Kazan, referred to as Russia's third capital, after Moscow and St. Petersburg, is decked up with banners of the BRICS summit, flags, security, and the red and blue of the Russian flag to welcome the leaders of the BRICS countries. The country will not just see the attendance of BRICS leaders from&nbsp;India, China, South Africa, Brazil, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, the UAE, and host Russia, but also invited countries. Around 20 world leaders are expected to be present in the city.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited neighbouring countries from central Asia, and the Global South, like Sri Lanka. BRICS is a grouping that represents 45% of the world's population, 33% of the world's land mass, and 28% of the world's economy.

President Putin, in a meeting with BRICS media persons ahead of the summit, was quite upbeat on the grouping's future. Quoting Indian PM Narendra Modi, he pointed out that the grouping is non-western and not anti-western. He said, "The Prime Minister of India put it best. He said BRICS is not an anti-Western alliance; it is simply non-Western. This distinction is very important and has great meaning. That is, BRICS does not set itself in opposition to anyone."

The group, which first met at leadership level in 2009 in Russia's Yekaterinburg, emerged in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The group of leading emerging economies saw its first expansion in 2011 with the inclusion of South Africa, giving the "S" to BRICS, followed by a second&nbsp;major expansion last year with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. More and more countries are keen to become its members. Delhi has supported the process of BRICS expansion and believes that the group can be a strong voice of the global south.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-russia-visit-for-brics-summit-mea-addresses-possibility-of-bilateral-talks-with-chinas-xi-jinping-769457">PM Modi’s Russia visit for BRICS Summit: MEA addresses possibility of bilateral talks with China’s Xi Jinping</a>

India, which has been a founding member of the group, is expected to play an important role at this year's summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. This will be the second time he will be visiting Russia this year, the first being for a bilateral visit to Moscow. On the sidelines, the PM will have a bilateral meeting with host Russian President Putin, and is also likely to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian.

However, the question remains&nbsp;if any meeting will happen between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping amid the chill in ties.

Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Monday announced that both sides have agreed on a patrolling agreement at the line of actual control, which leads to disengagement. Last year, both leaders had a brief interaction in South Africa.

For Russia, the aim will be to prove that the BRICS summit is successful. Alternate payments mechanism, expansion of the BRICS through a new category of BRICS partner countries will be one of the key focus areas of the Kazan summit. All in all, it will be a moment for Moscow to tell the world, particularly the west, that it is not isolated amid the Ukraine war and that it has a lot of friends in Asia and the global south.

Kazan, referred to as Russia's third capital, after Moscow and St. Petersburg, is decked up with banners of the BRICS summit, flags, security, and the red and blue of the Russian flag to welcome the leaders of the BRICS countries.

Kazan, referred to as Russia's third capital, after Moscow and St. Petersburg, is decked up with banners of the BRICS summit, flags, security, and the red and blue of the Russian flag to welcome the leaders of the BRICS countries. The country will not just see the attendance of BRICS leaders from India, China, South Africa, Brazil, Iran, Ethiopia, Egypt, the UAE, and host Russia, but also invited countries. Around 20 world leaders are expected to be present in the city. Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited neighbouring countries from central Asia, and the Global South, like Sri Lanka. BRICS is a grouping that represents 45% of the world's population, 33% of the world's land mass, and 28% of the world's economy. President Putin, in a meeting with BRICS media persons ahead of the summit, was quite upbeat on the grouping's future. Quoting Indian PM Narendra Modi, he pointed out that the grouping is non-western and not anti-western. He said, "The Prime Minister of India put it best. He said BRICS is not an anti-Western alliance; it is simply non-Western. This distinction is very important and has great meaning. That is, BRICS does not set itself in opposition to anyone." The group, which first met at leadership level in 2009 in Russia's Yekaterinburg, emerged in the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis. The group of leading emerging economies saw its first expansion in 2011 with the inclusion of South Africa, giving the "S" to BRICS, followed by a second major expansion last year with the inclusion of Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates. More and more countries are keen to become its members. Delhi has supported the process of BRICS expansion and believes that the group can be a strong voice of the global south. Also read: PM Modi’s Russia visit for BRICS Summit: MEA addresses possibility of bilateral talks with China’s Xi Jinping India, which has been a founding member of the group, is expected to play an important role at this year's summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance. This will be the second time he will be visiting Russia this year, the first being for a bilateral visit to Moscow. On the sidelines, the PM will have a bilateral meeting with host Russian President Putin, and is also likely to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian. However, the question remains if any meeting will happen between PM Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping amid the chill in ties. Indian foreign secretary Vikram Misri on Monday announced that both sides have agreed on a patrolling agreement at the line of actual control, which leads to disengagement. Last year, both leaders had a brief interaction in South Africa. For Russia, the aim will be to prove that the BRICS summit is successful. Alternate payments mechanism, expansion of the BRICS through a new category of BRICS partner countries will be one of the key focus areas of the Kazan summit. All in all, it will be a moment for Moscow to tell the world, particularly the west, that it is not isolated amid the Ukraine war and that it has a lot of friends in Asia and the global south.

Russia's Kazan gets ready for BRICS summit

Colombia has discussed its plans with India to become a BRICS member. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Colombia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez said, "We came to India to have a discussion and to know the opinion of India.

Colombia has discussed its plans with India to become a BRICS member. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Colombia's Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jorge Enrique Rojas Rodriguez said, "We came to India to have a discussion and to know the opinion of India. We are also in touch with South Africa and Brazil, and we feel this will give a boost to global south ties". The development comes ahead of the BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia next week. The Colombian minister was in Delhi for the 10th India-Colombia Foreign Office Consultations during which discussions happened on trade, energy, pharma, infra including railways, and health. The country has also shown interest in the Indian initiative of the global biofuel alliance. Sidhant Sibal: My first question to you is about the Foreign Office consultations. What was the focus? Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: We are planning to join forces in a strategic alliance with India in order to combat climate change, renewable energies and biofuels. We are also looking to diversify our exports because we want to produce more food and use the technology of India in order to produce this. We have signed a very important MOU for co-production where cinema is concerned because we feel that audio-visual has great potential in India. Sidhant Sibal: Colombia is working with India in the area of energy transition and renewable energies, what kind of cooperation are we looking at? Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: India has proposed an alternative, between fossil fuels and renewable energy. It has tried to propose an energy of biofuels. We want to strengthen the leadership and we want to have a just energy transition. Sidhant Sibal: Global biofuel alliance proposed by India. Does Colombia want to be part of that? Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: Want to explore these two possibilities, this alliance of biofuels, as well as the Solar Alliance. And we really appreciate the efforts of India in this regard. Sidhant Sibal: You mentioned the MOU in terms of audio-visual cooperation, and co-production, essentially. So if you can detail this MOU that has been signed between India and Colombia co-production.. Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: This is one of the most positive things about this visit. We really admire co-production in this field in India. And we would like the film series to be co-produced so that they can bring the two countries together. And we are also seeing that there's a sentiment of joy in the artists of the two countries. Sidhant Sibal: Does Colombia want to be part of the BRICS grouping, and has this request, been raised with the Indian side? Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: Colombian President Gustavo Petro and President Lula da Silva talked in Bogota about the possible entry of Colombia into BRICS. We are still exploring this subject. And for this reason, we came to India to have a discussion and to know the opinion of India. We are also in touch with South Africa and Brazil, and we feel this will give a boost to global south ties, and the entry of Colombia into BRICS will also happen after discussions and exploration. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of conversations you had with India for BRICS membership? Jorge Rojas Rodríguez: There were a lot of interests and expectations, and also the world should see this phenomenon from the point of view of the Global South. We also have to explore these points of view with other countries as well.

Colombia discusses BRICS membership with India

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement. To understand SCO, a group that was formed in 2001, one needs to understand its protocols and the group.&nbsp; 
 
SCO has 10 members, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran, Belarus and the four central Asian countries viz., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. In 2017&nbsp;the group expanded to include India and Pakistan. Since then, two expansions have taken place to include Iran and Belarus.

Each member of the grouping gets to chair the summit, which involves the head of state (HoS), and the head of government (HoG) which is basically at the prime minister's level. Whoever hosts the HoS summit is the chair of the grouping for that year and hosts all major events associated with SCO that year, which includes foreign ministers, defence ministers, and security officials. India was the chair of SCO last year and hosted the summit and other related meetings, virtually.

The events included the foreign ministers' meeting as well, which saw then-Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto travelling to Goa. His visit naturally dominated the foreign minister meeting, since he decided to host an ill-conceived presser involving just the Pakistani media and mentioned Kashmir. India's response was strong, and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's presser was a visible manifestation of seething anger.

The ghost of Goa was buried with the "courteous" actions of Jaishankar, as described by himself ahead of the visit. A few days ahead of his visit, the EAM&nbsp;said that he was going to Islamabad in a multilateral context and not to discuss India and Pakistan.&nbsp;

"Since I'm a courteous, civil person, I will behave myself accordingly."

Two public handshakes, one national statement, one tree planting and one morning walk all that in the almost 24-hour-long visit.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/sco-summit-in-pakistan-767979">Watch |&nbsp;SCO Summit in Pakistan</a>

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Pakistani media and officials have been in full flurry of sending feelers that Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Jati Umra are on the same page on talks with India. Cricket is seen as low-hanging fruit by them, though it has been dismissed by the Indian side that resumption of cricket ties is not on the cards. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday (Oct 17) said: "Nothing of that sort happened...also the reports were not accurate.”

As the hullabaloo over the visit dies down, the point is clear, New Delhi's policy of "talks and terror" can't go together, continues. The policy that came into being after Pathankot (2016) and the Pulwama terror attack (2019), has seen a decreased engagement with Pakistan in all spheres – political, entertainment and sports. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan cut down further engagement, by expelling an Indian envoy, cutting rail, road, and bus linkages and stopping trade to almost nil barring pharma.

Pakistan will continue to harp on Kashmir, as seen ahead of Indian EAM’s visit by comments made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Islamabad cannot let go of Kashmir rhetoric, simply because the political rhetoric in the country is tied to it. The country won't be able to do anything much about&nbsp;it, other than making comments that serve the "establishment".&nbsp;&nbsp;

Even Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who once found it quite fashionable to mention Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), has now moved on to matters he deems more pressing. When even your allies start to ignore the script, it's time to consider one might be performing in an empty house.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sco-roundup-india-opposes-chinas-obor-jaishankar-schools-pakistan-and-more-768020">Also read |&nbsp;SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more</a>

Today, New Delhi has no interest, incentive or stakeholdership in talking to Pakistan. The country has been supportive of anti-India elements, and terror groups like JeM, LeT, and tiredness remains over the conversational quagmire with Islamabad. 70 years is a long time, and for India's next generation, they look upon Pakistan not with the burdened eyes of history but with the indifference of those who have moved on. No stakes, no baggage – just another dot on the map.

Coke Studio Pakistan may be popular for many while going to work in Gurgaon, Mumbai and Bengaluru but it is only there till the playlist changes to the next new song. For many Indians today, Pakistan is just another country, a country with which India has a negative past and an uncertain future.

Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement.

As the dust settles over Pakistan hosting the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) head of government meeting, it is clear in the Indian subcontinent that the group is all about India-Pakistan engagement. To understand SCO, a group that was formed in 2001, one needs to understand its protocols and the group. SCO has 10 members, India, Pakistan, Russia, China, Iran, Belarus and the four central Asian countries viz., Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. In 2017 the group expanded to include India and Pakistan. Since then, two expansions have taken place to include Iran and Belarus. Each member of the grouping gets to chair the summit, which involves the head of state (HoS), and the head of government (HoG) which is basically at the prime minister's level. Whoever hosts the HoS summit is the chair of the grouping for that year and hosts all major events associated with SCO that year, which includes foreign ministers, defence ministers, and security officials. India was the chair of SCO last year and hosted the summit and other related meetings, virtually. The events included the foreign ministers' meeting as well, which saw then-Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto travelling to Goa. His visit naturally dominated the foreign minister meeting, since he decided to host an ill-conceived presser involving just the Pakistani media and mentioned Kashmir. India's response was strong, and External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar's presser was a visible manifestation of seething anger. The ghost of Goa was buried with the "courteous" actions of Jaishankar, as described by himself ahead of the visit. A few days ahead of his visit, the EAM said that he was going to Islamabad in a multilateral context and not to discuss India and Pakistan. "Since I'm a courteous, civil person, I will behave myself accordingly." Two public handshakes, one national statement, one tree planting and one morning walk all that in the almost 24-hour-long visit. Watch | SCO Summit in Pakistan × Pakistani media and officials have been in full flurry of sending feelers that Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Jati Umra are on the same page on talks with India. Cricket is seen as low-hanging fruit by them, though it has been dismissed by the Indian side that resumption of cricket ties is not on the cards. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal on Thursday (Oct 17) said: "Nothing of that sort happened...also the reports were not accurate.” As the hullabaloo over the visit dies down, the point is clear, New Delhi's policy of "talks and terror" can't go together, continues. The policy that came into being after Pathankot (2016) and the Pulwama terror attack (2019), has seen a decreased engagement with Pakistan in all spheres – political, entertainment and sports. After India removed special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan cut down further engagement, by expelling an Indian envoy, cutting rail, road, and bus linkages and stopping trade to almost nil barring pharma. Pakistan will continue to harp on Kashmir, as seen ahead of Indian EAM’s visit by comments made by Pakistan’s Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. Islamabad cannot let go of Kashmir rhetoric, simply because the political rhetoric in the country is tied to it. The country won't be able to do anything much about it, other than making comments that serve the "establishment". Even Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who once found it quite fashionable to mention Kashmir at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), has now moved on to matters he deems more pressing. When even your allies start to ignore the script, it's time to consider one might be performing in an empty house. Also read | SCO roundup: India opposes China's OBOR, Jaishankar schools Pakistan, and more Today, New Delhi has no interest, incentive or stakeholdership in talking to Pakistan. The country has been supportive of anti-India elements, and terror groups like JeM, LeT, and tiredness remains over the conversational quagmire with Islamabad. 70 years is a long time, and for India's next generation, they look upon Pakistan not with the burdened eyes of history but with the indifference of those who have moved on. No stakes, no baggage – just another dot on the map. Coke Studio Pakistan may be popular for many while going to work in Gurgaon, Mumbai and Bengaluru but it is only there till the playlist changes to the next new song. For many Indians today, Pakistan is just another country, a country with which India has a negative past and an uncertain future. Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.

View from Delhi: No talks with Pakistan yet, the old cycle won't continue

Australia has come up with a new visa regime for Indians, the "First Work and Holiday visa". This visa lets people 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) have an extended holiday in Australia and work there to help fund their trip. Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal explained the benefit of it for young Indians seeking to go to Australia. He said, "It's a great opportunity for young Indians to gain some new skills to experience Australian culture at the same time." Full interview:

WION: What can you tell us about&nbsp;this new category of visa?

Matt Thistlethwaite: The new visa we're launching today for Indians is called the Working Holiday Maker visa. It will allow up to 1000 Indians per year to come to Australia between the ages of 18 and 30 to work, study or travel around Australia and experience Australian culture as part of a broader program. There are 50 nations that participate. Today, we're launching it for the opportunity for young Indians to be part of that program as well.

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WION: Why&nbsp;was it necessary to launch this visa? And you're specifically looking for Indians between 18 and 30. What's the idea behind it?

Matt Thistlethwaite: Comes about as a result of the Australia-India economic trade agreement and expanding opportunities for economic ties between our two nations, and this will provide an opportunity for young Indians to come and experience Australian culture, but at the same time, gain some new skills and get a taste for what life in Australia is all about.&nbsp;

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WION: What kind of skills are you looking at, which Indians can get from this visa regime?&nbsp;

Matt Thistlethwaite: There are no restrictions on the industries that young Indians will be able to work in. What we tend to find is that they tend to work in the hospitality industry, the agricultural sector, aged care and a number of service industries where there are skill shortages in Australia. So it's a great opportunity for young Indians to gain some new skills to experience Australian culture at the same time.&nbsp;

WION: How have Indians in Australia&nbsp;been enriching Australian society?

Matt Thistlethwaite: In our last census, there were close to a million people who claim Indian heritage in Australia. It's one of our fastest-growing populations, and Indians are beloved in Australia. We're about to celebrate Diwali. When I go home, I will celebrate Diwali. It is a great symbol of how Indians have enriched Australian society and culture with your festivals, with your food, with your arts and with your culture. And it's a great thing about living in Australia.

Australia has come up with a new visa regime for Indians, the "First Work and Holiday visa". This visa lets people 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) have an extended holiday in Australia and work there to help fund their trip.

Australia has come up with a new visa regime for Indians, the "First Work and Holiday visa". This visa lets people 18 to 30 years old (inclusive) have an extended holiday in Australia and work there to help fund their trip. Australian Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal explained the benefit of it for young Indians seeking to go to Australia. He said, "It's a great opportunity for young Indians to gain some new skills to experience Australian culture at the same time." Full interview: WION: What can you tell us about this new category of visa? Matt Thistlethwaite: The new visa we're launching today for Indians is called the Working Holiday Maker visa. It will allow up to 1000 Indians per year to come to Australia between the ages of 18 and 30 to work, study or travel around Australia and experience Australian culture as part of a broader program. There are 50 nations that participate. Today, we're launching it for the opportunity for young Indians to be part of that program as well. Also read | India expels 6 Canadian diplomats, hours after recalling its high commissioner to Ottawa WION: Why was it necessary to launch this visa? And you're specifically looking for Indians between 18 and 30. What's the idea behind it? Matt Thistlethwaite: Comes about as a result of the Australia-India economic trade agreement and expanding opportunities for economic ties between our two nations, and this will provide an opportunity for young Indians to come and experience Australian culture, but at the same time, gain some new skills and get a taste for what life in Australia is all about. Also read | ‘We have no faith...’: India recalls high commissioner, top diplomats to Canada as ties hit rock-bottom WION: What kind of skills are you looking at, which Indians can get from this visa regime? Matt Thistlethwaite: There are no restrictions on the industries that young Indians will be able to work in. What we tend to find is that they tend to work in the hospitality industry, the agricultural sector, aged care and a number of service industries where there are skill shortages in Australia. So it's a great opportunity for young Indians to gain some new skills to experience Australian culture at the same time. WION: How have Indians in Australia been enriching Australian society? Matt Thistlethwaite: In our last census, there were close to a million people who claim Indian heritage in Australia. It's one of our fastest-growing populations, and Indians are beloved in Australia. We're about to celebrate Diwali. When I go home, I will celebrate Diwali. It is a great symbol of how Indians have enriched Australian society and culture with your festivals, with your food, with your arts and with your culture. And it's a great thing about living in Australia.

Australia introduces a new visa regime for young Indians

Poland has welcomed India joining the joint statement condemning the attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. UNIFIL or United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon has come under attack under Israeli forces, leading to injuries to the peacekeepers.

Poland has welcomed India joining the joint statement condemning the attacks on UN peacekeeping forces in southern Lebanon. UNIFIL or United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon has come under attack under Israeli forces, leading to injuries to the peacekeepers. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Poland's top diplomat in India, Chargé d'affaires Sebastian Domżalski said: "We are very glad and happy that India decided to align with this joint statement. We recognise the importance of Indian contribution." India is the third largest contributor to UNIFIL with 903 of its military personnel present in it. Around 40 countries, including India and Germany, are part of the joint statement. Full interview: Sidhant Sibal: Key focus of the Polish initiative on the UNIFIL or UN Peacekeepers coming under attack? Sebastian Domżalski: As far as the Polish initiative is concerned, you're very right, we have initiated in New York, a joint statement. A statement that was joined by 34 countries, initially. A statement to comment on the safety and security of the peacekeepers, and peacekeeping force UNIFIL in southern Lebanon. Over the last couple of days, we've been witnessing a worsening security situation in southern Lebanon. We witnessed attacks on UN peacekeepers. This is something that must be stopped and has to be condemned, and in fact, safeguarding, safety and security of UN peacekeepers is of paramount importance. This is what this joint statement is about. Watch | International Anger Mounts Over IDF Firing At UN Peacekeepers Sidhant Sibal: Essentially, the joint statement, what does it say, what's the message by Poland, and what is the Polish stance on the situation? You've already talked about it, but if you can give more details Sebastian Domżalski: The main message that is there, as I've already said, is safeguarding, safety and security of UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. The UNIFIL mission has been playing an important role in stabilizing the situation in southern Lebanon. And of course, its main goal is ensuring lasting peace. And this is a mandate that was given by the United Nations. And this mission should continue. As Poland, we've been contributing to this mission for a long time, as India also has contributed. So there is an important factor and important contribution of countries. Sidhant Sibal: India, which contributes the third largest number of troops to UNIFIL, the UN peacekeepers in Lebanon, has also joined this Polish initiative. How do you see it? Sebastian Domżalski: We are very glad and happy that India decided to align with this joint statement. We recognise the importance of Indian contribution. In fact, the Polish mission, the Polish contingent, has around 200 people. India's contribution is around 900, so India has even bigger stakes there. Also read | Israel vs UN: Netanyahu tells Guterres to withdraw peacekeepers from south Lebanon Sidhant Sibal: When it comes to the UN peacekeepers, how do you see their role? Sebastian Domżalski: UN peacekeepers, United Nations, as a matter of fact, play a very important role, and multilateral cooperation plays a very important role in preserving security and stability around the world, and our contribution to the UN peacekeepers is also proof of our commitment to the multilateral system, as it is also proof of India's contribution to the UN peacekeeping forces is also a proof of of India's contribution to the multilateral system.

Poland welcomes India joining joint statement slamming attack on UN peacekeeping

New Delhi has said that ties with the Canadian government cannot "be repaired" unless Ottawa takes "strict and verifiable action against those who actively pursue anti-India activities" and have "conspired to promote hate, disinformation, communal disharmony and violence in India as well as Canada".

The development comes as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a presser in Laos said that he had a "brief exchange" with his Indian counterpart&nbsp;PM Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit meetings in Laos. Indian government&nbsp;sources said that "no substantive discussion" took place between the two&nbsp;leaders in Laos' capital Vientiane.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/kill-creators-of-storm-us-meteorologists-face-death-threats-as-hurricane-conspiracy-theories-spiral-online-766711">'Kill creators of storm': US meteorologists face death threats as hurricane conspiracy theories spiral online</a>

This is the second time that PM Modi and his Canadian counterpart have come face to face since Trudeau, last year, alleged that the Indian government is involved in the killing of a Canadian national and listed terrorist in India, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, during a speech in Canada's parliament.

The Canadian parliament later also honoured Nijjar, irking New Delhi as the move&nbsp;was seen as a glorification of terrorism.

The sources said, India continues to expect that "anti-India Khalistani activities will not be allowed to take place on Canadian soil" and that "firm action", which is "lacking thus far, will be taken against those advocating violence, extremism and terrorism against India from Canadian territory."&nbsp;

Canada has seen many anti-India rallies which have been taken out by Khalistani elements. The rallies and the comments continue despite New Delhi's concerns over them.&nbsp;

Sources pointed out that the "growing nexus of such forces with organised crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking should be a concern for Canada as well."&nbsp;

The Indian side has pointed out that Khalistani extremists, who have been promoting secessionism, have ties with organised crime. In fact, many on India's National Investigation Agency’s "most wanted" list are currently based in Canada, and India has been seeking extraditions.

New Delhi has said that ties with the Canadian government cannot "be repaired" unless Ottawa takes "strict and verifiable action against those who actively pursue anti-India activities" and have "conspired to promote hate, disinformation, communal disharmony and violence in India as well as Canada".

New Delhi has said that ties with the Canadian government cannot "be repaired" unless Ottawa takes "strict and verifiable action against those who actively pursue anti-India activities" and have "conspired to promote hate, disinformation, communal disharmony and violence in India as well as Canada". The development comes as Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, in a presser in Laos said that he had a "brief exchange" with his Indian counterpart PM Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the ASEAN summit meetings in Laos. Indian government sources said that "no substantive discussion" took place between the two leaders in Laos' capital Vientiane. Also read: 'Kill creators of storm': US meteorologists face death threats as hurricane conspiracy theories spiral online This is the second time that PM Modi and his Canadian counterpart have come face to face since Trudeau, last year, alleged that the Indian government is involved in the killing of a Canadian national and listed terrorist in India, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, during a speech in Canada's parliament. The Canadian parliament later also honoured Nijjar, irking New Delhi as the move was seen as a glorification of terrorism. The sources said, India continues to expect that "anti-India Khalistani activities will not be allowed to take place on Canadian soil" and that "firm action", which is "lacking thus far, will be taken against those advocating violence, extremism and terrorism against India from Canadian territory." Canada has seen many anti-India rallies which have been taken out by Khalistani elements. The rallies and the comments continue despite New Delhi's concerns over them. Sources pointed out that the "growing nexus of such forces with organised crime, drug syndicates and human trafficking should be a concern for Canada as well." The Indian side has pointed out that Khalistani extremists, who have been promoting secessionism, have ties with organised crime. In fact, many on India's National Investigation Agency’s "most wanted" list are currently based in Canada, and India has been seeking extraditions.

No substantive talks between PM Modi and Canada's Trudeau in Laos

Argentina's Foreign Minister Diana Mondino who is on a&nbsp;visit to New Delhi has said that her country is not interested in joining the BRICS grouping. She pointed to strong economic links with each member of the grouping but as a group, Argentina "politically doesn't want to be hitched to anyone, we are far more interested in Mercosur rather than becoming one of the members of BRICS".

Mercosur, or the Southern Common Market (Mercado Común del Sur in Spanish, Mercado Comum do Sul in Portuguese), is a regional economic trade bloc. The group focuses on the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labour among member countries.

Argentina was among six countries invited to join the BRICS during the South Africa summit in August 2023, which was set to expand the bloc's membership from January 1, 2024. However, following the election of President Javier Milei in late 2023, Argentina formally withdrew its interest in joining BRICS.&nbsp;

The foreign minister confirmed that letters were sent to five original members of the grouping, India, China, South Africa, Russia and Brazil confirming her government's decision not to be a member of the grouping which has grown in influence in the past few years.&nbsp;

"BRICS is a very good idea for capital markets, potential of growth for these countries..(but)...We don't want to be burdened with whatever politics anybody else has. We don't want anybody's agenda," Mondino said.&nbsp;

BRICS emerged in the first decade of this century and has many countries keen to be part of the grouping which is seen as a counterbalance to Western-dominated economic forums like the G7.&nbsp;

In 2023, BRICS announced the admission of Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina. Later this month, Russia's Kazan will be hosting the BRICS summit that will see more discussions on expansion and also usage of national currencies for trade.&nbsp;

Argentina's FM is in New Delhi for joint commission talks and held a meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. The focus of the talks was on trade, space, nuclear, railways, agriculture, fisheries, health and defence ties. During a public event, the foreign minister lauded the growing ties between the two countries.

“It is in this new stage that Argentina can play a great role in terms of food and energy security for India”, said Mondino, who emphasised “Argentina’s interest in achieving a strategic partnership with India".

Argentina's Foreign Minister Diana Mondino who is on a visit to New Delhi has said that her country is not interested in joining the BRICS grouping. She pointed to strong economic links with each member of the grouping but as a group, Argentina "politically doesn't want to be hitched to anyone, we are far more interested in Mercosur rather than becoming one of the members of BRICS".

Argentina's Foreign Minister Diana Mondino who is on a visit to New Delhi has said that her country is not interested in joining the BRICS grouping. She pointed to strong economic links with each member of the grouping but as a group, Argentina "politically doesn't want to be hitched to anyone, we are far more interested in Mercosur rather than becoming one of the members of BRICS". Mercosur, or the Southern Common Market (Mercado Común del Sur in Spanish, Mercado Comum do Sul in Portuguese), is a regional economic trade bloc. The group focuses on the free movement of goods, services, capital, and labour among member countries. Argentina was among six countries invited to join the BRICS during the South Africa summit in August 2023, which was set to expand the bloc's membership from January 1, 2024. However, following the election of President Javier Milei in late 2023, Argentina formally withdrew its interest in joining BRICS. The foreign minister confirmed that letters were sent to five original members of the grouping, India, China, South Africa, Russia and Brazil confirming her government's decision not to be a member of the grouping which has grown in influence in the past few years. "BRICS is a very good idea for capital markets, potential of growth for these countries..(but)...We don't want to be burdened with whatever politics anybody else has. We don't want anybody's agenda," Mondino said. BRICS emerged in the first decade of this century and has many countries keen to be part of the grouping which is seen as a counterbalance to Western-dominated economic forums like the G7. In 2023, BRICS announced the admission of Saudi Arabia, Iran, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Ethiopia, and Argentina. Later this month, Russia's Kazan will be hosting the BRICS summit that will see more discussions on expansion and also usage of national currencies for trade. Argentina's FM is in New Delhi for joint commission talks and held a meeting with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. The focus of the talks was on trade, space, nuclear, railways, agriculture, fisheries, health and defence ties. During a public event, the foreign minister lauded the growing ties between the two countries. “It is in this new stage that Argentina can play a great role in terms of food and energy security for India”, said Mondino, who emphasised “Argentina’s interest in achieving a strategic partnership with India".

In Delhi, Argentina's Foreign Minister Diana says not interested in BRICS membership

Point to a packed month for Indo-German ties, the German ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann has termed October 2024 as "Germany ka Mahotsav" or Festival of Germany in New Delhi.&nbsp;

This month will see the German chancellor Olaf Scholz travelling to India for the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC), which happens every two years and alternates between New Delhi and Berlin. Chaired by the German chancellor and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it sees the top cabinet ministers from the two sides sitting together for talks to firm up ties.&nbsp;

New Delhi will also host, Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK 2024) for which top German CEOs will be travelling to the world's fifth largest economy to seek more opportunities to invest.&nbsp; 
 
Speaking to WION, the ambassador said, " Germany is very present right now, and that reflects the intensity and the sort of the commitment in our bilateral relations. We are very much looking forward to this conversation".&nbsp; 
 
The past few weeks have witnessed high-level engagements, with India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar travelling to Berlin for talks with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and German Security and Foreign Policy Advisor Jens Plötner travelling to India for talks with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germany-boosts-green-energy-ties-with-india-ahead-of-chancellor-scholzs-visit-756691">Also read:&nbsp;Germany boosts green energy ties with India ahead of Chancellor Scholz's visit</a>

Both sides are also looking to firm up defence ties, especially via&nbsp;port calls by German vessels to Goa in a few days' time. Earlier on Tuesday (Oct 8), Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius spoke ahead of the latter's India visit for IGC.&nbsp;

Commenting on the defence minister's telephonic talks, Ambassador Ackermann said, "we have proven our commitment to India as a military strategic partner which has grown over the last couple of months".

He highlighted that the phone call was "basically preparation for the bilateral meeting both ministers will have later in the month. And I think on the table of the inter government consultations, you will see a lot of military and defence policy also".&nbsp;

In an important first, the German air force participated in India's Tarang Shakti exercises in Tamil Nadu in August. Berlin’s participation was led by German Air Force chief Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz who flew a Eurofighter Typhoon for over five hours to land at Sulur Air Force Base. German company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and India's Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders together are contesting in a tender to build submarines for the Indian Navy.

Watch |&nbsp;Indian Girl Taken Away from Parents in Germany Three Years Ago

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Not only defence but sustainability forms another area of cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Olaf in May 2022, announced the Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development, with emphasis on enhancing cooperation in renewable energy sectors, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen technologies. Germany was the partner country at the Re-Invest event in Gujarat, India's largest renewable energy sector event in August 2024.

Meanwhile, the ambassador spoke also on German foreign policy which aims at inclusivity. He said, "Germany's policy is indeed to try to increase the number of women in the diplomatic corps in order to make gender equality a big issue."

Point to a packed month for Indo-German ties, the German ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann has termed October 2024 as "Germany ka Mahotsav" or Festival of Germany in New Delhi.

Point to a packed month for Indo-German ties, the German ambassador to India Philipp Ackermann has termed October 2024 as "Germany ka Mahotsav" or Festival of Germany in New Delhi. This month will see the German chancellor Olaf Scholz travelling to India for the India-Germany Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC), which happens every two years and alternates between New Delhi and Berlin. Chaired by the German chancellor and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, it sees the top cabinet ministers from the two sides sitting together for talks to firm up ties. New Delhi will also host, Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK 2024) for which top German CEOs will be travelling to the world's fifth largest economy to seek more opportunities to invest. Speaking to WION, the ambassador said, " Germany is very present right now, and that reflects the intensity and the sort of the commitment in our bilateral relations. We are very much looking forward to this conversation". The past few weeks have witnessed high-level engagements, with India's External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar travelling to Berlin for talks with German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock and German Security and Foreign Policy Advisor Jens Plötner travelling to India for talks with National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval. Also read: Germany boosts green energy ties with India ahead of Chancellor Scholz's visit Both sides are also looking to firm up defence ties, especially via port calls by German vessels to Goa in a few days' time. Earlier on Tuesday (Oct 8), Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius spoke ahead of the latter's India visit for IGC. Commenting on the defence minister's telephonic talks, Ambassador Ackermann said, "we have proven our commitment to India as a military strategic partner which has grown over the last couple of months". He highlighted that the phone call was "basically preparation for the bilateral meeting both ministers will have later in the month. And I think on the table of the inter government consultations, you will see a lot of military and defence policy also". In an important first, the German air force participated in India's Tarang Shakti exercises in Tamil Nadu in August. Berlin’s participation was led by German Air Force chief Lieutenant General Ingo Gerhartz who flew a Eurofighter Typhoon for over five hours to land at Sulur Air Force Base. German company ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems and India's Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders together are contesting in a tender to build submarines for the Indian Navy. Watch | Indian Girl Taken Away from Parents in Germany Three Years Ago × Not only defence but sustainability forms another area of cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chancellor Olaf in May 2022, announced the Partnership for Green and Sustainable Development, with emphasis on enhancing cooperation in renewable energy sectors, including solar, wind, and green hydrogen technologies. Germany was the partner country at the Re-Invest event in Gujarat, India's largest renewable energy sector event in August 2024. Meanwhile, the ambassador spoke also on German foreign policy which aims at inclusivity. He said, "Germany's policy is indeed to try to increase the number of women in the diplomatic corps in order to make gender equality a big issue."

October 2024 is 'Germany ka Mahotsav' in Delhi: Ambassador Ackermann

Signalling further engagement with New Delhi, Taiwan's de facto ambassador to India, Baushuan Ger has said a new Taiwanese office will open in Mumbai on October 16.

Signalling further engagement with New Delhi, Taiwan's de facto ambassador to India, Baushuan Ger has said a new Taiwanese office will open in Mumbai on October 16. Taiwan has its de facto embassy or Taipei Economic and Cultural Centre in India (TECC) in Delhi and one de facto consulate or office in the southern city of Chennai. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ger, representative to TECC said that with this new mission "we can serve more Taiwanese and Indian businesses, trade, and economic ties between our societies". The establishment of the Taipei Economic Culture Centre in Mumbai is part of the expansion of Taiwan's presence in India under its new southbound policy. With the opening of the new office, the number of Taiwanese diplomats will increase to 32, with plans to get more Taiwanese diplomats to India. The development comes even as India, and Taiwan firm up ties in semiconductors, mobility and many Taiwanese teachers come to India to teach Mandarin. Meanwhile, Taiwan's National Day was celebrated in Delhi on Tuesday (Oct 8), but no Indian government representatives were present, as New Delhi does not officially recognise Taiwan as a separate country. Former Indian MP Sujeet Kumar was present at the national day. Foreign diplomats from nations that adhere to the "One China" policy also chose to skip the event. The full interview with Baushuan Ger: Sidhant Sibal: When are you going to open the new office in India? Baushuan Ger: On October 16, we will open our third mission in India, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in Mumbai. We hope that through this new mission, we can serve more Taiwanese and Indian businesses, trade, and economic ties between our societies. Sidhant Sibal: Semiconductor has been a key pillar of ties... Baushuan Ger: Semiconductor is one of the major cooperation between our two sides. We are very happy to see Tata and Taiwan's Powerchip Semiconductor Manufacturing Corporation (PSMC) work together in Gujarat and we hope that it will be a precursor to many similar projects. Watch | Taiwan gives befitting reply as China questions Taiwan-India ties × Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Taiwan ties? Taiwan celebrated its National Day in India. Baushuan Ger: We are very positive about Taiwan-India relations, in the past, now and in the future. We have the celebration of our national day and we hope that we receive more similar happy returns in the future. Sidhant Sibal: How is Taiwan helping to develop Mandarin language skills in India? Baushuan Ger: We have 36 Taiwan education centres in India, across Indian campuses. Our desire is to have more Taiwan education centres in India. That will be a very useful bridge between Taiwan and India. Through these centres, we came to promote Mandarin teaching and learning in India and send more Indian students to Taiwan to study, especially in STEM disciplines. They can come back to serve as a bridge.

Taiwan to open new office in Mumbai on October 16

Amid the volatile situation in West Asia, Iran's ambassador to New Delhi, Iraj Elahi has said that India can ask Israel to de-escalate the situation. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Elahi said, "We hope that India, as friends of both countries, can play a constructive role. I always invite the countries who have influence on Israel, especially India, which I am ambassador to India, to use their assets, their influence, to encourage Israel for de-escalation. The de-escalation will be to the benefit of both sides, the whole region, and also India".&nbsp;

The situation between Israel and Iran in West Asia is highly tense, marked by Iran's direct missile attack on Israel, which was a response to the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Israel has vowed to respond, amidst fears of a wider regional war.

The ambassador explained: "India can encourage Israel...since the escalation is not on the benefit of any of the no sides, Iran, Israel, the whole region and the whole globe, globally, not the benefit of the whole world."&nbsp;

India and Iran are currently working on a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iran's new President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Kazan summit later this month in Russia. The ambassador spoke at length on the current situation in West Asia terming it as "dangerous". Here's the full interview:

WION: What is the current situation in West Asia?

Iraj Elahi: Unfortunately, the ongoing situation in the region is not good, it is dangerous, as you mentioned, it is dangerous. Israel assassinated Ismail Haniyeh inside Iran, we were obliged to, according to the inherent rights for self-defence and United Nation charter. We were obliged to use our legitimate right to defend and strike Israel for deterrence, you know, to deter Israel from repeating such a violation on Iranian sovereignty. Beside this Israeli invasion in Lebanon and the continuation of genocide in Gaza is going on. Unfortunately the support of the United States is continuing. And not only it's continued, but financially, legally and internationally, the United States is giving new and high, high tech or very advanced ammunition to Israel, which can have an important effect on the tension. So the situation is not good, is not good, and we hope, we hope that the United States and those who are who have influence on Israel will encourage and convince Israel for the de-escalation, since the escalation of the situation will not be to the benefit of no countries.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallahs-presumed-successor-safieddine-unreachable-since-fridays-israeli-strike-on-bunker-report-764777">Contact 'lost' with Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine</a>

WION: Do you see the war spilling across West Asia? Do you see strikes coming from Israel?

Iraj Elahi: You know, the ongoing massacre in Gaza, killing more than 41,000 innocent people, there is no doubt that there are combatants of Hamas between this casualty but the continuation of killing and blood shedding in Gaza. You know, the number of casualties has exceeded 41,000 people. Beside this, Israeli forces are targeting refugees. And for this reason,&nbsp;I hope that the wise people in the Western countries and even in India, countries like India, who have influence on Israel and have a good relation with Israel, try to encourage it for the escalation,&nbsp;but we are ready for any case or any situation.&nbsp;

WION: Let's focus on the Indian role. What kind of role do you see or foresee for India amidst this situation in West Asia? Do you see the office of India playing an important role in de-escalation, perhaps sending a message from the two sides calling on for de-escalation, something that we have seen in Ukraine and Russia?&nbsp;

Iraj Elahi: Regarding giving and sending messages between Iran and Israel, since we do not recognise Israel as a legitimate state, there is no,&nbsp;no, no exchange of messages between Iran and Israel. So for this reason, there is no space for other mediators, such as India or other countries to mediate between Iran and Israel. You know, Iran is a state with old history, but Israel is an artificial regime which was set up in the occupied territory of Palestine.&nbsp;So regarding India, we believe that India, since has not only good, but very close relations with Israel. And Israel is one of the close friends of India. India can encourage Israel and attract its attention to the consequences of the current situation, encouragement for de-escalation, since the escalation is not on the benefit of none of the no sides, Iran, Israel, the whole region and the whole globe, globally, not the benefit of the whole world.

WION: Continuing with India, we saw the Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, meeting the Iranian foreign minister in New York. The BRICS summit is also going to happen later this month. Iran is a member of BRICS. Now, can we expect high level engagement between the two sides where there can be a discussion on this particular issue, and will there be a meeting between the Iranian side and the Indian side in BRICS?&nbsp;

Iraj Elahi: Yes.&nbsp;Thank you for this question. I should repeat again our respect and gratitude to India for helping Iran to be a member, full member of BRICS. We will never forget this. And we are now working on a meeting of our President Masoud Pezeshkian and PM Modi, in the coming BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Of course there were, we were working on a bilateral meeting of both high-ranking ranking meeting, high-ranking leaders in New York. But unfortunately for the logistics you know, the visit of PM Modi was too short, and also, there were too many. Mostly, they were too busy. So we are now working on their meeting in Kazan.

WION:&nbsp;So coming back to the situation in West Asia, now, what's your assessment when it comes to the situation in Lebanon? Because Hezbollah is a group that is seen as a terror group by Israelis. It is seen as a resistance group by the Lebanese. So essentially, when it comes to the Iranian support for Lebanon and for Hezbollah, what's your thought process, assessment?&nbsp;

Iraj Elahi:&nbsp;You know, when you want to answer this question, you should know Lebanon. Lebanon is a small country. It appeared in the map of the region after the Sykes–Picot Agreement, there was a division of the region between France and England and Lebanon, there are different ethnicities in Lebanon, Shia group, Shia community, Sunni community, &nbsp;Maronite Christians,&nbsp;Druze, and because of the invasion of Israel to Lebanon, the Government of Lebanon is not strong enough to defend the sovereignty of Lebanon. So this community, I mean, Shia, Sunni, Maronite, Druze, have their own party and the political party, and they are in the parliament, they are in the cabinet minister, and even they have their own militia to defend themselves, beside and alongside the army of Lebanon. You know, when we talk about Hezbollah etc all of these groups, have militia to defend themselves. So calling Hezbollah as a terrorist group is not true, and we should consider that all community in Lebanon, these this party, Hezbollah, is a political party, has a member in Parliament, has members in the cabinet, Minister, also Maronite&nbsp;Party and the Sunni party have members in Parliament, and they have militia. Hezbollah is now resisting the occupation of and trying to liberate the occupied territory of Lebanon. You know, still some part of South of Lebanon is in the occupation of Israel. I serve in Lebanon, I am fully aware of the situation and Lebanon. So for this reason, we supported, we supported Hezbollah to liberate. We believe that any changes, not only in West Asia, but also in Caucasus, will cause a new round of tension and escalation of clashes in the region. So we believe that the only solution is and for this reason, we support Hezbollah to liberate as we support any you know, we support Syria. We support Syria, and we officially support the sovereignty of Syria. We officially supported Iraq, sovereignty of Iraq, and we did not recognise the referendum of separation of Kurdistan in Iraq. And also, we do not accept any changes in the borders of the countries in the Caucasus. So the changes, the changes, some groups are trying to change the status quo of the region, and they have planned. This plan is designed in the United States and in some Western countries to change the geopolitics of West Asia. And every day, every time, they call it by a new name. Sometimes, they call it Great West Asia, Great Middle East, sometimes, and they call it Abraham Accords,&nbsp;sometimes they call it IMEE, the India Middle East economic corridor.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-prez-labels-iran-ongoing-threat-army-chief-vows-to-hit-hezbollah-without-relief-764833">West Asia crisis: Israel president labels dubs Iran an 'ongoing threat'</a>

WION: You mentioned about the IMEE?

Iraj Elahi: India as an emerging economy and an emerging power in the world with very high growth, growth rate needs, the different needs to diversify its route to different markets. To this, to get raw material and to send its products to different markets. So it is natural for India to diversify its routes. But IMEE is a project which was designed to change the geopolitics of the region.&nbsp;But you know, somebody talks about the impact of IMEE on the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC).&nbsp;We do not have any concern regarding the impact of IMEC on&nbsp;INSTC.&nbsp;INSTC's mission is to connect the Indian Ocean, India to Russia, to Eurasia, to Afghanistan, to Iran, and through Russia and to caucuses and Europe, IMEE is to connect India to Europe. We believe that the political and security impact of IMEE&nbsp;is much, much more important than the economic aspect of this project.&nbsp;

WION: What next for hezbollah?

Iraj Elahi: Hezbollah, Hamas are based, have two dimensions, they have software and hardware. Software is a school of resistance, this thought will not be damaged in any cases, even if you demolish, if Israel could, could kill all of the leaders and destroy this structure, you know. So this thought as after one year, more than one year Israel hitting Hamas hitting Gaza, the still people of Gaza are resisting, you know, because this thought is resilient, but regarding the hardware of Hezbollah, I mean structure, structure, its military capabilities. I think Hezbollah is resilient. Hezbollah is very, very well organised, and very soon it can, it can recover.

WION: So coming back to the India angle amidst this crisis, how do you see India's stance? The Indian government has issued one statement and the comment from the MEA spokesperson, calling for restraint, expressing its concern.

Iraj Elahi:&nbsp;We have a very good and close relationship with India. Our relation goes back to history, and we have been together through history and we have started different projects. You know, Chabahar is just one example of our project. I am in close touch with MEA and different structures of India. And despite this, we fully understand the Indian side for not purchasing Iranian oil, and we do not insist on that, because we do not want to harm Indian companies. But at the same time, we believe that there are too many opportunities for us to set up a new round of cooperation. So from our side, we are fully with India, and we hope that, we expect that India, as friends of both countries, can play a constructive role. I always invite the countries who have influence on Israel, especially India, which I am ambassador to India, to use their assets, their influence, to encourage Israel for de-escalation. The&nbsp;de-escalation will be to the benefit of both sides, the whole region, and also India.

WION:&nbsp;First, it was interesting to see the Indian naval assets, Indian naval ships talking at bandar abbas bandrea Abbas and having those exercises.&nbsp;

Iraj Elahi: It itself proves the level of close, good relation and strategic relation of Iran and India, you know our relation, the relation between Iran and India, has economic aspect, military aspect, political aspect, a cultural aspect. The visit of the vessels of India, and a few months back, an Iranian vessel was in Mumbai, two big Iranian vessels. Iran also participated in the Milan 2024,&nbsp;marine exercise in the Indian Ocean. So the relation is, the relation between Iran and India is progressing, and we are satisfied with this. And we, as I mentioned, we are grateful for Indian support, for membership of Iran in BRICS and also we are trying to find different solutions for the issues which are raised, and both sides have tried. I myself felt this. Both sides are trying to not interfere with each other, in internal issues.

WION:&nbsp;So my last question to you is, last week was very busy for you. I saw you at various events where, essentially, homage was paid to Hasan Nasrullah, whether it's at the India Islamic Center, or whether it's Iranian culture centre as well, we have seen marches as well in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, in Indian cities like Lucknow and, of course, here in Delhi as well on Friday. What do you have to say about this event where you participated, and also these protests and marches, when it comes to Hassan Nasrullah?

Iraj Elahi: You know, as Hindus have solidarity with each other, the Shia community, Muslim community, have solidarity and show solidarity with each other. Beside this, Hassan Nasrullah was a well-known leader and was supported and was beloved by many people, not only between Shia community or Sunni community, between Muslim, but even non-Muslim, he was well-known and famous between non Muslim people all around the world. So we, if the people were allowed in western countries, you could witness March of and demonstration of people on the you know, to commemorate the martyrdom of Hassan Nasrullah. I&nbsp;received messages from many Hindus, personalities, dignitaries, that they came to our embassy and called me and sent messages and said, we are sad Hassan Nasrullah was so and so.

Amid the volatile situation in West Asia, Iran's ambassador to New Delhi, Iraj Elahi has said that India can ask Israel to de-escalate the situation. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Elahi said, "We hope that India, as friends of both countries, can play a constructive role.

Amid the volatile situation in West Asia, Iran's ambassador to New Delhi, Iraj Elahi has said that India can ask Israel to de-escalate the situation. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Elahi said, "We hope that India, as friends of both countries, can play a constructive role. I always invite the countries who have influence on Israel, especially India, which I am ambassador to India, to use their assets, their influence, to encourage Israel for de-escalation. The de-escalation will be to the benefit of both sides, the whole region, and also India". The situation between Israel and Iran in West Asia is highly tense, marked by Iran's direct missile attack on Israel, which was a response to the killing of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah. Israel has vowed to respond, amidst fears of a wider regional war. The ambassador explained: "India can encourage Israel...since the escalation is not on the benefit of any of the no sides, Iran, Israel, the whole region and the whole globe, globally, not the benefit of the whole world." India and Iran are currently working on a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Iran's new President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian on the sidelines of the BRICS Kazan summit later this month in Russia. The ambassador spoke at length on the current situation in West Asia terming it as "dangerous". Here's the full interview: WION: What is the current situation in West Asia? Iraj Elahi: Unfortunately, the ongoing situation in the region is not good, it is dangerous, as you mentioned, it is dangerous. Israel assassinated Ismail Haniyeh inside Iran, we were obliged to, according to the inherent rights for self-defence and United Nation charter. We were obliged to use our legitimate right to defend and strike Israel for deterrence, you know, to deter Israel from repeating such a violation on Iranian sovereignty. Beside this Israeli invasion in Lebanon and the continuation of genocide in Gaza is going on. Unfortunately the support of the United States is continuing. And not only it's continued, but financially, legally and internationally, the United States is giving new and high, high tech or very advanced ammunition to Israel, which can have an important effect on the tension. So the situation is not good, is not good, and we hope, we hope that the United States and those who are who have influence on Israel will encourage and convince Israel for the de-escalation, since the escalation of the situation will not be to the benefit of no countries. Also read: Contact 'lost' with Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine WION: Do you see the war spilling across West Asia? Do you see strikes coming from Israel? Iraj Elahi: You know, the ongoing massacre in Gaza, killing more than 41,000 innocent people, there is no doubt that there are combatants of Hamas between this casualty but the continuation of killing and blood shedding in Gaza. You know, the number of casualties has exceeded 41,000 people. Beside this, Israeli forces are targeting refugees. And for this reason, I hope that the wise people in the Western countries and even in India, countries like India, who have influence on Israel and have a good relation with Israel, try to encourage it for the escalation, but we are ready for any case or any situation. WION: Let's focus on the Indian role. What kind of role do you see or foresee for India amidst this situation in West Asia? Do you see the office of India playing an important role in de-escalation, perhaps sending a message from the two sides calling on for de-escalation, something that we have seen in Ukraine and Russia? Iraj Elahi: Regarding giving and sending messages between Iran and Israel, since we do not recognise Israel as a legitimate state, there is no, no, no exchange of messages between Iran and Israel. So for this reason, there is no space for other mediators, such as India or other countries to mediate between Iran and Israel. You know, Iran is a state with old history, but Israel is an artificial regime which was set up in the occupied territory of Palestine. So regarding India, we believe that India, since has not only good, but very close relations with Israel. And Israel is one of the close friends of India. India can encourage Israel and attract its attention to the consequences of the current situation, encouragement for de-escalation, since the escalation is not on the benefit of none of the no sides, Iran, Israel, the whole region and the whole globe, globally, not the benefit of the whole world. WION: Continuing with India, we saw the Indian External Affairs Minister, Dr S Jaishankar, meeting the Iranian foreign minister in New York. The BRICS summit is also going to happen later this month. Iran is a member of BRICS. Now, can we expect high level engagement between the two sides where there can be a discussion on this particular issue, and will there be a meeting between the Iranian side and the Indian side in BRICS? Iraj Elahi: Yes. Thank you for this question. I should repeat again our respect and gratitude to India for helping Iran to be a member, full member of BRICS. We will never forget this. And we are now working on a meeting of our President Masoud Pezeshkian and PM Modi, in the coming BRICS summit in Kazan, Russia. Of course there were, we were working on a bilateral meeting of both high-ranking ranking meeting, high-ranking leaders in New York. But unfortunately for the logistics you know, the visit of PM Modi was too short, and also, there were too many. Mostly, they were too busy. So we are now working on their meeting in Kazan. WION: So coming back to the situation in West Asia, now, what's your assessment when it comes to the situation in Lebanon? Because Hezbollah is a group that is seen as a terror group by Israelis. It is seen as a resistance group by the Lebanese. So essentially, when it comes to the Iranian support for Lebanon and for Hezbollah, what's your thought process, assessment? Iraj Elahi: You know, when you want to answer this question, you should know Lebanon. Lebanon is a small country. It appeared in the map of the region after the Sykes–Picot Agreement, there was a division of the region between France and England and Lebanon, there are different ethnicities in Lebanon, Shia group, Shia community, Sunni community, Maronite Christians, Druze, and because of the invasion of Israel to Lebanon, the Government of Lebanon is not strong enough to defend the sovereignty of Lebanon. So this community, I mean, Shia, Sunni, Maronite, Druze, have their own party and the political party, and they are in the parliament, they are in the cabinet minister, and even they have their own militia to defend themselves, beside and alongside the army of Lebanon. You know, when we talk about Hezbollah etc all of these groups, have militia to defend themselves. So calling Hezbollah as a terrorist group is not true, and we should consider that all community in Lebanon, these this party, Hezbollah, is a political party, has a member in Parliament, has members in the cabinet, Minister, also Maronite Party and the Sunni party have members in Parliament, and they have militia. Hezbollah is now resisting the occupation of and trying to liberate the occupied territory of Lebanon. You know, still some part of South of Lebanon is in the occupation of Israel. I serve in Lebanon, I am fully aware of the situation and Lebanon. So for this reason, we supported, we supported Hezbollah to liberate. We believe that any changes, not only in West Asia, but also in Caucasus, will cause a new round of tension and escalation of clashes in the region. So we believe that the only solution is and for this reason, we support Hezbollah to liberate as we support any you know, we support Syria. We support Syria, and we officially support the sovereignty of Syria. We officially supported Iraq, sovereignty of Iraq, and we did not recognise the referendum of separation of Kurdistan in Iraq. And also, we do not accept any changes in the borders of the countries in the Caucasus. So the changes, the changes, some groups are trying to change the status quo of the region, and they have planned. This plan is designed in the United States and in some Western countries to change the geopolitics of West Asia. And every day, every time, they call it by a new name. Sometimes, they call it Great West Asia, Great Middle East, sometimes, and they call it Abraham Accords, sometimes they call it IMEE, the India Middle East economic corridor. Also read: West Asia crisis: Israel president labels dubs Iran an 'ongoing threat' WION: You mentioned about the IMEE? Iraj Elahi: India as an emerging economy and an emerging power in the world with very high growth, growth rate needs, the different needs to diversify its route to different markets. To this, to get raw material and to send its products to different markets. So it is natural for India to diversify its routes. But IMEE is a project which was designed to change the geopolitics of the region. But you know, somebody talks about the impact of IMEE on the International North–South Transport Corridor (INSTC). We do not have any concern regarding the impact of IMEC on INSTC. INSTC's mission is to connect the Indian Ocean, India to Russia, to Eurasia, to Afghanistan, to Iran, and through Russia and to caucuses and Europe, IMEE is to connect India to Europe. We believe that the political and security impact of IMEE is much, much more important than the economic aspect of this project. WION: What next for hezbollah? Iraj Elahi: Hezbollah, Hamas are based, have two dimensions, they have software and hardware. Software is a school of resistance, this thought will not be damaged in any cases, even if you demolish, if Israel could, could kill all of the leaders and destroy this structure, you know. So this thought as after one year, more than one year Israel hitting Hamas hitting Gaza, the still people of Gaza are resisting, you know, because this thought is resilient, but regarding the hardware of Hezbollah, I mean structure, structure, its military capabilities. I think Hezbollah is resilient. Hezbollah is very, very well organised, and very soon it can, it can recover. WION: So coming back to the India angle amidst this crisis, how do you see India's stance? The Indian government has issued one statement and the comment from the MEA spokesperson, calling for restraint, expressing its concern. Iraj Elahi: We have a very good and close relationship with India. Our relation goes back to history, and we have been together through history and we have started different projects. You know, Chabahar is just one example of our project. I am in close touch with MEA and different structures of India. And despite this, we fully understand the Indian side for not purchasing Iranian oil, and we do not insist on that, because we do not want to harm Indian companies. But at the same time, we believe that there are too many opportunities for us to set up a new round of cooperation. So from our side, we are fully with India, and we hope that, we expect that India, as friends of both countries, can play a constructive role. I always invite the countries who have influence on Israel, especially India, which I am ambassador to India, to use their assets, their influence, to encourage Israel for de-escalation. The de-escalation will be to the benefit of both sides, the whole region, and also India. WION: First, it was interesting to see the Indian naval assets, Indian naval ships talking at bandar abbas bandrea Abbas and having those exercises. Iraj Elahi: It itself proves the level of close, good relation and strategic relation of Iran and India, you know our relation, the relation between Iran and India, has economic aspect, military aspect, political aspect, a cultural aspect. The visit of the vessels of India, and a few months back, an Iranian vessel was in Mumbai, two big Iranian vessels. Iran also participated in the Milan 2024, marine exercise in the Indian Ocean. So the relation is, the relation between Iran and India is progressing, and we are satisfied with this. And we, as I mentioned, we are grateful for Indian support, for membership of Iran in BRICS and also we are trying to find different solutions for the issues which are raised, and both sides have tried. I myself felt this. Both sides are trying to not interfere with each other, in internal issues. WION: So my last question to you is, last week was very busy for you. I saw you at various events where, essentially, homage was paid to Hasan Nasrullah, whether it's at the India Islamic Center, or whether it's Iranian culture centre as well, we have seen marches as well in the Indian Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, in Indian cities like Lucknow and, of course, here in Delhi as well on Friday. What do you have to say about this event where you participated, and also these protests and marches, when it comes to Hassan Nasrullah? Iraj Elahi: You know, as Hindus have solidarity with each other, the Shia community, Muslim community, have solidarity and show solidarity with each other. Beside this, Hassan Nasrullah was a well-known leader and was supported and was beloved by many people, not only between Shia community or Sunni community, between Muslim, but even non-Muslim, he was well-known and famous between non Muslim people all around the world. So we, if the people were allowed in western countries, you could witness March of and demonstration of people on the you know, to commemorate the martyrdom of Hassan Nasrullah. I received messages from many Hindus, personalities, dignitaries, that they came to our embassy and called me and sent messages and said, we are sad Hassan Nasrullah was so and so.

India can encourage Israel to de escalate: Iran Ambassador Iraj Elahi

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war."

The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government&nbsp;is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701.&nbsp;

Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah."&nbsp;Full interview:

WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two&nbsp;million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda.

WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel.

WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war.

WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nasrallahs-presumed-successor-safieddine-unreachable-since-fridays-israeli-strike-on-bunker-report-764777">Also read:&nbsp;Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report</a>

WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them?

Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, &nbsp;they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop.

WION: And Indians in the UN?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in &nbsp;UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India.&nbsp;

WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it?

Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate &nbsp;Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes

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WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it.

Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there.

WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government.&nbsp;

WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party.&nbsp;

WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance.&nbsp;

WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah.

WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack?

Dr Rabie Narsh: &nbsp;First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this.

WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind.

WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow.

WION: What next for Hezbollah?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land.

WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country?

Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government.

WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon?

Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do.

WION: What about the Palestinian cause?&nbsp;

Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution.

WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches?

Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region.

Lebanon's Ambassador to India Dr Rabie Narsh has said that India can play a "very good role" in de-escalating the situation in West Asia. His remarks come at a time when his country is facing strikes from Israel, while tensions escalate across the region. Hezbollah, based in Lebanon, has also launched a volley of rockets into Israel, pushing the situation closer to a potential wider conflict. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Ambassador Narsh said, "We call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war...we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war." The Ambassador also confirmed that India plans to send a medical humanitarian situation to his country very soon. He termed the situation "very bad" in Lebanon and that his government is ready to implement UNSC resolution 1701. Resolution 1701, passed in 2006, aimed to end hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah by calling for Israel's withdrawal from Lebanon and the militant group's disarmament south of the Litani River. Ambassador Narsh pointed out, "Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah." Full interview: WION: What is the current situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: The situation is very bad in Lebanon. Of course, we are at an all-out war, Israel is waging an all-out war on Lebanon. So far we have more than 2000 innocent souls perished, and more than 10,000 injured, 1.2 million displaced, which is a heavy burden on Lebanon, given we gave two million Syrian refugees also. So the situation is bad, and this reflects the aggressive nature of Israel, which has been waging this war for a twisted and sinister agenda. WION: What do you expect from the international community at a time when your country is facing the situation? Dr Rabie Narsh: The international community is our only aim, and our only side to talk to and to ask them to stop this madness from (Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin) Netanyahu, the international community has also to be responsible, and play an important role in de-escalating the situation in the region. They have, of course, many good offices and negotiations going on, but they have been faced with the war mindset of Israel. WION: How do you see India's role? Have you briefed the Indian side about the current situation your country is facing? Dr Rabie Narsh: I have, of course, I am in constant contact with the Indian side. The friendly government of India has always supported Lebanon and given that they have good relations with Israel and very good relations with Lebanon. So yes, they can play, and they are playing a very good role in de-escalating the situation. We know for sure that they have contacted but then again, like any other international player or good offices, the Peace Peace lover state, India, is also faced with the insistence of Netanyahu to go on this war. So we call upon our friends in the Indian government to put more pressure on the Israeli government to end this crazy war. WION: So you just said that India is playing a role in de-escalation you can elaborate on that bit. And also have you sent a message to New Delhi that India can send a message to the government in Israel, to Prime Minister Netanyahu, to, of course, de-escalate? Have you sent any messages? Dr Rabie Narsh: We can't tell the Indians what to do. Of course, we tell them that we want their good offices with Israel, to de-escalate the war and to end the war. But yes, I know for sure that they are doing their best to see peace prevail in the region. Also read: Hezbollah chief Nasrallah's presumed successor Safieddine 'unreachable' since Friday's Israeli strike: Report WION: Around 3000 Indians in Lebanon, if you can talk about, is any evacuation plan being readied? Has the Indian government approached you? And also, there are Indian UN peacekeepers in southern Lebanon. What is the current condition for them? Dr Rabie Narsh: The current situation of the Indians in Lebanon, there are, like you said, about three to 4000 Indians, they are as safe as any other Lebanese in the country. I mean, of course, the homes, the companies they work for, they are trying to protect them in the same way that they protect themselves. So hopefully they will be safe. There's no campaign to evacuate them from Lebanon. The Indian government has not approached us for that specific reason, hopefully will not reach that point, but we want to see the war stop. WION: And Indians in the UN? Dr Rabie Narsh: Indians in the UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force In Lebanon), this is the good part, and the beautiful face of India. India has always been investing in peace. So I think the biggest contingent in UNIFIL, the peacekeeping forces in Lebanon, is Indian. You have about 900 to 1000 peacekeeping personnel, and they are doing a great job. They are very much admired and appreciated in Lebanon. And again, on my behalf, on behalf of my government, I extend my appreciation and thanks to the Government of India. WION: We know there was a plan for a ceasefire, the French and the American proposal for a ceasefire. What was the status? Is the proposal now dead? And had the Hezbollah chief Hassan Nasrallah agreed to it? Dr Rabie Narsh: This proposal was botched by Netanyahu himself, and yes, there was a peace almost, I mean, ceasefire agreement. Our government has announced its acceptance of the proposal by the French and the Americans and it was almost about to happen, but it turned out that it was a plot by the Israeli government and by Netanyahu, it was part of the plan to assassinate Nasrallah. Now there's, of course, there's always talk to end this crazy war, but there's no light at the end of the tunnels. Watch | Israel-Hezbollah War: Nasrallah's Presumed Successor Safieddine Said to Be Target of Latest Strikes × WION: Any direct conversation happening between the Lebanese government and the Israeli government about the current situation, and how to handle it. Dr Rabie Narsh: There's no direct contact with the Israeli government, but there's indirect, of course, indirect contact through our friends, as you said, the US, the French, the other European, and of course, there are some talks that are always there. It's always there. WION: Do you think that this current situation, the war that is happening in your country, can become a larger, broader conflict in the region, which can escalate beyond the borders and can involve other countries? Dr Rabie Narsh: Of course, there is serious concern that the war would escalate, and we almost at an all out war, but the escalation is always there, and yes, there is a big chance, unfortunately, that this war might even escalate further due to the like I said, the war mindset of Netanyahu And the current Israeli government. WION: What role Hezbollah has in this war...in your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: Hezbollah is a Lebanese party. They are Lebanese. All the members of Hezbollah are Lebanese. When it comes to domestic politics Hezbollah plays by the rule of the Lebanese political system. So there is no issue with that. And at the same time, Hezbollah is a resistant group, because our land is occupied. And if you remember, Hezbollah was only created in 1982 when Israel invaded Lebanon. So had there not been an invasion of Lebanon, we might not have seen Hezbollah created. So any occupation calls for resistance. Resistance in Lebanon to the Israeli occupation started long before Hezbollah. So Hezbollah was not the only resistance group, but maybe because during the, I mean, the years, and because of the demographic composition of Lebanon and geographical area, that's why maybe Hezbollah has lasted more and now Hezbollah is the main resistance group, but again, not alone. It's not a secret that Hezbollah gets the support, full support, from Iran, but as a resistance group, the Lebanese Resistance group and as a political party within the government and the parliament, they are represented there. They play by the rules, and they are a Lebanese political party. WION: What's the plan for implementing the UNSC Resolution 1701, one of the key points is that all non-state actors need to shun weapons, and violence. What's your assessment on that? Will it be implemented by Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: 1701 was issued in 2006, it stopped the war also, again, another war from Israel into Lebanon. So we are ready. Currently, since they established the issuance of this 1701 resolution, we have been called, we have been calling for the full, full implementation of 1701, and we are ready. Currently, we are ready. We announced this many times to the international community that we are ready to apply and to fully implement 1701 with all its items, the issue is that you need the other party to abide by 1701 so Israel is the party who is violating 1701 by violating our airspace, our land, our sea, they are violating 1701 since its issuance. WION: Does it include defanging the Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: Every item of 1701 we are ready to implement. And there was agreement, from all parties of Lebanon, including Hezbollah. WION: We also saw the pager attack. What are your investigations saying? Who is responsible for the pager attack? Dr Rabie Narsh: First, this is a massacre. This is a war against humanity. It's a war crime. And it's not, by the way, an advent by the Israelis. It was considered before, and I read reports that even the Americans considered using this same plot in Afghanistan, but they refrained, because they were afraid that many innocent lives would also be affected. And this is what happened in Lebanon actually because pagers are not only with Hezbollah, the doctors use them, nurses, social workers, and many of these categories have either lost their lives or have been infected with major injuries. So the investigation is still going on, and I mean, there's maybe not just a single report about the investigation over the result of the investigation, but it's clear enough that Israel is behind this. WION: Do you have any proof? And if you have any proof, will you present it to the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: Some things are very clear. They're too clear to have to need the proof. But no, I don't have proof. But maybe this is the only war crime that they did not claim, but obviously, and everyone knows that Israel is behind. WION: Do you have proof? If you have proof, can you put it in front of the international community? Dr Rabie Narsh: We have enough proof about this or other war crimes. And there have been, of course, put in front of the international community and asked them to take responsibility, to hold Israel responsible for all war crimes. There are lots of complaints from the Lebanon side to the United Nations to the General Assembly. So yeah, there are lots of them, and Israel has lots of war crimes for us to sue and to follow. WION: What next for Hezbollah? Dr Rabie Narsh: I am not an expert on Hezbollah, I don't know how their system works, but as a resistance group all over the world, they never die if you eliminate their head, if the head of any group was eliminated, then another one would replace because the process of liberating occupied land will continue, so whether with Hezbollah or any other resistance, will not allow Israel to occupy our land, and we will fight till we liberate our land. WION: You must need humanitarian support. Are you getting any humanitarian support from the international community? And what kind of humanitarian support would you require? Have you reached out to India? Is India sending any humanitarian support to your country? Dr Rabie Narsh: We are getting lots of humanitarian support from all our friends. We have lots of friends in the world, and India is one of our best friends. Also, India has always rushed, I remember, during the covid pandemic, India has rushed to help Lebanon and to send humanitarian aid, medicines, and others. Currently, yes, India also has voluntarily proposed to send medicine, that is currently a big consignment of medicine we are arranging for to be sent to Lebanon. So India has already been, like I said, investing in peace and in humanitarian aid, and that's very much appreciated by my government. WION: Do you see a divided neighbourhood? Do you feel that the Arab world is silent when it comes to the situation in Lebanon? Dr Rabie Narsh: I believe that they are doing their best, their utmost. They are trying what they can do, but, what happened is that they know that even the US themselves, who are, who have the greatest sway on Israel, they said, many American officials said that we can, we have no control over Netanyahu. So if the Americans themselves cannot control Netanyahu, when, when he goes with this all crazy war, then I believe that the other countries in the region would say, I mean, there's nothing much in their hand to do. WION: What about the Palestinian cause? Dr Rabie Narsh: The main cause, if we look at the main cause of all this situation that we are currently facing, is because of occupation. Occupation is the root cause of all evils in our region. And the only solution is to apply the two-state resolution. WION: Here in India, since the killing of Hassan Nasrallah, we have seen, particularly the Shia community, holding marches, whether it is in Jammu and Kashmir, whether it's in Lucknow, or whether it's here in Delhi, Indian national capital. We in fact saw an event where the Iranian and the lead Palestinian ambassador were also present. So how do you see these marches? Dr Rabie Narsh: It is not only about Hassan Nasrallah, I've seen even since October 23 when the war on Gaza happened, many Indians from all walks of life in India, from all geographical areas in India, have gone to the street and they have demonstrated. They have shown their support for Palestine.

Lebanon calls on India to help de-escalate West Asia tensions: Ambassador Narsh

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos&nbsp;and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base.&nbsp;

The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India &amp; US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/historic-uk-transfers-chagos-islands-sovereignty-to-mauritius-764204">'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius</a>

The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations."

On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders.

The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific."

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Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw">https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw</a>
— Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lindy_Cameron/status/1841836334886867127?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote>
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India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development." 
 
Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes."&nbsp;The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'.

Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/work-with-us-cia-launches-hiring-drive-in-iran-n-korea-and-china-after-success-in-russia-764179">‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia</a>

US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago.

(With inputs from agencies)

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius.

India was kept in loop as the United Kingdom and Mauritius decided on the future of Chagos Archipelago, key Indian ocean islands, which also host a US base. Under an agreement announced by the two countries on Thursday, the UK relinquished its claim to Chagos and handed over sovereignty to Mauritius. But London will retain authority over Diego Garcia for 99 years to ensure the continued operation of the joint UK/US military base. The joint statement by the two sides stated, "In reaching today’s political agreement, we have enjoyed the full support and assistance of our close partners, the United States of America and the Republic of India". The deal comes after 11 rounds of negotiations between the UK and Mauritius, which started in 2022. UK's previous foreign secretary, James Cleverly, in 2022, while informing the British Parliament about the negotiations on the future of Chagos, said that London recognises India & US "interests" on the issue and "will keep them informed of the progress". Also read: 'Historic': UK transfers sovereignty of Chagos Islands to Mauritius The development is significant for Delhi, not only because the security of the Indian Ocean region is at stake, but also because it involves teo close partners, Mauritius and UK. India has consistently supported Mauritius's claim over the Chagos Archipelago, a policy grounded on decolonization. Earlier this year, during a visit to Mauritius, India's EAM Dr S Jaishankar said, "On the issue of Chagos, India will continue its consistent support to Mauritius in line with its principal stand on decolonization and support for sovereignty and territorial integrity of nations." On security front, the deal allows the US-UK Base to continue in Diego Garcia amid growing influence of the Chinese in the Indian Ocean region. This also has wider ramifications in the Indo-Pacific region, in which UK, US, Mauritius and India are key stakeholders. The British high commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, in a statement said, "This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific." Welcome deal today between the UK and Mauritius. This agreement enables deeper cooperation with India in the Indian Ocean, strengthening global security and averting threats to peace and prosperity in the wider Indo-Pacific. https://t.co/KyDQqO1fgw — Lindy Cameron (@Lindy_Cameron) October 3, 2024 × India has welcomed the agreement. The MEA said in a statement, "The resolution of the longstanding Chagos dispute after two years of negotiations, in compliance with international law, is a welcome development." Delhi clearly has played a quiet but important role in the background. Sources said, "India consistently encouraged both sides to negotiate with an open mind and with a view to achieving mutually beneficial outcomes." The sources pointed that the 'final outcome is a win for all sides involved and will reinforce long term security in the Indian Ocean region'. Garcia is a significant U.S. military outpost, which impacts the balance of power in the Indian Ocean region. Established in early 1970s, following UK-US pact, it was from this base that US got major support during the Gulf war in 1990s, Afghanistan in 2021, and the invasion of Iraq in 2023. It provides the US military an operational advantage over west Asia, Africa, and Asia as it serves as a key hub for aerial refuelling, surveillance, and bomber operations. Also read: ‘Work with us,’ CIA launches hiring drives in Iran, North Korea and China after success in Russia US President Biden has welcomed the pact that has been announced. In 2019, the ICJ advised that the UK should end its administration of the Chagos Archipelago, essentially supporting Mauritius's claim. In May 2023, the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly voted to support Mauritius's claim, urging the UK to withdraw its administration from the Chagos Archipelago. (With inputs from agencies)

India kept in loop as Mauritius, UK agree on Indian Ocean archipelago's future

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