India and the European Union have postponed the 15th India-EU summit that was to take place in Brussels on March 13 over <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coronavirus-outbreak-29-people-test-positive-in-india-paytm-and-oyo-affected-284356">coronavirus</a> fears.

PM Modi was supposed to go for the summit whose main focus was to kick-start talks on India-EU free trade agreement.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/switzerland-reports-first-death-as-china-reports-over-3000-deaths-284504">Also Read: Switzerland reports first death as China reports over 3,000 deaths</a>

Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in response to a question in the weekly presser said, "With regard to the proposed India-EU Summit, both sides have agreed that due to health authorities advising against travel between regions, it would be wise to re-schedule the summit to a later mutually convenient date."&nbsp;

"The decision has been taken in the spirit of the close cooperation between India and the EU who share the same concerns and commitment to global health and hope that the outbreak is contained soon," the external affairs ministry spokesman said.

The EU mission in Delhi also issued a statement saying: "In view of precautionary measures related to the global spread of COVID-19, the EU and India have jointly decided to postpone the EU-India summit foreseen initially for March 13 in Brussels."

Several major events have been postponed over coronavirus fears. The Indian navy had earlier postponed its largest exercise&nbsp;- Milan 2020. Navies from over 30 countries were to participate in the exercise&nbsp;in Visakhapatnam from March 18 to 27.

"It is for information that MILAN 2020...has been postponed taking into consideration the safety of all participants and travel restrictions imposed by the spread of COVID-19," the Indian Navy said.

Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) also postponed the 21st Asian Security Conference (ASC) to a later date due to ongoing global situation regarding coronavirus.

India and the European Union have postponed the 15th India-EU summit that was to take place in Brussels on March 13 over coronavirus fears. PM Modi was supposed to go for the summit whose main focus was to kick-start talks on India-EU free trade agreement.

India and the European Union have postponed the 15th India-EU summit that was to take place in Brussels on March 13 over coronavirus fears. PM Modi was supposed to go for the summit whose main focus was to kick-start talks on India-EU free trade agreement. Also Read: Switzerland reports first death as China reports over 3,000 deaths Ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in response to a question in the weekly presser said, "With regard to the proposed India-EU Summit, both sides have agreed that due to health authorities advising against travel between regions, it would be wise to re-schedule the summit to a later mutually convenient date." "The decision has been taken in the spirit of the close cooperation between India and the EU who share the same concerns and commitment to global health and hope that the outbreak is contained soon," the external affairs ministry spokesman said. The EU mission in Delhi also issued a statement saying: "In view of precautionary measures related to the global spread of COVID-19, the EU and India have jointly decided to postpone the EU-India summit foreseen initially for March 13 in Brussels." Several major events have been postponed over coronavirus fears. The Indian navy had earlier postponed its largest exercise - Milan 2020. Navies from over 30 countries were to participate in the exercise in Visakhapatnam from March 18 to 27. "It is for information that MILAN 2020...has been postponed taking into consideration the safety of all participants and travel restrictions imposed by the spread of COVID-19," the Indian Navy said. Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (MP-IDSA) also postponed the 21st Asian Security Conference (ASC) to a later date due to ongoing global situation regarding coronavirus.

India-EU summit postponed over coronavirus fears

India has demarched the Turkish envoy in Delhi Şakir Özkan Torunlar over remarks by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan calling <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/our-future-has-been-burnt-here-rahul-gandhi-on-gutted-school-in-riot-hit-northeast-delhi-284307">Delhi</a> riots a "massacre".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-summons-iran-envoy-over-fms-remarks-on-delhi-riots-283890">Also Read: India summons Iran envoy over FM's remarks on Delhi riots</a>

The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"The comments by the Turkish president are&nbsp;factually inaccurate and are driven by his political agenda. We do not expect such irresponsible statements from a head of state."

The Turkish envoy was demarched on March 3. The relationship between India and Turkey have&nbsp;nosedived after a number of anti-India remarks by Turkish President Erdoğan.

This is the second demarch to the envoy by New Delhi this year. India had demarched the Turkish envoy in February of this year as well after Turkish President raised Kashmir in the Pakistani Parliament during his visit to the country.

That time the ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "This recent episode is but one more example of a pattern of Turkey interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. India finds that completely unacceptable. We particularly reject the repeated attempts by Turkey to justify the cross border terrorism practiced so blatantly by Pakistan."

India has demarched the Turkish envoy in Delhi Şakir Özkan Torunlar over remarks by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan calling Delhi riots a "massacre". Also Read: India summons Iran envoy over FM's remarks on Delhi riots The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"The comments by the Turkish president are factually inaccurate and are driven by his political agenda.

India has demarched the Turkish envoy in Delhi Şakir Özkan Torunlar over remarks by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan calling Delhi riots a "massacre". Also Read: India summons Iran envoy over FM's remarks on Delhi riots The ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said,"The comments by the Turkish president are factually inaccurate and are driven by his political agenda. We do not expect such irresponsible statements from a head of state." The Turkish envoy was demarched on March 3. The relationship between India and Turkey have nosedived after a number of anti-India remarks by Turkish President Erdoğan. This is the second demarch to the envoy by New Delhi this year. India had demarched the Turkish envoy in February of this year as well after Turkish President raised Kashmir in the Pakistani Parliament during his visit to the country. That time the ministry of external affairs in a statement said, "This recent episode is but one more example of a pattern of Turkey interfering in the internal affairs of other countries. India finds that completely unacceptable. We particularly reject the repeated attempts by Turkey to justify the cross border terrorism practiced so blatantly by Pakistan."

Do not expect irresponsible statements from President Erdogan: India on Delhi riots

Air India has raised a bill of almost Rs 6 crore for evacuating 647 people from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus. The minister of state in the Ministry of External Affairs V.

Air India has raised a bill of almost Rs 6 crore for evacuating 647 people from Wuhan, the epicentre of coronavirus. The minister of state in the Ministry of External Affairs V. Muraleedharan in response to a question in Lok Sabha said, "Air India has raised a bill of Rs. 5,98,90,352/- for operating two special flights to China." The state carrier spent Rs 92,566.23 on each of the 647 people to evacuate them from China, worst impacted by Coronavirus. Air India's two special flights were sent to Wuhan on January 31st and February 1st to evacuate 640 Indians and 7 Maldivians. India had sent three flights to evacuate its citizens and many foreigners from Wuhan. Barring the two Air India flight, an Air Force C17 was sent in the last week of February to evacuate more people. "An Indian Airforce flight carrying relief material to China also carried Indian citizens from Wuhan, China on its return journey. Expenditure details are yet to be received from the Ministry of Defence."Muraleedharan said. Government of India evacuated a total of 766 persons, including 723 Indian nationals and 43 foreigners from China. 119 Indians have been brought back to India from the cruise ship Diamond princesses which was quarantined off the coast of Japan.

Air India raises Rs 6 crore bill for evacuating 647 from coronavirus epicentre Wuhan

The UN Committee on Palestine has lauded India's support to Palestine and said New Delhi can play a proactive role in Israel Palestine peace process.&nbsp;

The chairman of United Nations committee on the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and Senegal's permanent envoy to UN Cheikh Niang also lauded India's increased contribution to UNRWA ( United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) in an interview with WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal. The committee is in Delhi and met the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Edited excerpts:

 
WION: How do see Indian support for the Palestinian cause?

Cheikh Niang: The support is consistent. India was the first non-Arab country&nbsp;to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), and in 1988, India was among the first few countries in the world to recognise the state of Palestine. Through its activity, India has contributed a lot to Palestine by giving technical assistance, scientific assistance in the field of science, technology, art, youth, health, education and culture. Even recently when UNRWA ( United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) was in crisis, India decided to increase its participation to the agency increasing its contribution to $5 million, which is hefty.

 
WION: What more you would expect from India?

Cheikh Niang: First of all, I would like to say, we are very happy at the committee at the way India is continuing its support to Palestine. What we have also said to the Indian authorities is that India is a major player in the world. India is a major power and it is respected, political power, economic power and we think India can also play a proactive role in helping restart the process to find peace for Palestine.

 
WION: You said India can help restart the process to find peace for Palestine, how do u see Indian role in the Israel Palestine peace process?

 
Cheikh Niang: India has good relation with Palestine and Israel. This is an asset for India to play a better role. It's a platform, which many countries don't have. With this Indian participation can be more fruitful.&nbsp;

The UN Committee on Palestine has lauded India's support to Palestine and said New Delhi can play a proactive role in Israel Palestine peace process. The chairman of United Nations committee on the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and Senegal's permanent envoy to UN Cheikh Niang also lauded India's increased contribution to UNRWA ( United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) in an interview with WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal.

The UN Committee on Palestine has lauded India's support to Palestine and said New Delhi can play a proactive role in Israel Palestine peace process. The chairman of United Nations committee on the exercise of the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people and Senegal's permanent envoy to UN Cheikh Niang also lauded India's increased contribution to UNRWA ( United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) in an interview with WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal. The committee is in Delhi and met the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. Edited excerpts: WION: How do see Indian support for the Palestinian cause? Cheikh Niang: The support is consistent. India was the first non-Arab country to recognise the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), and in 1988, India was among the first few countries in the world to recognise the state of Palestine. Through its activity, India has contributed a lot to Palestine by giving technical assistance, scientific assistance in the field of science, technology, art, youth, health, education and culture. Even recently when UNRWA ( United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East) was in crisis, India decided to increase its participation to the agency increasing its contribution to $5 million, which is hefty. WION: What more you would expect from India? Cheikh Niang: First of all, I would like to say, we are very happy at the committee at the way India is continuing its support to Palestine. What we have also said to the Indian authorities is that India is a major player in the world. India is a major power and it is respected, political power, economic power and we think India can also play a proactive role in helping restart the process to find peace for Palestine. WION: You said India can help restart the process to find peace for Palestine, how do u see Indian role in the Israel Palestine peace process? Cheikh Niang: India has good relation with Palestine and Israel. This is an asset for India to play a better role. It's a platform, which many countries don't have. With this Indian participation can be more fruitful.

India can play active role in Israel-Palestine peace process, says UN Committee on Palestine 

India has summoned Iran Envoy Ali Chegeni over remarks made by Iran FM Javad Zarif.&nbsp;

New Delhi lodged&nbsp;a strong protest over remarks made by Zarif on "matters internal to India."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-team-arrives-as-death-toll-in-coronavirus-climbs-to-66-in-iran-283841">UN team arrives as death toll in coronavirus climbs to 66 in Iran</a>&nbsp;

Iran FM in a tweet on Monday evening condemned the riots in Delhi in a tone that riled Indian authorities.&nbsp;

Zarif in the tweet said, "Iran condemns the wave of organised violence against Indian Muslims."

Adding, "For centuries, Iran has been a friend of India. We urge Indian authorities to ensure the wellbeing of ALL Indians &amp; not let senseless thuggery prevail. Path forward lies in peaceful dialogue and rule of law."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-working-with-iran-to-bring-home-stranded-indians-jaishankar-283618">Government working with Iran to bring home stranded Indians: Jaishankar</a>

The development comes even as both sides are engaging with each other.&nbsp;Many Indian &amp; Iranian citizens are stranded in each other's countries over coronavirus fears.&nbsp;

India has summoned Iran Envoy Ali Chegeni over remarks made by Iran FM Javad Zarif. New Delhi lodged a strong protest over remarks made by Zarif on "matters internal to India.

India has summoned Iran Envoy Ali Chegeni over remarks made by Iran FM Javad Zarif. New Delhi lodged a strong protest over remarks made by Zarif on "matters internal to India." Also read: UN team arrives as death toll in coronavirus climbs to 66 in Iran Iran FM in a tweet on Monday evening condemned the riots in Delhi in a tone that riled Indian authorities. Zarif in the tweet said, "Iran condemns the wave of organised violence against Indian Muslims." Adding, "For centuries, Iran has been a friend of India. We urge Indian authorities to ensure the wellbeing of ALL Indians & not let senseless thuggery prevail. Path forward lies in peaceful dialogue and rule of law." Also read: Government working with Iran to bring home stranded Indians: Jaishankar The development comes even as both sides are engaging with each other. Many Indian & Iranian citizens are stranded in each other's countries over coronavirus fears.

India summons Iran envoy over FM's remarks on Delhi riots

Indian Navy has postponed its largest Naval exercise --Milan 2020 -- given the safety of all participants and travel restrictions due to deadly coronavirus. Navies from over 30 countries were to participate in the exercise in Visakhapatnam from March 18th to March 27th.

Indian Navy has postponed its largest Naval exercise --Milan 2020 -- given the safety of all participants and travel restrictions due to deadly coronavirus. Navies from over 30 countries were to participate in the exercise in Visakhapatnam from March 18th to March 27th. Indian navy said, "It is for information that MILAN 2020...has been postponed taking into consideration the safety of all participants and travel restrictions imposed by the spread of COVID-19." The Indian Navy will schedule MILAN at a later convenient date. MILAN began in 1995 in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and grew with each passing decade to have Navies from 17 countries in 2018. This was the 11th edition of MILAN and was being held under the aegis of Eastern Naval Command. This is the second major event in the Indian Subcontinent to be postponed. Nepal on Monday announced that it will postpone Sagarmatha Sambaad that was to take place in April 2020. Leaders from across the South Asian region including PM Modi was invited for the event focused on discussing regional and global developments.

India's largest naval exercise postponed due to coronavirus scare  

In his first reaction to historic peace deal inked between the Taliban and the United States in Doha on Saturday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the agreement was akin to yesteryear's blockbuster Pakeezah and added, while it was "not a surprise", the current situation in Afghanistan is being carefully watched.

In his first reaction to historic peace deal inked between the Taliban and the United States in Doha on Saturday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the agreement was akin to yesteryear's blockbuster Pakeezah and added, while it was "not a surprise", the current situation in Afghanistan is being carefully watched. "What we saw.. in a way it was not a surprise. Everybody knew, It is being talked about for so long. It was like finally seeing Pakeezah after 17 trailers," he said. "Issue for us is that for at the moment the United States is talking in terms of thining down its presence and providing support to the government in Kabul. How that plays out, time will tell," he explained. According to the deal, foreign forces will leave the country and the Taliban will be delisted from the United Nations Security Council's sanctions list. EAM said India's message to the "US and to the West" is that "achievements of the last 18 years is in global interest that those achievements are secured, protected and not jeopardized." He said while India will "wait and see how this plays out", real negotiations "will start now and then we will have to see many of the assumptions that we had, how cohesive are various players, what do they do and what are their demands. Does the Taliban join a democratic setup or does a democratic setup adjusts to the Taliban." India's official policy has been an "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" peace talks. New Delhi has emerged as a major partner of Kabul in last 18 year and helping develop infrastructure projects like the National Parliament in Kabul and the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat and many community and capacity building projects. India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla was in Kabul on Friday and Saturday and called on President Dr. Ashraf Ghani, Chief Executive Dr. Abdullah Abdullah and former President Hamid Karzai, First Vice President-elect Amrullah Saleh, NSA Dr. Hamdullah Mohib, Acting Foreign Minister Mohammad Haroon Chakhansuri and Acting Finance Minister Abdul Zadran.

EAM Jaishankar compares US-Taliban peace deal to Pakeezah movie trailer release  

Calgary's south Asian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi has said Canada is "defiantly open" at a time of global backlash on the free movement of people and trade.&nbsp;

Calgary's Indian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi said, "What is critical about the success of Canada is that in a world which is increasingly defined about the closure, closed borders, close heart, closed minds the Canadian mindset is we are defiantly open, open to people, open to best ideas."

"I always brag the H1B visa in the US is impossible to get but equivalent visa in Canada can be processed in 10 days, we continue to be open to people from around the world particularly people from the subcontinent," she added.

Calgary is third largest city of Canada and one in 10 people in the city are of south Asian descent.&nbsp;

Asked about his Indian origin, Nenshi said, "my family is part of the great Indian diaspora, we are Kutchi Gujarati my story is an interesting one, my family came from Tanzania to Canada but what is extraordinary is how ordinary it is. People of South Asian origin are a great leader in Canada in business, in govt, in NGO and are well integrated in the community."

Adding, "Butter chicken is the single most eaten dish in Canada.Now is the time to strengthen link between NRIs in Canada and great opportunities here".

Naheed was sworn in as Calgary's 36th mayor on October 25, 2010 and 
was re-elected in 2013 and 2017.

Hoping to build stronger ties between his city and India, he said "We are very excited about building stronger links between India and Canada generally and particularly Calgary, build on existing business and family links".

Calgary's south Asian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi has said Canada is "defiantly open" at a time of global backlash on the free movement of people and trade.

Calgary's south Asian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi has said Canada is "defiantly open" at a time of global backlash on the free movement of people and trade. Calgary's Indian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi said, "What is critical about the success of Canada is that in a world which is increasingly defined about the closure, closed borders, close heart, closed minds the Canadian mindset is we are defiantly open, open to people, open to best ideas." "I always brag the H1B visa in the US is impossible to get but equivalent visa in Canada can be processed in 10 days, we continue to be open to people from around the world particularly people from the subcontinent," she added. Calgary is third largest city of Canada and one in 10 people in the city are of south Asian descent. Asked about his Indian origin, Nenshi said, "my family is part of the great Indian diaspora, we are Kutchi Gujarati my story is an interesting one, my family came from Tanzania to Canada but what is extraordinary is how ordinary it is. People of South Asian origin are a great leader in Canada in business, in govt, in NGO and are well integrated in the community." Adding, "Butter chicken is the single most eaten dish in Canada.Now is the time to strengthen link between NRIs in Canada and great opportunities here". Naheed was sworn in as Calgary's 36th mayor on October 25, 2010 and was re-elected in 2013 and 2017. Hoping to build stronger ties between his city and India, he said "We are very excited about building stronger links between India and Canada generally and particularly Calgary, build on existing business and family links".

Calgary's Indian origin mayor Naheed Kurban Nenshi says Canada is defiantly open

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country.&nbsp;

Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as&nbsp;health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours. At least 43 people have died in Iran due to coronavirus and and 593 have been infected.

In a note verbale, Iranian mission said, "The Ministry of Health of the Islamic Republic of Iran has communicated its full preparedness for carrying out of needful medical examination based on relevant health protocols in respect of screening the Coronavirus at the health centres established in the Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran, and also at other points of exit from Iran, including land borders which could be used in favour of Indian nationals at the time of their departure from Iran."

The Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, in a tweet, said, 'working to facilitate the return of&nbsp;Indians who wish&nbsp;to come back home".

"Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," he also said.&nbsp;

Most of the impacted are Kashmiri pilgrims and students. As per a report, 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran.&nbsp;

India has suspended all flights from Iran including Mahan Air and Iran Air.

As per the Iranian Academic calendar, the schools and universities remain closed for almost 20 to 25 days from March 20 due to Nowrouz holidays, the Iranian New Year.

The Iran government has closed universities due to the coronavirus crisis and asked students to vacate their hostels.

The Tehran Gurudwara Sahib is facilitating the return of the Sikh families.

Meanwhile, Iran has requested New Delhi to allow the country's citizens who are stranded in India to be be taken back in special Iranian flights.

"Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel," Iran's Embassy said on Twitter.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Iran</a> expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/coronavirus?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#coronavirus</a> <a href="https://t.co/00MjPytCyN">pic.twitter.com/00MjPytCyN</a>
— Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) <a href="https://twitter.com/Iran_in_India/status/1233770444056080385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 29, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country. Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours.

India is set to evacute its citizens from Iran even as fears over corona rus grows in the west asian country. Iran on Saturday gave permission to India to evacuate its citizens from the country as health ministry reported nine new deaths and a 53 per cent jump in infections over the previous 24 hours. At least 43 people have died in Iran due to coronavirus and and 593 have been infected. In a note verbale, Iranian mission said, "The Ministry of Health of the Islamic Republic of Iran has communicated its full preparedness for carrying out of needful medical examination based on relevant health protocols in respect of screening the Coronavirus at the health centres established in the Imam Khomeini International Airport, Tehran, and also at other points of exit from Iran, including land borders which could be used in favour of Indian nationals at the time of their departure from Iran." The Indian envoy to Iran Gaddam Dharmendra, in a tweet, said, 'working to facilitate the return of Indians who wish to come back home". "Discussions are underway with concerned authorities to work out arrangements," he also said. Most of the impacted are Kashmiri pilgrims and students. As per a report, 100 Indian students and 300 pilgrims are stuck in Iran. India has suspended all flights from Iran including Mahan Air and Iran Air. As per the Iranian Academic calendar, the schools and universities remain closed for almost 20 to 25 days from March 20 due to Nowrouz holidays, the Iranian New Year. The Iran government has closed universities due to the coronavirus crisis and asked students to vacate their hostels. The Tehran Gurudwara Sahib is facilitating the return of the Sikh families. Meanwhile, Iran has requested New Delhi to allow the country's citizens who are stranded in India to be be taken back in special Iranian flights. "Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel," Iran's Embassy said on Twitter. #Iran expects from Indian authorities to provide the same facility for Iranian nationals at the time of departure from India and take immediate action for transfer of those passengers of both countries who have been affected as a result of existing limits on travel.#coronavirus pic.twitter.com/00MjPytCyN — Iran in India (@Iran_in_India) February 29, 2020 ×

India to evacuate citizens from Iran over coronavirus fears

During&nbsp;talks between Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump, Pakistan, Afghanistan and trade were the key focus with the latter highlighting that Islamabad has been pressing Washington to mediate on Kashmir.

A government source told WION, "Pakistani PM Imran Khan has been pressing to meditate on Kashmir, "something that is not going to happen". The source said&nbsp;Pakistani Prime Minister Khan has been "making a nuisance" on mediation. While there has been a "certain level of accommodation with Pakistan" by Washington in the backdrop of US Taliban deal but that doesn't make "anyone friend".

India raised the issue of cross border-terror emanating from Pakistan on which the US agreed that "states have the right to defend themselves" and Washington is "aware of the beast".

The source explained, the US understands the "need to keep an eye" on Pakistan and they will keep "pressure on Pakistan on its action with regards to taking action on terror"

Afghanistan remained the top focus, with the drawdown in troops being discussed even as US Taliban deal is being signed on Saturday in Doha. India appreciated on "were the US was coming from" after 19 years in Afghanistan and "drawdown should not precipitate" and both sides kept in mind "the gains made in last 19 years".

Fair amount of time was kept on trade and both sides agreed that "we would try and freeze on the current negotiations" and "will give it legal shape" as early as possible. Both sides are now working for the conclusion of the "phase one" of the trade deal at an early stage and the focus on "bilateral trade agreement".

The two-way trade between the two&nbsp;sides has grown with trade expected to go up to $160 billion in 2020-21.

With an increase in energy cooperation, energy import is expected to be $9 billion for financial year $9 billion from $4.7 billion in FY 2017-2018. Hydrocarbon trade is 11 per cent&nbsp;of the total trade. US exports have helped India diversify and Indian companies have invested in production facilities of US energy now.

On H1B1 visa issue, Trump took "note " and "heard the Indian side", the source said. Both sides appreciate the role of the Indian American community and Indian workers provide "democratic values" and "fit in better".

Indo-Pacific was another key focus point, with US international development finance corporation opening an office in Delhi and aiming&nbsp;to give $600 million&nbsp;in concessional loan.

India also "listened" to the US on Japan, US and Australia-led blue dot network. The project, aimed at countering China's Belt and Road(BRI)&nbsp;infrastructure, the initiative aims "to promote quality infrastructure investment that is open and inclusive, transparent, economically viable, financially, environmentally and socially sustainable, and compliant with international standards, laws, and regulations." according to State Department.

The official described the visit of US President Donald Trump as "challenging" in terms of logistics but greatly "satisfying".

According to the BARC's data, 46 million across India watched Namaste Trump event in Ahmedabad across 180 channels with a viewership of 11.69 billion viewing minutes.&nbsp;

During talks between Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump, Pakistan, Afghanistan and trade were the key focus with the latter highlighting that Islamabad has been pressing Washington to mediate on Kashmir.

During talks between Indian PM Modi and US President Donald Trump, Pakistan, Afghanistan and trade were the key focus with the latter highlighting that Islamabad has been pressing Washington to mediate on Kashmir. A government source told WION, "Pakistani PM Imran Khan has been pressing to meditate on Kashmir, "something that is not going to happen". The source said Pakistani Prime Minister Khan has been "making a nuisance" on mediation. While there has been a "certain level of accommodation with Pakistan" by Washington in the backdrop of US Taliban deal but that doesn't make "anyone friend". India raised the issue of cross border-terror emanating from Pakistan on which the US agreed that "states have the right to defend themselves" and Washington is "aware of the beast". The source explained, the US understands the "need to keep an eye" on Pakistan and they will keep "pressure on Pakistan on its action with regards to taking action on terror" Afghanistan remained the top focus, with the drawdown in troops being discussed even as US Taliban deal is being signed on Saturday in Doha. India appreciated on "were the US was coming from" after 19 years in Afghanistan and "drawdown should not precipitate" and both sides kept in mind "the gains made in last 19 years". Fair amount of time was kept on trade and both sides agreed that "we would try and freeze on the current negotiations" and "will give it legal shape" as early as possible. Both sides are now working for the conclusion of the "phase one" of the trade deal at an early stage and the focus on "bilateral trade agreement". The two-way trade between the two sides has grown with trade expected to go up to $160 billion in 2020-21. With an increase in energy cooperation, energy import is expected to be $9 billion for financial year $9 billion from $4.7 billion in FY 2017-2018. Hydrocarbon trade is 11 per cent of the total trade. US exports have helped India diversify and Indian companies have invested in production facilities of US energy now. On H1B1 visa issue, Trump took "note " and "heard the Indian side", the source said. Both sides appreciate the role of the Indian American community and Indian workers provide "democratic values" and "fit in better". Indo-Pacific was another key focus point, with US international development finance corporation opening an office in Delhi and aiming to give $600 million in concessional loan. India also "listened" to the US on Japan, US and Australia-led blue dot network. The project, aimed at countering China's Belt and Road(BRI) infrastructure, the initiative aims "to promote quality infrastructure investment that is open and inclusive, transparent, economically viable, financially, environmentally and socially sustainable, and compliant with international standards, laws, and regulations." according to State Department. The official described the visit of US President Donald Trump as "challenging" in terms of logistics but greatly "satisfying". According to the BARC's data, 46 million across India watched Namaste Trump event in Ahmedabad across 180 channels with a viewership of 11.69 billion viewing minutes.

Modi-Trump talks: US backed India's right to defend; to keep an 'eye on Pakistan'

India will be present at the signing of US-<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-taliban-expected-to-sign-peace-deal-on-february-29-mike-pompeo-282024">Taliban</a> deal which will be signed on February 29 in Doha. Indian envoy in Doha, Kumaran will be representing India after the invite&nbsp;was sent by the Qatari government.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/washington-looks-for-indian-support-ahead-of-taliban-us-deal-282155">Also Read: Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal</a>

The State Department in a release on February 21 had announced the agreement saying, "We are preparing for the signing to take place on February 29."

The deal hinges on "reduction of violence" and so far no major violence has happened in the landlocked South Asian country.

The State Department&nbsp;in the same release said, "Intra-Afghan negotiations will start soon thereafter, and will build on this fundamental step to deliver a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and the future political roadmap for Afghanistan."

The Taliban in its release confirmed the development saying, "Both parties will now create a suitable security situation in advance of agreement signing date, extend invitations to senior representatives of numerous countries and organizations to participate in the signing ceremony, make arrangements for the release of prisoners, structure a path for intra-Afghan negotiations with various political parties of the country".

Afghanistan and the US-Taliban peace deal was discussed during US President Donald Trump and&nbsp;PM Modi's meeting in Delhi this week.

US President Donald Trump in response to a question during his Delhi press conference had said, "I think India would like to see it happen. I spoke with Prime Minister Modi today, and I think they would very much like to see it happen."

"And we’re pretty close. We’ll see what’s going on. We’ve got two days now under our belt without violence or, I guess, a minimum of violence. And we’ll see what happens. But people want to see it," the US president had said.

India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has&nbsp;built the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and&nbsp;the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

&nbsp;

India will be present at the signing of US-Taliban deal which will be signed on February 29 in Doha. Indian envoy in Doha, Kumaran will be representing India after the invite was sent by the Qatari government.

India will be present at the signing of US-Taliban deal which will be signed on February 29 in Doha. Indian envoy in Doha, Kumaran will be representing India after the invite was sent by the Qatari government. Also Read: Washington looks for Indian support ahead of Taliban-US deal The State Department in a release on February 21 had announced the agreement saying, "We are preparing for the signing to take place on February 29." The deal hinges on "reduction of violence" and so far no major violence has happened in the landlocked South Asian country. The State Department in the same release said, "Intra-Afghan negotiations will start soon thereafter, and will build on this fundamental step to deliver a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire and the future political roadmap for Afghanistan." The Taliban in its release confirmed the development saying, "Both parties will now create a suitable security situation in advance of agreement signing date, extend invitations to senior representatives of numerous countries and organizations to participate in the signing ceremony, make arrangements for the release of prisoners, structure a path for intra-Afghan negotiations with various political parties of the country". Afghanistan and the US-Taliban peace deal was discussed during US President Donald Trump and PM Modi's meeting in Delhi this week. US President Donald Trump in response to a question during his Delhi press conference had said, "I think India would like to see it happen. I spoke with Prime Minister Modi today, and I think they would very much like to see it happen." "And we’re pretty close. We’ll see what’s going on. We’ve got two days now under our belt without violence or, I guess, a minimum of violence. And we’ll see what happens. But people want to see it," the US president had said. India is Afghanistan's major development partner and has built the India-Afghanistan friendship dam in the western province of Herat and the Afghan Parliament in capital Kabul.

Qatar invites India to be witness in Afghan peace deal in Doha

In a public statement, the Ministry of External Affairs has called on China to give a "positive consideration" over relief and the evacuation flight that India wanted to send.

The spokesperson for the MEA Raveesh Kumar said, "In a humanitarian gesture of medical relief, a gift reflecting the solidarity of the people of India with the people of China is expected to be delivered to Wuhan by a special flight. We have also called upon the Chinese authorities to allow Indian citizens and those of our neighbouring countries to return by the same flight. We hope that they will give it positive consideration.”

PM Modi had written to Chinese President Xi Jinping and offered Indian assistance in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak that has killed many in the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/china-delaying-permission-to-india-to-send-iaf-plane-to-wuhan-sources-282164">China delaying permission to India to send IAF plane to Wuhan</a>

The request for relief and evacuation flight was sent on February 13 and the proposed flight was expected to take off on February 20 but no clearance was given by Chinese side. During this time, three foreign flights were able to leave Wuhan.

India also reminded China, that it will "take precautions... in accordance with the WHO’s advisory about the outbreak of coronavirus infection, which is a global public health emergency" after Beijing called for ease of restrictions on trade and travel.

The MEA said, "Some restrictions have been imposed on the export of certain medical equipment in view of the fact that these items are in short supply here too."&nbsp;

Explaining, "responding to the needs of our Chinese friends, the government had allowed a one-time exemption for the export of some items which had been restricted for export."

The Chinese Embassy in a statement called on the Indian side to "review the epidemic situation in an objective, rational and calm manner" and "resume normal personnel exchanges and trade between our two countries as soon as possible."

In a public statement, the Ministry of External Affairs has called on China to give a "positive consideration" over relief and the evacuation flight that India wanted to send.

In a public statement, the Ministry of External Affairs has called on China to give a "positive consideration" over relief and the evacuation flight that India wanted to send. The spokesperson for the MEA Raveesh Kumar said, "In a humanitarian gesture of medical relief, a gift reflecting the solidarity of the people of India with the people of China is expected to be delivered to Wuhan by a special flight. We have also called upon the Chinese authorities to allow Indian citizens and those of our neighbouring countries to return by the same flight. We hope that they will give it positive consideration.” PM Modi had written to Chinese President Xi Jinping and offered Indian assistance in the aftermath of the coronavirus outbreak that has killed many in the country. Also read: China delaying permission to India to send IAF plane to Wuhan The request for relief and evacuation flight was sent on February 13 and the proposed flight was expected to take off on February 20 but no clearance was given by Chinese side. During this time, three foreign flights were able to leave Wuhan. India also reminded China, that it will "take precautions... in accordance with the WHO’s advisory about the outbreak of coronavirus infection, which is a global public health emergency" after Beijing called for ease of restrictions on trade and travel. The MEA said, "Some restrictions have been imposed on the export of certain medical equipment in view of the fact that these items are in short supply here too." Explaining, "responding to the needs of our Chinese friends, the government had allowed a one-time exemption for the export of some items which had been restricted for export." The Chinese Embassy in a statement called on the Indian side to "review the epidemic situation in an objective, rational and calm manner" and "resume normal personnel exchanges and trade between our two countries as soon as possible."

India, China spat continues as New Delhi asks Beijing to give clearance for relief, evacuation of nationals 

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