Pakistan has failed to list two Indians as United Nations listed international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

The listing was blocked by 5 UNSC countries--UK, USA, France, Germany and Belgium after no evidence was found to substantiate Pakistani claim. Pakistan was keen to list Indian nationals Gobinda Patnaik, and Angara Appaji as UN terrorist.&nbsp;

UNSC members gave Pakistan time to provide evidence but Islamabad could not provide it. A hold was put for Pakistan to come up with evidence but the country failed.

India's envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti tweeted, "Pakistan’s blatant attempt to politicize 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour, has been thwarted by UN Security Council. We thank all those Council members who have blocked Pakistan’s designs."

Earlier, it attempted to list two other Indians-- Venumadhav Dongara, Ajoy Mistry as a terrorist, but the bid failed. Pakistani foreign ministry in a statement in June had expressed its "disappointment" for not able to list Dongar. It alleged that these Indians were backing groups like Jamaat-ul-Ahrar etc.

The move was considered a quid pro quo move by Pakistan for India able to get Masood Azhar listed as a UN terrorist last year. Azhar is the chief of Pakistan-based UN listed terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed responsible for Pulwama terror attack, among other attacks in India.

Pakistani nationals are listed in the largest number at the UN terror list.

Pakistan has failed to list two Indians as United Nations listed international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The listing was blocked by 5 UNSC countries--UK, USA, France, Germany and Belgium after no evidence was found to substantiate Pakistani claim.

Pakistan has failed to list two Indians as United Nations listed international terrorist under the 1267 committee of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The listing was blocked by 5 UNSC countries--UK, USA, France, Germany and Belgium after no evidence was found to substantiate Pakistani claim. Pakistan was keen to list Indian nationals Gobinda Patnaik, and Angara Appaji as UN terrorist. UNSC members gave Pakistan time to provide evidence but Islamabad could not provide it. A hold was put for Pakistan to come up with evidence but the country failed. India's envoy to UN T. S. Tirumurti tweeted, "Pakistan’s blatant attempt to politicize 1267 special procedure on terrorism by giving it a religious colour, has been thwarted by UN Security Council. We thank all those Council members who have blocked Pakistan’s designs." Earlier, it attempted to list two other Indians-- Venumadhav Dongara, Ajoy Mistry as a terrorist, but the bid failed. Pakistani foreign ministry in a statement in June had expressed its "disappointment" for not able to list Dongar. It alleged that these Indians were backing groups like Jamaat-ul-Ahrar etc. The move was considered a quid pro quo move by Pakistan for India able to get Masood Azhar listed as a UN terrorist last year. Azhar is the chief of Pakistan-based UN listed terrorist organization Jaish-e-Mohammed responsible for Pulwama terror attack, among other attacks in India. Pakistani nationals are listed in the largest number at the UN terror list.

Five countries block Pakistan's move to list Indians as terrorist at UN

At the G20 foreign ministers meeting that happened virtually on Thursday, India has proposed a global standard movement of people across national borders with common standards on COVID testing, test results, quarantine etc. The development comes in anticipation of global travel resuming as COVID crisis tapers.&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister (EAM) S Jaishankar proposed development of "voluntary G20 Principles on Coordinated Cross-Border Movement of People" which will have three main elements — standards on testing procedures and universal acceptability of test results,‘Quarantine procedures and movement and transit protocols.

Global travel, especially by airlines, came to a grinding halt earlier this year as COVID pandemic spread from China, which reported the first case of the disease.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-bats-for-g20-after-us-president-trumps-invitation-to-attend-for-g7-302769">Also read:&nbsp;Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7</a>

During the meet, EAM highlighted the steps taken by India during the pandemic, especially on its mega repatriation plan the Vande Bharat Mission, creation of ‘travel bubbles’ for travel "for the welfare and protection of foreign citizens stranded here as well as its own citizens abroad", a Ministry of External Affairs release said.

India has brought back 13 lakh stranded Indians abroad under the repatriation programme and announced the formation of travel air bubbles with countries with high Indian diaspora like the US.

EAM called on "Governments around the world to ensure that interests of foreign students are protected and movement of stranded seafarers back to their home country is facilitated", the release said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-to-visit-moscow-for-shanghai-cooperation-organisation-meet-325005">Also read:&nbsp;External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meet</a>

He also commended Saudi Arabia for its proactive approach in bringing "G20 countries together for dealing with this COVID-19 pandemic". Saudi Arabia is the chair of G20 this year and will host the summit later this year.

A release by G20 secretariat in Saudi Arabia said, during the meeting, "foreign ministers acknowledged the importance of opening borders, uniting families, and promoting measures to allow the economy to thrive in light" of the protective measures given by health organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Both Indian and Chinese FMs were present in the virtual G20 FMs meet.

At the G20 foreign ministers meeting that happened virtually on Thursday, India has proposed a global standard movement of people across national borders with common standards on COVID testing, test results, quarantine etc.

At the G20 foreign ministers meeting that happened virtually on Thursday, India has proposed a global standard movement of people across national borders with common standards on COVID testing, test results, quarantine etc. The development comes in anticipation of global travel resuming as COVID crisis tapers. India's external affairs minister (EAM) S Jaishankar proposed development of "voluntary G20 Principles on Coordinated Cross-Border Movement of People" which will have three main elements — standards on testing procedures and universal acceptability of test results,‘Quarantine procedures and movement and transit protocols. Global travel, especially by airlines, came to a grinding halt earlier this year as COVID pandemic spread from China, which reported the first case of the disease. Also read: Russia bats for G20 after US President Trump's invitation to attend for G7 During the meet, EAM highlighted the steps taken by India during the pandemic, especially on its mega repatriation plan the Vande Bharat Mission, creation of ‘travel bubbles’ for travel "for the welfare and protection of foreign citizens stranded here as well as its own citizens abroad", a Ministry of External Affairs release said. India has brought back 13 lakh stranded Indians abroad under the repatriation programme and announced the formation of travel air bubbles with countries with high Indian diaspora like the US. EAM called on "Governments around the world to ensure that interests of foreign students are protected and movement of stranded seafarers back to their home country is facilitated", the release said. Also read: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meet He also commended Saudi Arabia for its proactive approach in bringing "G20 countries together for dealing with this COVID-19 pandemic". Saudi Arabia is the chair of G20 this year and will host the summit later this year. A release by G20 secretariat in Saudi Arabia said, during the meeting, "foreign ministers acknowledged the importance of opening borders, uniting families, and promoting measures to allow the economy to thrive in light" of the protective measures given by health organizations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both Indian and Chinese FMs were present in the virtual G20 FMs meet.

At G20 FMs meet, India proposes global standards on movement of people

India has again reiterated that when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine, Bangladesh will get a priority. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in his weekly presser said, "As a close neighbour and strategic partner, we have assured the Bangladesh side that Bangladesh will get high priority in supply of vaccine, once ready. We are glad to note that enterprises on both sides are also taking steps towards this end."

Issue of COVID-19 vaccine was discussed during Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla to Dhaka. Days after that visit, Bangladesh's largest pharma company Beximco Pharmaceuticals announced that it is investing in the Serum Institute of India for the vaccine.

A statement by the company said, "Once the vaccine receives regulatory approvals, SII will include Bangladesh among the countries who will be the first to receive an agreed quantity" of the COVID-19 vaccine.&nbsp;

India currently produces over 60 per cent of the world's vaccine and amidst the COVID-19 pandemic supplied hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to over 100 countries. Three COVID-19 vaccines are currently in different stages of development, and India is expected to start mass production after regulatory approval.

When it comes to COVID-19 assistance to Bangladesh, India has sent medicines to the country and also been conducting capacity building courses.

India has again reiterated that when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine, Bangladesh will get a priority. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in his weekly presser said, "As a close neighbour and strategic partner, we have assured the Bangladesh side that Bangladesh will get high priority in supply of vaccine, once ready.

India has again reiterated that when it comes to COVID-19 vaccine, Bangladesh will get a priority. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava in his weekly presser said, "As a close neighbour and strategic partner, we have assured the Bangladesh side that Bangladesh will get high priority in supply of vaccine, once ready. We are glad to note that enterprises on both sides are also taking steps towards this end." Issue of COVID-19 vaccine was discussed during Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla to Dhaka. Days after that visit, Bangladesh's largest pharma company Beximco Pharmaceuticals announced that it is investing in the Serum Institute of India for the vaccine. A statement by the company said, "Once the vaccine receives regulatory approvals, SII will include Bangladesh among the countries who will be the first to receive an agreed quantity" of the COVID-19 vaccine. India currently produces over 60 per cent of the world's vaccine and amidst the COVID-19 pandemic supplied hydroxychloroquine and paracetamol to over 100 countries. Three COVID-19 vaccines are currently in different stages of development, and India is expected to start mass production after regulatory approval. When it comes to COVID-19 assistance to Bangladesh, India has sent medicines to the country and also been conducting capacity building courses.

Bangladesh a priority for Indian COVID-19 vaccine: India

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas.

Speaking at USISPF or US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Rawat said, “We are very keen to ensure that complete freedom of navigations on the seas and the airspace above. As far as the Quad is concerned, we feel it’s a good arrangement that will ensure that the Indian Ocean region and all other oceans around" has "complete freedom of navigation" and without taking the name of China explained, "without fear of any other nation, singularly trying to dominate the ocean."

China has been trying to dominate in the South China Sea, claiming the majority of the international water based on its nine-dash line. The nine-dash line is a Chinese govt back construct which is Bejing's claim to the South China Sea and has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the law of the sea.

Rawat said, "Largest number of ships and oil reserves and oil requirements pass through this area. So we want the quad to become a system to ensure freedom of navigation".&nbsp;

This is for the first time he has made such a comment and comes even as likeminded countries like India, US and others are increasing engagement in the Indo Pacific region.

India is expected to hold Quad ministerial meet soon, which will be the 2nd such meet after last year’s meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General assembly in New York.

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas.

India's Chief of defence staff General Bipin Rawat has backed Quad — a grouping of 4 countries — India, US, Japan and Australia calling it a "good arrangement" which can become a "system" to ensure freedom of navigation at the high seas. Speaking at USISPF or US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Rawat said, “We are very keen to ensure that complete freedom of navigations on the seas and the airspace above. As far as the Quad is concerned, we feel it’s a good arrangement that will ensure that the Indian Ocean region and all other oceans around" has "complete freedom of navigation" and without taking the name of China explained, "without fear of any other nation, singularly trying to dominate the ocean." China has been trying to dominate in the South China Sea, claiming the majority of the international water based on its nine-dash line. The nine-dash line is a Chinese govt back construct which is Bejing's claim to the South China Sea and has been rejected by an arbitral tribunal constituted under the United Nations Convention on the law of the sea. Rawat said, "Largest number of ships and oil reserves and oil requirements pass through this area. So we want the quad to become a system to ensure freedom of navigation". This is for the first time he has made such a comment and comes even as likeminded countries like India, US and others are increasing engagement in the Indo Pacific region. India is expected to hold Quad ministerial meet soon, which will be the 2nd such meet after last year’s meet on the sidelines of the United Nations General assembly in New York.

Quad can become a system to ensure freedom of navigation: India's chief of Defence staff General Bipin Rawat

The Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan ministerial meet could likely to happen as early as October even as India has said it read to hold it. In response to a WION question, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson said," we look forward to holding quad meet later this year and details are being worked out".

The&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;foreign ministers met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, which was the first such meet of the grouping.

Sources told WION, while "details are still being worked out" but "strong intent is to hold something in coming months. Likely to be after Indian parliament session though so not Sept."&nbsp;Monsoon session of the parliament will take place from 14th September to 1st October.

Earlier this month,&nbsp;US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun said a quad ministerial meet is&nbsp;being planned to take place in Delhi.

Speaking at U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be meeting of the&nbsp;Quad, a ministerial meeting with the&nbsp;Quad&nbsp;this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person."

Quad&nbsp;is viewed with suspicion by China as a grouping that is anti-Beijing. Asked about&nbsp;quad&nbsp;being anti-China grouping, Biegun said,” I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda."

The Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan ministerial meet could likely to happen as early as October even as India has said it read to hold it. In response to a WION question, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson said," we look forward to holding quad meet later this year and details are being worked out".

The Quad or India, US, Australia and Japan ministerial meet could likely to happen as early as October even as India has said it read to hold it. In response to a WION question, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson said," we look forward to holding quad meet later this year and details are being worked out". The Quad foreign ministers met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in New York, which was the first such meet of the grouping. Sources told WION, while "details are still being worked out" but "strong intent is to hold something in coming months. Likely to be after Indian parliament session though so not Sept." Monsoon session of the parliament will take place from 14th September to 1st October. Earlier this month, US Deputy Secretary of State Stephen Biegun said a quad ministerial meet is being planned to take place in Delhi. Speaking at U.S.-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person." Quad is viewed with suspicion by China as a grouping that is anti-Beijing. Asked about quad being anti-China grouping, Biegun said,” I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda."

Quad meet likely in October as India says ready to hold it

India has said the ongoing situation at line of actual control in Eastern Ladakh is due to "direct result of action" by China &amp; called for negotiations to ease out the situation.

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," It is clear that the situation we witness over the past four months is a direct result of the actions taken by the Chinese side that sought to effect unilateral change of status quo"

Last 4 months saw Galwan incident on 15th June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. China also suffered casualties but has been mum on the number. Over the weekend, Chinese side tried to occupy areas in south bank of Pangong Lake but the attempt was thwarted by Indian army.

MEA said, "Way ahead is negotiations" both at diplomatic and military levels and "Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues through peaceful dialogue."

Adding further, “We therefore strongly urge the Chinese side to sincerely engage the Indian side with the objective of expeditiously restoring the peace and tranquility" in the border areas through "complete disengagement and de-escalation in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols."

Indian and Chinese ground commanders have been holding discussions on a daily basis but talks have been inconclusive.

Meanwhile Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane is on a 2 day Leh visit for security review and operational visit while Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) visited frontline air bases in Eastern Air Command.&nbsp;

The Air Force chief was apprised by officers on "readiness state and operational preparedness of the combat units under their command", a statement from Air Force.

India has said the ongoing situation at line of actual control in Eastern Ladakh is due to "direct result of action" by China & called for negotiations to ease out the situation.

India has said the ongoing situation at line of actual control in Eastern Ladakh is due to "direct result of action" by China & called for negotiations to ease out the situation. Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said," It is clear that the situation we witness over the past four months is a direct result of the actions taken by the Chinese side that sought to effect unilateral change of status quo" Last 4 months saw Galwan incident on 15th June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. China also suffered casualties but has been mum on the number. Over the weekend, Chinese side tried to occupy areas in south bank of Pangong Lake but the attempt was thwarted by Indian army. MEA said, "Way ahead is negotiations" both at diplomatic and military levels and "Indian side is firmly committed to resolving all outstanding issues through peaceful dialogue." Adding further, “We therefore strongly urge the Chinese side to sincerely engage the Indian side with the objective of expeditiously restoring the peace and tranquility" in the border areas through "complete disengagement and de-escalation in accordance with the bilateral agreements and protocols." Indian and Chinese ground commanders have been holding discussions on a daily basis but talks have been inconclusive. Meanwhile Army chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane is on a 2 day Leh visit for security review and operational visit while Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) visited frontline air bases in Eastern Air Command. The Air Force chief was apprised by officers on "readiness state and operational preparedness of the combat units under their command", a statement from Air Force.

Situation at Line of Actual Control direct result of action by China: India

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be visiting Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation organisation (SCO) Foreign Minister Meet. In-person SCO FMs meet is on 10th September in Russia.

In a brief response during the weekly presser, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "EAM will be visiting Moscow for SCO FMs meet"

This will be EAM Jaishankar's first visit outside the country in month as COVID pandemic impacted global travel.&nbsp;

Russia is the host of the BRICS and SCO groupings and sent the invitation. India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping.

Earlier this year in April, EAM was part of BRICS COVID FMs virtual meet and will be again part of another BRICS meeting on Friday.&nbsp;

Asked if EAM will meet Chinese FM Wang Yi, MEA spokesperson said, "once his engagements are finalized, we will let you know".

This will be the first time both Indian and Chinese FMs will be under the same roof after the Galwan incident of 15th June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. Both FMs were part of RIC FMs--Russia, India and China and G20 virtual meet since then.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be visiting Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation organisation (SCO) Foreign Minister Meet. In-person SCO FMs meet is on 10th September in Russia.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will be visiting Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation organisation (SCO) Foreign Minister Meet. In-person SCO FMs meet is on 10th September in Russia. In a brief response during the weekly presser, Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, "EAM will be visiting Moscow for SCO FMs meet" This will be EAM Jaishankar's first visit outside the country in month as COVID pandemic impacted global travel. Russia is the host of the BRICS and SCO groupings and sent the invitation. India, Pakistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan are part of the SCO grouping. Earlier this year in April, EAM was part of BRICS COVID FMs virtual meet and will be again part of another BRICS meeting on Friday. Asked if EAM will meet Chinese FM Wang Yi, MEA spokesperson said, "once his engagements are finalized, we will let you know". This will be the first time both Indian and Chinese FMs will be under the same roof after the Galwan incident of 15th June in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. Both FMs were part of RIC FMs--Russia, India and China and G20 virtual meet since then.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to visit Moscow for Shanghai Cooperation Organisation meet

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. 
&nbsp; 
In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently."

Since the abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcation into 2 union territories in August of last year, Pakistan along with China tried to raise the matter 3 times.

The attempts have met with failure with informal closed-door discussions happening with no outcomes and other members of the council reiterating that Kashmir is a bilateral India Pakistan issue. The last time Kashmir was formally raised at UNSC was in 1965, according to UN records.

India in its statement also highlighted how Islamabad has attempted to "rebrand itself as contributing to international peace" but "unfortunately fails to recognize that it is globally known for being the fountainhead of international terror and the hub for terror syndicates."

A UN report earlier this year showed that around 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are operating in Afghanistan.

Meanwhile, the statement called on UNSC report should not be just "statistical compilation of events, a bland summary and listing of meetings and outcome documents" and must "highlight and analyze the measures that it has decided upon or taken to maintain international peace and security during the reporting period".

New Delhi pointed out how the report was "short of analysis on the UN peacekeeping operations" and since most peacekeepers are contributed by non-Council members "who put the lives of their troops at risk to serve the cause of international peace" a better partnership between the "Security Council and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) is needed"

The India Statement asked Security Council "to prove its credibility and improve its performance" as "performance assessment has become one of the focus areas at the United Nations'.

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently.

India has said that Kashmir should be removed from the United Nations Security Council’s agenda, something Pakistan keeps on raking. In its statement on the Report of the Security Council for 2019, India hitting out at Pakistan said, a "delegation keeps pushing for discussions on an outdated agenda item in the Council" which for "all matter needs to be removed from the Council’s agenda permanently." Since the abrogation of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir and bifurcation into 2 union territories in August of last year, Pakistan along with China tried to raise the matter 3 times. The attempts have met with failure with informal closed-door discussions happening with no outcomes and other members of the council reiterating that Kashmir is a bilateral India Pakistan issue. The last time Kashmir was formally raised at UNSC was in 1965, according to UN records. India in its statement also highlighted how Islamabad has attempted to "rebrand itself as contributing to international peace" but "unfortunately fails to recognize that it is globally known for being the fountainhead of international terror and the hub for terror syndicates." A UN report earlier this year showed that around 6000-6500 Pakistani terrorists are operating in Afghanistan. Meanwhile, the statement called on UNSC report should not be just "statistical compilation of events, a bland summary and listing of meetings and outcome documents" and must "highlight and analyze the measures that it has decided upon or taken to maintain international peace and security during the reporting period". New Delhi pointed out how the report was "short of analysis on the UN peacekeeping operations" and since most peacekeepers are contributed by non-Council members "who put the lives of their troops at risk to serve the cause of international peace" a better partnership between the "Security Council and the Troop Contributing Countries (TCCs) is needed" The India Statement asked Security Council "to prove its credibility and improve its performance" as "performance assessment has become one of the focus areas at the United Nations'.

Remove Kashmir from UNSC agenda permanently, says India

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause.&nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Imran recalled his role in country's liberation war of 1971.&nbsp;

The country announced one day of mourning on Wednesday for Mukherjee with flags in half-mast throughout the country and more than 70 of its missions across the world.

Sidhant Sibal: How does Bangladesh remembers Pranab Mukherjee?

Muhammad Imran: He was a great friend of Bangladesh and the first one who raised the issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India. In fact any parliament outside of Bangladesh and after our Independence he was one of the most good friend of Bangladesh. He always updated himself on Bangladesh India issue and we had a very informal relationship with him. As a Bengali, very much frank and very much supportive of Bangladeshi cause. So it was natural that Bangladesh is also observing a day of mourning on his demise.&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: His role in Bangladesh's war of Independence?

Muhammad Imran: In recognition of his contribution we, Bangladesh government and people conferred on him "Muktijuddho Sommanona", special award when he visited Bangladesh in 2013 as President of India. We, in fact, we are honoured to confer this award on him.

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause.

Bangladeshi envoy to India, Muhammad Imran has paid his homage to former Indian President Pranab Mukherjee calling him a "good friend" of Bangladesh and "supportive" to the cause. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Imran recalled his role in country's liberation war of 1971. The country announced one day of mourning on Wednesday for Mukherjee with flags in half-mast throughout the country and more than 70 of its missions across the world. Sidhant Sibal: How does Bangladesh remembers Pranab Mukherjee? Muhammad Imran: He was a great friend of Bangladesh and the first one who raised the issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India. In fact any parliament outside of Bangladesh and after our Independence he was one of the most good friend of Bangladesh. He always updated himself on Bangladesh India issue and we had a very informal relationship with him. As a Bengali, very much frank and very much supportive of Bangladeshi cause. So it was natural that Bangladesh is also observing a day of mourning on his demise. Sidhant Sibal: His role in Bangladesh's war of Independence? Muhammad Imran: In recognition of his contribution we, Bangladesh government and people conferred on him "Muktijuddho Sommanona", special award when he visited Bangladesh in 2013 as President of India. We, in fact, we are honoured to confer this award on him.

Pranab Mukherjee first person who raised issue of Bangladesh in Parliament of India: Envoy

Indian and Russian Navies will undertake&nbsp;PASSEX&nbsp;or&nbsp;passing&nbsp;exercises in Bay of Bengal from September 4 to 5.&nbsp;

The exercises, Indra Navy 2020 were proposed by Russian Navy as&nbsp;“non-contact, at sea only” with the focus being to "maintain the continuity engagements between the two Navies", a source said. Indra Navy 2020 was planned in Russia's&nbsp;Vladivostok but was postponed due to COVID crisis.&nbsp;

The exercises are expected to increases interoperability between the 2 Navies even as India and Russia are expected to sign-on logistics pact later this year.&nbsp;

The Indian and Russian exercises happen at the same location where the Indian Navy and&nbsp;USS Nimitz, one of the largest warships in the world&nbsp;had undertaken PASSEX&nbsp;more than a month ago.

Russia will be deploying-- two destroyers,&nbsp;Admiral Vinogradov and&nbsp;Admiral Tributs&nbsp;and Tanker&nbsp;Boris Butoma while India will deploy its destroyer-Ranvijay, frigate-Sahyadri, corvette-Kiltan and&nbsp;Tanker-Shakti.

A source said, "As part of INDRA NAVY 2020, maritime operations such as Flying, Gun Firing on Surface and Aerial Targets, Tracking Exercises and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS) are planned."

The exercises come even as India's defence minister will be in Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO defence ministers meeting.

Interestingly, the Russian Navy will be joining the Indian navy after the visit from Sri Lankan port of&nbsp;Hambantota from 31st August to 3rd September.&nbsp;

India-Russia (INDRA) Exercises between the Army, Navy and Air Force of the two countries have been held since 2005. Joint Tri-Services Exercises “INDRA” are also being held once in two years since 2017. The last INDRA Tri-Services Exercise was held in India in December 2019.

Indian and Russian Navies will undertake PASSEX or passing exercises in Bay of Bengal from September 4 to 5. The exercises, Indra Navy 2020 were proposed by Russian Navy as “non-contact, at sea only” with the focus being to "maintain the continuity engagements between the two Navies", a source said.

Indian and Russian Navies will undertake PASSEX or passing exercises in Bay of Bengal from September 4 to 5. The exercises, Indra Navy 2020 were proposed by Russian Navy as “non-contact, at sea only” with the focus being to "maintain the continuity engagements between the two Navies", a source said. Indra Navy 2020 was planned in Russia's Vladivostok but was postponed due to COVID crisis. The exercises are expected to increases interoperability between the 2 Navies even as India and Russia are expected to sign-on logistics pact later this year. The Indian and Russian exercises happen at the same location where the Indian Navy and USS Nimitz, one of the largest warships in the world had undertaken PASSEX more than a month ago. Russia will be deploying-- two destroyers, Admiral Vinogradov and Admiral Tributs and Tanker Boris Butoma while India will deploy its destroyer-Ranvijay, frigate-Sahyadri, corvette-Kiltan and Tanker-Shakti. A source said, "As part of INDRA NAVY 2020, maritime operations such as Flying, Gun Firing on Surface and Aerial Targets, Tracking Exercises and Replenishment at Sea Approaches (RASAPS) are planned." The exercises come even as India's defence minister will be in Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation or SCO defence ministers meeting. Interestingly, the Russian Navy will be joining the Indian navy after the visit from Sri Lankan port of Hambantota from 31st August to 3rd September. India-Russia (INDRA) Exercises between the Army, Navy and Air Force of the two countries have been held since 2005. Joint Tri-Services Exercises “INDRA” are also being held once in two years since 2017. The last INDRA Tri-Services Exercise was held in India in December 2019.

Russia-India passing exercise (PASSEX) to take place in Bay of Bengal

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

Speaking at&nbsp; the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person."

"I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. &nbsp;It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are&nbsp;still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over."

Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1.

The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year&nbsp;which was the first such meet of the grouping.

Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents&nbsp;four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. &nbsp;And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies."

Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda."

"The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific,"&nbsp;Biegun added.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun.

A quad ministerial meet between India, US, Australia and Japan is being planned and is expected to take place in Delhi, according to US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun. Speaking at the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum, Biegun said, "There’s going to be a meeting of the Quad, a ministerial meeting with the Quad this fall in Delhi – that’s the intention anyway – in person." "I’d say this Quad concept has really helped India find a place in the Indo-Pacific – in the larger Indo-Pacific theatre. It’s also obviously indeed in our interest to have India as a partner in these issues," Biegun added. A source from one of the Quad country told WION,"details of the meet are still being worked out, but there is strong intent to hold something in coming months. Meet could happen after the Indian parliament's session is over." Indian Parliament's monsoon session will take place from September 14 to October 1. The Quad foreign ministers had met last year on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly meeting in the New Year which was the first such meet of the grouping. Underlining the common democratic set-up of the Quad countries, Biegun said, "Quad... represents four extraordinarily solid democracies" and "shared values that complement shared interests and creates a solid foundation. And so at its core, what the Quad is, is a combination of democracies." Quad is viewed with suspicion by China which views it as a grouping that is anti-Bejing. Asked about Quad being an anti-China grouping, Biegun said,"I don’t think responding to the threat of China in and of itself or any potential challenge from China in and of itself would be enough of a driver. It also has to have a positive agenda." "The purpose here can be to create a critical mass around the shared values and interests of those parties in a manner that attracts more countries in the Indo-Pacific," Biegun added.

Quad ministerial meet in Delhi soon, says US deputy secretary of state Stephen Biegun

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table.&nbsp;

The letter was sent by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande.

Without taking the name of China, the joint letter by G4 countries said,"after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter-government&nbsp;negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council."

Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the Security Council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the&nbsp;"IGN process".

China along with other UNSC members who are opposed to Japanese, German membership as part of UNSC solidarity has been stonewalling talks on expansion of membership.&nbsp;

Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that looks at&nbsp;UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure do not&nbsp;apply. &nbsp;

Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have called for "urgent need for transparency and application of General Assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations".&nbsp;

The letter by G4 backed Common African position for UNSC expansion as stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called&nbsp;for at least two&nbsp;permanent and five&nbsp;to two&nbsp;non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.

It said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the two&nbsp;meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions.

G4 has asked letter to be circulated to all members of UN and called for the continuation of "discussions held in 74th session as soon as possible in the 75th session" of the UNGA.

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table.

The G4 countries--India, Germany, Japan and Brazil have called out countries who are dragging their feet on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms while slamming China and reiterated backing for Africa at the high table. The letter was sent by India's deputy permanent representative to UN, Ambassador Nagaraj Naidu to President of the United Nations General assembly (UNGA) Tijjani Muhammad-Bande. Without taking the name of China, the joint letter by G4 countries said,"after more than a decade towards text-based negotiations, the inter-government negotiations process has become a convenient smokescreen to hide behind for those who do not wish to see any reforms in the security council." Explaining, "there is a need to ensure that the inter-governmental negotiations (IGN) process is not held hostage, procedurally and substantially, by those who do not wish to bring about reforms in the Security Council" and warning, if this happens then, "those who demand reform will be forced to look for other ways to finally make progress, including potentially outside the "IGN process". China along with other UNSC members who are opposed to Japanese, German membership as part of UNSC solidarity has been stonewalling talks on expansion of membership. Intergovernmental Negotiations framework is a group within the United Nations that looks at UNSC reforms but it has made no progress since 2009 when it was formed. The group's conversation is considered "informal" in nature and thus UNGA rule of procedure do not apply. Also, no attempts have been made to put talks into the consolidated text to begin formal negotiations due to resistance by certain countries opposed to the expansion of UNSC membership. G4 have called for "urgent need for transparency and application of General Assembly's rules of procedure to the intergovernmental negotiations". The letter by G4 backed Common African position for UNSC expansion as stipulated under Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte declaration called for at least two permanent and five to two non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. It said, "it is only correct and fair that the growing support expressed for the common African position in the two meetings of the IGN earlier this year are captured" in discussions. G4 has asked letter to be circulated to all members of UN and called for the continuation of "discussions held in 74th session as soon as possible in the 75th session" of the UNGA.

G4 calls for UNSC reforms, slams China; reiterates backing for Africa at the high table

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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