In a move that can see the revival of SAARC grouping, Indian PM Narendra Modi has called for a joint SAARC strategy to fight coronavirus outbreak.

In a tweet, he said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus"

He suggested, the SAARC countries, "could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy."

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I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus. 
 
We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy. 
 
Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1238371182094639104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Adding,"Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet."

Will Pakistani PM Imran Khan join PM Modi and other SAARC leaders for video conference? If he does then it will be the big takeaway from the conference.&nbsp;

Yesterday at Pakistani weekly presser by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, spokesperson on response to a WION question said, "On Coronavirus, as I said before that the Government of Pakistan is monitoring the situation very closely and will take measures required for the citizens within Pakistan and any assistance we can provide to our neighbouring countries.”

Sources in Islamabad have said the suggestion by Indian PM has been noted "positively" &amp; will be discussed at Pakistan's National Security Council.

Bhutan Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering responded to PM Modi's tweet and said "This is what we call leadership. As members of this region, we must come together in such times. Smaller economies are hit harder, so we must coordinate. With your leadership, I have no doubt we will see the immediate and impactful outcome. Looking forward to the video conference."

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This is what we call leadership. As members of this region, we must come together in such times. Smaller economies are hit harder, so we must coordinate. With your leadership, I have no doubt we will see immediate and impactful outcome. Looking forward to the video conference. <a href="https://t.co/2RnokAJQOs">https://t.co/2RnokAJQOs</a>
— PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMBhutan/status/1238395565571883009?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 13, 2020</a></blockquote>
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SAARC has been lying defunct since 2016 after the Uri attack. The 19th SAARC summit was to happen in Islamabad in 2016 but was boycotted by India along with — Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan after the terror attack by Pakistan based terror groups in India killed 19 Indian soldiers.

In a move that can see the revival of SAARC grouping, Indian PM Narendra Modi has called for a joint SAARC strategy to fight coronavirus outbreak. In a tweet, he said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus" He suggested, the SAARC countries, "could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy.

In a move that can see the revival of SAARC grouping, Indian PM Narendra Modi has called for a joint SAARC strategy to fight coronavirus outbreak. In a tweet, he said, "I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus" He suggested, the SAARC countries, "could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy." I would like to propose that the leadership of SAARC nations chalk out a strong strategy to fight Coronavirus. We could discuss, via video conferencing, ways to keep our citizens healthy. Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) March 13, 2020 × Adding,"Together, we can set an example to the world, and contribute to a healthier planet." Will Pakistani PM Imran Khan join PM Modi and other SAARC leaders for video conference? If he does then it will be the big takeaway from the conference. Yesterday at Pakistani weekly presser by the Pakistani Foreign Ministry, spokesperson on response to a WION question said, "On Coronavirus, as I said before that the Government of Pakistan is monitoring the situation very closely and will take measures required for the citizens within Pakistan and any assistance we can provide to our neighbouring countries.” Sources in Islamabad have said the suggestion by Indian PM has been noted "positively" & will be discussed at Pakistan's National Security Council. Bhutan Prime Minister Dr Lotay Tshering responded to PM Modi's tweet and said "This is what we call leadership. As members of this region, we must come together in such times. Smaller economies are hit harder, so we must coordinate. With your leadership, I have no doubt we will see the immediate and impactful outcome. Looking forward to the video conference." This is what we call leadership. As members of this region, we must come together in such times. Smaller economies are hit harder, so we must coordinate. With your leadership, I have no doubt we will see immediate and impactful outcome. Looking forward to the video conference. https://t.co/2RnokAJQOs — PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) March 13, 2020 × SAARC has been lying defunct since 2016 after the Uri attack. The 19th SAARC summit was to happen in Islamabad in 2016 but was boycotted by India along with — Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan after the terror attack by Pakistan based terror groups in India killed 19 Indian soldiers.

Coronavirus crisis: PM Modi suggests joint SAARC strategy; proposes video conference

The Ministry of External Affairs has appointed a nodal person to coordinate the measures in the backdrop of coronavirus crisis. The person is an additional Secretary official and will play a role in streamlining global efforts of the ministry in addressing the challenge from coronavirus epidemic.

The Ministry of External Affairs has appointed a nodal person to coordinate the measures in the backdrop of coronavirus crisis. The person is an additional Secretary official and will play a role in streamlining global efforts of the ministry in addressing the challenge from coronavirus epidemic. India has so far led 5 evacuation missions to get back Indian and foreign nationals from Corona impacted regions of the worlds like China, Japan and Iran. 948 people have been evacuated by India so far of which 900 are Indians and 48 belonging to different nationalities including Maldives, Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, USA, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Nepal, South Africa and Peru. The three evacuation mission was to Wuhan on February 1st, 2nd & 26th, while the 4th evacuation was to Japan to evacuate stranded Indians on the cruise ship Diamond princesses. In the last mission to Iran, 58 Indians were brought back to the country. India will be sending its medical team to Italy now to screen and facilitate the evacuation of its citizens from the southern European country.

Coronavirus crisis: MEA appoints nodal person to coordinate efforts 

The government will be sending medical team&nbsp;to Italy to screen its Indian citizens and facilitate their evacuation as coronavirus spreads in the southern European country, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has announced in the Parliament.

Speaking in the upper house of the Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said, "We are hoping by tomorrow to fly in a medical team to Italy. Just as we did in Iran. We will do testing of the people and try and put them on early flights"

On the issue of COVID free certificates from Italy, that is hindering Indian citizens to leave Italy, Jaishankar explained, "Advisory that everyone from Italy should carry COVID free certificate was issued a week ago. I understand the problem. It was not a last-minute imposition".

India evacuated 58 Indians from Iran on Tuesday via a special Indian Air Force flight. The flight also carried samples of 529 Indians stranded in the country to be tested.&nbsp;

Calling the situation in Italy and Iran as "extreme situation", EAM said, more Indians will be evacuated from Iran in the "next slot of flight".

About 6000 Indians in Iran, out of which 1100 pilgrims from UT of J&amp;K, Ladakh &amp; state of Maharashtra, 300 students from UT of JK and 1000 Fishermen from Kerala, Tamil Nadu &amp; Gujrat.

India sent 3 flights to Wuhan, China to evacuate more than 700 people including many foreigners. Later it sent one flight to Iran to evacuate citizens from the country.

The government will be sending medical team to Italy to screen its Indian citizens and facilitate their evacuation as coronavirus spreads in the southern European country, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has announced in the Parliament.

The government will be sending medical team to Italy to screen its Indian citizens and facilitate their evacuation as coronavirus spreads in the southern European country, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has announced in the Parliament. Speaking in the upper house of the Parliament, Rajya Sabha, Jaishankar said, "We are hoping by tomorrow to fly in a medical team to Italy. Just as we did in Iran. We will do testing of the people and try and put them on early flights" On the issue of COVID free certificates from Italy, that is hindering Indian citizens to leave Italy, Jaishankar explained, "Advisory that everyone from Italy should carry COVID free certificate was issued a week ago. I understand the problem. It was not a last-minute imposition". India evacuated 58 Indians from Iran on Tuesday via a special Indian Air Force flight. The flight also carried samples of 529 Indians stranded in the country to be tested. Calling the situation in Italy and Iran as "extreme situation", EAM said, more Indians will be evacuated from Iran in the "next slot of flight". About 6000 Indians in Iran, out of which 1100 pilgrims from UT of J&K, Ladakh & state of Maharashtra, 300 students from UT of JK and 1000 Fishermen from Kerala, Tamil Nadu & Gujrat. India sent 3 flights to Wuhan, China to evacuate more than 700 people including many foreigners. Later it sent one flight to Iran to evacuate citizens from the country.

Coronavirus: India to send medical team to Italy; EAM calls Iran, Italy extreme situations

No foreign dignitaries will be present at the 100th birth anniversary celebration of the father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman due to coronavirus fear, Bangladesh&nbsp;Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen told Wion.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the invitees for the March 17th event. &nbsp;

Momen told, "No foreign dignitaries would attend the March 17th event as we will not organize big gatherings given COVID-19."

"Hon. PM Hasina and her sister do not want any harm to happen to members of the public.&nbsp;WHO has alss recommended not to organise any big assembly. Hon PM would like to provide housing to all homeless in Bangladesh as a gift in memory of Mujib Borsho," he added.

He also clarified that March 17th event has not been postponed, and added, the country will organise the programme in a such a way to avoid big public assembly"

Three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Bangladesh.&nbsp;

This is the second planned foreign visit of PM Modi that to be called off. &nbsp;PM was expected to visit Brussels on March 13, but that visit too has been&nbsp;postponed due to the pandemic.&nbsp;

No foreign dignitaries will be present at the 100th birth anniversary celebration of the father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman due to coronavirus fear, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen told Wion.

No foreign dignitaries will be present at the 100th birth anniversary celebration of the father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman due to coronavirus fear, Bangladesh Foreign Minister Dr AK Abdul Momen told Wion. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the invitees for the March 17th event. Momen told, "No foreign dignitaries would attend the March 17th event as we will not organize big gatherings given COVID-19." "Hon. PM Hasina and her sister do not want any harm to happen to members of the public. WHO has alss recommended not to organise any big assembly. Hon PM would like to provide housing to all homeless in Bangladesh as a gift in memory of Mujib Borsho," he added. He also clarified that March 17th event has not been postponed, and added, the country will organise the programme in a such a way to avoid big public assembly" Three cases of coronavirus have been confirmed in Bangladesh. This is the second planned foreign visit of PM Modi that to be called off. PM was expected to visit Brussels on March 13, but that visit too has been postponed due to the pandemic.

Bangladesh: No foreign dignitaries will be present for March 17th event due to coronavirus fear  

Japan has asked India to reconsider the visas that have been suspended over coronavirus fears.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
A travel advisory issued by India announced that all visas including visas on arrival granted to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan before 3rd march 2020 stands suspended in the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-swab-samples-of-stranded-indians-in-iran-to-reach-on-saturday-284838">Coronavirus: Swab samples of stranded Indians in Iran to reach on Saturday</a>

A source said: "explained how the numbers of patients are changing and sought appropriate measures in light of the reality on the ground."

Diplomats, UN officials, OCI cardholders and Aircrew from countries mentioned are exempted from such restriction on entry.

Japan has confirmed 313 cases of people infected with virus and six deaths.

Globally China, South Korea, Iran and Italy are among the worst affected countries with thousands of people infected. China has around 80,000 infected cases and more than 3000 deaths.

Japan has asked India to reconsider the visas that have been suspended over coronavirus fears. A travel advisory issued by India announced that all visas including visas on arrival granted to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan before 3rd march 2020 stands suspended in the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak.

Japan has asked India to reconsider the visas that have been suspended over coronavirus fears. A travel advisory issued by India announced that all visas including visas on arrival granted to nationals of Italy, Iran, South Korea, Japan before 3rd march 2020 stands suspended in the backdrop of coronavirus outbreak. Also read: Coronavirus: Swab samples of stranded Indians in Iran to reach on Saturday A source said: "explained how the numbers of patients are changing and sought appropriate measures in light of the reality on the ground." Diplomats, UN officials, OCI cardholders and Aircrew from countries mentioned are exempted from such restriction on entry. Japan has confirmed 313 cases of people infected with virus and six deaths. Globally China, South Korea, Iran and Italy are among the worst affected countries with thousands of people infected. China has around 80,000 infected cases and more than 3000 deaths.

Coronavirus: Japan asks India to reconsider visa suspensions

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that India was getting to know its real friends amid controversy and global reaction to&nbsp;newly enacted Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Delhi riots.&nbsp;

In response to a question at an event in Delhi on global reactions to CAA and other developments, EAM said, "Maybe we are getting to know who our friends really are."

"Kind of a geopolitical assessment, there was a time when India was very defensive. Our capabilities were less, our risks were higher. We adopted a policy of managing the world and kind of staying away. We can't do that anymore. We are the fifth-largest economy in the world. We will one day be the third-largest economy in the world. Nature of the world has changed," he added.

" As we get more capable, as our confidence level goes, as our interest in the world goes up, their interest in us go up, we have to do management in a different we. We have to engage everybody. It is a kind of portfolio management, how do u spread your bets, and get the best," he added.

Iran has been most vocal in its reaction to the recent developments in India. Iran's Supreme Leader Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei and Foreign Minister Javad Zarif in a tweet condemned the recent developments in India.&nbsp;

Khamenei in a tweet said, "The hearts of Muslims all over the world are grieving over the massacre of Muslims in India. The govt of India should confront extremist Hindus &amp; their parties &amp; stop the massacre of Muslims in order to prevent India’s isolation from the world of Islam."

The Delhi riots issue was discussed in the British Parliament while Indonesia raised the matter with Indian envoy to Jakarta. Protests have taken place in countries like Bangladesh.&nbsp;

Even Democratic presidential candidate in the US Bernie Sanders slammed President Donald Trump for not raising the matter during his recent India trip.

Slams&nbsp;UNHRC

Slamming the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, he said "She has been wronged before."

He also highlighted how Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) never talked about the issue of cross border emanating from Pakistan.&nbsp;

"I have seen from the same body, reports about, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, how carefully they skirt around cross border terrorism problem, as though it has somehow nothing to do with the country next door," he said.

Last week, OHCHR announced that it will be moving to India's top court on CAA. &nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that India was getting to know its real friends amid controversy and global reaction to newly enacted Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Delhi riots.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that India was getting to know its real friends amid controversy and global reaction to newly enacted Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) and Delhi riots. In response to a question at an event in Delhi on global reactions to CAA and other developments, EAM said, "Maybe we are getting to know who our friends really are." "Kind of a geopolitical assessment, there was a time when India was very defensive. Our capabilities were less, our risks were higher. We adopted a policy of managing the world and kind of staying away. We can't do that anymore. We are the fifth-largest economy in the world. We will one day be the third-largest economy in the world. Nature of the world has changed," he added. " As we get more capable, as our confidence level goes, as our interest in the world goes up, their interest in us go up, we have to do management in a different we. We have to engage everybody. It is a kind of portfolio management, how do u spread your bets, and get the best," he added. Iran has been most vocal in its reaction to the recent developments in India. Iran's Supreme Leader Imam Sayyid Ali Khamenei and Foreign Minister Javad Zarif in a tweet condemned the recent developments in India. Khamenei in a tweet said, "The hearts of Muslims all over the world are grieving over the massacre of Muslims in India. The govt of India should confront extremist Hindus & their parties & stop the massacre of Muslims in order to prevent India’s isolation from the world of Islam." The Delhi riots issue was discussed in the British Parliament while Indonesia raised the matter with Indian envoy to Jakarta. Protests have taken place in countries like Bangladesh. Even Democratic presidential candidate in the US Bernie Sanders slammed President Donald Trump for not raising the matter during his recent India trip. Slams UNHRC Slamming the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet, he said "She has been wronged before." He also highlighted how Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) never talked about the issue of cross border emanating from Pakistan. "I have seen from the same body, reports about, the situation in Jammu and Kashmir, how carefully they skirt around cross border terrorism problem, as though it has somehow nothing to do with the country next door," he said. Last week, OHCHR announced that it will be moving to India's top court on CAA.

We are getting to know who our friends really are: EAM on global rection to CAA, Delhi riots 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that New Delhi has "friends and influence" in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

The comments came even as US and Taliban signed a deal enabling American troops to leave the war-ravaged South Asian country even as questions remain over intra-Afghan talks.&nbsp;

"Today, we Indians, have a very high standing in Afghan society. People genuinely like us. A lot of the work we have done is appreciated. And when it comes to Afghanistan, my own sense is, people tend to be too hard on ourselves. I think we have influence, I think we have a record, I think we have friends in Afghanistan and around Afghanistan. And my own sense is that serious conversations about Afghanistan have only now just begun. We are entering a new phase, that phase has only just begun now," EAM said while speaking at an event in Delhi. &nbsp;

Asked about Pakistan's role as ''destabliser'' in the region and role in Afghanistan, Jaishankar said, "Pakistan is the neighbour. It is the proximate neighbour. Our border with Afghanistan is smaller than Pakistan's. But you have to ask yourself what has Pakistan done, in the last 20 years, what has been their contribution".

Elaborating, "What is their mindset, most people know that...eventually all of us have a reputation, records, friends, partners, interests..it will play out..it will not play out in a hurry, but it will play out."

New Delhi was represented by Indian envoy to Qatar P Kumaran as a witness at the signing of the US-Taliban agreement signed on 29th February.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that New Delhi has "friends and influence" in Afghanistan. The comments came even as US and Taliban signed a deal enabling American troops to leave the war-ravaged South Asian country even as questions remain over intra-Afghan talks.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said that New Delhi has "friends and influence" in Afghanistan. The comments came even as US and Taliban signed a deal enabling American troops to leave the war-ravaged South Asian country even as questions remain over intra-Afghan talks. "Today, we Indians, have a very high standing in Afghan society. People genuinely like us. A lot of the work we have done is appreciated. And when it comes to Afghanistan, my own sense is, people tend to be too hard on ourselves. I think we have influence, I think we have a record, I think we have friends in Afghanistan and around Afghanistan. And my own sense is that serious conversations about Afghanistan have only now just begun. We are entering a new phase, that phase has only just begun now," EAM said while speaking at an event in Delhi. Asked about Pakistan's role as ''destabliser'' in the region and role in Afghanistan, Jaishankar said, "Pakistan is the neighbour. It is the proximate neighbour. Our border with Afghanistan is smaller than Pakistan's. But you have to ask yourself what has Pakistan done, in the last 20 years, what has been their contribution". Elaborating, "What is their mindset, most people know that...eventually all of us have a reputation, records, friends, partners, interests..it will play out..it will not play out in a hurry, but it will play out." New Delhi was represented by Indian envoy to Qatar P Kumaran as a witness at the signing of the US-Taliban agreement signed on 29th February.

India has 'friends and influence' in Afghanistan: S Jaishankar

The swab samples of Indians stranded in Iran will arrive in India on Saturday morning, the Iranian Embassy said in a statement. The flight will also carry back many of the Iranian nationals stranded in India. The nationals were stranded after directs flights between the two countries were cancelled by India over coronavirus fears.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-people-lost-800000-pounds-in-coronavirus-related-scams-284833">UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams</a>

The Indian Aviation Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri earlier in the day said: "Evacuation of Indians from Iran is being planned in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Government of Iran"

The Iranian mission has also suggested "more and adequate flights to New Delhi and Mumbai" to ensure stranded nationals of both the countries can return swiftly.

Six experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research and Health Ministry are in Iran to facilitate the process of return of Indian nationals.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The swab samples of Indians stranded in Iran will arrive in India on Saturday morning, the Iranian Embassy said in a statement. The flight will also carry back many of the Iranian nationals stranded in India.

The swab samples of Indians stranded in Iran will arrive in India on Saturday morning, the Iranian Embassy said in a statement. The flight will also carry back many of the Iranian nationals stranded in India. The nationals were stranded after directs flights between the two countries were cancelled by India over coronavirus fears. Also read: UK people lost 800,000 pounds in coronavirus-related scams The Indian Aviation Minister, Hardeep Singh Puri earlier in the day said: "Evacuation of Indians from Iran is being planned in consultation with the Ministry of Health and Government of Iran" The Iranian mission has also suggested "more and adequate flights to New Delhi and Mumbai" to ensure stranded nationals of both the countries can return swiftly. Six experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research and Health Ministry are in Iran to facilitate the process of return of Indian nationals.

Coronavirus: Swab samples of stranded Indians in Iran to reach on Saturday

Commerce minister of Afghanistan Ajmal Ahmadi who is currently on a visit to India spoke exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. During the conversation, Ajmal said his country sees India as a strategic partner and plans to increase trade with New Delhi to the tune of $5 billion. The commerce minister without naming Pakistan said Afghanistan's neighbours can no longer inhibit access to international markets.

<img alt="Afghanistan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a29fc2aa-495b-4208-ada9-f5fa280bfc09" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sidhant111main1.jpg" />

WION: How do You see India as a partner in investment &amp; trade for your country?

Ajmal Ahmadi: We see India as a strategic partner. India is Afghanistan's one of the largest trading partner. Bilaterally, trade stands at $900 million. When President Ghani met PM Modi a few years ago, they both agreed on reaching the goal of increasing trade at $5 billion over the next few years.&nbsp;

What we have done is, we have created a number of programmes over the past few years to make that a reality. First of all, we created an air corridor programme which was announced by both PM Modi and President Ghani a few years ago and it has seen strong success and that is why we have seen an increase in bilateral trade in past few years. We have also moved forward on Chabahar project which is a joint project and we have beginning to see fruits of that decision as well. We have set high objectives and we have created some specific projects to meet that goal and we are moving well along that way.

WION: One of the projects in Afghanistan is the India Air corridor, can you give an update on how the project is doing?

Ajmal Ahmadi: The programme was inaugurated in June 2017. Since that time, we have exported approximately 12000 MT of goods to India. That been through 1100 flights and that has generated revenue for Afghan traders worth $275 million. So you can see just in the span of two and a half years it's grown from a single flight that we had now to the programme of daily flights coming back and forth. I think that's the impact the programme has had.&nbsp;

WION: Afghanistan is being termed as land-linked country, rather than a land-locked country. Can you elaborate...

Ajmal Ahmadi: It has been President Ghani's main objective. We want to change focus. If you look at Afghanistan, its a problem to be in the region, we see it as an opportunity. We are linked to one of the largest markets in the world including India, China, Central Aisa and Middle-East and that provides an opportunity.&nbsp;

So how have we changed this perception? Well first, we have created a number of new programmes. An example is the air corridor programme, which countries, our neighbours can no longer inhibit access to international markets and so we have access to international markets.&nbsp;

We have diversified our ports, so previously we have had our goods through Karachi port, now we have started work on Chabahar port and I think Indian companies are coming and investing. Third, we have multiple rail links. Five years ago, we have one rail link, and we did not export. We now have four rail links, two with Turkmenistan, one with Uzbekistan and another with Iran.&nbsp;

Each rail link provides opportunities to export from regional markets. So we have numbered these programmes. We have Lapis lazuli programme which allow us to export from on ground from Turkmenistan all the way to Turkey and Europe. What that has allowed us to do is diversify our export market and we are not depended on one export transit market.

WION: How do you see the Chabahar project given the US-Iran tensions...

Ajmal Ahmadi: We see Chabahar as a strategic objective, both the Indian and Iranian governments sees it like that as well. There have been issues in&nbsp;implementation&nbsp;but the important thing to notice is that&nbsp;strategic objective has been achieved.&nbsp;

We have established the Chabahar port. The second thing to take into account is that despite tensions between US and Iran, the one exemption they gave for Iran was to allow an exemption for Chabahar.&nbsp;

We have now worked with US and Indian government officials to ensure that this explanation is clarified on written notifications and the US treasury has recently made that official and what that has done is that&nbsp;it has allowed Indian companies to come back and invest. We expect&nbsp;that this is going to be a long term process but again we see it strategically, so if it takes a little bit longer that is part of the process but in long term, we all have the same goals.

WION: How do you see Indian companies investing in your country?

Ajmal Ahmadi: India is Afghanistan's largest trading partner. We have bilateral trade of $900 million and we expect it reach $5 billion in the next few years. Secondly, we have a number of Indian companies investing in Afghanistan, in mining and agriculture as consultants. What we are doing is to provide the right framework to make sure it happens.

Commerce minister of Afghanistan Ajmal Ahmadi who is currently on a visit to India spoke exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. During the conversation, Ajmal said his country sees India as a strategic partner and plans to increase trade with New Delhi to the tune of $5 billion.

Commerce minister of Afghanistan Ajmal Ahmadi who is currently on a visit to India spoke exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. During the conversation, Ajmal said his country sees India as a strategic partner and plans to increase trade with New Delhi to the tune of $5 billion. The commerce minister without naming Pakistan said Afghanistan's neighbours can no longer inhibit access to international markets. WION: How do You see India as a partner in investment & trade for your country? Ajmal Ahmadi: We see India as a strategic partner. India is Afghanistan's one of the largest trading partner. Bilaterally, trade stands at $900 million. When President Ghani met PM Modi a few years ago, they both agreed on reaching the goal of increasing trade at $5 billion over the next few years. What we have done is, we have created a number of programmes over the past few years to make that a reality. First of all, we created an air corridor programme which was announced by both PM Modi and President Ghani a few years ago and it has seen strong success and that is why we have seen an increase in bilateral trade in past few years. We have also moved forward on Chabahar project which is a joint project and we have beginning to see fruits of that decision as well. We have set high objectives and we have created some specific projects to meet that goal and we are moving well along that way. WION: One of the projects in Afghanistan is the India Air corridor, can you give an update on how the project is doing? Ajmal Ahmadi: The programme was inaugurated in June 2017. Since that time, we have exported approximately 12000 MT of goods to India. That been through 1100 flights and that has generated revenue for Afghan traders worth $275 million. So you can see just in the span of two and a half years it's grown from a single flight that we had now to the programme of daily flights coming back and forth. I think that's the impact the programme has had. WION: Afghanistan is being termed as land-linked country, rather than a land-locked country. Can you elaborate... Ajmal Ahmadi: It has been President Ghani's main objective. We want to change focus. If you look at Afghanistan, its a problem to be in the region, we see it as an opportunity. We are linked to one of the largest markets in the world including India, China, Central Aisa and Middle-East and that provides an opportunity. So how have we changed this perception? Well first, we have created a number of new programmes. An example is the air corridor programme, which countries, our neighbours can no longer inhibit access to international markets and so we have access to international markets. We have diversified our ports, so previously we have had our goods through Karachi port, now we have started work on Chabahar port and I think Indian companies are coming and investing. Third, we have multiple rail links. Five years ago, we have one rail link, and we did not export. We now have four rail links, two with Turkmenistan, one with Uzbekistan and another with Iran. Each rail link provides opportunities to export from regional markets. So we have numbered these programmes. We have Lapis lazuli programme which allow us to export from on ground from Turkmenistan all the way to Turkey and Europe. What that has allowed us to do is diversify our export market and we are not depended on one export transit market. WION: How do you see the Chabahar project given the US-Iran tensions... Ajmal Ahmadi: We see Chabahar as a strategic objective, both the Indian and Iranian governments sees it like that as well. There have been issues in implementation but the important thing to notice is that strategic objective has been achieved. We have established the Chabahar port. The second thing to take into account is that despite tensions between US and Iran, the one exemption they gave for Iran was to allow an exemption for Chabahar. We have now worked with US and Indian government officials to ensure that this explanation is clarified on written notifications and the US treasury has recently made that official and what that has done is that it has allowed Indian companies to come back and invest. We expect that this is going to be a long term process but again we see it strategically, so if it takes a little bit longer that is part of the process but in long term, we all have the same goals. WION: How do you see Indian companies investing in your country? Ajmal Ahmadi: India is Afghanistan's largest trading partner. We have bilateral trade of $900 million and we expect it reach $5 billion in the next few years. Secondly, we have a number of Indian companies investing in Afghanistan, in mining and agriculture as consultants. What we are doing is to provide the right framework to make sure it happens.

Strategic objective on Chabahar port has been achieved: Afghanistan commerce minister

Many Iranians stranded in India due to cancellation of flights between the two&nbsp;countries over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-reports-first-death-as-china-reports-over-3000-deaths-284504">coronavirus</a> fears will be taken back on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/working-on-logistics-with-iranians-for-return-of-indians-due-to-coronavirus-foreign-minister-jaishankar-284479">Also Read: Working on logistics with Iran for return of Indians, says Jaishankar</a>

An empty flight from Iran will be coming to India on Friday to take them back.&nbsp;

An Iranian source when asked how many Iranians will be going back said, "We are in the process of mobilizing".

The Indian government&nbsp;is making efforts to bring back its stranded citizens from the affected regions of Iran. Indian medical teams are in the process of setting up a clinic in Qom city -&nbsp;one of the worst affected regions of Iran hit by&nbsp;coronavirus.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar in a tweet said, "Working on logistics of return with Iranian authorities."

So far there are no cases of Indians being infected with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-held-on-cruise-ship-off-california-over-coronavirus-fears-284391">coronavirus</a> in Iran. India plans to bring its stranded citizens back via normal civil aviation channels.

Many Iranians stranded in India due to cancellation of flights between the two countries over coronavirus fears will be taken back on Friday. Also Read: Working on logistics with Iran for return of Indians, says Jaishankar An empty flight from Iran will be coming to India on Friday to take them back.

Many Iranians stranded in India due to cancellation of flights between the two countries over coronavirus fears will be taken back on Friday. Also Read: Working on logistics with Iran for return of Indians, says Jaishankar An empty flight from Iran will be coming to India on Friday to take them back. An Iranian source when asked how many Iranians will be going back said, "We are in the process of mobilizing". The Indian government is making efforts to bring back its stranded citizens from the affected regions of Iran. Indian medical teams are in the process of setting up a clinic in Qom city - one of the worst affected regions of Iran hit by coronavirus. India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar in a tweet said, "Working on logistics of return with Iranian authorities." So far there are no cases of Indians being infected with coronavirus in Iran. India plans to bring its stranded citizens back via normal civil aviation channels.

Coronavirus outbreak: Iranians stranded in India to be taken back on Friday

Even as the situation in Afghanistan remains precarious, India has said that it will continue to support the Afghan government and people of the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-has-been-a-crucial-partner-for-us-in-afghanistan-for-20-years-us-284056">Also Read: US says India crucial partner in Afghanistan</a>

The spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position has been consistent. &nbsp;India will continue to extend all support to the government and the people of Afghanistan in realizing their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future where the interests of all sections of Afghan society are protected."

On the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hours-after-trump-call-taliban-attacks-kill-20-in-afghanistan-officials-284194">US-Taliban</a> deal signed in Doha over the weekend, the external affairs ministry spokesman said,"We have noted that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan has welcomed the opportunity for peace and stability."

"India has always supported the opportunities that can end violence and cut ties with international terrorism. &nbsp;We are all aware of what the agreement provides. We are closely watching the situation."

India was represented at the signing of the deal by Indian envoy to Qatar P Kumaran.

Ahead of the signing of the deal, Indian foreign secretary&nbsp;Harsh Vardhan Shringla had visited Kabul and called the President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani,&nbsp;Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and former president Hamid Karzai, First Vice President-elect Amrullah Saleh, NSA Dr. Hamdullah Mohib and acting foreign minister Mohammad Haroon Chakhansuri.&nbsp;

India's official stance to the Afghan peace process is that it should be&nbsp;Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

Even as the situation in Afghanistan remains precarious, India has said that it will continue to support the Afghan government and people of the country. Also Read: US says India crucial partner in Afghanistan The spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position has been consistent.

Even as the situation in Afghanistan remains precarious, India has said that it will continue to support the Afghan government and people of the country. Also Read: US says India crucial partner in Afghanistan The spokesperson of the ministry of external affairs Raveesh Kumar said, "Our position has been consistent. India will continue to extend all support to the government and the people of Afghanistan in realizing their aspirations for a peaceful, democratic and prosperous future where the interests of all sections of Afghan society are protected." On the US-Taliban deal signed in Doha over the weekend, the external affairs ministry spokesman said,"We have noted that the entire political spectrum in Afghanistan has welcomed the opportunity for peace and stability." "India has always supported the opportunities that can end violence and cut ties with international terrorism. We are all aware of what the agreement provides. We are closely watching the situation." India was represented at the signing of the deal by Indian envoy to Qatar P Kumaran. Ahead of the signing of the deal, Indian foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla had visited Kabul and called the President of Afghanistan Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and former president Hamid Karzai, First Vice President-elect Amrullah Saleh, NSA Dr. Hamdullah Mohib and acting foreign minister Mohammad Haroon Chakhansuri. India's official stance to the Afghan peace process is that it should be Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

Will continue to support government and people of Afghanistan: India

India has asked China to take measures against entities that contribute to proliferation after New Delhi detained a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suspicious-karachi-bound-ship-carrying-explosives-held-in-gujarat-281072">Chinese</a> vessel carrying an alleged dual-use technology equipment.

The equipment, an autoclave, was being carried by a Chinese vessel "Da Cui Yan" to Pakistan and was detained off the coast of Gujarat.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/industrial-autoclave-seized-from-pakistan-bound-chinese-ship-at-kandla-port-can-be-used-in-shaheen-ii-missile-report-284261">Also Read: Autoclave seized from Pak-bound China ship can be used in Shaheen-II missile&nbsp;</a>

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, the vessel had "mis-declared the item that is was carrying....we have conveyed our concerns on this issue to the Chinese side and have highlighted that as a friendly country the Chinese government will take appropriate measures to ensure that the Chinese entities do not engage in activities that can contribute to proliferation."

The autoclave, that can be used for manufacturing long-range ballistic missiles and is controlled under Indian dual-use export control lists. It has been ascertained by Indian authorities after examination that it has military applications.

Meanwhile, China has said it "fulfils&nbsp;its international non-proliferation obligations".

The spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry Lijian Zhao said: "The item is a heat treatment furnace..produced by a private company in China. This is in not a dual-use item under non-proliferation export control".

India has asked China to take measures against entities that contribute to proliferation after New Delhi detained a Chinese vessel carrying an alleged dual-use technology equipment.

India has asked China to take measures against entities that contribute to proliferation after New Delhi detained a Chinese vessel carrying an alleged dual-use technology equipment. The equipment, an autoclave, was being carried by a Chinese vessel "Da Cui Yan" to Pakistan and was detained off the coast of Gujarat. Also Read: Autoclave seized from Pak-bound China ship can be used in Shaheen-II missile Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, the vessel had "mis-declared the item that is was carrying....we have conveyed our concerns on this issue to the Chinese side and have highlighted that as a friendly country the Chinese government will take appropriate measures to ensure that the Chinese entities do not engage in activities that can contribute to proliferation." The autoclave, that can be used for manufacturing long-range ballistic missiles and is controlled under Indian dual-use export control lists. It has been ascertained by Indian authorities after examination that it has military applications. Meanwhile, China has said it "fulfils its international non-proliferation obligations". The spokesperson of the Chinese foreign ministry Lijian Zhao said: "The item is a heat treatment furnace..produced by a private company in China. This is in not a dual-use item under non-proliferation export control".

Take measures against proliferation: India to China on Pak-bound detained vessel

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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