US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang. The remarks were made at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism with all three countries advising Bejing not to use "counterterrorism" as a pretext to silence political dissent.

US permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Kelly Craft said," We are deeply concerned by the situation in Xinjiang, where more than one million Uighurs and other Muslims have been detained under the false guise of counterterrorism."

Adding, "Counterterrorism and countering violent extremism should never be used as a pretext to silence political dissent or freedom of expression or to violate religious freedom or repress minority groups."

UK's envoy to UN James Roscoe echoed the sentiments saying, "We remain deeply concerned about systematic, egregious human rights violations against Uighurs &amp; other ethnic minorities."

"Counter-terrorism measures must never serve as a pretext for human rights violations", Germany said at the meeting.

Envoy Günter Sautter explained, "Regarding Xinjiang, the internment of large parts of the population is, in our view, unjustified. In the long run, it is prone not to reduce but rather to increase the risk emanating of terrorist organizations."

Earlier this year, Hong Kong was raised at UNSC's closed-door meet for the first time over the new security law irking Bejing.

US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang.

US, UK and Germany cornered China at the United Nations Security Council on the issue Uighur minorities being abused in the restive northwestern province of Xinjiang. The remarks were made at a UN Security Council Briefing on Counterterrorism with all three countries advising Bejing not to use "counterterrorism" as a pretext to silence political dissent. US permanent representative to the United Nations Ambassador Kelly Craft said," We are deeply concerned by the situation in Xinjiang, where more than one million Uighurs and other Muslims have been detained under the false guise of counterterrorism." Adding, "Counterterrorism and countering violent extremism should never be used as a pretext to silence political dissent or freedom of expression or to violate religious freedom or repress minority groups." UK's envoy to UN James Roscoe echoed the sentiments saying, "We remain deeply concerned about systematic, egregious human rights violations against Uighurs & other ethnic minorities." "Counter-terrorism measures must never serve as a pretext for human rights violations", Germany said at the meeting. Envoy Günter Sautter explained, "Regarding Xinjiang, the internment of large parts of the population is, in our view, unjustified. In the long run, it is prone not to reduce but rather to increase the risk emanating of terrorist organizations." Earlier this year, Hong Kong was raised at UNSC's closed-door meet for the first time over the new security law irking Bejing.

Uighur situation: US, UK and Germany corner China at UNSC

A trailer for DC Studios' Blue Beetle was released. Starring Xolo Maridueña in the lead role, the Angel Manuel Soto directorial introduces the first Latino superhero in DC's film history. Also, the movie is the first live-action superhero film featuring a Latino in the lead. While 2019's Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse featured Afro-Latino Miles Morales, it was an animated feature. The film also stars Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Elpidia Carrillo, Bruna Marquezine, Raoul Max Trujillo, Susan Sarandon, and George Lopez. Blue Beetle is a DC Comics superhero who has been portrayed by multiple characters throughout the years. Here's everything you need to know about the character.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/vS3_72Gb-bI" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe>

<h2>Who, really, is Blue Beetle?</h2>

Blue Beetle is a beloved DC Comics character known for his inventive gadgets, acrobatic skills, and heroic spirit. He has been a part of the DC Universe for over 80 years in one form or another and remains a fan favourite to this day.

The original Blue Beetle, Dan Garrett, was created by Charles Nicholas Wojtkoski and first appeared in Mystery Men Comics #1 in 1939. The character was later revived by Charlton Comics in the 1960s and then acquired by DC Comics in the 1980s.

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The most well-known version of Blue Beetle is Ted Kord, who was created by Steve Ditko and first appeared in Captain Atom #83 in 1966. Ted Kord is a genius-level inventor and an expert in martial arts. He was mentored by the original Blue Beetle, Dan Garrett, and after Garrett's death, Kord inherited his mantle and became the second Blue Beetle.

Kord does not have any superhuman powers, but he uses a high-tech suit and gadgets that he created to fight crime. His suit is made of a lightweight, bulletproof material and is equipped with wings that allow him to fly. He also uses a variety of weapons, including grappling guns and energy blasters, to take down his enemies.

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Blue Beetle has been a member of several superhero teams over the years, including the Justice League and the Teen Titans. He has also been involved in several major storylines, including the Infinite Crisis event, where he played a key role in stopping the villainous Superboy-Prime.

In recent years, DC Comics has introduced a new version of Blue Beetle, Jaime Reyes, which is also the subject of the aforementioned movie. Reyes is a teenager from El Paso, Texas, who discovers an alien scarab that fuses to his spine and gives him superpowers. Reyes' version of the Blue Beetle is more closely tied to the supernatural and mystical elements of the DC Universe, and he has been featured prominently in recent storylines such as Infinite Frontier and Future State.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here.</a>

A trailer for DC Studios' Blue Beetle was released. Starring Xolo Maridueña in the lead role, the Angel Manuel Soto directorial introduces the first Latino superhero in DC's film history.

A trailer for DC Studios' Blue Beetle was released. Starring Xolo Maridueña in the lead role, the Angel Manuel Soto directorial introduces the first Latino superhero in DC's film history. Also, the movie is the first live-action superhero film featuring a Latino in the lead. While 2019's Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse featured Afro-Latino Miles Morales, it was an animated feature. The film also stars Adriana Barraza, Damián Alcázar, Elpidia Carrillo, Bruna Marquezine, Raoul Max Trujillo, Susan Sarandon, and George Lopez. Blue Beetle is a DC Comics superhero who has been portrayed by multiple characters throughout the years. Here's everything you need to know about the character. Who, really, is Blue Beetle? Blue Beetle is a beloved DC Comics character known for his inventive gadgets, acrobatic skills, and heroic spirit. He has been a part of the DC Universe for over 80 years in one form or another and remains a fan favourite to this day. The original Blue Beetle, Dan Garrett, was created by Charles Nicholas Wojtkoski and first appeared in Mystery Men Comics #1 in 1939. The character was later revived by Charlton Comics in the 1960s and then acquired by DC Comics in the 1980s. The most well-known version of Blue Beetle is Ted Kord, who was created by Steve Ditko and first appeared in Captain Atom #83 in 1966. Ted Kord is a genius-level inventor and an expert in martial arts. He was mentored by the original Blue Beetle, Dan Garrett, and after Garrett's death, Kord inherited his mantle and became the second Blue Beetle. Kord does not have any superhuman powers, but he uses a high-tech suit and gadgets that he created to fight crime. His suit is made of a lightweight, bulletproof material and is equipped with wings that allow him to fly. He also uses a variety of weapons, including grappling guns and energy blasters, to take down his enemies. Blue Beetle has been a member of several superhero teams over the years, including the Justice League and the Teen Titans. He has also been involved in several major storylines, including the Infinite Crisis event, where he played a key role in stopping the villainous Superboy-Prime. In recent years, DC Comics has introduced a new version of Blue Beetle, Jaime Reyes, which is also the subject of the aforementioned movie. Reyes is a teenager from El Paso, Texas, who discovers an alien scarab that fuses to his spine and gives him superpowers. Reyes' version of the Blue Beetle is more closely tied to the supernatural and mystical elements of the DC Universe, and he has been featured prominently in recent storylines such as Infinite Frontier and Future State. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Bangladesh and Tripura to be connected through Gumti river from September

Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board is mulling increasing the number of pilgrims outside the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from the current 100 to 200 or more.

Amidst strict COVID-19 protocol, only 2,000 pilgrims can go to the holy place in Reasi district of the Union Territory, of these 1900 are from within the Union Territory and only 100 people can be outside.

Ramesh Kumar Jangid, CEO of Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Jammu and Kashmir told WION, "We have kept outsider capacity at 100. This will be reviewed this week. This is expected to be increased. The maximum limit can be 500 till September if allowed."

The shrine board has come up with protocols for the pilgrimage for outsiders which includes carrying a COVID0-19 negative report which is not more than 48 hours old and only online registered yatris will&nbsp;be allowed. They can register by going to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine.

In accordance with the home ministry guidelines, children below 10 years, above 60, persons with comorbidity, pregnant women won't be allowed at the shrine.

At entry point, yatris will be checked by thermal scanning and all along the route and even at the holy caves, strict COVID-19 rules of social distancing will be implemented.

Yatris without mask or face cover are not allowed at the shrine and at every location sanitizers have been kept.

The pilgrimage resumed earlier this month on August 16. Helicopter services till the shrine has also started but due to lack of pilgrims no chopper has flown yet. The shrine board is mulling putting helicopter services as an option during the online registration.

Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board is mulling increasing the number of pilgrims outside the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from the current 100 to 200 or more.

Mata Vaishno Devi shrine board is mulling increasing the number of pilgrims outside the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir from the current 100 to 200 or more. Amidst strict COVID-19 protocol, only 2,000 pilgrims can go to the holy place in Reasi district of the Union Territory, of these 1900 are from within the Union Territory and only 100 people can be outside. Ramesh Kumar Jangid, CEO of Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, Jammu and Kashmir told WION, "We have kept outsider capacity at 100. This will be reviewed this week. This is expected to be increased. The maximum limit can be 500 till September if allowed." The shrine board has come up with protocols for the pilgrimage for outsiders which includes carrying a COVID0-19 negative report which is not more than 48 hours old and only online registered yatris will be allowed. They can register by going to Mata Vaishno Devi shrine. In accordance with the home ministry guidelines, children below 10 years, above 60, persons with comorbidity, pregnant women won't be allowed at the shrine. At entry point, yatris will be checked by thermal scanning and all along the route and even at the holy caves, strict COVID-19 rules of social distancing will be implemented. Yatris without mask or face cover are not allowed at the shrine and at every location sanitizers have been kept. The pilgrimage resumed earlier this month on August 16. Helicopter services till the shrine has also started but due to lack of pilgrims no chopper has flown yet. The shrine board is mulling putting helicopter services as an option during the online registration.

At Vaishno Devi shrine, more pilgrims from outside J&K to be allowed soon

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) but the problem with the claim is that the Security Council's session was not open to non-members of the body. Pakistan is not a member of UNSC and thus it can't make the statement.

Watch:

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The Pakistani Mission to United Nations in a tweet said Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram had made the statement at the open debate of the Security Council on the report of the Secretary-General on the "threats to international peace and security posed by terrorism actions."

In fact, the German mission to the UN had put out a picture of the meet and Pakistani envoy was absent at the meet. Germany is a non-permanent member of the UNSC.

Indian mission in UN was quick to point the development and said, "we have seen a statement put out by the Pakistani mission to the UN, claiming that these remarks were made by the Permanent Representative of Pakistan at the UNSC."

The mission asked, "We failed to comprehend where exactly did the permanent representative of Pakistan make his statement since the security council session today was not open to non-members of the security council."

The statement by Pakistani envoy was on expected lines, slamming India, raking up Kashmir and even mentioning Kulbhushan Jhadav as "proof" of New Delhi's role in perpetrating "terrorism in Pakistan".

The Indian mission gave point-by-point reply in a tweet to Pakistan mission statement highlighting how Pakistan is the "biggest sponsor of cross border terrorism against India" and now "masquerade itself as a victim of terrorism by India!"

"Pakistan is home to the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the united nations" and "many of the sanctioned terrorists and entities continue to operate with impunity inside Pakistan," the Indian mission explained

The Indian mission recalled the statement made by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in which he "admitted at the UN General Assembly in 2019, the presence of 40,000-50,000 terrorist inside Pakistan" and referred to Al Qaeda's Osama bin Laden as a "martyr" inside Pakistani Parliament.

Calling the deteriorating situation of minorities as "systemic cleansing", the Indian mission took the Pakistani mission to the task, reminding how the population of minorities has fallen from 1947 to just 3% currently in the country.

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) but the problem with the claim is that the Security Council's session was not open to non-members of the body.

Pakistan on Monday claimed that it made a statement at the United Nations Security Council(UNSC) but the problem with the claim is that the Security Council's session was not open to non-members of the body. Pakistan is not a member of UNSC and thus it can't make the statement. Watch: The Pakistani Mission to United Nations in a tweet said Pakistani envoy to UN Munir Akram had made the statement at the open debate of the Security Council on the report of the Secretary-General on the "threats to international peace and security posed by terrorism actions." In fact, the German mission to the UN had put out a picture of the meet and Pakistani envoy was absent at the meet. Germany is a non-permanent member of the UNSC. Indian mission in UN was quick to point the development and said, "we have seen a statement put out by the Pakistani mission to the UN, claiming that these remarks were made by the Permanent Representative of Pakistan at the UNSC." The mission asked, "We failed to comprehend where exactly did the permanent representative of Pakistan make his statement since the security council session today was not open to non-members of the security council." The statement by Pakistani envoy was on expected lines, slamming India, raking up Kashmir and even mentioning Kulbhushan Jhadav as "proof" of New Delhi's role in perpetrating "terrorism in Pakistan". The Indian mission gave point-by-point reply in a tweet to Pakistan mission statement highlighting how Pakistan is the "biggest sponsor of cross border terrorism against India" and now "masquerade itself as a victim of terrorism by India!" "Pakistan is home to the largest number of terrorists proscribed by the united nations" and "many of the sanctioned terrorists and entities continue to operate with impunity inside Pakistan," the Indian mission explained The Indian mission recalled the statement made by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan in which he "admitted at the UN General Assembly in 2019, the presence of 40,000-50,000 terrorist inside Pakistan" and referred to Al Qaeda's Osama bin Laden as a "martyr" inside Pakistani Parliament. Calling the deteriorating situation of minorities as "systemic cleansing", the Indian mission took the Pakistani mission to the task, reminding how the population of minorities has fallen from 1947 to just 3% currently in the country.

Pakistan falsely claimed it made statement at UNSC: India

India has invited Vietnam to part of its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative or IPOI that was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during last year's East Asia Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.&nbsp;

Increasing trade connectivity- maritime transport and Maritime security are among the 7 key pillars of the initiative. Other 5 are-- Maritime ecology, maritime resources, capacity building and resource sharing, disaster risk reduction and management, science, technology and academic cooperation.

The invitation was extended during the 17th India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting led by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Vietnam's foreign minister Pham Binh Minh.&nbsp;

A statement by the ministry of external affairs said, “India and Vietnam agreed to enhance their bilateral cooperation in line with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the ASEAN’s Outlook on Indo-Pacific to achieve shared security, prosperity and growth for all in the region."

Invitation to Vietnam comes even as both New Delhi and Hanoi deal with an aggressive China. While Bejing's ties with India deteriorated after Galwan face-off, Vietnam has raised alarm after Chinese intrusion into its exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Both sides have increased engagement in the last few years with a high-level visit such as the visit of Vietnam's President to India and Indian PM visit to Vietnam. India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council in 2021.

India has invited Vietnam to part of its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative or IPOI that was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during last year's East Asia Summit in Bangkok, Thailand.

India has invited Vietnam to part of its Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative or IPOI that was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during last year's East Asia Summit in Bangkok, Thailand. Increasing trade connectivity- maritime transport and Maritime security are among the 7 key pillars of the initiative. Other 5 are-- Maritime ecology, maritime resources, capacity building and resource sharing, disaster risk reduction and management, science, technology and academic cooperation. The invitation was extended during the 17th India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting led by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Vietnam's foreign minister Pham Binh Minh. A statement by the ministry of external affairs said, “India and Vietnam agreed to enhance their bilateral cooperation in line with India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and the ASEAN’s Outlook on Indo-Pacific to achieve shared security, prosperity and growth for all in the region." Invitation to Vietnam comes even as both New Delhi and Hanoi deal with an aggressive China. While Bejing's ties with India deteriorated after Galwan face-off, Vietnam has raised alarm after Chinese intrusion into its exclusive economic zone. Both sides have increased engagement in the last few years with a high-level visit such as the visit of Vietnam's President to India and Indian PM visit to Vietnam. India and Vietnam will serve concurrently as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council in 2021.

Amidst Chinese aggressiveness, India invites Vietnam to be part of Indo Pacific Oceans initiative

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size.&nbsp;

Balochistan has been in a simmer for a while now even as locals accuse Islamabad of draining the province of its resources. Balochistan is also key to China's mega infrastructure project China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC.

The Journey of Nawab Akbar Bugti as a legislator being elected to the National assembly of Pakistan and later becoming the Chief minister and governor of Balochistan to someone who led a struggle against the Pakistani establishment highlights how things are on the ground in the province. Nawab Akbar Bugti was the Tumandar or the head of the Bugti tribe, someone who yields not only political support but moral too.&nbsp;

While the Pakistani army claimed that Bugti died after cave collapsed on him, this remains disputed. In 2012, a Pakistani court had issued arrest warrants against Pervez Musharraf, under whose tenure Bugti was killed.&nbsp;

Bugti was known to be someone who reached out to minorities in the province. He once said,'' Hindu and Sikhs have been living with us for many decades and they have become an integral part of our Bugti tribe. We have and will always have religious freedom for Hindus and Sikhs. If people of any other religion or community come to us, they'll have their freedom to practice their beliefs as well, just like we do in our Mosques, Mandir and Gurudawara.”

In fact, he gave shelter to several Hindu families when a military operation was underway in the province in 2005.

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size.

The 14th death anniversary of Balochistan's famous leader Nawab Akbar Bugti who was killed in 2006 will be marked on Wednesday. His death spurred a major crisis in Balochistan, Pakistan's largest province by size. Balochistan has been in a simmer for a while now even as locals accuse Islamabad of draining the province of its resources. Balochistan is also key to China's mega infrastructure project China Pakistan Economic Corridor or CPEC. The Journey of Nawab Akbar Bugti as a legislator being elected to the National assembly of Pakistan and later becoming the Chief minister and governor of Balochistan to someone who led a struggle against the Pakistani establishment highlights how things are on the ground in the province. Nawab Akbar Bugti was the Tumandar or the head of the Bugti tribe, someone who yields not only political support but moral too. While the Pakistani army claimed that Bugti died after cave collapsed on him, this remains disputed. In 2012, a Pakistani court had issued arrest warrants against Pervez Musharraf, under whose tenure Bugti was killed. Bugti was known to be someone who reached out to minorities in the province. He once said,'' Hindu and Sikhs have been living with us for many decades and they have become an integral part of our Bugti tribe. We have and will always have religious freedom for Hindus and Sikhs. If people of any other religion or community come to us, they'll have their freedom to practice their beliefs as well, just like we do in our Mosques, Mandir and Gurudawara.” In fact, he gave shelter to several Hindu families when a military operation was underway in the province in 2005.

Nawab Akbar Bugti's death anniversary: How Baloch leader’s killing rocked Pakistan

Union territory of Jammu &amp; Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is being built over the Chenab river.

Deputy chief engineer RR Malik who is the project manager told WION, "We have a deadline of 2022."

Asked about how difficult the task is given the geography, he said, "It is not an easy job, building in such terrain."

It will connect the Kashmir valley with Katra in Jammu and the rest of the country, overall it will reduce journey time by 5-6 hours from Katra to Srinagar.

Reasi district of J&amp;K which is&nbsp;famous for Vaishno Devi shrine is expected to get a major uptick in tourism with the highest railway bridge project.

Indu Kanwal Chib (KAS), deputy commissioner, Reasi explained to WION: "This bridge will be one of its kind. It has a helipad, so what will happen, people from Delhi can come via chopper."

"It will generate local employment. Hectic activity will happen. It will also boost the local economy. People of my districts are waiting for it to be finished," &nbsp;Reasi added.

The total length of the rail bridge is 1.3 km long and it can with withstand an earthquake measuring more than 7 on the Richter scale. The project is being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower.

Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir's Reasi district will soon host the world's highest railway bridge. The bridge will be completed by August 2022 and will be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower. It is being built over the Chenab river. Deputy chief engineer RR Malik who is the project manager told WION, "We have a deadline of 2022." Asked about how difficult the task is given the geography, he said, "It is not an easy job, building in such terrain." It will connect the Kashmir valley with Katra in Jammu and the rest of the country, overall it will reduce journey time by 5-6 hours from Katra to Srinagar. Reasi district of J&K which is famous for Vaishno Devi shrine is expected to get a major uptick in tourism with the highest railway bridge project. Indu Kanwal Chib (KAS), deputy commissioner, Reasi explained to WION: "This bridge will be one of its kind. It has a helipad, so what will happen, people from Delhi can come via chopper." "It will generate local employment. Hectic activity will happen. It will also boost the local economy. People of my districts are waiting for it to be finished," Reasi added. The total length of the rail bridge is 1.3 km long and it can with withstand an earthquake measuring more than 7 on the Richter scale. The project is being developed by Konkan Railway Corporation Limited and is a part of the Udhampur-Srinagar-Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) project.

India to complete construction of highest rail bridge in J&K by 2022

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The MD of Maldives Marketing &amp; Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed&nbsp;told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism."

Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home."

The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor.&nbsp;

Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon.&nbsp;

In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists.

COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.&nbsp;

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month.

Even as India Maldives Air travel bubble gets into place, the Maldives expects more Indian tourist to visit the Indian Ocean island country. The travel bubble was announced by the External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar during a virtual meeting with Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid earlier this month. The MD of Maldives Marketing & Public Relations Corporation (MMPRC) which is the national tourism office of the Maldives Thoyyib Mohamed told WION that the travel bridge will be a "great boost for Maldives tourism." Mohamed said, "India is the second-largest market for the industry and will help reignite the different sectors of the tourism industry. Given the close proximity between the two countries, this will open up the opportunity for Indian holidaymakers to take a long-awaited holiday, close to home." The Maldives opened its borders to international tourists since July 15 and there are no quarantine restrictions for tourists. Tourists can travel straight from the airport to their respective resorts without entering Male, thereby providing a safe corridor. Nearly half the country’s 160 plus resorts have started functioning and guesthouse industry comprising more than 800 guest houses in inhabited islands for budget-travellers are expected to commence soon. In 2019, 167,000 Indian tourists, visiting the Maldives, which is a rise of more than 100 per cent over 2018. Improved flight connectivity from Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Delhi and Karnataka, and, a visa-free regime are among the several reasons that led to an increase in Indian tourists. COVID-19 crisis had majorly impacted tourism in the country which is the mainstay of the economy. 2,400 active COVID-19 cases were reported in the country, a majority of them in capital Male.

Maldives eyes Indian tourists as India-Maldives air travel bubble comes into place

Even as the Afghan Peace process is underway, India and Afghanistan have been engaging with each other. Afghan Foreign minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar spoke to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a number of issues.

Atmar in a tweet later said, "It was a pleasure to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest. We are profoundly grateful for your continued economic cooperation and unwavering political support for peace and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan."

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Thank you so much Excellency. It was a pleasure to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest. We are profoundly grateful for your continued economic cooperation and unwavering political support for peace and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. <a href="https://t.co/Ok2SY9R7MS">https://t.co/Ok2SY9R7MS</a>
— Mohammed Haneef Atmar محمد حنیف اتمر (@MHaneefAtmar) <a href="https://twitter.com/MHaneefAtmar/status/1296110830363324416?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/actions-of-nations-during-covid-19-determines-how-world-perceives-them-mea-321889">Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA</a>

Meanwhile, the Afghan envoy to India Tahir Qadiry during his Independence Day speech at the Afghan mission in Delhi said his country shares values with India.

Lauding ties he said, "Our time-tested ties have endured through thick and thin of regional challenges and we have always come stronger and closer than before. Afghanistan shares values with India and today's Afghanistan understands values and embraces this fact."

He appreciated India's contribution in "rebuilding and reconstruction" of Afghanistan and extended "heartfelt gratitude to our great Indian allies for the steadfast support and contribution."

India is the largest development partner of Afghanistan in the region and has built several infrastructure projects in the country including the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province.

On the situation in Afghanistan, Tahir said, " We will always uphold the gains made so far. We are still facing challenges posed by International terrorism. We strive hard to augment peace efforts to fulfil aspirations of our people and I can confidently say enduring peace will finally prevail."

Hopes are high that Afghan-Taliban talks will soon begin as Ghani govt has ordered the release of prisoners in accordance with US Taliban deal of February.

The Afghan envoy said his country is "proud of our heroes at the Afghan defence and security forces who are fending and fighting at the forefront to ensure freedom." 
&nbsp;

Even as the Afghan Peace process is underway, India and Afghanistan have been engaging with each other. Afghan Foreign minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar spoke to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a number of issues.

Even as the Afghan Peace process is underway, India and Afghanistan have been engaging with each other. Afghan Foreign minister Mohammed Haneef Atmar spoke to India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and discussed a number of issues. Atmar in a tweet later said, "It was a pleasure to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest. We are profoundly grateful for your continued economic cooperation and unwavering political support for peace and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan." Thank you so much Excellency. It was a pleasure to discuss a range of issues of mutual interest. We are profoundly grateful for your continued economic cooperation and unwavering political support for peace and the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan. https://t.co/Ok2SY9R7MS — Mohammed Haneef Atmar محمد حنیف اتمر (@MHaneefAtmar) August 19, 2020 × Also read | Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA Meanwhile, the Afghan envoy to India Tahir Qadiry during his Independence Day speech at the Afghan mission in Delhi said his country shares values with India. Lauding ties he said, "Our time-tested ties have endured through thick and thin of regional challenges and we have always come stronger and closer than before. Afghanistan shares values with India and today's Afghanistan understands values and embraces this fact." He appreciated India's contribution in "rebuilding and reconstruction" of Afghanistan and extended "heartfelt gratitude to our great Indian allies for the steadfast support and contribution." India is the largest development partner of Afghanistan in the region and has built several infrastructure projects in the country including the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat province. On the situation in Afghanistan, Tahir said, " We will always uphold the gains made so far. We are still facing challenges posed by International terrorism. We strive hard to augment peace efforts to fulfil aspirations of our people and I can confidently say enduring peace will finally prevail." Hopes are high that Afghan-Taliban talks will soon begin as Ghani govt has ordered the release of prisoners in accordance with US Taliban deal of February. The Afghan envoy said his country is "proud of our heroes at the Afghan defence and security forces who are fending and fighting at the forefront to ensure freedom."

New Delhi, Kabul increase engagement as Afghan envoy says share values with India

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them".&nbsp;

Speaking at Sixth Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) he said, "Whatever we may profess, the actions of nations during times of crisis determines how the world really perceives them".

China has been aggressive with its neighbours including India which it had violent clashes at the line of actual control in the month of June.

Highlighting the issues with current global supply chains, Jaishankar through these "actions" countries "did bring up many of the risks inherent in the current global economy" &amp; therefore "concerns about supply chains are sought to be mitigated at the very least through greater emphasis on their diversification and resilience".

India, along with its partners like Australia, Japan &amp; US has been calling for diversification of supply chains which are currently china dominated.

Calling COVID an "unprecedented" crisis, he said, "None of us has seen a crisis of this proportion before, or indeed uncertainty of this level."&nbsp;

Explaining the economic impact he added, "Contraction of the world economy" due to the pandemic "will surely be the largest since the Great Depression."

He listed cumulative loss in the range of USD 5.8-8.8 trillion or approximately 6.5-9.7% of the global GDP due to the COVID pandemic.

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them".

Without mentioning China, External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Thursday pointed that "actions of nations" amidst COVID "determines how the world really perceives them". Speaking at Sixth Roundtable of the ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks (AINTT) he said, "Whatever we may profess, the actions of nations during times of crisis determines how the world really perceives them". China has been aggressive with its neighbours including India which it had violent clashes at the line of actual control in the month of June. Highlighting the issues with current global supply chains, Jaishankar through these "actions" countries "did bring up many of the risks inherent in the current global economy" & therefore "concerns about supply chains are sought to be mitigated at the very least through greater emphasis on their diversification and resilience". India, along with its partners like Australia, Japan & US has been calling for diversification of supply chains which are currently china dominated. Calling COVID an "unprecedented" crisis, he said, "None of us has seen a crisis of this proportion before, or indeed uncertainty of this level." Explaining the economic impact he added, "Contraction of the world economy" due to the pandemic "will surely be the largest since the Great Depression." He listed cumulative loss in the range of USD 5.8-8.8 trillion or approximately 6.5-9.7% of the global GDP due to the COVID pandemic.

Actions of nations during Covid-19 determines how world perceives them: MEA

Amid&nbsp;coup in the west&nbsp;African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals.

Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe. We sent them back after first indication of disturbance. Requested all Indians to stay home in view of developments."

Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was removed after a mutiny by soldiers. The prime minister of the country has also been removed from office by the soldiers.&nbsp;

Around 250-300 Indians are present in the country. Most of them are in the retail business, mining, power and&nbsp;steel. &nbsp;

Ousted Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita had visited India twice, once&nbsp;in 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance (ISA) and before that in 2015 to take part in the India-Africa Summit.&nbsp;

Amid coup in the west African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals. Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe.

Amid coup in the west African country of Mali, the Indian mission in Mali has advised caution for Indian nationals. Indian envoy to Mali Anjani Kumar To WION, "All embassy members are at home and safe. We sent them back after first indication of disturbance. Requested all Indians to stay home in view of developments." Mali's President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta was removed after a mutiny by soldiers. The prime minister of the country has also been removed from office by the soldiers. Around 250-300 Indians are present in the country. Most of them are in the retail business, mining, power and steel. Ousted Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita had visited India twice, once in 2018 to attend the Founding Conference of International Solar Alliance (ISA) and before that in 2015 to take part in the India-Africa Summit.

Indian mission in Mali advises caution for Indian citizens amid coup

India has assured Bangladesh that it will be a priority country when it comes to giving any Indian vaccine.&nbsp;

"For us, Bangladesh is always a priority country and when the vaccine is produced, it goes without saying that our closest neighbours, friends, partners and other countries will be part of that", Bangladesh's Daily Star quoted the Indian foreign secretary&nbsp;Harsh Vardhan&nbsp;Shringla as saying.

Three vaccines are being developed in India -&nbsp;Oxford vaccine by Serum Institute of India, Bharat Biotech-ICMR vaccine and Zydus Cadila.

Bangladesh has proposed India to hold COVID-19 vaccine trial in the country to which the Indian side has responded positively.

Bangladesh's foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen was quoted by Daily Star saying, "We offered that we can extend our assistance, if needed, especially in terms of a vaccine trial, we are ready."

Bangladesh is the second country after Bhutan which has offered to be part of COVID-19 trials.

During India- Bangladesh foreign secretary meet, the Rohingya issue was also discussed. The Bangladeshi FS said, "we have also discussed the latest situation of Rohingya crisis while India reiterated its position on safe, secure and sustainable Rohingya repatriation."

India has been providing support to Bangladesh to deal with the Rohingya refugee crisis and has been providing supplies including building pre-fabricated houses. &nbsp;

The Indian foreign secretary met Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday. The meeting has been described as "excellent" by Indian government sources.&nbsp;

During the meet, many issues including connectivity, the revival of economy post-COVID-19, cooperation on COVID-19 assistance, including on therapeutics and vaccine, joint commemoration of Mujib Barsho was discussed.&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India has assured Bangladesh that it will be a priority country when it comes to giving any Indian vaccine. "For us, Bangladesh is always a priority country and when the vaccine is produced, it goes without saying that our closest neighbours, friends, partners and other countries will be part of that", Bangladesh's Daily Star quoted the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla as saying.

India has assured Bangladesh that it will be a priority country when it comes to giving any Indian vaccine. "For us, Bangladesh is always a priority country and when the vaccine is produced, it goes without saying that our closest neighbours, friends, partners and other countries will be part of that", Bangladesh's Daily Star quoted the Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla as saying. Three vaccines are being developed in India - Oxford vaccine by Serum Institute of India, Bharat Biotech-ICMR vaccine and Zydus Cadila. Bangladesh has proposed India to hold COVID-19 vaccine trial in the country to which the Indian side has responded positively. Bangladesh's foreign secretary Masud Bin Momen was quoted by Daily Star saying, "We offered that we can extend our assistance, if needed, especially in terms of a vaccine trial, we are ready." Bangladesh is the second country after Bhutan which has offered to be part of COVID-19 trials. During India- Bangladesh foreign secretary meet, the Rohingya issue was also discussed. The Bangladeshi FS said, "we have also discussed the latest situation of Rohingya crisis while India reiterated its position on safe, secure and sustainable Rohingya repatriation." India has been providing support to Bangladesh to deal with the Rohingya refugee crisis and has been providing supplies including building pre-fabricated houses. The Indian foreign secretary met Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina on Tuesday. The meeting has been described as "excellent" by Indian government sources. During the meet, many issues including connectivity, the revival of economy post-COVID-19, cooperation on COVID-19 assistance, including on therapeutics and vaccine, joint commemoration of Mujib Barsho was discussed.

Bangladesh to get Indian COVID-19 vaccine on priority, says foreign secretary Shringla

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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