Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today.

India is already involved in a number of projects in the country. In 2016, India provided a Special Economic Package of $ 353 million for the execution of 5 projects in the Indian ocean country. These projects are-- Metro Express Project, Supreme Court Building, New ENT Hospital, Social Housing project, Supply of digital tablets to primary school children.

Some other India-assisted projects existing in Mauritius include the Upadhyay Training Centre, the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, the Subramania Bharati Eye Centre, the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre and the Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre (SVICC).&nbsp;

Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been to India two times this year—one at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May and first time when he was Chief Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019. Both PM Modi and PM Jugnauth met on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly last week in New York

The inauguration of projects in Mauritius by video conferencing comes weeks after India inaugurated projects in Nepal. In early September, India and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli inaugurated south Asia's first cross border oil pipeline. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

In late September, PM Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga jointly inaugurated a statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video-conferencing.

Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today.

Continuing engagement with the neighbouring countries, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate two projects in Mauritius PM Pravind Jugnauth. The projects are Mauritius Phase one of the metro express and a new ENT hospital and will be inaugurated via video conference at around 4 pm today. India is already involved in a number of projects in the country. In 2016, India provided a Special Economic Package of $ 353 million for the execution of 5 projects in the Indian ocean country. These projects are-- Metro Express Project, Supreme Court Building, New ENT Hospital, Social Housing project, Supply of digital tablets to primary school children. Some other India-assisted projects existing in Mauritius include the Upadhyay Training Centre, the Jawaharlal Nehru Hospital, the Subramania Bharati Eye Centre, the Rajiv Gandhi Science Centre and the Swami Vivekananda International Conference Centre (SVICC). Mauritius Prime Minister Pravind Jugnauth has been to India two times this year—one at the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May and first time when he was Chief Guest at the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2019. Both PM Modi and PM Jugnauth met on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly last week in New York The inauguration of projects in Mauritius by video conferencing comes weeks after India inaugurated projects in Nepal. In early September, India and Nepali PM KP Sharma Oli inaugurated south Asia's first cross border oil pipeline. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc. In late September, PM Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga jointly inaugurated a statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via video-conferencing.

PM Modi to jointly launch projects with Mauritius PM Jugnauth by video conference

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events.&nbsp;

In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion.

Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.”

Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life.

In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion.

A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa.

The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation.

In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals.&nbsp;

On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy.

In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe.

In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya.

Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations.

A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein.

Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University.

Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations.

In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa.

Europe was abuzz with several activities.

London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai.

Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march.

In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi.

New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values".

In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony.

Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi.

October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way".

''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day.

Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World.

PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century.

The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom."

Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy.

The massive celebration took place on the occasion of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi globally with Indian missions organising major events. In Russian Parliament - the state Duma an exhibition opened on the correspondence Mahatma Gandhi and famous Russian writer Leo Tolstoy. Deputy Chairman of State Duma Sergey Neverov along with Indian Envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma were present on the occasion. Bala Venkatesh Varma thanked the State Duma for the opportunity to hold such an exhibition, saying ''Leo Tolstoy had a huge influence on Mahatma Gandhi, and their friendship became a symbol of friendship between the two great peoples of India and Russia.” Mahatma Gandhi considered Leo Tolstoy as one of the most important people who influenced his life. In Jeddah, Consul General Noor Rahman Sheikh led the celebrations by paying tribute to the Mahatma Gandhi. Padmashree Nouf Marwaai, the first female yoga practitioner of Saudi Arabia was also present during the occasion. A big event was organised by the Indian mission in Guyana involving the prime minister, two ex-presidents of the country by the Indian mission led by envoy Dr K J Srinivasa. The iconic Burj Khalifa was lit up with a special LED projection for one hour to pay tribute to the father of the nation. In the neighbourhood, celebrations happened in all capitals. On the occasion of the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, the Indian Embassy in Kabul organised a ''Swachhta Hi Seva'' campaign. Ambassador Vinay Kumar and Embassy Officials did Shramdaan to promote Gandhiji’s idea of cleanliness and environmental protection. Afghan Post in collaboration with the Indian Embassy issued a commemorative stamp. Afghan Minister for Communication and Information Technology Fahim Hashimy and Ambassador Kumar jointly unveiled the stamp in the Embassy. In Sri Lanka, a special programme was held at the Presidential Secretariat in Colombo in which Sri Lanka President Maithripala Sirisena and High Commissioner Taranjit Singh Sandhu participated. Gandhi Bust made of bronze was unveiled at Temple Tree, the official residence of Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Ranil Wickremesinghe. In Bangladesh, Education Minister Dr Dipu Moni was the chief guest at the Gandhi Jayanti celebrations at the High Commission in Dhaka. Indian high commissioner Riva Ganguly Das handed over the book ''Vaishnav Jan Toh Tene Kahiye'' to Rabindra Sangeet singer Rezwana Chowdhury Bannya. Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli and Indian envoy to Nepal Manjeev Puri led the Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary celebrations. A “Padd Yatra” was organised in Yangon, Myanmar on Mahatma Gandhi Jayanti. The event was inaugurated by Indian Ambassador Saurabh Kumar and Yangon Cheif Minister U Phyo Min Thein. Celebration of Mahatma Gandhi's birthday was organized at the Sari Mutiara University by the Indian mission in Indonesia. Indian envoy to Indonesia Pradeep Kumar Rawat inaugurated a bronze bust of Mahatma Gandhi which is placed prominently in the middle of this renowned University. Central Asia also saw celebrations. Indian envoy to Kyrgyzstan Amitabh Dimri led the celebrations in capital Bishkek. A special programme was organised at the University of Central Asia in Bishkek. Indian mission in Kazakhstan organised an innovative way of remembering Gandhi by organising a painting competition in schools in which themes were Mahatma Gandhi, World Peace, India etc. Indian Ambassador to Kazakhstan Prabhat Kumar distributed prizes to winners of Painting Competition and led the celebrations. In South Africa, from where Gandhi began his journey as a mass leader program was organised at the constitution hill in Johannesburg. The area houses the prison complex were Gandhi was jailed but now houses the supreme constitutional court of South Africa. Europe was abuzz with several activities. London saw the celebration at Tavistock Place. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam along with Indian diaspora participated in full strength. Senior Deputy Speaker of UK House of Lords Lord McFall, Baroness Blackstone paid tribute at the statue of Mahatma Gandhi at parliament square in front of the British Parliament. The event was organised by Lord Meghnad Desai. Indian Ambassador to Netherlands Venu Rajamony led the Gandhi March for Non-Violence through capital The Hague to highlight the importance of the message of non-violence. Around 300 school children and 150 adults took part in the march. In Geneva, a ‘Gandhi Room’ has been set up in the Permanent Mission of India with an exhibit of photographs and documentaries depicting the life and journey of Mahatma Gandhi. New Zealand was one of the first countries to celebrate Gandhi's birth anniversary. Indian envoy Muktesh Pardeshi led the celebration and said, "the presence of people from all walks of life at events held in Wellington underline the relevance of Gandhi Ji's philosophy and values". In the United States, a major programme on Mahatma Gandhi will be celebrated in the historic Library of Congress with the speaker of the United States House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar taking part in the ceremony. Palestine, Lebanon, Uzbekistan, Morocco, Russia and Turkey issued a commemorative stamp on Mahatma Gandhi. October 2 is the international day of non-violence and at the United Nations headquarters an event took place on "climate action: Gandhian way". ''His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes”, Secretary-General António Guterres said in his message commemorating the day. Last week at the united nations PM Modi inaugurated Gandhi Solar Park on the roof of the world body and delivered a lecture on the relevance of Mahatma Gandhi in the Contemporary World. PM Modi in his address talked about the contributions of Mahatma Gandhi to the cause of greater human freedom in the 20th century. The prime minister said, "Mahatma Gandhi never held positions of power. Yet, he motivates people around the world. Millions of people, several nations drew strength from his ideals and attained freedom." Secretary-General of the UN António Guterres, President of South Korea Moon Jae-in, Prime Minister of Singapore Lee Hsien Loong, Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina, Jamaica's PM Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of New Zealand Jacinda Ardern participated in the event.

From Moscow to London, Washington to Kabul: How global capitals went abuzz on Gandhi Jayanti

The UK high court on Wednesday ruled in favour of India and heirs of the seventh Nizam of Hyderabad in the 70-year-old case.&nbsp;

The case "High Commissioner for Pakistan in the UK v Prince Mukkaram Jah &amp; others’ or referred as "Hyderabad fund case" pertains to £35 million funds that are being held by the National Westminster Bank in London. India and the heir of the last Nizam of Hyderabad will get 306 crore, that is &nbsp;Rs 45,80,500

"Nizam VII was beneficially entitled to the fund and those claiming in right of Nizam VII -&nbsp;the Princes and India -&nbsp;are entitled to have the sum paid out to their order. I will leave it to the parties to frame an appropriate form of order for my approval" the judgement handed out by Justice Marcus Smith said.

On September 20, 1948, the foreign minister of the then princely state of Hyderabad, Nawab Moin Nawaz Jung, transferred &nbsp;£1,007,940, which is today's equivalent of £35 million to the account of Habib Ibrahim Rahimtoola, the Pakistani High Commissioner to the UK.

Pakistan claimed the funds were transferred as payments for arms shipments during the rebellion in the state or as an outright gift. The High Court held that "beneficial ownership" of the funds lay with the seventh Nizam concluding that India and the two grandsons of Nizam were now entitled to have the fund.&nbsp;

Khawar Qureshi, Pakistan's lawyer at International Court of Justice(ICJ) for Kulbhushan Jadhav case was one of the lawyers in the Hyderabad fund case.

The ministry of external affairs in a statement said: "The court rejected arguments advanced by Pakistan that the dispute was non-justiciable, either in whole or in part; that the doctrine of illegality somehow barred recovery; or that the claims of other parties were time-barred."&nbsp;

The case first came to focus in 1954 when Pakistan asserted its sovereignty since money was sent into the account of its then High Commissioner Rahimtoola. In 2013, Pakistan commenced the present proceedings but waved off the sovereignty or state immunity to claim ownership. These were against the bank for payment of the fund to Pakistan.

A dejected Pakistan has reacted saying it is "examining all aspects of the detailed judgment and will take further action in light of legal advice received."

Pakistan had put up an application to discontinue the proceedings it had initiated in June 2013 but it was dismissed by the High Court of Justice in London in 2015. The court ordered Islamabad to pay India the sum of 150,000 pounds towards legal costs it incurred to defeat Pakistan’s application.

The UK high court on Wednesday ruled in favour of India and heirs of the seventh Nizam of Hyderabad in the 70-year-old case. The case "High Commissioner for Pakistan in the UK v Prince Mukkaram Jah & others’ or referred as "Hyderabad fund case" pertains to £35 million funds that are being held by the National Westminster Bank in London.

The UK high court on Wednesday ruled in favour of India and heirs of the seventh Nizam of Hyderabad in the 70-year-old case. The case "High Commissioner for Pakistan in the UK v Prince Mukkaram Jah & others’ or referred as "Hyderabad fund case" pertains to £35 million funds that are being held by the National Westminster Bank in London. India and the heir of the last Nizam of Hyderabad will get 306 crore, that is Rs 45,80,500 "Nizam VII was beneficially entitled to the fund and those claiming in right of Nizam VII - the Princes and India - are entitled to have the sum paid out to their order. I will leave it to the parties to frame an appropriate form of order for my approval" the judgement handed out by Justice Marcus Smith said. On September 20, 1948, the foreign minister of the then princely state of Hyderabad, Nawab Moin Nawaz Jung, transferred £1,007,940, which is today's equivalent of £35 million to the account of Habib Ibrahim Rahimtoola, the Pakistani High Commissioner to the UK. Pakistan claimed the funds were transferred as payments for arms shipments during the rebellion in the state or as an outright gift. The High Court held that "beneficial ownership" of the funds lay with the seventh Nizam concluding that India and the two grandsons of Nizam were now entitled to have the fund. Khawar Qureshi, Pakistan's lawyer at International Court of Justice(ICJ) for Kulbhushan Jadhav case was one of the lawyers in the Hyderabad fund case. The ministry of external affairs in a statement said: "The court rejected arguments advanced by Pakistan that the dispute was non-justiciable, either in whole or in part; that the doctrine of illegality somehow barred recovery; or that the claims of other parties were time-barred." The case first came to focus in 1954 when Pakistan asserted its sovereignty since money was sent into the account of its then High Commissioner Rahimtoola. In 2013, Pakistan commenced the present proceedings but waved off the sovereignty or state immunity to claim ownership. These were against the bank for payment of the fund to Pakistan. A dejected Pakistan has reacted saying it is "examining all aspects of the detailed judgment and will take further action in light of legal advice received." Pakistan had put up an application to discontinue the proceedings it had initiated in June 2013 but it was dismissed by the High Court of Justice in London in 2015. The court ordered Islamabad to pay India the sum of 150,000 pounds towards legal costs it incurred to defeat Pakistan’s application.

UK court rules in India's favour against Pakistan in Hyderabad funds case

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year.&nbsp;

October 5 will be the main day of engagement and Hasina will be the main speaker at the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in Delhi.

The visit comes a week after PM Modi met Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

A Ministry of External Affairs release said, "The two leaders reviewed the excellent state of bilateral relations and cooperation, and agreed to maintain the momentum to take the India-Bangladesh relationship to new heights".

Both the leaders "reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism" and "agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and confidence between the two countries".

Sheikh Hasina also participated in the special commemorative event organised by India to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi at the United Nations last Tuesday.

There have been a number of high-level engagements between the two countries. PM Modi visited the country in 2015, which was followed by PM Hasina's India visit in 2016 for BRICS-BIMSTEC Summit in 2016 and a state visit in 2017. PM Hasina again visited in India in 2018 for the joint inauguration of Bangladesh Bhaban at Santiniketan University. During her visit, she was awarded a Doctor of Literature (D.Lit) degree by Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol. 
&nbsp; 
PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to congratulate PM Hasina for her election victory on December 30, 2018. Last month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country and met the top leadership.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year.

Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina will be visiting India from October 3rd to 6th, making it her first visit to India after her massive election victory last year. October 5 will be the main day of engagement and Hasina will be the main speaker at the World Economic Forum's 33rd India Economic Summit in Delhi. The visit comes a week after PM Modi met Bangladesh's Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. A Ministry of External Affairs release said, "The two leaders reviewed the excellent state of bilateral relations and cooperation, and agreed to maintain the momentum to take the India-Bangladesh relationship to new heights". Both the leaders "reiterated their zero-tolerance approach to terrorism and violent extremism" and "agreed that a strong partnership in security had built trust and confidence between the two countries". Sheikh Hasina also participated in the special commemorative event organised by India to mark the 150th anniversary of the birth of Mahatma Gandhi at the United Nations last Tuesday. There have been a number of high-level engagements between the two countries. PM Modi visited the country in 2015, which was followed by PM Hasina's India visit in 2016 for BRICS-BIMSTEC Summit in 2016 and a state visit in 2017. PM Hasina again visited in India in 2018 for the joint inauguration of Bangladesh Bhaban at Santiniketan University. During her visit, she was awarded a Doctor of Literature (D.Lit) degree by Kazi Nazrul University, Asansol. PM Modi was one of the first global leaders to congratulate PM Hasina for her election victory on December 30, 2018. Last month, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar visited the country and met the top leadership.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to visit India in October

Days after India said that Pakistan uses terror as an alternative foreign policy, Afghanistan has echoed the same sentiment by saying that Islamabad applies a violent foreign policy.

Speaking at the Asia Society in New York, Afghanistan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib said, "They are our neighbour and we can't do without them. But unfortunately, they also apply a foreign policy that is violent and in support of proxy groups and support of providing sanctuaries supporting the ideology of terrorists".

He added that Kabul still has to see any action by Islamabad on terror groups being hosted on its territory or territory under its control.

Mohib, who spoke at United Nations General Assembly on Monday, representing his country said, "They always say the right thing when we meet them they know how to charm their way in."

Explaining, he further said, "The action part is one we [are] waiting to see, we have had some good meetings with Pakistanis in last few months, but we are yet to see any impact of that on the ground when the violence is reduced, I think it will open the door for a much larger cooperation."

<img alt="Mohib " data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b88e14d6-e63b-422f-98f8-e56f67251934" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Untitled%20design_31.jpg" />

Talking about his governments meet with Pakistani officials, Mohib said, "They (Pakistanis) told us that this is the first time Pakistani political and military establishment are on the same page. They assured us time and again that they are speaking with one voice."

Last week India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, while speaking at the Asia Society called Pakistan "terroristan" who conducts "policy using terrorism as a legitimate instrument of statecraft".

Jaishankar said that Pakistani reaction to New Delhi removing special status for Jammu and Kashmir on 5th of August is of "anger and frustration" since the country has "created an entire industry of terrorism to deal with Kashmir issue... its bigger than that, they created [this industry] for India" and they "now see investment of 70 years [being] undercut if this policy succeeded".&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Both Afghanistan and India have voiced their concerns regarding terror emanating from Pakistan but Islamabad remains unfazed.

Mohib on Taliban, Kashmir

Expressing unhappiness with Pakistan, Mohib said, "Pakistanis tried to drag Afghanistan into the Kashmir issue. It a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India. To drag Afghanistan and threaten that they continue violence in our country is, I think irresponsible. If Pakistan has issues with India, then they should address them directly"

Asked what is the relationship between Taliban and Pakistan, Mohib replied, "puppet... proxies... we don't think of Taliban having any sort of independence... it's a proxy for an intelligence agency that controls everything they do".

Adding, "knowing the Pakistanis, they will use any method to strengthen their proxy in Afghanistan and give them an upper hand".&nbsp;

On China, Afghan NSA said Bejing is "smart enough not to get sucked into Pakistan's policy of using violence in Afghanistan".

Days after India said that Pakistan uses terror as an alternative foreign policy, Afghanistan has echoed the same sentiment by saying that Islamabad applies a violent foreign policy.

Days after India said that Pakistan uses terror as an alternative foreign policy, Afghanistan has echoed the same sentiment by saying that Islamabad applies a violent foreign policy. Speaking at the Asia Society in New York, Afghanistan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib said, "They are our neighbour and we can't do without them. But unfortunately, they also apply a foreign policy that is violent and in support of proxy groups and support of providing sanctuaries supporting the ideology of terrorists". He added that Kabul still has to see any action by Islamabad on terror groups being hosted on its territory or territory under its control. Mohib, who spoke at United Nations General Assembly on Monday, representing his country said, "They always say the right thing when we meet them they know how to charm their way in." Explaining, he further said, "The action part is one we [are] waiting to see, we have had some good meetings with Pakistanis in last few months, but we are yet to see any impact of that on the ground when the violence is reduced, I think it will open the door for a much larger cooperation." Talking about his governments meet with Pakistani officials, Mohib said, "They (Pakistanis) told us that this is the first time Pakistani political and military establishment are on the same page. They assured us time and again that they are speaking with one voice." Last week India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar, while speaking at the Asia Society called Pakistan "terroristan" who conducts "policy using terrorism as a legitimate instrument of statecraft". Jaishankar said that Pakistani reaction to New Delhi removing special status for Jammu and Kashmir on 5th of August is of "anger and frustration" since the country has "created an entire industry of terrorism to deal with Kashmir issue... its bigger than that, they created [this industry] for India" and they "now see investment of 70 years [being] undercut if this policy succeeded". Both Afghanistan and India have voiced their concerns regarding terror emanating from Pakistan but Islamabad remains unfazed. Mohib on Taliban, Kashmir Expressing unhappiness with Pakistan, Mohib said, "Pakistanis tried to drag Afghanistan into the Kashmir issue. It a bilateral issue between Pakistan and India. To drag Afghanistan and threaten that they continue violence in our country is, I think irresponsible. If Pakistan has issues with India, then they should address them directly" Asked what is the relationship between Taliban and Pakistan, Mohib replied, "puppet... proxies... we don't think of Taliban having any sort of independence... it's a proxy for an intelligence agency that controls everything they do". Adding, "knowing the Pakistanis, they will use any method to strengthen their proxy in Afghanistan and give them an upper hand". On China, Afghan NSA said Bejing is "smart enough not to get sucked into Pakistan's policy of using violence in Afghanistan".

Pakistan's foreign policy is violent, says Afghanistan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu is scheduled to visit Comoros, Sierra Leone and Lesotho from October 10 to 16. The visit is expected to&nbsp;increase the India's&nbsp;outreach with Africa.

While Comoros is an island nation in the Indian ocean, Sierra Leone is in south-west Africa and Lesotho is in Southern Africa.

Since 2015, there have been 29 outgoing visits by the troika of President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President and Prime Minister Modi to Africa. Also, New Delhi has hosted over 35 leaders from Africa. Every single African country has been visited at least by an Indian minister in the past four years.

Comoros is a member of Indian-Ocean Rim Association and the visit is part of New Delhi's growing engagement with countries of that Indian ocean region. President of Comoros Azali Assoumani visited India in March 2018 to participate in the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance.

India will be opening its mission in Sierra Leone in 2019-20 as part of opening 18 missions in Africa. India was among the first countries to contribute troops to the UN Mission in Sierra Leone. The then-president of Sierra Leone Ernest Bai Koroma visited India in October 2015 to take part in the third India Africa Forum Summit.

His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho along with his family visited India on a private visit from December 27, 2017‐January 2, 2018. In 2017, 500 metric tonnes of rice were formally donated by India to Lesotho as a gesture of goodwill to mitigate the devastating effect of food shortages caused by famine.

After South Asia, Africa has been the largest recipient of Indian overseas assistance.181 lines of credit have been extended to 41 countries for a total amount of over 11 billion dollars.&nbsp;

India has undertaken power projects and dams in Sudan and Rwanda, water treatment in Tanzania, sugar factories in Ethiopia and IT Parks in Mozambique and Swaziland. New Delhi has set up seven Vocational Training Centres and six Information Technology Centers in Africa.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu is scheduled to visit Comoros, Sierra Leone and Lesotho from October 10 to 16. The visit is expected to increase the India's outreach with Africa.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu is scheduled to visit Comoros, Sierra Leone and Lesotho from October 10 to 16. The visit is expected to increase the India's outreach with Africa. While Comoros is an island nation in the Indian ocean, Sierra Leone is in south-west Africa and Lesotho is in Southern Africa. Since 2015, there have been 29 outgoing visits by the troika of President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President and Prime Minister Modi to Africa. Also, New Delhi has hosted over 35 leaders from Africa. Every single African country has been visited at least by an Indian minister in the past four years. Comoros is a member of Indian-Ocean Rim Association and the visit is part of New Delhi's growing engagement with countries of that Indian ocean region. President of Comoros Azali Assoumani visited India in March 2018 to participate in the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance. India will be opening its mission in Sierra Leone in 2019-20 as part of opening 18 missions in Africa. India was among the first countries to contribute troops to the UN Mission in Sierra Leone. The then-president of Sierra Leone Ernest Bai Koroma visited India in October 2015 to take part in the third India Africa Forum Summit. His Majesty King Letsie III of Lesotho along with his family visited India on a private visit from December 27, 2017‐January 2, 2018. In 2017, 500 metric tonnes of rice were formally donated by India to Lesotho as a gesture of goodwill to mitigate the devastating effect of food shortages caused by famine. After South Asia, Africa has been the largest recipient of Indian overseas assistance.181 lines of credit have been extended to 41 countries for a total amount of over 11 billion dollars. India has undertaken power projects and dams in Sudan and Rwanda, water treatment in Tanzania, sugar factories in Ethiopia and IT Parks in Mozambique and Swaziland. New Delhi has set up seven Vocational Training Centres and six Information Technology Centers in Africa.

Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to visit Comoros, Sierra Leone and Lesotho

The Afghan government from the United Nations General Assembly has asked the Taliban to join peace efforts.

Speaking from the famous green podium inside the U.N. building, Afghan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib said, "To the Taliban and their foreign sponsors, hear this now, a message from the Afghan people: Join us in peace, or we will continue to fight... This is a fight we can win.”

Last February, President Ghani extended an unconditional offer of peace to the Taliban which Mohib said "still stands today" explaining that "the government has the ability to directly negotiate peace with our enemies."

The negotiations between the US and Taliban collapsed in September after several rounds of talks.

The Afghan representative called for a "ceasefire to immediately stop the bloodshed" and said that Afghan government is ready for the next step in the Afghan peace process which includes "talks.. between the Afghan government and the Taliban"

He highlighted the success of the recently concluded Afghan Presidential elections in which "around 3 million Afghans faced the threat of terrorism and risked their lives to vote in our young democracy’s 4th presidential election".

He said, "We all voted not just for a president, but we also voted for democracy... we voted for our constitution... we voted for freedom and sovereignty" and those who voted included "men and women...the very old, some voting for perhaps the last time in their lives..some who came out despite having their fingers cut off by Taliban during previous votes."

Interesting to note, there was no direct reference to Pakistan by Afghan NSA during his UNGA speech just like there was no mention of the country during Indian PM Narendra Modi's speech though both the Afghan and Indian leaders strongly spoke on the issue of terrorism

"Terrorism is an idea, as much as it is a form of violence. We must continue to work together to extinguish the ideologies behind terrorism, wherever they may exist", Mohib said.

The Afghan government from the United Nations General Assembly has asked the Taliban to join peace efforts. Speaking from the famous green podium inside the U.N.

The Afghan government from the United Nations General Assembly has asked the Taliban to join peace efforts. Speaking from the famous green podium inside the U.N. building, Afghan National Security Advisor Hamdullah Mohib said, "To the Taliban and their foreign sponsors, hear this now, a message from the Afghan people: Join us in peace, or we will continue to fight... This is a fight we can win.” Last February, President Ghani extended an unconditional offer of peace to the Taliban which Mohib said "still stands today" explaining that "the government has the ability to directly negotiate peace with our enemies." The negotiations between the US and Taliban collapsed in September after several rounds of talks. The Afghan representative called for a "ceasefire to immediately stop the bloodshed" and said that Afghan government is ready for the next step in the Afghan peace process which includes "talks.. between the Afghan government and the Taliban" He highlighted the success of the recently concluded Afghan Presidential elections in which "around 3 million Afghans faced the threat of terrorism and risked their lives to vote in our young democracy’s 4th presidential election". He said, "We all voted not just for a president, but we also voted for democracy... we voted for our constitution... we voted for freedom and sovereignty" and those who voted included "men and women...the very old, some voting for perhaps the last time in their lives..some who came out despite having their fingers cut off by Taliban during previous votes." Interesting to note, there was no direct reference to Pakistan by Afghan NSA during his UNGA speech just like there was no mention of the country during Indian PM Narendra Modi's speech though both the Afghan and Indian leaders strongly spoke on the issue of terrorism "Terrorism is an idea, as much as it is a form of violence. We must continue to work together to extinguish the ideologies behind terrorism, wherever they may exist", Mohib said.

'Join us in peace, or we will continue to fight': Afghanistan Government to Taliban at U.N.

A day after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left New York after a week-long visit to United Nation General Assembly, Islamabad has announced that it has replaced its envoy to United Nations Maleeha Lodhi.

A statement from Pakistani foreign ministry said, "The Prime Minister has been pleased to make the following appointments.. Ambassador Munir Akram has been appointed as Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in New York, in place of Dr Maleeha Lodhi."

Imran Khan, who was supposed to leave New York on Friday, left the city on Saturday after the plane gifted by Saudis returned due to technical issues.

In a tweet, Lodhi said, "It has been an honour to serve the country &amp; am grateful for the opportunity to do so for over four years. Representing Pakistan at the world’s most important multilateral forum was a great privilege. I had planned to move on after UNGA following a successful visit by the PM"

Her tenure saw Maleeha using a picture of to lead an attack on India at the United Nations which turned out to be fake news. In 2017, Lodhi showed a picture of a girl which she claimed was proof of Indian actions in Kashmir but it turned out to be an image of a Palestinian girl taken in Gaza by award-winning photographer Heidi Levine in 2014.

&nbsp;Earlier last week she tweeted a picture of bilateral meet between Pakistani PM Imran Khan and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson but called Johnson a&nbsp;"foreign minister". Earlier this year she was heckled in New York for an event for not being able to deliver for Pakistan at U.N.

She also tried to raise Kashmir at the United Nations security council after August 5 decision of New Delhi to remove the special status for Jammu and Kashmir but the attempt failed. She later addressed the media saying the voice of Kashmiris has been raised in the highest "diplomatic forum" but took no questions. Indian envoy Syed Akbaruddin not only took questions but also responded to questions by Pakistani media.&nbsp;

He successor, Munir Akram was Pakistani envoy to U.N. from 2002&nbsp;to 2008 but was dismissed over disagreements with the then President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari. In 2002 he was involved in violence against his partner Marijana Mihic but was not charged with the crime by Manhattan police due to his diplomatic immunity.

Fallouts have also been seen in Houston, Texas which saw the biggest diaspora event of Indian Americans-Howdy Modi last week in which 50,000 people participated. The event saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump sharing the stage and lauding contributions made by Indian Americans to the American society.

Abrar Hussain Hashmi has been appointed as the new Pakistani consul general in Houston, Texas. Aisha Farooqui the Pakistani consul general was removed by the Pakistani government when it was announced that the city will be hosting the biggest Indian diaspora event. Pakistan had dispatched federal minister Ali Amin Chandrapur to spearhead the protest while Howdy Modi was underway.

A day after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left New York after a week-long visit to United Nation General Assembly, Islamabad has announced that it has replaced its envoy to United Nations Maleeha Lodhi.

A day after Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan left New York after a week-long visit to United Nation General Assembly, Islamabad has announced that it has replaced its envoy to United Nations Maleeha Lodhi. A statement from Pakistani foreign ministry said, "The Prime Minister has been pleased to make the following appointments.. Ambassador Munir Akram has been appointed as Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the United Nations in New York, in place of Dr Maleeha Lodhi." Imran Khan, who was supposed to leave New York on Friday, left the city on Saturday after the plane gifted by Saudis returned due to technical issues. In a tweet, Lodhi said, "It has been an honour to serve the country & am grateful for the opportunity to do so for over four years. Representing Pakistan at the world’s most important multilateral forum was a great privilege. I had planned to move on after UNGA following a successful visit by the PM" Her tenure saw Maleeha using a picture of to lead an attack on India at the United Nations which turned out to be fake news. In 2017, Lodhi showed a picture of a girl which she claimed was proof of Indian actions in Kashmir but it turned out to be an image of a Palestinian girl taken in Gaza by award-winning photographer Heidi Levine in 2014. Earlier last week she tweeted a picture of bilateral meet between Pakistani PM Imran Khan and UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson but called Johnson a "foreign minister". Earlier this year she was heckled in New York for an event for not being able to deliver for Pakistan at U.N. She also tried to raise Kashmir at the United Nations security council after August 5 decision of New Delhi to remove the special status for Jammu and Kashmir but the attempt failed. She later addressed the media saying the voice of Kashmiris has been raised in the highest "diplomatic forum" but took no questions. Indian envoy Syed Akbaruddin not only took questions but also responded to questions by Pakistani media. He successor, Munir Akram was Pakistani envoy to U.N. from 2002 to 2008 but was dismissed over disagreements with the then President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari. In 2002 he was involved in violence against his partner Marijana Mihic but was not charged with the crime by Manhattan police due to his diplomatic immunity. Fallouts have also been seen in Houston, Texas which saw the biggest diaspora event of Indian Americans-Howdy Modi last week in which 50,000 people participated. The event saw Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump sharing the stage and lauding contributions made by Indian Americans to the American society. Abrar Hussain Hashmi has been appointed as the new Pakistani consul general in Houston, Texas. Aisha Farooqui the Pakistani consul general was removed by the Pakistani government when it was announced that the city will be hosting the biggest Indian diaspora event. Pakistan had dispatched federal minister Ali Amin Chandrapur to spearhead the protest while Howdy Modi was underway.

Day after Imran Khan returns from US, Pakistan removes Maleeha Lodhi as permanent representative to U.N.

Russia on Tuesday announced the opening of e-visa facility for St Petersburg and&nbsp;Leningrad to boost Indian tourists in the region. Till now e-visa&nbsp;for Indians was available for far eastern federal district and the enclave of Kaliningrad, sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania along the Baltic Coast.&nbsp;

India is one of the fifty countries and the only South Asian country to get the facility of Russian e-visa&nbsp;for St Petersburg.

Andrey V Fedorov, Senior counsellor, Russian embassy told WION, "This is not a secret that St Petersburg is the most attractive part of Russia. Also its a big business centre of Russia and cultural capital. We would like more and more people to come and have some ideas about our culture. Electronic visas will be introduced by 2021. There is Growth of Indian visiting Russia"

Around 45,000 Indians were given Russian visas between January to September 2019. Last year 35,000 Indians received visas. Rate of rejection for Russian visas for Indians stands at around 2 per cent, which is among the lowest.&nbsp;

Andrey V Fedorov explained to WION, the purpose of e-visa&nbsp;is to "make the life of people easier. They shouldn't spend time coming to the embassy, going to visa facilitation centre, face tough questions by the consular officer but they should make all procedures at home, in comfort. It was done for the promotion of tourism in Russia"

The e-visa&nbsp;will be granted for business, humanitarian and tourist purpose and will be a single entry.

E-visa is valid for 30 days from the day of issuance and maximum period of stay in Russia should not exceed eight days.&nbsp;

But e-visa&nbsp;will not allow anyone to go to other parts of Russia not covered by e-visa.

The development comes as Russia and India increase engagement to get more Indians in the far east region. PM Modi was in Vladivostok, the far eastern Russian city for Eastern Economic Forum last month.

Russia on Tuesday announced the opening of e-visa facility for St Petersburg and Leningrad to boost Indian tourists in the region. Till now e-visa for Indians was available for far eastern federal district and the enclave of Kaliningrad, sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania along the Baltic Coast.

Russia on Tuesday announced the opening of e-visa facility for St Petersburg and Leningrad to boost Indian tourists in the region. Till now e-visa for Indians was available for far eastern federal district and the enclave of Kaliningrad, sandwiched between Poland and Lithuania along the Baltic Coast. India is one of the fifty countries and the only South Asian country to get the facility of Russian e-visa for St Petersburg. Andrey V Fedorov, Senior counsellor, Russian embassy told WION, "This is not a secret that St Petersburg is the most attractive part of Russia. Also its a big business centre of Russia and cultural capital. We would like more and more people to come and have some ideas about our culture. Electronic visas will be introduced by 2021. There is Growth of Indian visiting Russia" Around 45,000 Indians were given Russian visas between January to September 2019. Last year 35,000 Indians received visas. Rate of rejection for Russian visas for Indians stands at around 2 per cent, which is among the lowest. Andrey V Fedorov explained to WION, the purpose of e-visa is to "make the life of people easier. They shouldn't spend time coming to the embassy, going to visa facilitation centre, face tough questions by the consular officer but they should make all procedures at home, in comfort. It was done for the promotion of tourism in Russia" The e-visa will be granted for business, humanitarian and tourist purpose and will be a single entry. E-visa is valid for 30 days from the day of issuance and maximum period of stay in Russia should not exceed eight days. But e-visa will not allow anyone to go to other parts of Russia not covered by e-visa. The development comes as Russia and India increase engagement to get more Indians in the far east region. PM Modi was in Vladivostok, the far eastern Russian city for Eastern Economic Forum last month.

Russia announces e-visa for Indians to visit St Petersburg, Leningrad to boost tourism

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal in New York, India’s envoy to United Nations Syed Akbaruddin said that the reason why India sent a young diplomat to answer Imran Khan’s UNGA speech was to reflect a new India and bring to table energy of a young person. He also spoke on UNSC reforms, issue of terrorism. WION: India sent a young diplomat Vidisha Maitra to reply to Pakistan using the “right of reply” option. What was the intent behind it? Syed Akbaruddin: You know, we are a country with a tradition, a country with a very consistent approach. We also know Pakistan and its approach very well. So if its focus is on one issue, and this issue with which we are very familiar with, we always field our young diplomats who are confident, who reflect a new India, who have the ability to articulate India’s position in very nuanced manner but also very forcefully. They bring to the table the zest and the energy of the young and an understanding of the issues which is historical in nature. It is a tradition for us to field a young officer to clearly indicate and articulate India’s consistent position. WION: How do see the speech of Pakistani PM from the UNGA podium? Syed Akbaruddin: So, India’s articulation across the UN was on themes that was listed by the President of the General Assembly. If other countries want to stray away from that it is their choice. UN is a place where people work in partnerships. Partnerships can be forged on issues of common interest, not on individual interest. So if Pakistan wants to project an issue of individual interest, this is their choice, they wasted it, as you said. WION: What was PM Modi’s big message from his speech at UNGA? Syed Akbaruddin: Global development is sustainable development. Climate action is a key part of that development. PM Modi has made it clear that India’s ambition levels for sustainable development far exceeded with what was thought of even a decade ago. PM’s mention that from the high target we have already set off in terms of renewable energy of 175 GWs, we are now moving to a target of more than 400 GW. That is considerable, similarly on climate action, on whole range of front we are active, including working with the UN, we have set up Gandhi Solar park. Globally we are trying to work we partners to form a collation for disaster resilient infrastructure, so we are working in multifaceted ways, in different ways as well as doing our focus against climate action in India. Watch video: × WION: India sets record in the number of bilaterals held. Syed Akbaruddin: Never before have we been intensely engaged in a manner that we did during this week. PM had 17 bilateral engagements and number of plurilateral level, we have engaged in leaders levels in an unprecedented manner. For the first time, we have plurilateral meetings of India engaging with regions. It has never been done before. For the first summit between India and CARICOM was held. The CARICOM was, we all are familiar with there cricketing abilities. But there are a lot more commonalities between CARICOM and India. Similarly, Indopacific has become a major issue of political importance. This was the first effort of India engaging with Pacific countries on the sidelines of UNGA. In addition, Foreign Minister Jaishankar engaged in as many as 40+ bilateral meetings and a host of plurilateral meetings—The brick, the SAARC, G4, etc. MoS MEA was engaged with the NAM, the commonwealth, the G77. So I told you it is unprecedented in its intensity, in its expanse, in its focus. It is an expression of India’s willingness, and expansiveness to embrace the world and multilateralism. WION: What were the key takeaways for the world? Syed Akbaruddin: Key takeaway is that India is reaching out to the world in a peaceful and harmonious manner. It is an outreach which is extensive. Its an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is expansive and it is an outreach which is all embracive. WION: How big is the issue of terror at the UN? What is the world doing about it? Syed Akbaruddin: There are two ways. One is the normative way of working towards a normative agreement on the issues of terrorism and that is the convention. But there is action-oriented way and that way has progressed and it has progressed considerably because terrorism is considered antithetical to everything that UN stands for or, countries in UN stand for and they have progressed in many, many practical ways to counter terrorism through UNSC resolutions and resolutions through other bodies. So, it depends on how you see it. Normative efforts have been stalled but practical efforts continue. For example this year, you see it for the first time, an attack on Indian paramilitary troops was condemned by the United Nations. It has never happened before. Similarly, after a period of 10 years, Masood Azhar was listed as a terrorist individual. All these things show on the practical front we are moving ahead. And new areas are emerging and how do we tackle the promotion of hate speech and violent extremism and terrorism through cyberspace. There was a meeting of leaders, where they focused on efforts we need to do to prevent the use of internet and cyberspace for promoting violent extremist narrative. This is a new theme and was led by the king of Jordan and Christchurch call countries and President of France made special mention of India’s participation in this and PM Modi’s interest in this and so this is growing area of convergence. WION: How hopeful are you about UNSC reforms? Syed Akbaruddin: We have to understand that the global situation today is one of great volatility. It is one where things are not being done. The world is changing and it is changing dramatically and exponentially. UNSC has been resistant to change. Organizations that don’t change, may become less and less effective. It is a call for them to take, do they want to be relevant to the issues of the day, to addressing and resolving the primary issues that impact global peace and security or other ways will be found. Contemporary reality has to be adjusted. It is the norm in every segment of life for example, in business, companies dominated 70 or 100 years ago are not dominant today. That is the law of nature, it will happen with time but how it happens, when it happens, the situation may arrive. Crisis always required to change. Today there is a crisis, UNSC can’t act on whole hosts of issues. People are bypassing it. The last big institutional change was on the basis of the cataclysmic event. Change happens, sometimes by chance, it happens in ways you do not understand, but it will happen.

We field young diplomats to articulate new India's position: Syed Akbaruddin speaks to WION on India's right to reply

Calling "successful conduct" of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attacks-fraud-fears-dampen-turnout-in-afghan-election-252680">Afghan presidential election</a> as "important milestone", India has said that the election is "people's efforts to promote peace, security, stability, prosperity and democracy" in the country "amidst challenging circumstances."

Saturday's election was the third presidential election since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban regime following the American invasion.

Congratulating "Afghan people", Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, they have demonstrated " their faith in democratic governance and constitutional processes despite threats, intimidation and violence."

According to the Afghan government, 72,000 security personnel were deployed with 9.6 million people registered to vote during the polls. Election results will be announced on October 30.

India has been a key development partner of Afghanistan since 2001. New Delhi has always maintained any US-Taliban engagement must not jeopardize gains of the last 18 years. &nbsp;

Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in New York, "We understand the compulsions on the United States, 18 years is a long time to be fighting a war. Hats off to the United States... its had durability, commitment and persistence to do for so long. It is apparent that this is going to change. Questions we need to how much change, what are the consequence. Some of that is being negotiated... recognizing the compulsions of these change, many of the achievements of the last 18 years, those achievements should not be lost. Our interest that gains of the last 18 years are not jeopardized." 
&nbsp; 
India backs "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled" peace process and has been engaging with regional countries- Iran, Russia, China, Central Asian countries - regarding the Afghan peace process.

Calling "successful conduct" of Afghan presidential election as "important milestone", India has said that the election is "people's efforts to promote peace, security, stability, prosperity and democracy" in the country "amidst challenging circumstances.

Calling "successful conduct" of Afghan presidential election as "important milestone", India has said that the election is "people's efforts to promote peace, security, stability, prosperity and democracy" in the country "amidst challenging circumstances." Saturday's election was the third presidential election since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban regime following the American invasion. Congratulating "Afghan people", Ministry of External Affairs in a statement said, they have demonstrated " their faith in democratic governance and constitutional processes despite threats, intimidation and violence." According to the Afghan government, 72,000 security personnel were deployed with 9.6 million people registered to vote during the polls. Election results will be announced on October 30. India has been a key development partner of Afghanistan since 2001. New Delhi has always maintained any US-Taliban engagement must not jeopardize gains of the last 18 years. Last week, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in New York, "We understand the compulsions on the United States, 18 years is a long time to be fighting a war. Hats off to the United States... its had durability, commitment and persistence to do for so long. It is apparent that this is going to change. Questions we need to how much change, what are the consequence. Some of that is being negotiated... recognizing the compulsions of these change, many of the achievements of the last 18 years, those achievements should not be lost. Our interest that gains of the last 18 years are not jeopardized." India backs "Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled" peace process and has been engaging with regional countries- Iran, Russia, China, Central Asian countries - regarding the Afghan peace process.

India calls Afghan presidential election 'important milestone'

US has said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/imran-khan-goofs-up-at-unga-calls-pm-modi-indian-president-252548">Pakistan</a> must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed.

Alice Wells, US' Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, said,"Countries are required under the obligations of the listings that for any UN-designated individual that you account for whatever money flow is permitted, such as the family’s expenses of Hafiz Saeed."

Calling Pakistan action to go to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-request-to-disperse-monthly-expenses-for-global-terrorist-hafiz-saeed-gets-unscs-nod-252219">UNSC "counterintuitive"</a> but a "positive step", Alice wells said, "So actually having these submissions indicates a level of transparency and a fulfilment of a key requirement of FATF. So we welcome this step."

The United Nations Security Council's 1267 sanctions committee under which global terrorists are listed has approved Pakistani request to allow "basic expenses" to Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad's request got no objection until the deadline of August 15 at 3 pm New York time leading to approval by UNSC.&nbsp;

Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee".

Pakistan government in its request had said Saeed is the sole supporter of his four member family and is responsible for food, drink and clothing expenses for all the family members. The development came just a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan addressed to United Nations General Assembly.

Saeed who worked as an assistant professor in University of engineering technology in Lahore retired in 1999 and was drawing a pension of Pakistani RS 45,700 through Habib Bank. However, his bank account was blocked after UNSC listed him, freezing his assets.

Saeed was put on the UN sanctions list in 2008 after the Mumbai terror attacks. There is a $10 million bounty on Saeed by the US on him. Saeed is currently in jail and faces trial for allegedly being involved in terror financing.

US has said that Pakistan must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed.

US has said that Pakistan must account for "basic expenses" being given to 26/11 mastermind and UN sanctions terrorist Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad had gone to the United Nations Security Council to allow pension of Pakistani rupees 150,000 to Saeed. Alice Wells, US' Acting Assistant Secretary for the Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs, said,"Countries are required under the obligations of the listings that for any UN-designated individual that you account for whatever money flow is permitted, such as the family’s expenses of Hafiz Saeed." Calling Pakistan action to go to UNSC "counterintuitive" but a "positive step", Alice wells said, "So actually having these submissions indicates a level of transparency and a fulfilment of a key requirement of FATF. So we welcome this step." The United Nations Security Council's 1267 sanctions committee under which global terrorists are listed has approved Pakistani request to allow "basic expenses" to Hafiz Saeed. Islamabad's request got no objection until the deadline of August 15 at 3 pm New York time leading to approval by UNSC. Pakistan has said that such "an exemption was in line with the established procedures and practices of the UNSC 1267 Sanctions Committee". Pakistan government in its request had said Saeed is the sole supporter of his four member family and is responsible for food, drink and clothing expenses for all the family members. The development came just a day before Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan addressed to United Nations General Assembly. Saeed who worked as an assistant professor in University of engineering technology in Lahore retired in 1999 and was drawing a pension of Pakistani RS 45,700 through Habib Bank. However, his bank account was blocked after UNSC listed him, freezing his assets. Saeed was put on the UN sanctions list in 2008 after the Mumbai terror attacks. There is a $10 million bounty on Saeed by the US on him. Saeed is currently in jail and faces trial for allegedly being involved in terror financing.

Pakistan must account for basic expenses being given to Hafiz Saeed: US

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