid.&nbsp;

The key area of focus has been on increasing people-to-people ties, especially with the Malè-Kochi ferry service that will also generate employment in the northern port of Kulhudhuffushi. The project was announced during PM Modi's first foreign visit abroad in his 2nd term last year and came into being earlier this year.&nbsp;

Other than that, projects include water and sewerage systems on 34 islands, Expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport and high-impact community development projects across the Maldives, gifting a Dornier aircraft for ferrying patients from remote Islands, cricket stadium and the list is endless.&nbsp;

And from the community to megaproject, the Indian govt will fund the construction of the Greater Malè Connectivity Project (GMCP). The total cost is $500 million, of which $100 Million is under grant aid and was handed over by the Indian Foreign Secretary during his to the country earlier this month.

The mega project revitalizes the Maldivian economy as well, a stark comparison to the Male-Hulhule China Maldives Friendship Bridge (CMFB) built-in 2018 at the cost of around $300 Million.

Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact.

Chinese forays in South Asia are increasing, from Nepal to Pakistan but if the past is to go by, a trail of debt is sure to be expected of it. The Maldives, under former President of Maldives Abdulla Yameen, saw increase role of Chinese companies and govt, something that has shown its impact. Between 2012 and 2018, Chinese entities signed contracts between $2 to $3 billion, some at exorbitant repayment interest rates. This when compared to the size of the economy of the country, is not such a rosy picture, saddling it with huge debt. The true figures of Maldives debt to China are still not known, such as the magnitude of the crisis. The sovereignty of islands such as Feydhoo Finolhu in Kaafu Atoll, Fahala in Thaa Atoll and the alarming plan to set up Joint Ocean Meteorological Observation Stations on strategically located Islands across the Maldives, would have been exchanged for debt-relief. Add to this, the rushed though Maldives China Free trade agreement in 2017. But that chapter is closed with the new government under President Solih taking charge. The first thing New Delhi did was announce of $1.b billion in 2018 during New Maldives President's India visit. And since then the support has been in every way possible, from grant to currency swap to line of credit. In fact, during the covid crisis, India had reached out to Male with medical and food aid. The key area of focus has been on increasing people-to-people ties, especially with the Malè-Kochi ferry service that will also generate employment in the northern port of Kulhudhuffushi. The project was announced during PM Modi's first foreign visit abroad in his 2nd term last year and came into being earlier this year. Other than that, projects include water and sewerage systems on 34 islands, Expansion of Hanimaadhoo airport and high-impact community development projects across the Maldives, gifting a Dornier aircraft for ferrying patients from remote Islands, cricket stadium and the list is endless. And from the community to megaproject, the Indian govt will fund the construction of the Greater Malè Connectivity Project (GMCP). The total cost is $500 million, of which $100 Million is under grant aid and was handed over by the Indian Foreign Secretary during his to the country earlier this month. The mega project revitalizes the Maldivian economy as well, a stark comparison to the Male-Hulhule China Maldives Friendship Bridge (CMFB) built-in 2018 at the cost of around $300 Million.

India backs the Maldives to the hilt, as China's debt leaves a negative legacy

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue".

Comments come even as India has urged the international community for urgent reforms at the world body to reflect current geopolitical realities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-china-is-stonewalling-reforms-at-united-nations-security-council-343771" hreflang="en">How China is stonewalling reforms at United Nations Security Council</a>

Jaishankar, speaking at an event said, "The fact that different people in different parts of the world are pointing out to the shortcoming and relevance of the UN, is something that UN should take seriously. It's common sense."

Explaining," In our life, what is it, which is 75 years old and you are still using. Everything requires refreshing, updating...The longer we let this stalemate, gridlock continue, it's harming the UN."

The UN this year marks the 75th anniversary of its coming into being in the aftermath of World War 2.

On reforms at the UN and United Nations Security Council (UNSC), intergovernmental negotiations&nbsp;are underway but these are informal, and even United Nations general assembly rules don't apply. China, while calling for reforms, has been scuttling any application of UNGA rules.

Beijing is also blocking any move to a single text-based negotiation. When it comes to any support for India's candidature for UNSC, it is the only permanent member of the body that has not to voice any support.

Indian PM Modi has spoken at the United Nations General assembly, SCO, BRICS meeting for urgent reforms, and India's candidature at the United Nations Security Council.

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue".

Without naming anyone, External affairs minister S Jaishankar has said "one or two countries" are obstructing reforms at the United Nations and want to "freeze one moment of history for perpetual gain to continue". Comments come even as India has urged the international community for urgent reforms at the world body to reflect current geopolitical realities. Also read: How China is stonewalling reforms at United Nations Security Council Jaishankar, speaking at an event said, "The fact that different people in different parts of the world are pointing out to the shortcoming and relevance of the UN, is something that UN should take seriously. It's common sense." Explaining," In our life, what is it, which is 75 years old and you are still using. Everything requires refreshing, updating...The longer we let this stalemate, gridlock continue, it's harming the UN." The UN this year marks the 75th anniversary of its coming into being in the aftermath of World War 2. On reforms at the UN and United Nations Security Council (UNSC), intergovernmental negotiations are underway but these are informal, and even United Nations general assembly rules don't apply. China, while calling for reforms, has been scuttling any application of UNGA rules. Beijing is also blocking any move to a single text-based negotiation. When it comes to any support for India's candidature for UNSC, it is the only permanent member of the body that has not to voice any support. Indian PM Modi has spoken at the United Nations General assembly, SCO, BRICS meeting for urgent reforms, and India's candidature at the United Nations Security Council.

EAM on UN reforms: One or two countries want to freeze one moment of history

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism".

Speaking at the World Jewish Congress, he said, "India condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination on religious grounds anywhere in the world."

India has had Jewish communities for more than 2000 years, many of whom came to India fleeing persecution.&nbsp;

Indian envoy pointed out, from the 16th century to World War 2 how India gave refugee to Jewish communities. He said, "Well-known that when the Jewish community faced persecution from some European powers in the 16th Century, they were granted sanctuary by the Hindu Maharaja of Cochin, Rama Varma, in Kerala".

Paradesi synagogue built-in 1568 still stands in Cochin, next to Rama Varma's palace and a temple. On the occasion of its 400ths anniversary in 1968, the then Indian PM was personally present. In 1942, the king of Jamnagar, Maharaja Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja gave refuge to 1000 Polish children, many of them Jewish who faced persecution from Hitler's forces. In fact, the Indian army's eastern command during the 1971 Bangladesh's liberation war was led by JFR Jacob, who was Jew and as the envoy described "national hero in India".

Tirumurti recalled how during the 26/11 attacks "whole of India prayed for baby Moshe Holtzberg, who was saved by his Indian caregiver from the dastardly terrorist attack in Mumbai by Pakistani terrorists."

Holtzberg was 2 when his parents were killed during the 26/11 attacks by Pakistani terrorists on India's financial centre. Indian PM had met Moshe Holtzberg during a 2017 visit to Israel.&nbsp;

Slamming Pakistan, the Indian envoy said, "We now have countries taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic and spreading divisive hatred to other parts of the world on the basis of religion. &nbsp;COVID has not prevented them from supporting cross-border terrorism to kill innocent people and spread religious hatred."

Adding, "We call on those countries to stop spreading anti-Semitism, stop spreading hatred and stop dividing the world on the basis of religion. &nbsp;We ask them to look inwards to promote harmony within their own societies, stop sectarian violence and ensure the protection of minorities."

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism".

Highlighting India's "pluralistic fabric" and framework of "pluralism, harmony and mutual acceptance", India's envoy to United Nations T S Tirumurti has said, "India does not have any trace of anti-Semitism". Speaking at the World Jewish Congress, he said, "India condemns all forms of anti-Semitism and all forms of discrimination on religious grounds anywhere in the world." India has had Jewish communities for more than 2000 years, many of whom came to India fleeing persecution. Indian envoy pointed out, from the 16th century to World War 2 how India gave refugee to Jewish communities. He said, "Well-known that when the Jewish community faced persecution from some European powers in the 16th Century, they were granted sanctuary by the Hindu Maharaja of Cochin, Rama Varma, in Kerala". Paradesi synagogue built-in 1568 still stands in Cochin, next to Rama Varma's palace and a temple. On the occasion of its 400ths anniversary in 1968, the then Indian PM was personally present. In 1942, the king of Jamnagar, Maharaja Digvijaysinhji Ranjitsinhji Jadeja gave refuge to 1000 Polish children, many of them Jewish who faced persecution from Hitler's forces. In fact, the Indian army's eastern command during the 1971 Bangladesh's liberation war was led by JFR Jacob, who was Jew and as the envoy described "national hero in India". Tirumurti recalled how during the 26/11 attacks "whole of India prayed for baby Moshe Holtzberg, who was saved by his Indian caregiver from the dastardly terrorist attack in Mumbai by Pakistani terrorists." Holtzberg was 2 when his parents were killed during the 26/11 attacks by Pakistani terrorists on India's financial centre. Indian PM had met Moshe Holtzberg during a 2017 visit to Israel. Slamming Pakistan, the Indian envoy said, "We now have countries taking advantage of the ongoing pandemic and spreading divisive hatred to other parts of the world on the basis of religion. COVID has not prevented them from supporting cross-border terrorism to kill innocent people and spread religious hatred." Adding, "We call on those countries to stop spreading anti-Semitism, stop spreading hatred and stop dividing the world on the basis of religion. We ask them to look inwards to promote harmony within their own societies, stop sectarian violence and ensure the protection of minorities."

India has no trace of anti-Semitism, Indian envoy to United Nations

Counter-terror, COVID-19 crisis, black money issue will be India's focus at the G20 virtual summit that will take place over the weekend on November 21 and 22, India's Sherpa for G20 Suresh Prabhu has said.

Counter-terror, COVID-19 crisis, black money issue will be India's focus at the G20 virtual summit that will take place over the weekend on November 21 and 22, India's Sherpa for G20 Suresh Prabhu has said. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Prabhu said, "We are looking at anti-terrorism strategy as a very comprehensive, all-pervasive idea that we should put together". The Indian prime minister will be participating in the virtual meet, which will see a special focus on joint strategy on how to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. The virtual summit will be the third major virtual summit the Indian PM will attend this month after participating in the SCO and BRICS meeting. It is for the first time the G20 summit will take place virtually due to the COVID-19 crisis. India will host the summit in 2022 for which Suresh Prabhu said, "we are already working on very high-tech, very state-of-the-art efficient secretariat". WION: What are the main issues India will be talking about? Suresh Prabhu: The first issue is the pandemic itself. Two hundred countries, 200 geographies right now are suffering from the pandemic. As a result, the first focus of the summit is pandemic which is how do you deal with public health and what can global cooperation lead to, if it is a vaccine and to avoid such pandemics in the future. How do you have an early warning system, how do you have a surveillance system, what kind of protocol you must put in place. These are the kind of issues which would be discussed. The second issue is the economy, as a result of the pandemic, and not just only because of that, it only hastened the process. Even before the pandemic hit the world, in 2019 we witnessed the slowing down of the global economy. How do you deal with making the economy, work better and faster. It is the second important issue. Issues such as terror, climate change, global cooperation on money laundering are present. The Saudis have taken certain initiatives, which includes dialogue on water. This is an important issue by Saudis, they have also taken an important initiative on the environment - Circular economy. You know, in the next few years we will have the challenge of how do you deal with materials. One side of the problem is, how do you find enough problem to produce more, the second problem would be how to deal with used material, how to dispose them, that is why circular economy plays an important role. It is at the heart of the industrial part of environmental concerns. We have been strongly talking about the anti-corruption issue, PM is particularly keen on dealing with that issue. WION: How much of the black money issue will be raised? Suresh Prabhu: It is an important ongoing agenda, the PM has been raising it since 2014 when he attended G20 summit for first time in Australia in Brisbane. He has been raising the issue continuously. We have been raising it at every forum. We will take it forward. The other issue that will dominate is the future of WTO. We strongly believe as a country, India believes in multilateralism, rule-based trading system, we believe and support that WTO being a democratic institution as well as participatory forum, it should be strengthened and not weakened and in that context as the commerce minister I have held two mini-ministerial in India. Once after the collapse of the Buenos Aires ministerial, I held one in New Delhi in March 2018, and it was attended by 57 countries and the second one was in 2019, April again focusing on this issue on how to make WTO work better, stronger, and become more effective. That will again dominate the issue. WION: Terror has been dominating global concern, how much will New Delhi raise it? Suresh Prabhu: It is an important issue, we keep discussing, keep pressing that how do you deal with terrorism as a global phenomenon. Why do you need global action, also collation against terrorism globally, it needs technology, it needs cutting out support for financing terrorism, it is the root cause of terrorism which breeds such ideas into the minds of innocents. We are looking at anti-terrorism strategy as a very comprehensive, all-pervasive idea that we should put together. WION: How has it been different for you as a "Sherpa" in your talks with other Sherpas this year when "virtual" is the new normal? Suresh Prabhu: It is absolutely true that physical meetings have become very less. But that doesn't mean that proximity has gone, the physical proximity is less, but the closeness has increased because of the new medium we can actually have a virtual discussion with everybody. I have spoken to each and every Sherpa, and many more, at least 30-40 countries have been meeting me, talking regularly. We have been doing this, talking regularly, we will continue to engage with rest of the world via all means and when we become part of the troika in next few days, on December 1 and will continue to hold that position in 2023, even one year after we hand it over to Indonesia. We will continue to engage with it. WION: India will host the summit in 2022, have we started the preparations? Suresh Prabhu: We have started preparation in full swing. It is led by PM Modi, he is a very hands-on leader of the country and we are already working on very high-tech, state-of-the-art efficient secretariat in which there will be several ministries participating. We will also plan a number of events in 2022 that will involve the state government and several engagement groups like universities, research institutions, NGOs, scientists and business leaders. We have already started working on it aggressively.

Counter-terror, COVID-19 crisis, black money issue to be our focus at G20 virtual summit: India's sherpa Suresh Prabhu

India has slammed China for stalling UN reforms by not allowing the Intergovernmental Negotiations process to have basic rules of procedure and records. Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) is a body of countries within the United Nations working for reforms but its conversations are informal and thus carry no weight.

Without mentioning any name, India's envoy to UN T S Tirumurti said, "The same countries who shed crocodile tears for small and medium states are the same ones denying them even the basic courtesy, which is to help them keep an official record of discussions. What happens here has no record and we start again the next year as if nothing has happened. And of course, we don’t even have a single negotiating text."

Adding, "IGN has become like a platform for debate in a University rather than a serious resulted-oriented process in the United Nations consisting of sovereign Member States."

IGN was formed more than a decade ago with India many times calling for the application of the General Assembly Rules of Procedures on it so that records can be kept and the process can be "open, inclusive and transparent". China, a member of the UNSC has been halting any attempts for application of the rules and move to a single "text-based negotiation."

Tirumurti pointed out, "just a handful of countries don’t want us to proceed. They have stopped the IGN from progressing. They are using the IGN as a smoke-screen to stop themselves from being identified by paying lip-service to Security Council reform."

When it comes to India's membership, China is the only permanent member of the United Nations Security Council that has not voiced any support for it. Rest all, the US, Russia, UK, and France have backed India as a permanent member of the UNSC.

Reiterating New Delhi's position, Tirumurti said, "We believe that the vast majority of member states are, like us, in favour of expansion in both - permanent and non-permanent - categories of membership of the Security Council."

He also extended support to African membership at the high table saying, “let us reaffirm our firm support for the Common African Position, as specified in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration."

Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, both call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.

India has slammed China for stalling UN reforms by not allowing the Intergovernmental Negotiations process to have basic rules of procedure and records. Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) is a body of countries within the United Nations working for reforms but its conversations are informal and thus carry no weight.

India has slammed China for stalling UN reforms by not allowing the Intergovernmental Negotiations process to have basic rules of procedure and records. Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) is a body of countries within the United Nations working for reforms but its conversations are informal and thus carry no weight. Without mentioning any name, India's envoy to UN T S Tirumurti said, "The same countries who shed crocodile tears for small and medium states are the same ones denying them even the basic courtesy, which is to help them keep an official record of discussions. What happens here has no record and we start again the next year as if nothing has happened. And of course, we don’t even have a single negotiating text." Adding, "IGN has become like a platform for debate in a University rather than a serious resulted-oriented process in the United Nations consisting of sovereign Member States." IGN was formed more than a decade ago with India many times calling for the application of the General Assembly Rules of Procedures on it so that records can be kept and the process can be "open, inclusive and transparent". China, a member of the UNSC has been halting any attempts for application of the rules and move to a single "text-based negotiation." Tirumurti pointed out, "just a handful of countries don’t want us to proceed. They have stopped the IGN from progressing. They are using the IGN as a smoke-screen to stop themselves from being identified by paying lip-service to Security Council reform." When it comes to India's membership, China is the only permanent member of the United Nations Security Council that has not voiced any support for it. Rest all, the US, Russia, UK, and France have backed India as a permanent member of the UNSC. Reiterating New Delhi's position, Tirumurti said, "We believe that the vast majority of member states are, like us, in favour of expansion in both - permanent and non-permanent - categories of membership of the Security Council." He also extended support to African membership at the high table saying, “let us reaffirm our firm support for the Common African Position, as specified in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration." Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, both call for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.

India slams China for stalling UN reforms

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.&nbsp;

Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, &nbsp;"The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-strongly-rejects-claims-of-its-territory-being-used-for-terror-acts-against-pakistan-343314">Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan</a>

Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country.&nbsp;

He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar."&nbsp;

Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. "

He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties."

Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. &nbsp;This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.&nbsp;

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident. Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, "The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban." Also read | Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country. He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar." Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. " He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties." Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.

Pakistani Taliban was involved in Helmand attacks: Afghan Interior Minister spokesperson to WION

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism."

Speaking virtually at the Deccan Dialogue, he said, "As regards terrorism, the era of "not my problem” came to an end in 9/11" and called for "whole-hearted international collaborative effort.'

His comments come even as Islamabad is yet to be seen acting on the issue of terror. Last week, Islamabad accepted its involvement in the 26/11 terror attacks with the country's federal investigation agency issuing an 800-page list of the country's most wanted which included 11 terrorists involved in the 2008 attacks on India's financial centre.&nbsp;

EAM said, "The world is gradually becoming aware of the global nature of international terrorism. Our relentless efforts have kept it in the spotlight, bringing out related aspects like terror finance, radicalization and cyber recruitment."

Adding, "The goal remains to reach a comprehensive convention on the subject and we will not rest till that happens."

India-backed CCIT or comprehensive convention on international terrorism at the United Nations calls for a common definition of terrorism. It was introduced in 1996 and due to lack of global consensus on the issue of terror has not been passed.

Jaishankar also spoke about FATF or financial action task force saying, "On terrorism, our efforts have contributed to a larger awareness of its different facets. The FATF has become a more important forum and black money is today firmly on the agenda of the G-20. The world no longer sees it as a law and order issue."

It has been more than 2 years and Pakistan continues to languish in the anti-terror financing body's grey list impacting the country's economy. By Pakistan's govt's own admission, the country loses $10 billion annually by being on the FATF grey list.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism." Speaking virtually at the Deccan Dialogue, he said, "As regards terrorism, the era of "not my problem” came to an end in 9/11" and called for "whole-hearted international collaborative effort.' His comments come even as Islamabad is yet to be seen acting on the issue of terror. Last week, Islamabad accepted its involvement in the 26/11 terror attacks with the country's federal investigation agency issuing an 800-page list of the country's most wanted which included 11 terrorists involved in the 2008 attacks on India's financial centre. EAM said, "The world is gradually becoming aware of the global nature of international terrorism. Our relentless efforts have kept it in the spotlight, bringing out related aspects like terror finance, radicalization and cyber recruitment." Adding, "The goal remains to reach a comprehensive convention on the subject and we will not rest till that happens." India-backed CCIT or comprehensive convention on international terrorism at the United Nations calls for a common definition of terrorism. It was introduced in 1996 and due to lack of global consensus on the issue of terror has not been passed. Jaishankar also spoke about FATF or financial action task force saying, "On terrorism, our efforts have contributed to a larger awareness of its different facets. The FATF has become a more important forum and black money is today firmly on the agenda of the G-20. The world no longer sees it as a law and order issue." It has been more than 2 years and Pakistan continues to languish in the anti-terror financing body's grey list impacting the country's economy. By Pakistan's govt's own admission, the country loses $10 billion annually by being on the FATF grey list.

'Egregious' state-sponsored terrorism in India's neighbourhood: Jaishankar

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Sidhant Sibal

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.