Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China.

WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials?

Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. &nbsp;We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together.

WION: Any request from the Maldives? <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/we-warmly-welcome-the-maldives-in-the-commonwealth-pm-modi-278067">India </a>gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December...

Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns.&nbsp;

WION: India evacuated seven&nbsp;of your citizens from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-chinese-whistleblower-doctor-who-flagged-coronavirus-dies-279173">Wuhan</a> which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China...

Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/maldives-bans-travellers-from-china-over-virus-fears-tourism-minister-278491">Maldives</a> soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off.

WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence?

Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces.

Maldives has requested India for another vessel, Maldives defence minister Mariya Didi told WION. In December, India had gifted a patrol vessel Kaamiyab to the Maldives National Defence Forces. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mariya Didi, also lauded the role of New Delhi in evacuating its citizens from Wuhan in the aftermath of coronavirus outbreak in China. WION: How was your visit to Def Expo in Lucknow and meet with Indian officials? Mariya Didi: It went very well. The CDS Bipin Rawat whom I met recently when he was army chief, was friendly as well. He made the time to see me. We had a good talk. He was very forthcoming, very friendly, very frank. We had a good discussion. We look forward for many more defence cooperation together. WION: Any request from the Maldives? India gifted vessel Kaamiyab to your country in December... Mariya Didi: We are very keen to have another vessel as well. We have a good positive signal from your government. The aftercare of these vessels are also concerns. WION: India evacuated seven of your citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the coronavirus in China... Mariya Didi: We would like to thank the government of India, as soon as we requested, you all brought our people, together with your people. They were also treated well. They all tested negative and very soon the quarantine period will be over and we hope they will be travelling to the Maldives soon. We did have a small child in the camp and I have been briefed that they are taken care off. WION: How do you see Chinese presence in the region and its influence? Mariya Didi: I don't think New Delhi has any reason to worry as far as the Chinese and us are concerned.

As defence ties grow, Maldives requests another vessel from India

In the past, Indian diplomats have lodged complaints about the harassment they faced&nbsp;in Pakistan. Now, diplomats hailing from other countries&nbsp;have&nbsp;raised the matter of harassment.

On January 21, the Belarusian diplomatic mission received a threatening email against one of its diplomats. The email from a certain Muhammad Ahmed Rashid labelled a certain diplomat from the mission as&nbsp;''anti-Pakistan'' and asked for him to be thrown out.&nbsp;

The Belarus mission raised the matter with Pakistani authorities seeking protection of the premises of the mission and demanding improved&nbsp;security.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-pm-imran-khan-declares-national-emergency-to-fight-locusts-278140">&nbsp;Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts</a>

The mission,&nbsp;in a strong message, asked the Pakistani foreign office to take action against the person who dropped the mail&nbsp;as a&nbsp;preventive measure.

2019 and 2018 saw several cased of harassment of Indian diplomats. From increased surveillance to cutting off electricity in cold winters of Islamabad to aggressively questioning anyone who visited the houses of Indian diplomats was increasingly becoming a norm.

In 2019, a major case of harassment of Indian diplomats&nbsp;by Pakistani security was witnessed. Within this, they physically stopped anyone attending an Iftar party hosted by the Indian mission.

In the past, Indian diplomats have lodged complaints about the harassment they faced in Pakistan. Now, diplomats hailing from other countries have raised the matter of harassment.

In the past, Indian diplomats have lodged complaints about the harassment they faced in Pakistan. Now, diplomats hailing from other countries have raised the matter of harassment. On January 21, the Belarusian diplomatic mission received a threatening email against one of its diplomats. The email from a certain Muhammad Ahmed Rashid labelled a certain diplomat from the mission as ''anti-Pakistan'' and asked for him to be thrown out. The Belarus mission raised the matter with Pakistani authorities seeking protection of the premises of the mission and demanding improved security. Also read: Pakistan PM Imran Khan declares national emergency to fight locusts The mission, in a strong message, asked the Pakistani foreign office to take action against the person who dropped the mail as a preventive measure. 2019 and 2018 saw several cased of harassment of Indian diplomats. From increased surveillance to cutting off electricity in cold winters of Islamabad to aggressively questioning anyone who visited the houses of Indian diplomats was increasingly becoming a norm. In 2019, a major case of harassment of Indian diplomats by Pakistani security was witnessed. Within this, they physically stopped anyone attending an Iftar party hosted by the Indian mission.

After Indian diplomats, Belarusian diplomats face harassment in Islamabad

India on Sunday evacuated seven Maldivian citizens from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus. The evacuated Maldivian residents have been brought to India in the second special Air India flight along with 323 Indian citizens.

India on Sunday evacuated seven Maldivian citizens from Wuhan, the epicentre of the coronavirus. The evacuated Maldivian residents have been brought to India in the second special Air India flight along with 323 Indian citizens. Speaking to WION, Maldives Foreign minister Abdulla Shahid said, "We thank Prime Minister Modi and this timely assistance once again. This once again clearly demonstrates the special friendship that exists between two countries and its people." Abdulla also thanked External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Indian envoy to Maldives Sanjay Sudhir and Indian Envoy to China Vikram Misri. 7 Maldivians in #Wuhan are on their way to Delhi on a special #AirIndia flight. Upon arrival they will be housed in Delhi for a period of quarantine. Deep gratitude to PM @narendramodi and EM @DrSJaishankar. Special thanks to Ambassadors @VikramMisri @sunjaysudhir and their teams — Abdulla Shahid (@abdulla_shahid) February 2, 2020 × Meanwhile, Maldives Envoy to India, Aishah Didi said seven Maldivians will be "quarantined for the duration that would be recommended by the medical professionals attending to them in Delhi", adding, "We are immensely grateful to the government of India for the support". Early last month, India sent 3,00,00 measles vaccines to the Indian ocean country within 72 hours of the request. As worries over outbreak grow India, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Nepal decided to evacuate its citizens from Wuhan, China. Bangladesh evacuated 341 citizens from Wuhan with a special flight sent from Dhaka. However, a notable exception remains Pakistan, which has stated that in "solidarity" with China it won't evacuate its citizens.

India evacuates 7 Maldivian citizens from Wuhan; FM Abdulla says it demonstrates 'special friendship'

The Prime minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay has thanked India for the relief assistance to the African country in the aftermath of the devastating floods. PM Ntsay said Indian Navy's presence is a "welcomed" one. India, last week, launched Operation Vanilla and diverted INS Airavat with relief material to the country.

Speaking in the presence of Indian envoy to Madagascar, Abhay Kumar and Commander Sunil Sankar, Commanding Officer Airavat, PM Ntsay while expressing his country's "deep gratitude and deep thanks for the welcome aid" said, "We have a close history between India and Madagascar and we are proud of this, the witness of solidarity and generosity and brotherhood between" both the countries.

He said both countries enjoy, "excellent relation", adding, he is "proud" to "witness of solidarity and generosity and brotherhood between" the two countries.

The Navy Ship Airavat brought with it much needed relief material comprising disaster relief stores, tents, blankets, clothing, food and medicines. The medical team that arrived on the ship has set up a medical camp at the northern port city of Antsiranana to provide help to the locals impacted by the flooding. 
&nbsp;

The Prime minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay has thanked India for the relief assistance to the African country in the aftermath of the devastating floods. PM Ntsay said Indian Navy's presence is a "welcomed" one.

The Prime minister of Madagascar Christian Ntsay has thanked India for the relief assistance to the African country in the aftermath of the devastating floods. PM Ntsay said Indian Navy's presence is a "welcomed" one. India, last week, launched Operation Vanilla and diverted INS Airavat with relief material to the country. Speaking in the presence of Indian envoy to Madagascar, Abhay Kumar and Commander Sunil Sankar, Commanding Officer Airavat, PM Ntsay while expressing his country's "deep gratitude and deep thanks for the welcome aid" said, "We have a close history between India and Madagascar and we are proud of this, the witness of solidarity and generosity and brotherhood between" both the countries. He said both countries enjoy, "excellent relation", adding, he is "proud" to "witness of solidarity and generosity and brotherhood between" the two countries. The Navy Ship Airavat brought with it much needed relief material comprising disaster relief stores, tents, blankets, clothing, food and medicines. The medical team that arrived on the ship has set up a medical camp at the northern port city of Antsiranana to provide help to the locals impacted by the flooding.

Madagascar welcomes India's help to deal with floods; PM Ntsay says Indian Navy's presence is welcomed

India's aid to the neighbouring countries for the financial year (FY) 2020-2021 stands at Rs 5084.65 crore. This forms a substantial chunk of India's aid globally which stands at Rs 5863.65 crore.&nbsp;

Bhutan continued to see maximum aid allocation in the budget today at Rs 2884.65 crore with Afghanistan getting Rs 400 crore, Maldives and Myanmar getting Rs 300 crore each and Bangladesh and Sri Lanka getting Rs 200 crore each. Mongolia, which considers India its third neighbour and a spiritual one was allotted Rs 2 crore.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/union-budget-2020-is-a-progressive-one-focuses-on-skill-development-of-indias-youth-pm-modi-278017">Union Budget 2020 will bolster income and investment; bring vitality in financial system - PM Modi</a>

While three countries saw an increase in aid by India, four countries saw a cut in Indian aid. Myanmar saw an aid increase of Rs 170 crore, Seychelles received an increase of Rs 90 crore while Bangladesh's was an increase of Rs 50 crore.&nbsp;

Nepal saw a cut of Rs 400 crore and will be getting Rs 800 crore as financial aid from India as compared to Rs 1200 crore in the revised budget of last year. One of the major reasons was that funds from the previous allocation was still left. Nepal was allocated around 763 crore in FY 2018-19 and last FY saw a substantial allocation of Rs 1200 crore.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-to-increase-spending-capacity-nirmala-sitharaman-278011">Wanted to increase spending capacity - Nirmala Sitharaman&nbsp;</a>

Mauritius, Maldives and Sri Lanka saw a minor aid cut of Rs 75 crore, Rs 26 crore and Rs 5 crore, respectively.&nbsp;

Overall, the Union Budget for the financial year 2020-2021 stands at Rs 17346.71 crore versus the revised budget for the financial year 2019-20 at Rs 17372.27 crore, which can be considered almost unchanged. Rs 150 crore, from the MEA budget, has been allocated for the maintenance cost of Air India aircraft for VVIP travel.&nbsp;

India's aid to the neighbouring countries for the financial year (FY) 2020-2021 stands at Rs 5084.65 crore. This forms a substantial chunk of India's aid globally which stands at Rs 5863.

India's aid to the neighbouring countries for the financial year (FY) 2020-2021 stands at Rs 5084.65 crore. This forms a substantial chunk of India's aid globally which stands at Rs 5863.65 crore. Bhutan continued to see maximum aid allocation in the budget today at Rs 2884.65 crore with Afghanistan getting Rs 400 crore, Maldives and Myanmar getting Rs 300 crore each and Bangladesh and Sri Lanka getting Rs 200 crore each. Mongolia, which considers India its third neighbour and a spiritual one was allotted Rs 2 crore. Also read: Union Budget 2020 will bolster income and investment; bring vitality in financial system - PM Modi While three countries saw an increase in aid by India, four countries saw a cut in Indian aid. Myanmar saw an aid increase of Rs 170 crore, Seychelles received an increase of Rs 90 crore while Bangladesh's was an increase of Rs 50 crore. Nepal saw a cut of Rs 400 crore and will be getting Rs 800 crore as financial aid from India as compared to Rs 1200 crore in the revised budget of last year. One of the major reasons was that funds from the previous allocation was still left. Nepal was allocated around 763 crore in FY 2018-19 and last FY saw a substantial allocation of Rs 1200 crore. Also read: Wanted to increase spending capacity - Nirmala Sitharaman Mauritius, Maldives and Sri Lanka saw a minor aid cut of Rs 75 crore, Rs 26 crore and Rs 5 crore, respectively. Overall, the Union Budget for the financial year 2020-2021 stands at Rs 17346.71 crore versus the revised budget for the financial year 2019-20 at Rs 17372.27 crore, which can be considered almost unchanged. Rs 150 crore, from the MEA budget, has been allocated for the maintenance cost of Air India aircraft for VVIP travel.

Budget 2020: Indian aid to neighbouring countries stands at around 5,000 crore; Nepal sees a cut

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-should-abandon-their-double-standards-china-slams-eurpopean-union-parliament-over-uighur-sanctions-resolution-269347">Also read: 'EU should abandon their double standards' — China slams European Union Parliament over &nbsp;Uighur sanctions resolution</a>

The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions.

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Government sources welcomed the development and said, "Friends of India prevailed over the Friends of Pakistan in the European Parliament today."

Explaining, "CAA is a matter internal to India and has been adopted through a due process through democratic means. We expect that our perspectives in this matter will be understood by all objective and fair-minded MEPs."

Interestingly, Shaffaq Mohammad, the Pakistan origin British MEP looked disappointed. Shaffaq has just 2 days more left as MEP since on Friday the UK leaves the European Union and with that, he will too have to leave the EU Parliament.

Indian govt sources told WION, "Strenuous efforts of outgoing British MEP, Shaffaq Mohammad to have a Resolution passed by the European Parliament against India on the penultimate day before Brexit was defeated."

Voting on the resolution will now take place post 13th March, the day when PM Modi visits Brussels for the India EU summit.&nbsp;

The EU has already distanced itself from the developments in the EU Parliament on the 6 draft resolution on Kashmir/CAA.

EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st.

European Union Parliament has decided to postpone the vote on a draft resolution on Citizenship amendment law to last week of March, which the March II Part session on March 30-31st. Also read: 'EU should abandon their double standards' — China slams European Union Parliament over Uighur sanctions resolution The European People's Party group or EPP group in a move called for the delaying the vote. The move was voted on and passed with 271 in favour, 199 against and 13 abstentions. Government sources welcomed the development and said, "Friends of India prevailed over the Friends of Pakistan in the European Parliament today." Explaining, "CAA is a matter internal to India and has been adopted through a due process through democratic means. We expect that our perspectives in this matter will be understood by all objective and fair-minded MEPs." Interestingly, Shaffaq Mohammad, the Pakistan origin British MEP looked disappointed. Shaffaq has just 2 days more left as MEP since on Friday the UK leaves the European Union and with that, he will too have to leave the EU Parliament. Indian govt sources told WION, "Strenuous efforts of outgoing British MEP, Shaffaq Mohammad to have a Resolution passed by the European Parliament against India on the penultimate day before Brexit was defeated." Voting on the resolution will now take place post 13th March, the day when PM Modi visits Brussels for the India EU summit. The EU has already distanced itself from the developments in the EU Parliament on the 6 draft resolution on Kashmir/CAA. EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

Pakistan snubbed again: Vote on CAA resolution delayed in European Union Parliament; New Delhi lauds friends of India

The British government launched £4 million to India to support collaborative research under the UK-India tech partnership initiative.

The fund aims at developing tech solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges in India and is focused on two major tech clusters, artificial intelligence in Karnataka and future mobility in Maharashtra.

"I am delighted to announce the launch of this important fund which shows the UK and India working together as a force for good to address the key challenges facing India. The UK and India are leaders in the development and use of digital tech, and there is a huge amount we can learn from each other and big opportunities to join forces," British Deputy High Commissioner to India, Jan Thompson said while announcing the fund.

The UK-India tech partnership initiative was launched in April 2018, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UK.

The UK is expected award between £200,000 - £500,000 over up to 24-months to fund research and development projects by researchers and industry from India and international partners, including the UK.

Head of the UK-India Tech Partnership, Karen McLuskie said, "When we bring our different strengths and perspectives together, we become a powerful force for good in the world."

The fund will take proposals in areas of safety and convenience, technology leap (energy storage tech, temperature-controlled transport, drone mobility), connectivity, and recycling and upgrading apart from smart mobility.

The British government launched £4 million to India to support collaborative research under the UK-India tech partnership initiative. The fund aims at developing tech solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges in India and is focused on two major tech clusters, artificial intelligence in Karnataka and future mobility in Maharashtra.

The British government launched £4 million to India to support collaborative research under the UK-India tech partnership initiative. The fund aims at developing tech solutions to social, economic and environmental challenges in India and is focused on two major tech clusters, artificial intelligence in Karnataka and future mobility in Maharashtra. "I am delighted to announce the launch of this important fund which shows the UK and India working together as a force for good to address the key challenges facing India. The UK and India are leaders in the development and use of digital tech, and there is a huge amount we can learn from each other and big opportunities to join forces," British Deputy High Commissioner to India, Jan Thompson said while announcing the fund. The UK-India tech partnership initiative was launched in April 2018, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UK. The UK is expected award between £200,000 - £500,000 over up to 24-months to fund research and development projects by researchers and industry from India and international partners, including the UK. Head of the UK-India Tech Partnership, Karen McLuskie said, "When we bring our different strengths and perspectives together, we become a powerful force for good in the world." The fund will take proposals in areas of safety and convenience, technology leap (energy storage tech, temperature-controlled transport, drone mobility), connectivity, and recycling and upgrading apart from smart mobility.

UK launches £4 million fund for researchers in India

With operation Vanilla, India became the first responder to reach out to cyclone and flood-ravaged Madagascar on Tuesday. Under the operation, Indian Navy deployed its INS Airavat to support the country.

INS Airavat will be deployed to Antsiranana, a port in northern Madagascar for Humanitarian Assistance and disaster relief mission.

The ship is carrying five pallets each of victualing, clothing and naval stores along with three pallets of medicines.

It will reach Madagascar on Wednesday and will carry out transportation and evacuation of personnel using four large and two medium-sized boats.

Fear of hunger and malnourishment in mounting Madagascar after heavy flooding and landslides ravaged the country.

According to a report, almost 92,000 people have been impacted by the floods. At least 30 have been killed while many have been displaced.

President of Madagascar had requested for international support to deal with the situation after which India deployed its INS Airavat.

Madagascar is part of "Vanilla" island nations, from which the operation derived its name.

Madagascar along with Seychelles, Réunion, Mauritius, Comoros, Mayotte, are known as vanilla islands since they grow this orchid in abundance.

Last year, Indian Navy had sent three of its ship to provide relief to neighbouring Mozambique which was hit by deadly cyclone Idai.

INS Sujata, INS Sarathi and INS Shardul were sent to the south-east African country for humanitarian assistance and were able to rescue over 200 people.

With operation Vanilla, India became the first responder to reach out to cyclone and flood-ravaged Madagascar on Tuesday. Under the operation, Indian Navy deployed its INS Airavat to support the country.

With operation Vanilla, India became the first responder to reach out to cyclone and flood-ravaged Madagascar on Tuesday. Under the operation, Indian Navy deployed its INS Airavat to support the country. INS Airavat will be deployed to Antsiranana, a port in northern Madagascar for Humanitarian Assistance and disaster relief mission. The ship is carrying five pallets each of victualing, clothing and naval stores along with three pallets of medicines. It will reach Madagascar on Wednesday and will carry out transportation and evacuation of personnel using four large and two medium-sized boats. Fear of hunger and malnourishment in mounting Madagascar after heavy flooding and landslides ravaged the country. According to a report, almost 92,000 people have been impacted by the floods. At least 30 have been killed while many have been displaced. President of Madagascar had requested for international support to deal with the situation after which India deployed its INS Airavat. Madagascar is part of "Vanilla" island nations, from which the operation derived its name. Madagascar along with Seychelles, Réunion, Mauritius, Comoros, Mayotte, are known as vanilla islands since they grow this orchid in abundance. Last year, Indian Navy had sent three of its ship to provide relief to neighbouring Mozambique which was hit by deadly cyclone Idai. INS Sujata, INS Sarathi and INS Shardul were sent to the south-east African country for humanitarian assistance and were able to rescue over 200 people.

India deploys INS Airavat to flood-ravaged Madagascar for humanitarian assistance

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) &amp; Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/entirely-internal-matter-india-on-european-union-parliament-setting-resolution-against-caa-276781">Also Read:&nbsp;'Entirely internal matter'-&nbsp;India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA</a>

EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union."

The official position of EU is that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan while comments on CAA are known yet.

The spokesperson was aware that the CAA is being assessed by India's Supreme Court for its constitutionality, explaining, "It is important to recall that these texts are only drafts tabled by various political groups in the European Parliament".

Six resolutions from different parties will be taken by EU Parliament later this week on Kashmir and CAA for discussion and&nbsp;vote.

Backing the Brussels-New Delhi partnership the spokesperson said: "India is a key partner for the EU to address global challenges and to jointly promote the rule-based multilateral order."

The 15th India-EU summit will take place on March 13 for which PM Modi will travel to Brussels.&nbsp;

French diplomatic sources said, for "France, a founding member of the European Union, the Citizenship Amendment Act is India’s internal political matter" and "European Parliament is an institution independent of member states and the European Commission."

The EU mission in Delhi earlier in the day stated, “The European Parliament is an independent institution, sovereign in the organization of its work and in its deliberations" and "the text referred to are draft resolution by political groups in the EP.”

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) & Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner.

Even as the European Union Parliament is all set to discuss resolutions on the Citizenship Amendment Act(CAA) & Kashmir, the EU foreign office has said that it doesn't represent the official position and called New Delhi a key partner. Also Read: 'Entirely internal matter'- India on EU Parliament setting resolution against CAA EU spokesperson for foreign affairs and security policy, Virginie Battu-Henriksson, told WION, "Opinions expressed by the European Parliament and its members do not represent the official position of the European Union." The official position of EU is that Kashmir is a bilateral issue between India and Pakistan while comments on CAA are known yet. The spokesperson was aware that the CAA is being assessed by India's Supreme Court for its constitutionality, explaining, "It is important to recall that these texts are only drafts tabled by various political groups in the European Parliament". Six resolutions from different parties will be taken by EU Parliament later this week on Kashmir and CAA for discussion and vote. Backing the Brussels-New Delhi partnership the spokesperson said: "India is a key partner for the EU to address global challenges and to jointly promote the rule-based multilateral order." The 15th India-EU summit will take place on March 13 for which PM Modi will travel to Brussels. French diplomatic sources said, for "France, a founding member of the European Union, the Citizenship Amendment Act is India’s internal political matter" and "European Parliament is an institution independent of member states and the European Commission." The EU mission in Delhi earlier in the day stated, “The European Parliament is an independent institution, sovereign in the organization of its work and in its deliberations" and "the text referred to are draft resolution by political groups in the EP.”

Ahead of CAA, Kashmir resolutions in EU parliament, EU foreign office says doesn't reflect official position

Nepal is all set to host a major summit Sagarmatha Sambad. What is interesting is that Kathmandu has invited all SAARC leaders including PM Modi for the event.&nbsp;

Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Kathmandu, Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that the SAARC grouping can't be replaced by BIMSTEC and that both are complementary to each other. Here's the full interview.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see the relationship?

Pradeep Gyawali: Nepal and India enjoy excellent bilateral relationship which is characterized by an open border, an enhanced level of people-to-people contact, sharing of a common culture, religion and shared values and also trying best to take the relationship to near heights so that it can incorporate the new aspect of the development and economic partnership so that people of both countries can be benefited.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WIONDirect?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WIONDirect</a> from Kathmandu | Sagarmatha Sambad should focus on ecological link between mountains &amp; oceans, we have invited many leaders, academics... SAARC has own history &amp; perspective, it can't be replaced: Pradeep Gyawali, Foreign Minister, Nepal to <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sidhant</a><a href="https://twitter.com/akankshaswarups?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@akankshaswarups</a> <a href="https://t.co/UvI13JFSik">pic.twitter.com/UvI13JFSik</a>
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WION: You plan to host the Sagarmatha Sambad, can you give us the details of the project?

Pradeep Gyawali: We are hosting the Sagarmatha Sambad in coming April, it means the Everest Dialogue. It will be a permanent dialogue forum aiming to bring together scientists, academia, civil society to discuss and explore the ways and ideas of the common concern we are facing now. The theme will be climate change, mountains and future of humanity wherein we will discuss the adverse impact of climate change. We will discuss the ecological link between the mountains and the oceans and we will explore the new ways on how we can address this very alarming challenge because it posing a serious threat to the mountainous country and to the small island states as well.

WION: Who all will u be inviting for the summit?

Pradeep Gyawali: We have invited all the SAARC member nations, the nations of the Hindu Kush Himalayan region including Myanmar. We have invited small Island nations, some European friends, some Latin American friends, some friends from Africa as well, keeping in mind that the summit will be focused on the ecological link between mountains and oceans, we have invited many heads of the states, academia, scientist, researchers and people from the private sector.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-urges-india-to-reconsider-palm-oil-import-ban-276463">Nepal's finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban</a>

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WION: Kalapana border issue, have you engaged with the Indian side on this?

Pradeep Gyawali: We are in close contact and we hope the foreign secretaries to settle the unresolved issue. We are optimistic that via the diplomatic discussions, based on historical evidence, maps and treaties, we can solve and we should solve it. We would not like to carry on the baggage of history and focus on the future.

WION: Do you think SAARC can be replaced by BIMSTEC?

Pradeep Gyawali: No I don't think so, because SAARC has its own history, own strength and its own perspective and it cannot be and should not be replaced by some other mechanism. Both BIMSTEC and SAARC move together and we should not look at it as something exclusive. They can be complementary and though we all know that there are some problems and misunderstandings we are optimistic that the member nations can avail new ways to mitigate the differences and revive the regional cooperation. Without strong regional cooperation, we cannot address the common problems we are facing.

WION: Is cross-border terror the big challenge?

Pradeep Gyawali: Terrorism is a common challenge to global humanity and it is not a threat to just a particular country. One should have an unconditional stance on terrorism. All forms and the manifestation of terrorism should be condemned. It should be resisted, it should be protested and there should be no ifs and buts. It is equally important to explore the new areas of cooperation because such cooperation adds value to our struggle against terrorism.

Nepal is all set to host a major summit Sagarmatha Sambad. What is interesting is that Kathmandu has invited all SAARC leaders including PM Modi for the event. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Kathmandu, Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that the SAARC grouping can't be replaced by BIMSTEC and that both are complementary to each other.

Nepal is all set to host a major summit Sagarmatha Sambad. What is interesting is that Kathmandu has invited all SAARC leaders including PM Modi for the event. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal in Kathmandu, Nepalese Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali said that the SAARC grouping can't be replaced by BIMSTEC and that both are complementary to each other. Here's the full interview. WION: How do you see the relationship? Pradeep Gyawali: Nepal and India enjoy excellent bilateral relationship which is characterized by an open border, an enhanced level of people-to-people contact, sharing of a common culture, religion and shared values and also trying best to take the relationship to near heights so that it can incorporate the new aspect of the development and economic partnership so that people of both countries can be benefited. #WIONDirect from Kathmandu | Sagarmatha Sambad should focus on ecological link between mountains & oceans, we have invited many leaders, academics... SAARC has own history & perspective, it can't be replaced: Pradeep Gyawali, Foreign Minister, Nepal to @sidhant@akankshaswarups pic.twitter.com/UvI13JFSik — WION (@WIONews) January 25, 2020 × WION: You plan to host the Sagarmatha Sambad, can you give us the details of the project? Pradeep Gyawali: We are hosting the Sagarmatha Sambad in coming April, it means the Everest Dialogue. It will be a permanent dialogue forum aiming to bring together scientists, academia, civil society to discuss and explore the ways and ideas of the common concern we are facing now. The theme will be climate change, mountains and future of humanity wherein we will discuss the adverse impact of climate change. We will discuss the ecological link between the mountains and the oceans and we will explore the new ways on how we can address this very alarming challenge because it posing a serious threat to the mountainous country and to the small island states as well. WION: Who all will u be inviting for the summit? Pradeep Gyawali: We have invited all the SAARC member nations, the nations of the Hindu Kush Himalayan region including Myanmar. We have invited small Island nations, some European friends, some Latin American friends, some friends from Africa as well, keeping in mind that the summit will be focused on the ecological link between mountains and oceans, we have invited many heads of the states, academia, scientist, researchers and people from the private sector. Also read: Nepal's finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban × WION: Kalapana border issue, have you engaged with the Indian side on this? Pradeep Gyawali: We are in close contact and we hope the foreign secretaries to settle the unresolved issue. We are optimistic that via the diplomatic discussions, based on historical evidence, maps and treaties, we can solve and we should solve it. We would not like to carry on the baggage of history and focus on the future. WION: Do you think SAARC can be replaced by BIMSTEC? Pradeep Gyawali: No I don't think so, because SAARC has its own history, own strength and its own perspective and it cannot be and should not be replaced by some other mechanism. Both BIMSTEC and SAARC move together and we should not look at it as something exclusive. They can be complementary and though we all know that there are some problems and misunderstandings we are optimistic that the member nations can avail new ways to mitigate the differences and revive the regional cooperation. Without strong regional cooperation, we cannot address the common problems we are facing. WION: Is cross-border terror the big challenge? Pradeep Gyawali: Terrorism is a common challenge to global humanity and it is not a threat to just a particular country. One should have an unconditional stance on terrorism. All forms and the manifestation of terrorism should be condemned. It should be resisted, it should be protested and there should be no ifs and buts. It is equally important to explore the new areas of cooperation because such cooperation adds value to our struggle against terrorism.

At Nepal's global summit, an invite for all SAARC nations; Nepal FM says SAARC is complimentary to BIMSTEC

Nepal's Finance Minister Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada said India's ban on import of palm oil has been a worry for his country and Kathmandu has taken up the matter&nbsp;with New&nbsp;Delhi.&nbsp;Khatiwada spoke to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Edited excerpts. &nbsp;

WION: How do u see the relationship between India and Nepal in terms of finance and trade?

Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: we have a lot of interdependence between the two countries. Nepal's 2/3rd trade is from India and is our largest investment partner. India ports are our bridges to the&nbsp;world, and we have been working very closely with the Indian government. When the Indian economy performs well, we have trickle-down benefit in several areas and this includes investment opportunities. We like to see our neighbour prosper&nbsp;and we benefit from it. &nbsp;

 
WION: What kind of support you would like to see from New Delhi for your development needs?

Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: It's a long menu. First is infrastructure connectivity. We are talking about better road connection, waterways&nbsp;and electricity transmission lines. They are happening, thanks to the government of India which has supported Nepal in better connectivity which includes an optical fibre. The second priority is trade relations. Nepal being a small economy like to get favourable treatment in terms of non-reciprocal treatment for some of our produces. Often times we may not able to compete in the market place. our products&nbsp;are very small and would like to see non-reciprocity in trade relations. Another area is trade facilitation, thanks to India for ICP. Exim bank is&nbsp;doing a lot of works&nbsp;in terms of leveraging our financial requirements.

 
WION: Demonetisation impacted you. Are the worries associated with it over?

Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: The previous government should have approached the Indian government right on time. You know, now this is a standing issue. We don't want, to stick to that issue. Indian currency is regional currency, and large denomination currency notes which people can carry to Nepal should be managed in a better way so that in future we don't have to repeat such kind of problems. I should be looking forward, so that in a futuristic way, that any kind of problem that was created in the past should not be repeated so that new currency notes, large currency notes, were issued by India.

Nepal are not comfortable to carry the notes, with the fear that they will not be accepted back to India. We just want to see that currency management takes a smoother path.

Nepal's Finance Minister Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada said India's ban on import of palm oil has been a worry for his country and Kathmandu has taken up the matter with New Delhi.

Nepal's Finance Minister Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada said India's ban on import of palm oil has been a worry for his country and Kathmandu has taken up the matter with New Delhi. Khatiwada spoke to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal. Edited excerpts. WION: How do u see the relationship between India and Nepal in terms of finance and trade? Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: we have a lot of interdependence between the two countries. Nepal's 2/3rd trade is from India and is our largest investment partner. India ports are our bridges to the world, and we have been working very closely with the Indian government. When the Indian economy performs well, we have trickle-down benefit in several areas and this includes investment opportunities. We like to see our neighbour prosper and we benefit from it. WION: What kind of support you would like to see from New Delhi for your development needs? Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: It's a long menu. First is infrastructure connectivity. We are talking about better road connection, waterways and electricity transmission lines. They are happening, thanks to the government of India which has supported Nepal in better connectivity which includes an optical fibre. The second priority is trade relations. Nepal being a small economy like to get favourable treatment in terms of non-reciprocal treatment for some of our produces. Often times we may not able to compete in the market place. our products are very small and would like to see non-reciprocity in trade relations. Another area is trade facilitation, thanks to India for ICP. Exim bank is doing a lot of works in terms of leveraging our financial requirements. WION: Demonetisation impacted you. Are the worries associated with it over? Dr Yubaraj Khatiwada: The previous government should have approached the Indian government right on time. You know, now this is a standing issue. We don't want, to stick to that issue. Indian currency is regional currency, and large denomination currency notes which people can carry to Nepal should be managed in a better way so that in future we don't have to repeat such kind of problems. I should be looking forward, so that in a futuristic way, that any kind of problem that was created in the past should not be repeated so that new currency notes, large currency notes, were issued by India. Nepal are not comfortable to carry the notes, with the fear that they will not be accepted back to India. We just want to see that currency management takes a smoother path.

Nepal's finance minister urges India to reconsider palm oil import ban

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as &nbsp;4 cases were tested positive in last one week.

The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks.&nbsp;

On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment.

The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today.

A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples."

New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale.

This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives.&nbsp;

In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country.&nbsp;

In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief.&nbsp;

In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country.

Continuing with its 'neighbourhood first' policy, India on Thursday supplied Maldives 30,000 doses of Measles vaccines within 72-hours of the request by the country. The Indian Ocean Island country is facing an outbreak of the measles as 4 cases were tested positive in last one week. The Maldives had approached Denmark, which said that it will take one month to supply the vaccine, while UNICEF also gave around the same time-period of 4 weeks. On Monday afternoon, the country's health ministry approached the Indian mission which agreed to send the consignment. The consignment, procured from the Serum Institute of India, was handed over Maldivian health minister Abdulla Ameen. by Indian envoy to the Maldives Sunjay Sudhir today. A release from the mission said, "India’s swift response underlines that India has the capability to respond quickly and health remains one of the strongest pillars of bilateral cooperation. This gesture also emphasises the mutually supportive roles of India’s neighbourhood first policy and the Maldives’ India first policy, acting for the benefit of our peoples." New Delhi is already engaged in the Maldives' health sector. It is building a 100-bed cancer hospital in Hulhumale. This is not the first time, India has responded to an emergency in the Maldives. In 2015, India responding to the water crisis in Malé due to breakdown of the main RO plant, airlifted water and sent supplies by ship to the country. In 2004, after the tsunami struck the country, it sent immediate relief. In 1988, India responded to an SOS from the then President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom on account of Coup with swift action by sending paratroopers onboard IL-76 aircraft.

After emergency request, India sends 30 thousand measles vaccines to Maldives within 72-hours

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Sidhant Sibal

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