India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis.&nbsp;

It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.&nbsp;

The Indian mission in Maldives in a statement said,"The budgetary support of USD 250 million is extended without conditions".

Explaining, "Government of Maldives is at liberty to use the money in repairing the domestic economic situation in line with its own priorities".

The loan of USD 250 million has a tenor of 10 years and since the "principal payment is due only at the end of 10 years, it will not put any immediate debt servicing liability other than bi-annual very low interest payment," the statement added futher.

Development stands in contrast to Chinese loans to the country in previous Yameen administration which has been a concern in terms of the debt crisis it has precipitated.&nbsp;

Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with COVID's economic impact.

The loan has been extended in response to the request made by Maldives President Solih to PM Modi for financial assistance and was announced after the virtual meeting between External Affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Maldives Financial Minister earlier this year.&nbsp;

Amdist the COVID crisis, India has reached out to Maldives in number of ways including by sending a rapid response team of doctors and specialists, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May.&nbsp;

Also, approximately 500 Maldivians in eight batches of Maldivian patients have travelled to India in the past few weeks.

India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis. It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra.

India has formally extended the $250 million loan to Maldives government to deal with the economic impact of the COVID crisis. It was handed over at a ceremony in Maldivian capital Malé in the presence of Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid, Finance Minister Ibrahim Ameer, Indian High Commissioner Sunjay Sudhir and CEO of SBI in Male, Bharat Mishra. The Indian mission in Maldives in a statement said,"The budgetary support of USD 250 million is extended without conditions". Explaining, "Government of Maldives is at liberty to use the money in repairing the domestic economic situation in line with its own priorities". The loan of USD 250 million has a tenor of 10 years and since the "principal payment is due only at the end of 10 years, it will not put any immediate debt servicing liability other than bi-annual very low interest payment," the statement added futher. Development stands in contrast to Chinese loans to the country in previous Yameen administration which has been a concern in terms of the debt crisis it has precipitated. Maldives is the only country to which India has provided such assistance to deal with COVID's economic impact. The loan has been extended in response to the request made by Maldives President Solih to PM Modi for financial assistance and was announced after the virtual meeting between External Affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Maldives Financial Minister earlier this year. Amdist the COVID crisis, India has reached out to Maldives in number of ways including by sending a rapid response team of doctors and specialists, a consignment of 5.5 tons of essential medicines, followed by more consignments and 580 tons of food aid including foodgrains, onions, etc in May. Also, approximately 500 Maldivians in eight batches of Maldivian patients have travelled to India in the past few weeks.

India extends $250 million loan to Maldives to deal with COVID economic impact 'without conditions'

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight.

The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees...further flights from Riyadh and Jeddah are currently being worked out and will be notified shortly."

"Mission and consulate officials are in regular touch with deportation &nbsp;authorities," it added.

The first batch of around 500 deportees was sent in May to Hyderabad. The multi agency process requires several clearances and follows strict anti-COVID-19 health protocols.

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight. The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees.

The second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia will reach India on September 24 via the Riyadh-Chennai flight. The Indian embassy in Saudi Arabia in a statement said,"Mission in Riyadh, consulate in Jeddah, and MEA are arranging flights and quarantine facilities for the second batch of deportees...further flights from Riyadh and Jeddah are currently being worked out and will be notified shortly." "Mission and consulate officials are in regular touch with deportation authorities," it added. The first batch of around 500 deportees was sent in May to Hyderabad. The multi agency process requires several clearances and follows strict anti-COVID-19 health protocols.

Second batch of Indian deportees from Saudi Arabia to reach on September 24

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan said, "India is committed to ensuring access to water and sanitation in all spheres of life beyond the household, particularly in public spaces" which is "an essential element of the human rights to water and sanitation."

The Indian government has undertaken Jal Shakti Abhiyan which focuses on water conservation and water security.

Highlighting Sabka Saath, Sabka vikas, Sabka Vishwas motto of the Indian Govt, Vimarsh said,"with the objective of citizen-centric governance we have accorded highest priority to ensuring access to water and sanitation for all citizens through two flagship programmes — Swachh Bharat Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission".&nbsp;

Under the Swachh Bharat mission, all Indian states have already declared themselves open defecation free. The focus of Jal Jeevan Mission is on providing functional tap connection to all households in the country.

India's statement was at the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council.

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC.

Calling Water essential to human rights, India has said that it is committed to ensuring access to it for its citizens at the United Nations Human Rights Council or UN HRC. India's first secretary to United Nations in Geneva, Vimarsh Aryan said, "India is committed to ensuring access to water and sanitation in all spheres of life beyond the household, particularly in public spaces" which is "an essential element of the human rights to water and sanitation." The Indian government has undertaken Jal Shakti Abhiyan which focuses on water conservation and water security. Highlighting Sabka Saath, Sabka vikas, Sabka Vishwas motto of the Indian Govt, Vimarsh said,"with the objective of citizen-centric governance we have accorded highest priority to ensuring access to water and sanitation for all citizens through two flagship programmes — Swachh Bharat Mission and Jal Jeevan Mission". Under the Swachh Bharat mission, all Indian states have already declared themselves open defecation free. The focus of Jal Jeevan Mission is on providing functional tap connection to all households in the country. India's statement was at the interactive dialogue with the special rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation at the 45th session of the Human Rights Council.

Water essential element to human right, committed to ensuring access says India at Human Rights Council

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar&nbsp;on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between&nbsp;India and&nbsp;Japan in third countries such as&nbsp;Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

The comments&nbsp;are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands.

Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly".

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;visited&nbsp;Vladivostok last year&nbsp;for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/yoshihide-suga-formally-elected-as-japans-new-prime-minister-327826">Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister</a>

India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu.

Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries&nbsp;for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in&nbsp;Bangladesh and Myanmar."

India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar.

Jaishankar&nbsp;called Japan as India's "most trusted partners&nbsp;and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity".

Ties between the two&nbsp;countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Jaishankar&nbsp;said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday called for an expansion of the partnership between India and Japan in third countries such as Russia's far east and Pacific Island. The comments are significant since Russian far east borders China and China has been keen to grow its engagement with Pacific Islands. Speaking at a FICCI virtual event, he said, "one is possibility of economic cooperation in Russian far east, because India has shown much greater willingness to be involved in economic projects there and the other is pacific island countries, we have development partnership and political footprints..has grown significantly". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Vladivostok last year for annual India-Russia bilateral Summit and announcing a Line of Credit of USD 1 billion for development projects in the Russian Far East region. The Line of Credit (LOC) will facilitate undertaking infrastructure and other development projects. Also read: Yoshihide Suga formally elected as Japan's new prime minister India is also increasing its outreach to Pacific island countries, especially via the Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation or FIPIC which has India and 14 Pacific Island countries, Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and Vanuatu. Both countries already have a partnership in third world countries for infrastructure and project development. Joint projects are underway in Sri Lanka, and with EAM saying both are "trying to see if we can cooperate in Bangladesh and Myanmar." India, Japan engage via "act east forum" which is chaired by foreign secretary of India and Japanese envoy to Delhi. It coordinates Japanese investment in India's northeast and the wider region increasing connectivity to Bangladesh and Myanmar. Jaishankar called Japan as India's "most trusted partners and great inspiration for modernisation in Asia," saying, "we had the Maruti revolution, the metro revolution and bullet revolution in the making..because of the history of Japan, because of the strengths of Japan, it makes you more invaluable partner in our own journey to modernity". Ties between the two countries have substantially increased in the last few years due to former Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Jaishankar said, India, Japan ties have turned from "narrow bilateral relation" to "landscape of interaction now broader" and signifying "maturing of relations". Adding, it is not "Delhi talking to Tokyo", the relationship has "more conversations, has substance today..and reflects the journey of last 25 years".

EAM Jaishankar calls for expansion of India, Japan partnership to Russia, Pacific Island

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them.&nbsp;

Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters.

The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The ties between the two countries suffered a blow after Pakistan downgraded relations with India in the aftermath of New Delhi removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Earlier this year in January, twenty Indian fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were released by the Pakistan government. A number of steps have been taken by the Indian Coast Guard to guide Indian fishermen not to cross-over the perceived International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) through various community interaction programmes.

All in all, since 2014, the Indian government has been able to secure release and repatriation of 2,133 Indian prisoners, including fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody.

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them. Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters.

India on Friday strongly raised the matter of Pakistan taking into custody Indian fishermen and has sought immediate consular access to them. Pakistan maritime security agency(PMSA) has taken into custody 56 Indian fishermen along with ten Indian boats, alleging they crossed into Pakistani waters. The development comes amid heightened tensions between the two countries. The ties between the two countries suffered a blow after Pakistan downgraded relations with India in the aftermath of New Delhi removing special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Earlier this year in January, twenty Indian fishermen from Andhra Pradesh were released by the Pakistan government. A number of steps have been taken by the Indian Coast Guard to guide Indian fishermen not to cross-over the perceived International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) through various community interaction programmes. All in all, since 2014, the Indian government has been able to secure release and repatriation of 2,133 Indian prisoners, including fishermen along with 57 boats from Pakistan’s custody.

India strongly raises issue of 56 Indian fishermen taken into custody by Pakistan

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually.&nbsp;

In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.56% of the total geographical area of the country."

It listed out that India aims to "restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land and achieve land-degradation neutrality by 2030" and have set "additional targets of eliminating single-use plastic by 2022 and installing 450GW of renewable energy by 2030."

India's statement was at the Open Debate on "Humanitarian Effects of Environmental Degradation and Peace security".

India also pointed out principles such as “Common But Differentiated Responsibilities” are sacrosanct when it comes to environmental protection and "steering away from these principles....attempting to discuss such issues by obfuscating those responsible for addressing them will only do a disservice to the real issue rather than make it more meaningful to address them."

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.

India has told the United Nations as a "leading contributor to climate action", it has reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually. In a written statement at UN Security Council, India highlighted that in the last decade "around 3 million hectares of forest and tree cover has been added" which has "enhanced the combined forest and tree cover to24.56% of the total geographical area of the country." It listed out that India aims to "restore 26 million hectares of degraded and deforested land and achieve land-degradation neutrality by 2030" and have set "additional targets of eliminating single-use plastic by 2022 and installing 450GW of renewable energy by 2030." India's statement was at the Open Debate on "Humanitarian Effects of Environmental Degradation and Peace security". India also pointed out principles such as “Common But Differentiated Responsibilities” are sacrosanct when it comes to environmental protection and "steering away from these principles....attempting to discuss such issues by obfuscating those responsible for addressing them will only do a disservice to the real issue rather than make it more meaningful to address them."

Reduced 38 million tonnes of carbon emissions annually, India tells UN

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-foreign-ministers-meet-in-moscow-amid-standoff-at-lac-326678">Also Read: India, China foreign ministers meet in Moscow amid standoff at LAC</a>

While India strongly objected to it, and Russia which is the Chair of the SCO for this year tried to persuade Pakistan but Islamabad remained unfazed and continued with the map as the background.&nbsp;

India's NSA Ajit Doval took a strong exception to it and left the SCO NSA virtual meet after due "consultation" from host Russia.

Ministry of external affairs in a strong response said,"Pakistani NSA deliberately projected a fictitious map that Pakistan has recently been propagating" which was in "blatant disregard to the advisory by the host against it and in violation of the norms of the meeting".&nbsp;

Explaining, "After consultation with the host, the Indian side left the meeting in protest at that juncture."

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Government sources told WION that "Pakistan’s use of a fictitious map as a backdrop" which depicted "sovereign Indian territories as part of Pakistan" is a "blatant violation of the SCO Charter and against all its established norms of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO member states."

SCO Charter, article 2 states,"SCO member States shall adhere to the following principles.." which includes "mutual respect of sovereignty... territorial integrity of States and inviolability of State border".

In fact, Secretary of the National Security Council of Russia Nikolai Patrushev told Pakistani side it does not support what Islamabad has done and hoped Pakistan’s "provocative act will not affect India’s participation in SCO and definitely not cast any shadow on Patrushev’s warm personal relationship for NSA for whom he has the highest regard", sources elaborated.&nbsp;

The map was the same one issued by Pakistan on the first anniversary of the removal of special status for the erstwhile state of J&amp;K.

India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Both defence minister Rajnath Singh and external affairs minister S Jaishankar visited Moscow in last two weeks to participate in SCO defence and FMs meet.

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet.

Pakistan on Tuesday violated Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO) charter and put up a map showing Kashmir as its part at the SCO National Security Advisors (NSA) meet. Also Read: India, China foreign ministers meet in Moscow amid standoff at LAC While India strongly objected to it, and Russia which is the Chair of the SCO for this year tried to persuade Pakistan but Islamabad remained unfazed and continued with the map as the background. India's NSA Ajit Doval took a strong exception to it and left the SCO NSA virtual meet after due "consultation" from host Russia. Ministry of external affairs in a strong response said,"Pakistani NSA deliberately projected a fictitious map that Pakistan has recently been propagating" which was in "blatant disregard to the advisory by the host against it and in violation of the norms of the meeting". Explaining, "After consultation with the host, the Indian side left the meeting in protest at that juncture." × Government sources told WION that "Pakistan’s use of a fictitious map as a backdrop" which depicted "sovereign Indian territories as part of Pakistan" is a "blatant violation of the SCO Charter and against all its established norms of safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of SCO member states." SCO Charter, article 2 states,"SCO member States shall adhere to the following principles.." which includes "mutual respect of sovereignty... territorial integrity of States and inviolability of State border". In fact, Secretary of the National Security Council of Russia Nikolai Patrushev told Pakistani side it does not support what Islamabad has done and hoped Pakistan’s "provocative act will not affect India’s participation in SCO and definitely not cast any shadow on Patrushev’s warm personal relationship for NSA for whom he has the highest regard", sources elaborated. The map was the same one issued by Pakistan on the first anniversary of the removal of special status for the erstwhile state of J&K. India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Both defence minister Rajnath Singh and external affairs minister S Jaishankar visited Moscow in last two weeks to participate in SCO defence and FMs meet.

India's NSA Ajit Doval walks out of SCO meet after Pakistan violates charter by projecting fictitious map

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control(LAC)</a>.

Watch:&nbsp;

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Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Chinese side should sincerely work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols on the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas."

"We hope the Chinese side will strictly respect and observe the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-standoff-indian-army-gains-upper-hand-and-control-of-commanding-heights-in-ladakh-326703">Line of Actual Control</a> and not make further attempts to unilaterally change status quo," Srivastava added.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-committed-to-peace-but-prepared-for-all-contingencies-defence-minister-warns-china-328122">Also Read:&nbsp;India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China</a>

Both foreign ministers had met in Moscow last Thursday on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet for two hours. After the meet, they came out with a joint statement calling for easing of tensions by disengagement.&nbsp;

Since then while the Chinese side hasn't indulged in any aggression at LAC, no movement has taken place to disengage by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/india-china-standoff-how-indian-military-is-preparing-for-the-treacherous-high-altitude-winter-against-pla-at-lac-327944">PLA</a> troops.

Meanwhile, statements from Beijing haven't been something that can instil confidence. Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser on Thursday said, "It is imperative for India to immediately correct its mistakes" and "realize disengagement on the ground and take concrete action to ease up tensions in the relevant areas."

India has been focusing on diplomacy. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in both houses of the Parliament said New Delhi is committed to peaceful dialogue with the Chinese side including through diplomatic and military channels.&nbsp;

The situation remains precarious on the ground and as winter sets in the Indian army have started to send supplies for forces at the LAC.

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the Line of Actual Control(LAC).

A week since foreign ministers of India and China met in Moscow, New Delhi has reiterated its call to Beijing for "complete disengagement" at the Line of Actual Control(LAC). Watch: Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "Chinese side should sincerely work with the Indian side for complete disengagement at the earliest from all friction areas including Pangong Lake as well as de-escalation in border areas in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols on the maintenance of peace and tranquillity in border areas." "We hope the Chinese side will strictly respect and observe the Line of Actual Control and not make further attempts to unilaterally change status quo," Srivastava added. Also Read: India committed to peace, but prepared for all 'contingencies': Defence Minister warns China Both foreign ministers had met in Moscow last Thursday on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation FMs meet for two hours. After the meet, they came out with a joint statement calling for easing of tensions by disengagement. Since then while the Chinese side hasn't indulged in any aggression at LAC, no movement has taken place to disengage by PLA troops. Meanwhile, statements from Beijing haven't been something that can instil confidence. Chinese foreign ministry in its daily presser on Thursday said, "It is imperative for India to immediately correct its mistakes" and "realize disengagement on the ground and take concrete action to ease up tensions in the relevant areas." India has been focusing on diplomacy. India's defence minister Rajnath Singh speaking in both houses of the Parliament said New Delhi is committed to peaceful dialogue with the Chinese side including through diplomatic and military channels. The situation remains precarious on the ground and as winter sets in the Indian army have started to send supplies for forces at the LAC.

India-China standoff: India reiterates calls to China for complete disengagement at LAC

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country.

In the letter, Marin said, "heartfelt congratulations to you and my best wishes for your good health and wellbeing". Adding, "There is much potential to deepen even further the bilateral relations between India and Finland".&nbsp;

There are 11,775 persons of Indian origin, 5159 NRIs &amp; 6616 PIOs in Finland. Many Indians work in Finnish high-tech and IT companies like Nokia. 
 
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Both countries last year celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties, with a letter saying, "our nations are staunch supporters of a rules-based international order.

At 34 years and born in November 1985, Sanna is the 2nd youngest serving state leader. She comes after Sebastian Kurz, the Chancellor of Austria with the age difference between the 2 being 10 months. Kurz was born in August of 1986.

The letter by Finland's PM mentioned the ongoing COVID crisis. She said," We are facing challenging times...The pandemic has clearly shown that national measures are not enough. We need international cooperation now more than ever".&nbsp;

She recalled the recent 15th EU India virtual summit that took place on 15th July. She said, "We have the opportunity now to turn the good spirits and broad array of deliverables from it into action".&nbsp;

Explaining, "to this end, Finland supports concrete cooperation between India and EU in many sectors, such as sustainable development.”

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country.

Finland's Prime Minister Sanna Marin has sent her wishes to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his birthday and lauded the Indian Diaspora which she said is "vibrant and growing" in her country. In the letter, Marin said, "heartfelt congratulations to you and my best wishes for your good health and wellbeing". Adding, "There is much potential to deepen even further the bilateral relations between India and Finland". There are 11,775 persons of Indian origin, 5159 NRIs & 6616 PIOs in Finland. Many Indians work in Finnish high-tech and IT companies like Nokia. Both countries last year celebrated 70 years of diplomatic ties, with a letter saying, "our nations are staunch supporters of a rules-based international order. At 34 years and born in November 1985, Sanna is the 2nd youngest serving state leader. She comes after Sebastian Kurz, the Chancellor of Austria with the age difference between the 2 being 10 months. Kurz was born in August of 1986. The letter by Finland's PM mentioned the ongoing COVID crisis. She said," We are facing challenging times...The pandemic has clearly shown that national measures are not enough. We need international cooperation now more than ever". She recalled the recent 15th EU India virtual summit that took place on 15th July. She said, "We have the opportunity now to turn the good spirits and broad array of deliverables from it into action". Explaining, "to this end, Finland supports concrete cooperation between India and EU in many sectors, such as sustainable development.”

One of the youngest global leaders, Finland's PM sends happy birthday message to PM Narendra Modi; lauds Indian diaspora  

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The joint statement was issued after virtual IBSA foreign ministers meet.

The statement said: "expressing frustration with the slow pace of progress on Security Council reforms in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations process which lacks transparency in its working methods." &nbsp;

"We insist that the time has come to move towards a result-oriented process with provision for substantive negotiations based on a single comprehensive text in a formal setting," it added.

It must be remembered that 10 years after inter-governmental negotiations began, the negotiations remain in the informal stage. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but its conversation is considered "informal" in nature and United Nations General Assembly UNGA rule of procedure doesn't apply.&nbsp;

The statement said, "failure to reform the Security Council has serious implications for international peace and security", calling for, "significant and accelerated reform" which "is critical to ensure that this organ is more representative, effective and responsive, and remains capable of delivering on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter."

The statement also extended support for Africa at the high table. It said, "Africa must be equitably represented in a reformed Security Council, we reiterate our support for the representation of Africa in the Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories and express our unequivocal support for the Common African Position, as stated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration."

Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC.

India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, South African FM Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor and Brazilian FM Ambassador Fabio Marzano. During the virtual meet, ministers discussed issues like terror, climate change, sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and on-going COVID-19 situation.

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

In a first, the IBSA grouping - India, Brazil and South Africa issued a joint statement calling for "accelerated and comprehensive reforms" of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The joint statement was issued after virtual IBSA foreign ministers meet. The statement said: "expressing frustration with the slow pace of progress on Security Council reforms in the Inter-Governmental Negotiations process which lacks transparency in its working methods." "We insist that the time has come to move towards a result-oriented process with provision for substantive negotiations based on a single comprehensive text in a formal setting," it added. It must be remembered that 10 years after inter-governmental negotiations began, the negotiations remain in the informal stage. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that is looking into UNSC reforms but its conversation is considered "informal" in nature and United Nations General Assembly UNGA rule of procedure doesn't apply. The statement said, "failure to reform the Security Council has serious implications for international peace and security", calling for, "significant and accelerated reform" which "is critical to ensure that this organ is more representative, effective and responsive, and remains capable of delivering on the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter." The statement also extended support for Africa at the high table. It said, "Africa must be equitably represented in a reformed Security Council, we reiterate our support for the representation of Africa in the Council in both the permanent and non-permanent categories and express our unequivocal support for the Common African Position, as stated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration." Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least 2 permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at UNSC. India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, South African FM Grace Naledi Mandisa Pandor and Brazilian FM Ambassador Fabio Marzano. During the virtual meet, ministers discussed issues like terror, climate change, sustainable development, South-South Cooperation and on-going COVID-19 situation.

India, Brazil, South Africa IBSA grouping issue joint statement calling for 'accelerated & comprehensive' UNSC reforms

The National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries will meet on Thursday "virtually". India will be represented by NSA Ajit Doval.&nbsp;

This will be the tenth&nbsp;such meeting of BRICS NSAs. The Chinese side will be represented by diplomat Yang Jiechi.&nbsp;

Russia which is the host of the meet in a statement said,"BRICS countries to discuss threats and challenges to national security"

Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Nikolai Patrushev will represent Russia at the meeting.

The Russian statement also said," meeting agenda comprises of challenges and threats to global, regional and national security in today’s world."

Earlier this month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in BRICS FMs meet. The leaders' summit is expected to take place in October, no date for which has been announced.

The National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries will meet on Thursday "virtually". India will be represented by NSA Ajit Doval. This will be the tenth such meeting of BRICS NSAs.

The National Security Advisors (NSAs) of BRICS countries will meet on Thursday "virtually". India will be represented by NSA Ajit Doval. This will be the tenth such meeting of BRICS NSAs. The Chinese side will be represented by diplomat Yang Jiechi. Russia which is the host of the meet in a statement said,"BRICS countries to discuss threats and challenges to national security" Secretary of the Security Council of the Russian Federation Nikolai Patrushev will represent Russia at the meeting. The Russian statement also said," meeting agenda comprises of challenges and threats to global, regional and national security in today’s world." Earlier this month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar participated in BRICS FMs meet. The leaders' summit is expected to take place in October, no date for which has been announced.

NSA Ajit Doval to participate in BRICS NSA virtual meet

India is all set to get back 15th Century Idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman&nbsp;from UK. The idols were stolen from a temple in Tamil Nadu in 1978. The temple was built-in Vijayanagara period.

In August 2019, Indian high commission in London was informed by India Pride Project that 4 antique idols --Shri Ram, Sita, Lakshman&nbsp;and Hanuman, stolen from India, may be in UK.&nbsp;

The Indian mission raised the matter with Art and Antique Unit of the London's Metropolitan Police and Idol wing of Tamil Nadu police. Tamil Nadu police sent a comprehensive report confirming the theft of 1978 and also provided the expert opinion about the match of the idol with a photo archive.

The London Metropolitan Police who investigated the matter contacted the present owner of the statue and conveyed Indian Mission’s request to return the statue as they were stolen from a "living temple" in India.&nbsp;

The art collector had bought the idol on good faith including through a check of Art Loss Register Certificates.&nbsp;

The vendor responsible for the sell is now deceased due to which there were no grounds to open an investigation in the UK.

The owner of the Ram&nbsp;idol was also in possession of two other idols of Sita and Lakshman&nbsp;which were handed over to the High Commissioner. All the three idols are being transferred to Tamil Nadu Government.

The Indian mission in a statement said, "HCI is working on many such cases at present. We are confident that in coming days, with this partnership of the ASI, law enforcement agencies, and the independent experts, we will be successful in returning many more pieces of our cultural heritage to India."

The Indian mission in London in the past was able to get back to India, Bramha- Brahmani sculpture which was stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav, 12th Century Bronze statue of Buddha, two antiques – a 17th Century Bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd-century limestone Carved Pillar motif.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, the mission sent back Shiva statue stolen from the Ghateshwar temple, Baroli in Rajasthan to India.

India is all set to get back 15th Century Idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman from UK. The idols were stolen from a temple in Tamil Nadu in 1978. The temple was built-in Vijayanagara period.

India is all set to get back 15th Century Idols of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman from UK. The idols were stolen from a temple in Tamil Nadu in 1978. The temple was built-in Vijayanagara period. In August 2019, Indian high commission in London was informed by India Pride Project that 4 antique idols --Shri Ram, Sita, Lakshman and Hanuman, stolen from India, may be in UK. The Indian mission raised the matter with Art and Antique Unit of the London's Metropolitan Police and Idol wing of Tamil Nadu police. Tamil Nadu police sent a comprehensive report confirming the theft of 1978 and also provided the expert opinion about the match of the idol with a photo archive. The London Metropolitan Police who investigated the matter contacted the present owner of the statue and conveyed Indian Mission’s request to return the statue as they were stolen from a "living temple" in India. The art collector had bought the idol on good faith including through a check of Art Loss Register Certificates. The vendor responsible for the sell is now deceased due to which there were no grounds to open an investigation in the UK. The owner of the Ram idol was also in possession of two other idols of Sita and Lakshman which were handed over to the High Commissioner. All the three idols are being transferred to Tamil Nadu Government. The Indian mission in a statement said, "HCI is working on many such cases at present. We are confident that in coming days, with this partnership of the ASI, law enforcement agencies, and the independent experts, we will be successful in returning many more pieces of our cultural heritage to India." The Indian mission in London in the past was able to get back to India, Bramha- Brahmani sculpture which was stolen from the World heritage site Rani-Ki Vav, 12th Century Bronze statue of Buddha, two antiques – a 17th Century Bronze idol of Navanitha Krishna and a 2nd-century limestone Carved Pillar motif. Earlier this year, the mission sent back Shiva statue stolen from the Ghateshwar temple, Baroli in Rajasthan to India.

Britain returns stolen sculptures of Lord Ram, Sita and Lakshman to India after 40 years

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Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Sidhant Sibal

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