Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc."

The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted.&nbsp;

FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country.&nbsp;

MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists".

Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to.

Ahead of the announcement by the financial action task force (FATF) on Pakistan's continued listing or delisting, India has said that Islamabad has not taken any action on terrorist it has been providing safe haven to. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," As is well known, Pakistan continues to provide safe havens to terrorist entities and individuals and has also not yet taken any action against several terrorist entities and individuals including those proscribed by the UNSC such as Masood Azhar, Dawood Ibrahim, Zakir-ur-Rahman Lakhvi etc." The terrorist listed by India are responsible for a number of terror attacks in India like the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks. Pakistan has addressed only 21 action items so far out of total 27 point FATF Action Plan and "6 important action items are yet to be addressed", the MEA spokesperson highlighted. FATF's 3-day virtual meet is underway with an announcement due on Friday. Pakistan was put on FATF's grey-list in 2018 and given an action plan to it so that money in the country is not used in terror financing. If Pakistan fails to act on the plan it could be blacklisted or continues to remain on the grey list, something that impacts the economy of the country. MEA also pointed out increased "unprovoked ceasefire violations, often from civilian areas" by Pakistani forces at the Line of Control "to support infiltration of terrorists". Till now, this year, Pakistani forces have carried out more than 3800 unprovoked ceasefire violations. It has also been observed that Pakistan has been trying to drop arms and ammunition close to the LoC and smuggling of arms and narcotic substances have spilt over to the International Boundary.

Islamabad has not taken action on terrorists, says India ahead of FATF's decision on Pakistan’s listing

The Mangdechhu Hydroelectric project in Bhutan, constructed by India has been awarded the Brunel Medal-2020, an award conferred by UK's top engineering body -- Institute of Civil Engineers. The award, named after Isambard Kingdom Brunel--known as 19th century's engineering giants was announced on 5th October.&nbsp;

Indian and the Bhutanese PM had jointly inaugurated the 720MW Project on 17 August last year. Indian Prime Minister had called the project a "crucial milestone celebrating India-Bhutan ties" and "this project shows how the two nations working together can bring immense positivity in the lives of people,"&nbsp;

Expressing her appreciation at the development, India's Ambassador to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, “I am delighted that the Mangdechhu Award jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi and Dr. Lotay Tshering in Bhutan last year, has been conferred the prestigious Brunel Medal. A rightful recognition of its excellence, as well as an outstanding example of our two countries working together towards a shared goal”

The construction began in 2012 and was completed in a record time of seven years with the approximate cost of Rs/Nu 5000 crores. India funded the project through a 70 per cent loan and a 30 per cent grant to Bhutan.&nbsp;

The Mangdechhu Project has earned a revenue of Rs/Nu 1300 crores within one year of commissioning, which has exceeded the projected target of Rs/Nu 1200 crores. All four units of the Project are running at full capacity and generating 18.7 Million Units/day at 779 MW since 2 August 2020. The Project is a run of the river project located in the Trongsa district of Bhutan.

So far, Government of India has constructed four Hydroelectric Projects in Bhutan inclusive of the 1020 MW Tala Hydroelectric project (HEP), the 336 MW Chukha HEP, the 60 MW Kurichhu HEP and the 720 MW Mangdechhu HEP. Three Hydroelectric projects the 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I, the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II and the 600 MW Kholongchhu are under construction.

The Mangdechhu Hydroelectric project in Bhutan, constructed by India has been awarded the Brunel Medal-2020, an award conferred by UK's top engineering body -- Institute of Civil Engineers.

The Mangdechhu Hydroelectric project in Bhutan, constructed by India has been awarded the Brunel Medal-2020, an award conferred by UK's top engineering body -- Institute of Civil Engineers. The award, named after Isambard Kingdom Brunel--known as 19th century's engineering giants was announced on 5th October. Indian and the Bhutanese PM had jointly inaugurated the 720MW Project on 17 August last year. Indian Prime Minister had called the project a "crucial milestone celebrating India-Bhutan ties" and "this project shows how the two nations working together can bring immense positivity in the lives of people," Expressing her appreciation at the development, India's Ambassador to Bhutan Ruchira Kamboj said, “I am delighted that the Mangdechhu Award jointly inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi and Dr. Lotay Tshering in Bhutan last year, has been conferred the prestigious Brunel Medal. A rightful recognition of its excellence, as well as an outstanding example of our two countries working together towards a shared goal” The construction began in 2012 and was completed in a record time of seven years with the approximate cost of Rs/Nu 5000 crores. India funded the project through a 70 per cent loan and a 30 per cent grant to Bhutan. The Mangdechhu Project has earned a revenue of Rs/Nu 1300 crores within one year of commissioning, which has exceeded the projected target of Rs/Nu 1200 crores. All four units of the Project are running at full capacity and generating 18.7 Million Units/day at 779 MW since 2 August 2020. The Project is a run of the river project located in the Trongsa district of Bhutan. So far, Government of India has constructed four Hydroelectric Projects in Bhutan inclusive of the 1020 MW Tala Hydroelectric project (HEP), the 336 MW Chukha HEP, the 60 MW Kurichhu HEP and the 720 MW Mangdechhu HEP. Three Hydroelectric projects the 1200 MW Punatsangchhu-I, the 1020 MW Punatsangchhu-II and the 600 MW Kholongchhu are under construction.

India constructed Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project in Bhutan get top UK engineers’ body award 

Global protests took place on Thursday to highlight the Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir coinciding with&nbsp;October 22 "black day". On this day on 1947, Pakistani raiders invaded the then princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. Five days later, on October 27 1947, Indian troops arrived after the instrument of accession was signed by the then king Hari Singh.

In Nepal, "Indian youths of Nepal Observe Black day" were seen which paid homage to the sacrifices made by "millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims" for the state while dealing with Pakistani atrocities. In the Hague, Netherlands bus with a board saying "black day against illegal Pakistani occupation: seeking compensation for damages" was seen in front of the Peace Palace that houses the International court of justice.

Protests happened in Japan, Seoul, London, Brussels, Geneva, San Francisco, Malaysia. A car rally has been planned in Washington to mark the 73rd "remembrance day of Pakistan's Brutal invasion of Jammu and Kashmir". The rally will go up to the Pakistani embassy in Washington, US.

Global protests took place on Thursday to highlight the Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir coinciding with October 22 "black day". On this day on 1947, Pakistani raiders invaded the then princely state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Global protests took place on Thursday to highlight the Pakistani atrocities in Kashmir coinciding with October 22 "black day". On this day on 1947, Pakistani raiders invaded the then princely state of Jammu and Kashmir. Five days later, on October 27 1947, Indian troops arrived after the instrument of accession was signed by the then king Hari Singh. In Nepal, "Indian youths of Nepal Observe Black day" were seen which paid homage to the sacrifices made by "millions of Hindus, Sikhs and Muslims" for the state while dealing with Pakistani atrocities. In the Hague, Netherlands bus with a board saying "black day against illegal Pakistani occupation: seeking compensation for damages" was seen in front of the Peace Palace that houses the International court of justice. Protests happened in Japan, Seoul, London, Brussels, Geneva, San Francisco, Malaysia. A car rally has been planned in Washington to mark the 73rd "remembrance day of Pakistan's Brutal invasion of Jammu and Kashmir". The rally will go up to the Pakistani embassy in Washington, US.

Global protests against Pakistan to mark October 22 'black day'

India and USA on Wednesday announced the dates of upcoming 2+2 dialogue between the two countries. The dialogue will take place next week on October 26 and 27 in New Delhi. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary Mark Esper will be visiting India for 2+2 dialogue and meet Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar.

"This Sunday I will depart for India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives then on to Indonesia and at every stop will discuss a broad range of the bilateral topics and also work with each of the countries what is the best way to cooperate to preserve free and open Indo Pacific," said Pompeo.

"Especially looking forward with Secretary Espar at 2+2 ministerial dialogue with our Indian friend... the meeting will also include how free nations can work on threats posed by Chinese Communist Party," he added.

This is the third 2+2 dialogue that's taking place between India and the US. &nbsp;The first two 2+2 Ministerial dialogues were held in New Delhi in September 2018 and in Washington DC in 2019.&nbsp;

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-china-putting-military-pressure-on-india-says-us-defence-secretary-mark-esper-336848">India-China standoff: China putting military pressure on India, says US defence secretary Mark Esper</a>

"Agenda for the third Dialogue will cover all bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest," said the MEA while it made announcement about the dialogue.

This 2+2 dialogue between India and US will take place as both countries face an increasingly aggressive China. Both India and the US, are part of Quad grouping of countries which include Australia and Japan.

Pompeo will visit India just a week before US Presidential elections.

India and USA on Wednesday announced the dates of upcoming 2+2 dialogue between the two countries. The dialogue will take place next week on October 26 and 27 in New Delhi.

India and USA on Wednesday announced the dates of upcoming 2+2 dialogue between the two countries. The dialogue will take place next week on October 26 and 27 in New Delhi. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defence Secretary Mark Esper will be visiting India for 2+2 dialogue and meet Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. "This Sunday I will depart for India, Sri Lanka, the Maldives then on to Indonesia and at every stop will discuss a broad range of the bilateral topics and also work with each of the countries what is the best way to cooperate to preserve free and open Indo Pacific," said Pompeo. "Especially looking forward with Secretary Espar at 2+2 ministerial dialogue with our Indian friend... the meeting will also include how free nations can work on threats posed by Chinese Communist Party," he added. This is the third 2+2 dialogue that's taking place between India and the US. The first two 2+2 Ministerial dialogues were held in New Delhi in September 2018 and in Washington DC in 2019. Also Read: India-China standoff: China putting military pressure on India, says US defence secretary Mark Esper "Agenda for the third Dialogue will cover all bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest," said the MEA while it made announcement about the dialogue. This 2+2 dialogue between India and US will take place as both countries face an increasingly aggressive China. Both India and the US, are part of Quad grouping of countries which include Australia and Japan. Pompeo will visit India just a week before US Presidential elections.

It's official: India and USA will hold 2+2 dialogue next week

Atta Mohammad&nbsp;Noor, an influential Afghan politician, once a key leader of the Northern Alliance that fought against the Taliban in the 1990s has said India should engage with the Taliban.

Speaking to WION's&nbsp;diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Atta Noor said, "India has the right and engages the Taliban and in line with their national interests".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistans-ata-mohammad-noor-meets-eam-foreign-secretary-in-delhi-briefs-about-the-afghan-peace-process-336971">Afghanistan's Ata Mohammad Noor meets EAM, Foreign Secretary in Delhi; briefs about the Afghan peace process</a>

Noor who is in Delhi and met with India's External Affairs Minister and&nbsp;Foreign Secretary in 2016 took up arms himself to save the Indian consulate in Mazar E Sharif. On ties with India, Mohammad Noor explained, "India has got a good relationship with its old and traditional friends, who stood against the imposed war in the past.". He is the 3rd top Afghan leader to visit India in the last one month as peace talks gain pace. In the current situation in his country, Noor said, "If we have active diplomacy ....there is justice in the talks, we won’t get back but other wise we have to prepare ourselves for a second resistance". He also spoke on Pakistan, Hekmatyar's Islamabad visit.

WION: Big focus of your India Visit?

Atta Noor: Thanks, in the name of God. I am very happy to be in India on an official invitation from our friends, our brotherly and friendly country. It is the old friend of the Afghan government and the Afghan people. Our people have affection for this country. I&nbsp;am happy and have met with the leadership. We discussed issues of mutual interest. Regarding peace, the talks are going on. people of Afghanistan want peace, this is one of the desires of the Afghan people. We have been suffering for the last 42 years. Our country has been burning. The talks are going on, but with no results. Regarding the talks and the regional issues, India as an influential and big country with a big economy and capacity, it should engage in the peace talks in Afghanistan. It should be amongst the countries facilitating the talks and also it should be a member of the regional countries in consensus. India has got a good relationship with the Afghan government and we appreciate it. India has got a good relationship with its old and traditional friends, who stood against the imposed war in the past.&nbsp;

WION: You met with the Indian leadership, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and&nbsp;FS Shringla. What were the talks like?

Atta Noor: I have had a good meeting with FS Shingla, a seasoned diplomat. I have also had insightful meetings with MEA Jaishankar, who is a scholar too. I talked about the common concerns we have, the common enemies we have. We also discussed the peace talks. We have common values, trade, and cultural values with India. I am satisfied with the messages I have received. India has reiterated to stand by the Republic and by gains we have made and by the Afghan people.&nbsp;

WION: Do you think India should engage with the Taliban?

Atta Noor: India as one of the biggest regional and Asian countries has its own interests and I appreciate and respect their plans. But regarding the peace process in Afghanistan, they have to have a pro-active policy and engage the ongoing talks. When China has the right to meet the Taliban and meet their interests, but when the Russians and Iran and other countries, so India has the right and engage the Taliban and in line with their national interests and helping the Afghanistan people.

WION: Do you think the repetition of what happened in the 1990s, the Taliban coming?

Atta Noor: we are hopeful that the 90s will not repeat again. I hope that the US will not repeat what the Russians did. I hope the peace process will yield results and our strategic friends care for Afghanistan. If there is no active diplomacy and the gains of the 19 years are not preserved and if the former resistance leaders and prominent leaders are not supported, the situation will get worst. If we have active diplomacy and the results of the peace deal will be in line with what our people want, and there is justice in the talks, we won’t get back but otherwise, we have to prepare ourselves for a second resistance&nbsp;

WION: How do you see Pakistan's role?

Atta Noor: There is no doubt that Pakistan is our neighbour and shares a border of 2500km. We share culture. There have to be good relations between the two countries. Pakistan is the mother of the Taliban, supporters of the Taliban, and sending them to Afghanistan,. no one can ignore this. If Pakistan believes that peace in Afghanistan is peace in the region, we will work towards building good relations. If Pakistan thinks they can support insurgents in northern Waziristan and they send it to Kashmir as well, it will be repetition that will burn both countries. Pakistan says that they support the peace process led by Afghanistan, I hope they really mean it. Time will reveal it.

WION: While you are in Delhi, Hekmatyar is in Islamabad. How do you see him, and his ties with you?

Atta Noor: Respecting Hekmatyar who is a jihadi leader and leader of&nbsp;Hezbi Islami, but over the last 20 years who he has been in a hideout, I don’t see any changes in his character. when he surrendered to the Afghanistan government, we thought his attitude would have been charged, but nothing changed. We are living in the 21st century, we have a new generation that is equipped with new equipment and are connected with the world, but his mindset has frozen 50 years ago. He still has discrimination, he has an ego. maybe it is a coincidence that I am here and he is there, I have also been to Pakistan for a peace conference, his invitation to Pakistan is against the former resistance. we have seen that the Afghan government wants peace, it had loyal jirga, made the negotiation team, it even gave privileges to the Taliban, the government to make peace released 5000 Taliban prisoners. But Hekmatyar’s first word was that the Afghan government doesn’t want peace. In short, Hekmatyar is waiting for the opportunity to spread his venom to the former resistance group and to the regional friends.

Atta Mohammad Noor, an influential Afghan politician, once a key leader of the Northern Alliance that fought against the Taliban in the 1990s has said India should engage with the Taliban.

Atta Mohammad Noor, an influential Afghan politician, once a key leader of the Northern Alliance that fought against the Taliban in the 1990s has said India should engage with the Taliban. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Atta Noor said, "India has the right and engages the Taliban and in line with their national interests". Also read: Afghanistan's Ata Mohammad Noor meets EAM, Foreign Secretary in Delhi; briefs about the Afghan peace process Noor who is in Delhi and met with India's External Affairs Minister and Foreign Secretary in 2016 took up arms himself to save the Indian consulate in Mazar E Sharif. On ties with India, Mohammad Noor explained, "India has got a good relationship with its old and traditional friends, who stood against the imposed war in the past.". He is the 3rd top Afghan leader to visit India in the last one month as peace talks gain pace. In the current situation in his country, Noor said, "If we have active diplomacy ....there is justice in the talks, we won’t get back but other wise we have to prepare ourselves for a second resistance". He also spoke on Pakistan, Hekmatyar's Islamabad visit. WION: Big focus of your India Visit? Atta Noor: Thanks, in the name of God. I am very happy to be in India on an official invitation from our friends, our brotherly and friendly country. It is the old friend of the Afghan government and the Afghan people. Our people have affection for this country. I am happy and have met with the leadership. We discussed issues of mutual interest. Regarding peace, the talks are going on. people of Afghanistan want peace, this is one of the desires of the Afghan people. We have been suffering for the last 42 years. Our country has been burning. The talks are going on, but with no results. Regarding the talks and the regional issues, India as an influential and big country with a big economy and capacity, it should engage in the peace talks in Afghanistan. It should be amongst the countries facilitating the talks and also it should be a member of the regional countries in consensus. India has got a good relationship with the Afghan government and we appreciate it. India has got a good relationship with its old and traditional friends, who stood against the imposed war in the past. WION: You met with the Indian leadership, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and FS Shringla. What were the talks like? Atta Noor: I have had a good meeting with FS Shingla, a seasoned diplomat. I have also had insightful meetings with MEA Jaishankar, who is a scholar too. I talked about the common concerns we have, the common enemies we have. We also discussed the peace talks. We have common values, trade, and cultural values with India. I am satisfied with the messages I have received. India has reiterated to stand by the Republic and by gains we have made and by the Afghan people. WION: Do you think India should engage with the Taliban? Atta Noor: India as one of the biggest regional and Asian countries has its own interests and I appreciate and respect their plans. But regarding the peace process in Afghanistan, they have to have a pro-active policy and engage the ongoing talks. When China has the right to meet the Taliban and meet their interests, but when the Russians and Iran and other countries, so India has the right and engage the Taliban and in line with their national interests and helping the Afghanistan people. WION: Do you think the repetition of what happened in the 1990s, the Taliban coming? Atta Noor: we are hopeful that the 90s will not repeat again. I hope that the US will not repeat what the Russians did. I hope the peace process will yield results and our strategic friends care for Afghanistan. If there is no active diplomacy and the gains of the 19 years are not preserved and if the former resistance leaders and prominent leaders are not supported, the situation will get worst. If we have active diplomacy and the results of the peace deal will be in line with what our people want, and there is justice in the talks, we won’t get back but otherwise, we have to prepare ourselves for a second resistance WION: How do you see Pakistan's role? Atta Noor: There is no doubt that Pakistan is our neighbour and shares a border of 2500km. We share culture. There have to be good relations between the two countries. Pakistan is the mother of the Taliban, supporters of the Taliban, and sending them to Afghanistan,. no one can ignore this. If Pakistan believes that peace in Afghanistan is peace in the region, we will work towards building good relations. If Pakistan thinks they can support insurgents in northern Waziristan and they send it to Kashmir as well, it will be repetition that will burn both countries. Pakistan says that they support the peace process led by Afghanistan, I hope they really mean it. Time will reveal it. WION: While you are in Delhi, Hekmatyar is in Islamabad. How do you see him, and his ties with you? Atta Noor: Respecting Hekmatyar who is a jihadi leader and leader of Hezbi Islami, but over the last 20 years who he has been in a hideout, I don’t see any changes in his character. when he surrendered to the Afghanistan government, we thought his attitude would have been charged, but nothing changed. We are living in the 21st century, we have a new generation that is equipped with new equipment and are connected with the world, but his mindset has frozen 50 years ago. He still has discrimination, he has an ego. maybe it is a coincidence that I am here and he is there, I have also been to Pakistan for a peace conference, his invitation to Pakistan is against the former resistance. we have seen that the Afghan government wants peace, it had loyal jirga, made the negotiation team, it even gave privileges to the Taliban, the government to make peace released 5000 Taliban prisoners. But Hekmatyar’s first word was that the Afghan government doesn’t want peace. In short, Hekmatyar is waiting for the opportunity to spread his venom to the former resistance group and to the regional friends.

Exclusive: Former northern alliance leader Atta Noor says India should engage with Taliban

United States defense secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-defence-secretary-mark-esper-stresses-on-closer-ties-with-like-minded-democracies-such-as-india-amid-china-tensions-336772">Mark Esper </a>has said that China has been putting "military pressure" on India, a remark that comes days before his New Delhi visit for the 2+2 India-US foreign and defence secretary meet.

Speaking at an event, Esper said, "they(Indians) face-off every day Chinese aggression in the Himalayas, especially along the Line of Actual Control. So like so many countries in that region...they all recognise what China is doing, some places it is very overt, in many more cases it is opaque. They are putting political pressure, diplomatic pressure and in some cases like India, they are putting military pressure on countries to bend."

Earlier, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had said that China had amassed 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

Confirming his India visit, &nbsp;Espar said, "Secretary Pompeo and I will be there in India next week, this is our second 2+2 with Indians, third ever for US and India", calling India to be the "most consequential partner for US, in the Indo-Pacfic for sure in this century".

United States defense secretary Mark Esper has said that China has been putting "military pressure" on India, a remark that comes days before his New Delhi visit for the 2+2 India-US foreign and defence secretary meet.

United States defense secretary Mark Esper has said that China has been putting "military pressure" on India, a remark that comes days before his New Delhi visit for the 2+2 India-US foreign and defence secretary meet. Speaking at an event, Esper said, "they(Indians) face-off every day Chinese aggression in the Himalayas, especially along the Line of Actual Control. So like so many countries in that region...they all recognise what China is doing, some places it is very overt, in many more cases it is opaque. They are putting political pressure, diplomatic pressure and in some cases like India, they are putting military pressure on countries to bend." Earlier, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had said that China had amassed 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Confirming his India visit, Espar said, "Secretary Pompeo and I will be there in India next week, this is our second 2+2 with Indians, third ever for US and India", calling India to be the "most consequential partner for US, in the Indo-Pacfic for sure in this century".

India-China standoff: China putting military pressure on India, says US defence secretary Mark Esper

Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor is in Delhi for talks with the Indian leadership. CEO of Jamiat Party Ata Noor is India's close ally in Afghanistan and has in the past served as the governor of northern Balkh province in Afghanistan.

In 2016, he had personally taken up arms to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif and protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Nothern front.

Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month. Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India.

Interestingly, Noor's son Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan government's negotiating team for intra-Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban.

Earlier this year, speaking to WION, Khalid said, his "vision for his country is peaceful, independent and democratic Afghanistan" and "even if the Taliban tries to come to Afghanistan by force, they will face the national army and people Afghanistan and it will unrealistic to say that the Taliban came to Afghanistan the way they came in 1996." 
&nbsp;

Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor is in Delhi for talks with the Indian leadership. CEO of Jamiat Party Ata Noor is India's close ally in Afghanistan and has in the past served as the governor of northern Balkh province in Afghanistan.

Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor is in Delhi for talks with the Indian leadership. CEO of Jamiat Party Ata Noor is India's close ally in Afghanistan and has in the past served as the governor of northern Balkh province in Afghanistan. In 2016, he had personally taken up arms to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif and protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Nothern front. Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month. Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India. Interestingly, Noor's son Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan government's negotiating team for intra-Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban. Earlier this year, speaking to WION, Khalid said, his "vision for his country is peaceful, independent and democratic Afghanistan" and "even if the Taliban tries to come to Afghanistan by force, they will face the national army and people Afghanistan and it will unrealistic to say that the Taliban came to Afghanistan the way they came in 1996."

Senior Afghan politician Ata Mohammad Noor in Delhi for talks

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi. During the talks, he briefed about the Afghan Peace Talks or the intra-Afghan talks between Afghan Govt and Taliban and how they are progressing.

A tweet by the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, “Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla welcomed Afghan leader Ata Mohammad Noor to India"

Adding, "Appreciated his insights and perspectives on recent developments. India remains committed to peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan."

Present during his meeting were Chargé d' Affaires of Afghan embassy Tahir Qadiry and Joint Secretary in PAI division of MEA, JP Singh.

Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month as peace talks in the country accelerate.&nbsp;

Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India.

In 2016, he personally took up arms back to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif &amp; protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in the 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Northern front.

He is currently CEO of Jamiat Party and in the past served as the Governor of Northern Balkh Province in Afghanistan.

Interestingly, Noor's son--Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan govt's negotiating team for Intra Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban.

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi.

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi. During the talks, he briefed about the Afghan Peace Talks or the intra-Afghan talks between Afghan Govt and Taliban and how they are progressing. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, “Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla welcomed Afghan leader Ata Mohammad Noor to India" Adding, "Appreciated his insights and perspectives on recent developments. India remains committed to peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan." Present during his meeting were Chargé d' Affaires of Afghan embassy Tahir Qadiry and Joint Secretary in PAI division of MEA, JP Singh. Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month as peace talks in the country accelerate. Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India. In 2016, he personally took up arms back to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif & protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in the 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Northern front. He is currently CEO of Jamiat Party and in the past served as the Governor of Northern Balkh Province in Afghanistan. Interestingly, Noor's son--Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan govt's negotiating team for Intra Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban.

Afghanistan's Ata Mohammad Noor meets EAM, Foreign Secretary in Delhi; briefs about the Afghan peace process

A group of fourteen US Senators have written to Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu welcoming India's decision to invite Australia for the Malabar exercises in the month of November, and batted for Quad grouping even as Chinese aggressiveness in the region and other part of the world increase. Malabar exercises and quad have four member countries--US, Australia, Japan and India.

The senators in the joint letter said, "We write in strong support of India’s decision to formally invite Australia to participate in the annual Exercise Malabar".

Adding, “Almost three decades ago, the Malabar Exercise acted as a launching pad for increased U.S.- Indian relations. We hope that Japan’s inclusion in the exercise, and now Australia’s, will have a similar effect, strengthening cooperation among the Quad as we collectively defend our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific."

The Malabar annual naval exercise started as a bilateral India-US exercises in 1992, later Japan joined in 2015. Australia had participated in the exercises in 2007.

The US senators who wrote the letter are David A. Perdue, Christopher A Coons, John Cornyn, Mark R. Warner, Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, James Lankford, Thom Tillis, Dan Sullivan, Marsha Blackburn, Kevin Cramer, Martha McSally, Josh Hawley, Kelly Loeffler.&nbsp;

On Quad grouping, the letter said, it "represents a security forum for like-minded democracies to preserve and promote the rules-based order in the region through shared commitments and close collaboration."

Explaining the increase relevance of the grouping, the letter explained, "In the face of China’s rising military and economic assertiveness, strengthening of the Quad has become increasingly important" and as the "world addresses the fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, China has opportunistically looked to expand its military footprint across the IndoPacific. From the South China Sea to the Himalayas, Beijing continues to use methods of intimidation and territorial aggression to test the resolve of regional actors."

Earlier this month foreign minister of Quad grouping met for the 2 time, even as Washington has been calling for formalisation of it. Beijing sees the grouping as anti-China, and has been calling it Asian Nato, something that has been dismissed by member countries.&nbsp;

Quad came together in the after math of the 2004 tsunami, one of the worst natural disasters and amid the Covid pandemic quad along with other countries like New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam have been engaging to coordinate efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

A group of fourteen US Senators have written to Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu welcoming India's decision to invite Australia for the Malabar exercises in the month of November, and batted for Quad grouping even as Chinese aggressiveness in the region and other part of the world increase.

A group of fourteen US Senators have written to Indian envoy to United States Taranjit Singh Sandhu welcoming India's decision to invite Australia for the Malabar exercises in the month of November, and batted for Quad grouping even as Chinese aggressiveness in the region and other part of the world increase. Malabar exercises and quad have four member countries--US, Australia, Japan and India. The senators in the joint letter said, "We write in strong support of India’s decision to formally invite Australia to participate in the annual Exercise Malabar". Adding, “Almost three decades ago, the Malabar Exercise acted as a launching pad for increased U.S.- Indian relations. We hope that Japan’s inclusion in the exercise, and now Australia’s, will have a similar effect, strengthening cooperation among the Quad as we collectively defend our shared vision for a free and open Indo-Pacific." The Malabar annual naval exercise started as a bilateral India-US exercises in 1992, later Japan joined in 2015. Australia had participated in the exercises in 2007. The US senators who wrote the letter are David A. Perdue, Christopher A Coons, John Cornyn, Mark R. Warner, Marco Rubio, Ted Cruz, James Lankford, Thom Tillis, Dan Sullivan, Marsha Blackburn, Kevin Cramer, Martha McSally, Josh Hawley, Kelly Loeffler. On Quad grouping, the letter said, it "represents a security forum for like-minded democracies to preserve and promote the rules-based order in the region through shared commitments and close collaboration." Explaining the increase relevance of the grouping, the letter explained, "In the face of China’s rising military and economic assertiveness, strengthening of the Quad has become increasingly important" and as the "world addresses the fallout caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, China has opportunistically looked to expand its military footprint across the IndoPacific. From the South China Sea to the Himalayas, Beijing continues to use methods of intimidation and territorial aggression to test the resolve of regional actors." Earlier this month foreign minister of Quad grouping met for the 2 time, even as Washington has been calling for formalisation of it. Beijing sees the grouping as anti-China, and has been calling it Asian Nato, something that has been dismissed by member countries. Quad came together in the after math of the 2004 tsunami, one of the worst natural disasters and amid the Covid pandemic quad along with other countries like New Zealand, South Korea and Vietnam have been engaging to coordinate efforts to contain the spread of the virus.

US senators write to Indian envoy welcoming Australian participation at Malabar exercises; bat for quad

Taiwan's new envoy to India Baushuan Ger has arrived in India and expected to take charge officially shortly. He will be officially be heading the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), the country's de facto embassy given under "One China" police New Delhi doesn't recognize Taiwan as a country.

In 1995, the two countries established representative offices in each other’s capitals, namely the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India (TECC) for the Republic of China (Taiwan) in New Delhi and India-Taipei Association (ITA) for India in Taipei.

Ahead of arriving in India, Ger in a documentary that went on WION said, "I am confident that through our joint efforts, Taiwan and India will become even stronger partners in the Indo pacific...lets work together to advance our common goal of peace and prosperity".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-hope-india-will-live-up-to-its-promise-and-hand-over-missing-soldier-says-china-336570" hreflang="en">Hope India will live up to its promise and hand over missing soldier: China</a>

Adding, "Taiwan and India are dependable and natural partners and we share fundamental values like rule of law, freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights"

Earlier, he was the director-general in East&nbsp;Asian and Pacific affairs. His past assignments included being the Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago.

His arrival comes at a time when India-China and China-Taiwan ties have suffered due to Beijing's increased aggressiveness. When it comes to India, China's aggressiveness at the Line of actual control in June led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers in Galway valley. With Taiwan, Chinese warplanes have breached the Taiwan strait median line.

Earlier this month, Taiwan's national day got a lot of public support after the Chinese embassy warned Indian media to not be part of it, sparking a backlash. Since then, in a growing sign of increased engagement, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen has tweeted about her connection with India, especially her time in the country.

The previous envoy of Taiwan to India Tien Chung-Kwang went on to become deputy foreign minister of the country.

Bilateral trade has grown nearly six-fold from USD 1.19 billion in 2001 to almost USD 7.05 billion in 2018. India ranks as Taiwan’s 14th largest export destination and the 18th largest source of imports.

Taiwan's new envoy to India Baushuan Ger has arrived in India and expected to take charge officially shortly. He will be officially be heading the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), the country's de facto embassy given under "One China" police New Delhi doesn't recognize Taiwan as a country.

Taiwan's new envoy to India Baushuan Ger has arrived in India and expected to take charge officially shortly. He will be officially be heading the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center (TECC), the country's de facto embassy given under "One China" police New Delhi doesn't recognize Taiwan as a country. In 1995, the two countries established representative offices in each other’s capitals, namely the Taipei Economic and Cultural Center in India (TECC) for the Republic of China (Taiwan) in New Delhi and India-Taipei Association (ITA) for India in Taipei. Ahead of arriving in India, Ger in a documentary that went on WION said, "I am confident that through our joint efforts, Taiwan and India will become even stronger partners in the Indo pacific...lets work together to advance our common goal of peace and prosperity". Also read: Hope India will live up to its promise and hand over missing soldier: China Adding, "Taiwan and India are dependable and natural partners and we share fundamental values like rule of law, freedom, democracy, and respect for human rights" Earlier, he was the director-general in East Asian and Pacific affairs. His past assignments included being the Director-General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Chicago. His arrival comes at a time when India-China and China-Taiwan ties have suffered due to Beijing's increased aggressiveness. When it comes to India, China's aggressiveness at the Line of actual control in June led to the death of 20 Indian soldiers in Galway valley. With Taiwan, Chinese warplanes have breached the Taiwan strait median line. Earlier this month, Taiwan's national day got a lot of public support after the Chinese embassy warned Indian media to not be part of it, sparking a backlash. Since then, in a growing sign of increased engagement, Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-Wen has tweeted about her connection with India, especially her time in the country. The previous envoy of Taiwan to India Tien Chung-Kwang went on to become deputy foreign minister of the country. Bilateral trade has grown nearly six-fold from USD 1.19 billion in 2001 to almost USD 7.05 billion in 2018. India ranks as Taiwan’s 14th largest export destination and the 18th largest source of imports.

Taiwan's new envoy to India arrives in the country

Washington has batted for the formalisation of Quad, a grouping of the United States, Japan, India and Australia.

In a telephonic briefing, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun said, "It is our view, that in the passage of time, Quad should become more regularised and at some point formalised as well, as we really begin to understand what the parameters of the cooperation are and how we can regularise it, that is very important"

The remarks come weeks after Quad foreign ministers had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this month. This was the 2nd such Quad FMs meet that took place, the first took place last year in New York.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/eyeing-china-australia-accepts-indias-invitation-to-rejoin-quad-drill-naval-exercises-336547" hreflang="en">Eyeing China, Australia accepts India's invitation to rejoin 'quad' drill naval exercises</a>

Highlighting how Quad's origin lies after 2004 Tsunami in Asia, Biegun explained,"not necessarily advocating for Quad plus but rather continuation and regularisation of the Quad with an eventual goal of understanding how it can be best formalised and welcoming cooperation with any country in the Indo pacific that guarantees sovereignty and prosperity for its members"

Amidst the COVID pandemic, countries of the quad and other like-minded countries like Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand had a virtual meet at foreign secretary-level to exchange best ideas and deal with the crisis.

Asked on the expansion of the grouping, Biegun said, "There is no designed policy for quad expansion that is being advocated by US. Quad is still undefined entity....and it is premature...on expanding the Quad."

Deputy Secretary of State had visited India and Bangladesh earlier this month, a visit that comes ahead of US secretary of state Mike Pompeo's visit to India on 26th and 27th October for India and US 2+2 dialogue at foreign and defence ministers level. &nbsp;Pompeo will also visit Sri Lanka and the Maldives during that visit.

Washington has batted for the formalisation of Quad, a grouping of the United States, Japan, India and Australia. In a telephonic briefing, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E.

Washington has batted for the formalisation of Quad, a grouping of the United States, Japan, India and Australia. In a telephonic briefing, Deputy Secretary of State Stephen E. Biegun said, "It is our view, that in the passage of time, Quad should become more regularised and at some point formalised as well, as we really begin to understand what the parameters of the cooperation are and how we can regularise it, that is very important" The remarks come weeks after Quad foreign ministers had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this month. This was the 2nd such Quad FMs meet that took place, the first took place last year in New York. Also read: Eyeing China, Australia accepts India's invitation to rejoin 'quad' drill naval exercises Highlighting how Quad's origin lies after 2004 Tsunami in Asia, Biegun explained,"not necessarily advocating for Quad plus but rather continuation and regularisation of the Quad with an eventual goal of understanding how it can be best formalised and welcoming cooperation with any country in the Indo pacific that guarantees sovereignty and prosperity for its members" Amidst the COVID pandemic, countries of the quad and other like-minded countries like Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand had a virtual meet at foreign secretary-level to exchange best ideas and deal with the crisis. Asked on the expansion of the grouping, Biegun said, "There is no designed policy for quad expansion that is being advocated by US. Quad is still undefined entity....and it is premature...on expanding the Quad." Deputy Secretary of State had visited India and Bangladesh earlier this month, a visit that comes ahead of US secretary of state Mike Pompeo's visit to India on 26th and 27th October for India and US 2+2 dialogue at foreign and defence ministers level. Pompeo will also visit Sri Lanka and the Maldives during that visit.

United States bats for formalisation of Quad

Vietnam has invited India to take part in the ASEAN virtual summit that will take place from November 13&nbsp;to 15.

Hanoi, which is the chair of the ASEAN for 2020 has invited all 10 dialogue partners for the annual summit.&nbsp;10 dialogue partner of ASEAN are&nbsp;Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia, the United States, and the European Union.

India has increased its engagement with ASEAN and earlier this year, new ASEAN-India Plan of Action (2021-2025) was adopted. Last year,&nbsp;India&nbsp;launched 1,000 doctoral fellowships for ASEAN students at Indian institutes of technology which will help in the development of ASEAN’s human capital.

The summit which happens in the backdrop of COVID-19 crisis and Chinese aggressiveness is bound to be the focal point of the world's attention. This especially since, the Quad foreign ministers in recent&nbsp;meet had reaffirmed ASEAN centrality in the Indo pacific construct.

Last year Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had travelled to Thailand in November for the ASEAN summit.&nbsp;

Vietnam has invited India to take part in the ASEAN virtual summit that will take place from November 13 to 15. Hanoi, which is the chair of the ASEAN for 2020 has invited all 10 dialogue partners for the annual summit.

Vietnam has invited India to take part in the ASEAN virtual summit that will take place from November 13 to 15. Hanoi, which is the chair of the ASEAN for 2020 has invited all 10 dialogue partners for the annual summit. 10 dialogue partner of ASEAN are Australia, Canada, China, India, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, Russia, the United States, and the European Union. India has increased its engagement with ASEAN and earlier this year, new ASEAN-India Plan of Action (2021-2025) was adopted. Last year, India launched 1,000 doctoral fellowships for ASEAN students at Indian institutes of technology which will help in the development of ASEAN’s human capital. The summit which happens in the backdrop of COVID-19 crisis and Chinese aggressiveness is bound to be the focal point of the world's attention. This especially since, the Quad foreign ministers in recent meet had reaffirmed ASEAN centrality in the Indo pacific construct. Last year Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi had travelled to Thailand in November for the ASEAN summit.

Vietnam invites India for ASEAN virtual summit in November

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