In its first reaction since US President Donald Trump called off talks with Taliban, India has called for direct talks between the Taliban and Afghan government and said outcome of any agreement should be based on constitutional legitimacy.

In its first reaction since US President Donald Trump called off talks with Taliban, India has called for direct talks between the Taliban and Afghan government and said outcome of any agreement should be based on constitutional legitimacy. India's envoy to United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin speaking at the quarterly debate on United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan said, "It is the Afghan people who will implement and bear the consequences of any agreements arrived at. Hence, outcomes which have constitutional legitimacy and a political mandate and are arrived at in an inclusive and democratic way alone can ensure stability.", adding, "We, therefore, support the Secretary General’s call for direct talks." Highlighting the issue of cross border terror, Indian envoy called for an atmosphere free of terror for peace and reconciliation. "The support and safe havens enjoyed from beyond Afghanistan’s borders by groups such as the Taliban, the Haqqani Network, Da'esh, as well as al-Qaeda and its proscribed affiliates, including the Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, must be addressed," he said. There has been a surge of violence in Afghanistan, which, Syed said, is deepening apprehensions that acts of terror are being used to jockey for a place of advantage in the negotiating process. US President over the weekend announced that he had planned to host Taliban at Camp David to hammer out a peace deal that could have seen American troops leaving Afghanistan after 18 years. India lauds Afghan cricket team in UN Indian envoy lauded the Afghan cricket team for their recent victories. "Afghan cricketers recorded, just less than 48 hours ago, their second victory in three cricket test matches that they have played thus far. Such a feat was last accomplished by any other country way back in the 19th century," Akbaruddin said. New Delhi is majorly supporting Afghan cricket team. It has helped build Kandahar cricket stadium which has a capacity of 14,000 and a stadium in Mazar-e-Sharif. Other than this, India is providing two “home grounds” in Greater Noida and Dehradun for Afghan team and also, technical and logistical support for players and the Afghanistan Cricket Board.

India calls for direct talks between Taliban and Afghan government after Trump scraps dialogue 

India hit out at Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in its right of reply at the United Nations Human Rights Council as it raised the plight of minorities in the neighbouring country.

First Secretary at the Permanent Mission of India to UN Vimarsh Aryan said Pakistani," rhetoric will not distract international attention from Pakistan’s persecution and elimination of religious and ethnic minorities – be it the Christians, Sikhs, Shias, Ahmadiyas and Hindus."

India gave examples of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was incarcerated for years under blasphemy laws and Abdul Shakoor a the 82-year-old Ahmadiya, who was charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act for selling books. New Delhi also gave the example of minor Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur who was abducted and converted just a few weeks back in Pakistan's Punjab province.

India's diplomat slammed Islamabad for raking Kashmir at the Geneva-based institution.

Indian diplomat Vimarsh Aryan said, "We're not surprised at Pakistan's hysterical statements with false narratives aimed to politicise and polarise this forum. Pakistan realises that our decision cuts away ground from under its feet by creating obstacles in its continuing sponsorship of cross-border terrorism."

New Delhi highlighted how "some Pakistan leaders have even gone as far as to call for ‘Jihad’ and to encourage violence both inside Jammu and Kashmir and in third countries, in order to paint a picture of ‘genocide’ which even they know is far from reality"

Calling Pakistan, "epicentre of global terrorism", Aryan said, Pakistan "forgets that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse."

It's interesting to know India sent a diplomat from who hails from Jammu and Kashmir to respond to Pakistan FM.

Earlier in the day Pakistani FM Qureshi had spoken from UNHRC and spoken about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir in the aftermath of the removal of special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

India hit out at Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in its right of reply at the United Nations Human Rights Council as it raised the plight of minorities in the neighbouring country.

India hit out at Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi in its right of reply at the United Nations Human Rights Council as it raised the plight of minorities in the neighbouring country. First Secretary at the Permanent Mission of India to UN Vimarsh Aryan said Pakistani," rhetoric will not distract international attention from Pakistan’s persecution and elimination of religious and ethnic minorities – be it the Christians, Sikhs, Shias, Ahmadiyas and Hindus." India gave examples of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who was incarcerated for years under blasphemy laws and Abdul Shakoor a the 82-year-old Ahmadiya, who was charged under the Anti-Terrorism Act for selling books. New Delhi also gave the example of minor Sikh girl Jagjit Kaur who was abducted and converted just a few weeks back in Pakistan's Punjab province. India's diplomat slammed Islamabad for raking Kashmir at the Geneva-based institution. Indian diplomat Vimarsh Aryan said, "We're not surprised at Pakistan's hysterical statements with false narratives aimed to politicise and polarise this forum. Pakistan realises that our decision cuts away ground from under its feet by creating obstacles in its continuing sponsorship of cross-border terrorism." New Delhi highlighted how "some Pakistan leaders have even gone as far as to call for ‘Jihad’ and to encourage violence both inside Jammu and Kashmir and in third countries, in order to paint a picture of ‘genocide’ which even they know is far from reality" Calling Pakistan, "epicentre of global terrorism", Aryan said, Pakistan "forgets that terrorism is the worst form of human rights abuse." It's interesting to know India sent a diplomat from who hails from Jammu and Kashmir to respond to Pakistan FM. Earlier in the day Pakistani FM Qureshi had spoken from UNHRC and spoken about the situation in Jammu and Kashmir in the aftermath of the removal of special status for Jammu and Kashmir.

Asia Bibi, Jagjit Kaur's names echo at UNHRC chamber as India hits out at Pakistan in its right of reply

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-closed-door-meet-russia-supports-india-says-no-unsc-role-in-jammu-and-kashmir-issue-243493">Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement</a> during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

Rejecting Jammu and Kashmir's reference, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, 'J&amp;K is an integral part of India.'

The joint statement issued last week said, "Both sides further exchanged views on the situation in Jammu &amp; Kashmir. The Pakistani side briefed China on the situation, including its concerns, position, and urgent humanitarian issues. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation."

Watch: Understanding China's stance on Kashmir

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&nbsp;Both Pakistan and China have been trying to rake up Kashmir at international forums after New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state. On August 16 India was able to thwart a joint effort by Bejing and Islamabad to raise Kashmir at United Nations security council with Pakistan keen on an emergency session on Kashmir, which could not happen due to lack of support at the council.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, New Delhi has expressed its concern to "both China and Pakistan on the projects in so-called “China Pakistan Economic Corridor” saying it "resolutely opposed to any actions by other countries to change the status quo in Pakistan occupied J&amp;K" and asked them "to cease such actions."

CPEC passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a region that has been under Pakistani occupation since 1947. India has boycotted China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative due to CPEC, which New Delhi says violates its sovereignty.

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

India on Tuesday slammed the mention of Jammu and Kashmir in China-Pakistan joint statement during the visit of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and raised its concerns regarding the massive infrastructure project—the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Rejecting Jammu and Kashmir's reference, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said, 'J&K is an integral part of India.' The joint statement issued last week said, "Both sides further exchanged views on the situation in Jammu & Kashmir. The Pakistani side briefed China on the situation, including its concerns, position, and urgent humanitarian issues. China opposes any unilateral actions that complicate the situation." Watch: Understanding China's stance on Kashmir Both Pakistan and China have been trying to rake up Kashmir at international forums after New Delhi's August 5th decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state. On August 16 India was able to thwart a joint effort by Bejing and Islamabad to raise Kashmir at United Nations security council with Pakistan keen on an emergency session on Kashmir, which could not happen due to lack of support at the council. Meanwhile, New Delhi has expressed its concern to "both China and Pakistan on the projects in so-called “China Pakistan Economic Corridor” saying it "resolutely opposed to any actions by other countries to change the status quo in Pakistan occupied J&K" and asked them "to cease such actions." CPEC passes through Pakistan occupied Kashmir, a region that has been under Pakistani occupation since 1947. India has boycotted China's One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative due to CPEC, which New Delhi says violates its sovereignty.

India slams Jammu and Kashmir's mention in China-Pakistan joint statement; raises concerns on CPEC

The Tajik envoy Rahimzoda Sulton in Delhi, speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal lauded the Chabahar project and said it will&nbsp;provide them with the shortest route to a seaport. He also spoke on Afghanistan, with which the landlocked central country shares a long border, and India-Tajik ties. Edited excerpts:&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: Today you mark your Independence day....

Rahimzoda Sulton: On 9th of September Tajikistan celebrates its Independence day and this morning the honourable President of the Republic of Tajikistan his Excellency Emomali Rahmon has launched the second unit of the Rogun hydropower plant.&nbsp;

Rogun hydropower plant is the biggest power station under construction and after its completion, with a capacity of 3600 MW, it will be the biggest hydropower station in Central Asia. The height of the dam will be 335 meters which will be the tallest dam in the world. It plays a very important role in the economic development of Tajikistan.&nbsp;

For a long period, we had to face a lack of electricity especially during the winter and had to close schools, hospitals. Even industries faced power shortages. This project will help to better social situation. We are very happy with this good news.

WION: How do see ties between India and Tajikistan?

Rahimzoda Sulton: India and Tajikistan have deep historical and cultural ties. Our bilateral relations have been built based on mutually beneficial cooperation. Our collaboration is increasing year by year. There have been high-level visits. We are happy to have collaboration with India and we think there is a big potential for future collaboration.&nbsp;

WION: How can India help Tajikistan achieve its development goals?

Rahimzoda Sulton: India has achieved many big developments. It is one of the biggest economies of the world, among the top 10. Prime minister Narendra Modi announced a new plan of government to make it $5 trillion economies and this is achievable. We are celebrating the 28th anniversary of our Independence and we have a lot of untapped potentials. we are interested in investment from India. Its good opportunity for Indian companies to come to Tajikistan. We are using concessional loans announced by Indian President Kovind during his visit to the country last year. We have a big resource for hydropower.

WIONl: How do you see India's Chabahar project?

Rahimzoda Sulton: Tajikistan like other Central Asian countries is landlocked, so we don't have access to seas and seaports. That is why it makes difficult for our economy especially on the export and import of goods. It's cheaper to export goods via sea than use land transportation. In this regard, this Chabahar project is a good opportunity&nbsp;and it provides an opportunity for Tajikistan to increase its exports and imports potential. It will be the shortest route to the seaport, we welcome this initiative by India and currently, we are working and understanding the different aspects of the project. It will also help in bilateral cooperation with India.&nbsp;

WION: You are a close neighbour of Afghanistan, how do you see developments in the country?

Rahimzoda Sulton: Tajikstan has the longest border with Afghanistan. Its length is more than 1300 km, and Tajikistan is interested in having a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. We welcome the initiative of the government and the people of Afghanistan to work in this direction and to have a good collaboration with neighbouring countries. We welcome the initiatives by the international community and invite them to increase their support for the economic development of Afghanistan because when the economy is developed, the social situation is better then the risk of conflict goes down. Having stable Afghanistan means it can help us provide transit to Chabahar that will help in the economic growth of our country.

The Tajik envoy Rahimzoda Sulton in Delhi, speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal lauded the Chabahar project and said it will provide them with the shortest route to a seaport.

The Tajik envoy Rahimzoda Sulton in Delhi, speaking exclusively to WION's Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal lauded the Chabahar project and said it will provide them with the shortest route to a seaport. He also spoke on Afghanistan, with which the landlocked central country shares a long border, and India-Tajik ties. Edited excerpts: WION: Today you mark your Independence day.... Rahimzoda Sulton: On 9th of September Tajikistan celebrates its Independence day and this morning the honourable President of the Republic of Tajikistan his Excellency Emomali Rahmon has launched the second unit of the Rogun hydropower plant. Rogun hydropower plant is the biggest power station under construction and after its completion, with a capacity of 3600 MW, it will be the biggest hydropower station in Central Asia. The height of the dam will be 335 meters which will be the tallest dam in the world. It plays a very important role in the economic development of Tajikistan. For a long period, we had to face a lack of electricity especially during the winter and had to close schools, hospitals. Even industries faced power shortages. This project will help to better social situation. We are very happy with this good news. WION: How do see ties between India and Tajikistan? Rahimzoda Sulton: India and Tajikistan have deep historical and cultural ties. Our bilateral relations have been built based on mutually beneficial cooperation. Our collaboration is increasing year by year. There have been high-level visits. We are happy to have collaboration with India and we think there is a big potential for future collaboration. WION: How can India help Tajikistan achieve its development goals? Rahimzoda Sulton: India has achieved many big developments. It is one of the biggest economies of the world, among the top 10. Prime minister Narendra Modi announced a new plan of government to make it $5 trillion economies and this is achievable. We are celebrating the 28th anniversary of our Independence and we have a lot of untapped potentials. we are interested in investment from India. Its good opportunity for Indian companies to come to Tajikistan. We are using concessional loans announced by Indian President Kovind during his visit to the country last year. We have a big resource for hydropower. WIONl: How do you see India's Chabahar project? Rahimzoda Sulton: Tajikistan like other Central Asian countries is landlocked, so we don't have access to seas and seaports. That is why it makes difficult for our economy especially on the export and import of goods. It's cheaper to export goods via sea than use land transportation. In this regard, this Chabahar project is a good opportunity and it provides an opportunity for Tajikistan to increase its exports and imports potential. It will be the shortest route to the seaport, we welcome this initiative by India and currently, we are working and understanding the different aspects of the project. It will also help in bilateral cooperation with India. WION: You are a close neighbour of Afghanistan, how do you see developments in the country? Rahimzoda Sulton: Tajikstan has the longest border with Afghanistan. Its length is more than 1300 km, and Tajikistan is interested in having a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. We welcome the initiative of the government and the people of Afghanistan to work in this direction and to have a good collaboration with neighbouring countries. We welcome the initiatives by the international community and invite them to increase their support for the economic development of Afghanistan because when the economy is developed, the social situation is better then the risk of conflict goes down. Having stable Afghanistan means it can help us provide transit to Chabahar that will help in the economic growth of our country.

Chabahar will provide us with the shortest route to a seaport: Tajik envoy 

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal.&nbsp;

The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

A release from the Indian Prime Minister's office said,"This India-Nepal energy cooperation project, the Motihari-Amlekhganj pipeline, is a symbol of our close bilateral relations."

Adding, "It will help to enhance the energy security of the region and substantially cut down on transit costs."

India's prime minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will jointly inaugurate it at 12 noon on Tuesday via a video link.

The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in April last year during PM Oli's India visit.

The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 68 km long with has a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory.

There will be pumping facilities at Motihari and Amlekhganj terminal is revamped and has storage, receiving facilities and fire fighting facilities.

New Delhi is also working on 130 kilometres long India Bangladesh friendship pipeline whose construction was jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in September 2018. It will connect Siliguri in West Bengal with Parbatipur in Bangladesh with a total cost of Rs 346 crore.

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc.

More than 20 years after it was first proposed, the first cross border commercial oil pipeline will start functioning between India and Nepal. The pipeline from Motihari in Bihar to Amlekhganj in Nepal will transfer petroleum products such as diesel, LPG, aviation turbine fuel etc. A release from the Indian Prime Minister's office said,"This India-Nepal energy cooperation project, the Motihari-Amlekhganj pipeline, is a symbol of our close bilateral relations." Adding, "It will help to enhance the energy security of the region and substantially cut down on transit costs." India's prime minister Narendra Modi and Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli will jointly inaugurate it at 12 noon on Tuesday via a video link. The idea of the pipeline was first proposed in 1996 and finalised in 2014 during PM Modi's Nepal visit. It was approved by Indian Oil at a total cost of Rs 324 crore in September 2015 but the work was delayed following the earthquake of 2015. The groundbreaking ceremony took place in April last year during PM Oli's India visit. The pipeline will replace road transportation and ensure uninterrupted supplies. The pipeline is 68 km long with has a capacity of 2 million tonnes per annum. 32.7km of the pipeline is in Indian territory and 36.2 km in Nepal's territory. There will be pumping facilities at Motihari and Amlekhganj terminal is revamped and has storage, receiving facilities and fire fighting facilities. New Delhi is also working on 130 kilometres long India Bangladesh friendship pipeline whose construction was jointly inaugurated by PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasina in September 2018. It will connect Siliguri in West Bengal with Parbatipur in Bangladesh with a total cost of Rs 346 crore.

PM Modi and his Nepalese counterpart to jointly inaugurate South Asia's first  cross-border pipeline

In a strong message of solidarity, the Indian community in the UK on Saturday joined hands to clean the mess created by violent protest in front of the Indian mission in London last week.&nbsp;

Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam was also present when the cleanup operation began at 3.30 PM. 
&nbsp; 
In a symbolic move, British Indians community also sent the Mayor of London Sadiq khan the cleaning invoice after volunteering and cleaning the area.

Watch: Indians clean Pakistan protesters' mess

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While Sadiq khan had "condemn this unacceptable behaviour", the British high commission in Delhi had described the incident as "largely peaceful".&nbsp;

Pakistani diaspora members along with several Khalistanis had staged a violent protest outside the mission on September 3. This was the second time in less than a month that the Indian mission in London has been targeted by unruly protesters. The first happened on August 15 on Indian independence day. They were protesting the Indian government's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

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&nbsp; 
The latest protest saw vandalisation of Indian mission's property with Indian High Commission tweeting a photo of a broken windowpane. 
&nbsp; 
India had strongly raised the matter both in Delhi and London. Indian summoned the British Deputy High Commissioner Jan Thompson in Delhi on Wednesday, a day after the protest took place. The Indian high commissioner in London Ruchi Ghanashyam met DG(Political) Foreign office and raised the issue of violent protest.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Two people were arrested after the protest by the metropolitan police.

In a strong message of solidarity, the Indian community in the UK on Saturday joined hands to clean the mess created by violent protest in front of the Indian mission in London last week.

In a strong message of solidarity, the Indian community in the UK on Saturday joined hands to clean the mess created by violent protest in front of the Indian mission in London last week. Indian envoy Ruchi Ghanashyam was also present when the cleanup operation began at 3.30 PM. In a symbolic move, British Indians community also sent the Mayor of London Sadiq khan the cleaning invoice after volunteering and cleaning the area. Watch: Indians clean Pakistan protesters' mess × While Sadiq khan had "condemn this unacceptable behaviour", the British high commission in Delhi had described the incident as "largely peaceful". Pakistani diaspora members along with several Khalistanis had staged a violent protest outside the mission on September 3. This was the second time in less than a month that the Indian mission in London has been targeted by unruly protesters. The first happened on August 15 on Indian independence day. They were protesting the Indian government's decision to remove the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. The latest protest saw vandalisation of Indian mission's property with Indian High Commission tweeting a photo of a broken windowpane. India had strongly raised the matter both in Delhi and London. Indian summoned the British Deputy High Commissioner Jan Thompson in Delhi on Wednesday, a day after the protest took place. The Indian high commissioner in London Ruchi Ghanashyam met DG(Political) Foreign office and raised the issue of violent protest. Two people were arrested after the protest by the metropolitan police.

British Indians join hands to clean High Commission after Pakistani protestors' vandalism

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe.

Deputy press secretary to the President, Dr Nimish Rustagi said, "The President looks forward to having an engagement with his counterparts and also engaging with the business community and students of these countries".&nbsp;

While he will be meeting with the top leadership of all the 3 countries, he will also be engaging with the students at universities of these countries and its business leadership.

Asked if Kashmir will be discussed during the meetings with the political leadership, secretary west Gitesh Sarma in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "When leaders meet, there is a structure in which regional, international, global multilateral issues of national concerns are discussed. We use this opportunity to brief each other. This is a very good setting to hear at the highest level what our perspective is".

On terror, "all 3 countries are very sympathetic to India and this year in the context of Pulwama attack, their sympathies have been with India. They are aware that there is a need to work closely with India", he said.

PM Modi's first leg of the visit will be to Iceland where the focus will be on dealing with climate change. He will deliver a lecture at the University of Iceland in the capital city Reykjaví on "India-Iceland partnership and towards making a greener planet". 80 per cent of Iceland works on geothermal energy, which can help India in its renewable energy programme.

The visit to Iceland is significant given the fact that it is the chair of the Arctic Council and is involved in the Arctic Circle Cooperation. New Delhi is an observer at the Arctic Council and is keen on increasing its engagement with that part of the world. This will be the first time when the president visits a Nordic country.

This will be followed by a visit to Switzerland from September 11 to 15. President Kovind will unveil a bust of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi in Villeneuve. Gandhi had visited the place in 1931. Kovind will also hold an address the University of Bern on the topic "India-Switzerland, new age partnership, connecting Himalayas with Alps".

On the issue of black money, both the countries started the automatic exchange of financial account information with India started receiving information from Sept 1 with respect to all financial accounts held by Indian residents in Switzerland. The President will visit Slovenia from September 15 to 19.

Interestingly, Bollywood is keen to tap the scenic beauty of these countries. While Switzerland is well known as a location to shoot Bollywood movies, Shah Rukh Khan's movie Dilwale's song 'Gerua' was shot in the south coast of Iceland.

This is for the eleventh time when the President will go abroad after taking charge. This will be his second foreign visit during the third year of his tenure. &nbsp;

President Kovind has been on a state visit to 23 countries in the 11 visits. After the 3-nation tour, the number of his foreign visits will go up to 26. Other European countries he has visited include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Croatia.

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe.

President Ram Nath Kovind will be on a 3-nation visit to Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia from September 9 to 17. During the visit, the focus will be on climate change and growing engagement with Europe. Deputy press secretary to the President, Dr Nimish Rustagi said, "The President looks forward to having an engagement with his counterparts and also engaging with the business community and students of these countries". While he will be meeting with the top leadership of all the 3 countries, he will also be engaging with the students at universities of these countries and its business leadership. Asked if Kashmir will be discussed during the meetings with the political leadership, secretary west Gitesh Sarma in the Ministry of External Affairs said, "When leaders meet, there is a structure in which regional, international, global multilateral issues of national concerns are discussed. We use this opportunity to brief each other. This is a very good setting to hear at the highest level what our perspective is". On terror, "all 3 countries are very sympathetic to India and this year in the context of Pulwama attack, their sympathies have been with India. They are aware that there is a need to work closely with India", he said. PM Modi's first leg of the visit will be to Iceland where the focus will be on dealing with climate change. He will deliver a lecture at the University of Iceland in the capital city Reykjaví on "India-Iceland partnership and towards making a greener planet". 80 per cent of Iceland works on geothermal energy, which can help India in its renewable energy programme. The visit to Iceland is significant given the fact that it is the chair of the Arctic Council and is involved in the Arctic Circle Cooperation. New Delhi is an observer at the Arctic Council and is keen on increasing its engagement with that part of the world. This will be the first time when the president visits a Nordic country. This will be followed by a visit to Switzerland from September 11 to 15. President Kovind will unveil a bust of 'father of nation' Mahatma Gandhi in Villeneuve. Gandhi had visited the place in 1931. Kovind will also hold an address the University of Bern on the topic "India-Switzerland, new age partnership, connecting Himalayas with Alps". On the issue of black money, both the countries started the automatic exchange of financial account information with India started receiving information from Sept 1 with respect to all financial accounts held by Indian residents in Switzerland. The President will visit Slovenia from September 15 to 19. Interestingly, Bollywood is keen to tap the scenic beauty of these countries. While Switzerland is well known as a location to shoot Bollywood movies, Shah Rukh Khan's movie Dilwale's song 'Gerua' was shot in the south coast of Iceland. This is for the eleventh time when the President will go abroad after taking charge. This will be his second foreign visit during the third year of his tenure. President Kovind has been on a state visit to 23 countries in the 11 visits. After the 3-nation tour, the number of his foreign visits will go up to 26. Other European countries he has visited include Cyprus, Bulgaria, Czech Republic and Croatia.

President Kovind to visit Iceland, Switzerland and Slovenia with focus on climate change

India has officially raised the anti-India protests and consequent vandalisation of Indian High Commission's property both with British High Commission in Delhi and the British Foreign Office in London.

India summoned the British Deputy High Commissioner Jan Thompson in Delhi on Wednesday, a day after the protest took place. The protest, in which two people were arrested by UK's Metropolitan Police took place on Tuesday by members of the Pakistani diaspora and Khalistani who threw objects, one of which broke the windowpane of the mission.

The Ministry of External Affairs had issued a statement saying, "We consider these incidents to be unacceptable and have strongly urged the Government of UK to take action against those involved."

The Indian High Commissioner in London Ruchi Ghanashyam met DG(Political) Foreign office and raised the issue of violent protest. The DG had said the "physical damage to High Commission property was completely unacceptable" adding "safety and security of all diplomatic missions and their staff are of utmost concern to UK".

This is the second time in a month that large protest by Pakistani diaspora has taken place outside the Indian High Commission in London. The last was on August 15, India's Independence Day in which four people were arrested.&nbsp;

India has officially raised the anti-India protests and consequent vandalisation of Indian High Commission's property both with British High Commission in Delhi and the British Foreign Office in London.

India has officially raised the anti-India protests and consequent vandalisation of Indian High Commission's property both with British High Commission in Delhi and the British Foreign Office in London. India summoned the British Deputy High Commissioner Jan Thompson in Delhi on Wednesday, a day after the protest took place. The protest, in which two people were arrested by UK's Metropolitan Police took place on Tuesday by members of the Pakistani diaspora and Khalistani who threw objects, one of which broke the windowpane of the mission. The Ministry of External Affairs had issued a statement saying, "We consider these incidents to be unacceptable and have strongly urged the Government of UK to take action against those involved." The Indian High Commissioner in London Ruchi Ghanashyam met DG(Political) Foreign office and raised the issue of violent protest. The DG had said the "physical damage to High Commission property was completely unacceptable" adding "safety and security of all diplomatic missions and their staff are of utmost concern to UK". This is the second time in a month that large protest by Pakistani diaspora has taken place outside the Indian High Commission in London. The last was on August 15, India's Independence Day in which four people were arrested.

Vandalism of Indian High Commission in London: India raises matter in Delhi, UK

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

During his meet with Indonesia FM Marsudi, both sides adopted of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman- Aceh connectivity. The first meeting of the Joint Task Force will take place in Indonesia in November.

Last year PM Modi had visited Indonesia and during his meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, both sides discussed connectivity between India's Andaman Islands and Indonesia's Aceh province included cruise ship connectivity.

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Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart <a href="https://twitter.com/Menlu_RI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Menlu_RI</a>. My 1st bilat’l visit as EAM to ASEAN.Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership.Agreed to address common challenges&amp;explore shared opportunities.Our talks highlightd mutual support for territorial integrity <a href="https://t.co/5R4Iw0wlDt">pic.twitter.com/5R4Iw0wlDt</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1169524618828206081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Indo Pacific was one of the key focus between Jaishankar-Marsudi meet. Remember Indonesia had played a crucial role in the adoption of ‘ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific'.

"Our Shared Vision of Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific agreed during Prime Minister’s visit last year, is a recognition that India and Indonesia, as two major economies in this region need to develop synergies to harness the potential and meet the challenges that the region faces." EAM Jaishanker said at the press statements after him meet with Indonesian FM.

Adding, "We have the commonality of interest in working together on Indo-Pacific concept within EAS and I underline to the Minister that we see ASEAN Centrality as a prominent feature of our approach to the Indo-Pacific."

India has also joined Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand-Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) as the first Dialogue Partner as the invitation of Jakarta.

In Singapore, where is he from 6th to 10th, he will be co-chairing the 6th Meeting of Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) &nbsp;Foreign Minister of Singapore Dr Vivian Balakrishnan.

He will also call on Singapore’s Prime Minister &amp; Deputy Prime Minister.

"The two sides will review the whole range of bilateral issues and provide the direction for further deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries", a ministry of external affairs release said.

PM Modi has visited Singapore 4 times, 2 times in 2015 and 2 times in 2018. It is interesting to note that Singapore was the first country in the world to join the RuPay card, which is an Indian payment gateway like visa or MasterCard.

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi.

With a focus on enhanced engagement with ASEAN, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar is in Singapore after concluding the 3-day visit to Indonesia where he met his counterpart the Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno Marsudi. During his meet with Indonesia FM Marsudi, both sides adopted of the Terms of Reference of the Joint Task Force meeting on Andaman- Aceh connectivity. The first meeting of the Joint Task Force will take place in Indonesia in November. Last year PM Modi had visited Indonesia and during his meet with Indonesian President Joko Widodo, both sides discussed connectivity between India's Andaman Islands and Indonesia's Aceh province included cruise ship connectivity. Pleasure to meet my Indonesian counterpart @Menlu_RI. My 1st bilat’l visit as EAM to ASEAN.Drawing on historical linkages to fashion a modern partnership.Agreed to address common challenges&explore shared opportunities.Our talks highlightd mutual support for territorial integrity pic.twitter.com/5R4Iw0wlDt — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 5, 2019 × Indo Pacific was one of the key focus between Jaishankar-Marsudi meet. Remember Indonesia had played a crucial role in the adoption of ‘ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific'. "Our Shared Vision of Maritime Cooperation in the Indo-Pacific agreed during Prime Minister’s visit last year, is a recognition that India and Indonesia, as two major economies in this region need to develop synergies to harness the potential and meet the challenges that the region faces." EAM Jaishanker said at the press statements after him meet with Indonesian FM. Adding, "We have the commonality of interest in working together on Indo-Pacific concept within EAS and I underline to the Minister that we see ASEAN Centrality as a prominent feature of our approach to the Indo-Pacific." India has also joined Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand-Growth Triangle (IMT-GT) as the first Dialogue Partner as the invitation of Jakarta. In Singapore, where is he from 6th to 10th, he will be co-chairing the 6th Meeting of Joint Ministerial Committee (JMC) Foreign Minister of Singapore Dr Vivian Balakrishnan. He will also call on Singapore’s Prime Minister & Deputy Prime Minister. "The two sides will review the whole range of bilateral issues and provide the direction for further deepening the strategic partnership between the two countries", a ministry of external affairs release said. PM Modi has visited Singapore 4 times, 2 times in 2015 and 2 times in 2018. It is interesting to note that Singapore was the first country in the world to join the RuPay card, which is an Indian payment gateway like visa or MasterCard.

With ASEAN in focus, EAM talks connectivity in Indonesia, strategic partnership in Singapore

India on Wednesday shared the evidence of vandalisation of the Indian high commission property by Pakistani diaspora in London during the anti-India protest that happened on Tuesday.

India on Wednesday shared the evidence of vandalisation of the Indian high commission property by Pakistani diaspora in London during the anti-India protest that happened on Tuesday. Indian High Commissioner Ruchi Ghanashyam met Director General (DG) of UK Foreign office and raised the matter of violent protest outside the High Commission. DG said "physical damage to High Commission property was completely unacceptable" adding, "safety and security of all diplomatic missions and their staff are of upmost concern to the UK." India had strongly reacted to the second major protest within one month to happen in front of the Indian mission in London. The Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar in a statement said, "We consider these incidents to be unacceptable and have strongly urged the Government of UK to take action against those involved." Meanwhile, following Tuesday's protests, two people have been arrested by the UK's Metropolitan Police. The protestors had thrown objects at the Indian mission leading to damage to the property. Indian mission had tweeted a picture of a damaged window pane. Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises. @foreignoffice @UKinIndia @MEAIndia @DominicRaab @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @tariqahmadbt pic.twitter.com/2sv0Qt1xy8 — India in the UK (@HCI_London) September 3, 2019 × London Mayor Sadiq Khan reacted to the incident saying he "utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with Metropolitan Police to take action." However, the British High Commission called the protests "largely peaceful" with the police ensuring a "safe perimeter". The first incident of large scale violent protests happened on India's Independence Day on August 15 in which four people were arrested. In a telephonic conversation in August, Indian Prime Minister has raised the matter with British counterpart Boris Johnson during which the latter had assured the safety of the Indian mission.

Vandalism at Indian Mission in London: India shows evidence to UK

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months."

According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures.

Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country.&nbsp;

In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country.

Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection.&nbsp;

Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga, who met on the sidelines of the Eastern Economic Forum, discussed how India can help mitigate the impact of smog in the Mongolian capital Ulaanbaatar. The foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "President of Mongolia spoke of the success India is having in mitigating the pollution due to stubble burning of wheat in the winter months." According to Indian Council of Agricultural Research, there have been 41% decline in burning of crop stubble in 2018 as compared to 2016 in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCR region due to central government measures. Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga will be visiting India later this month. During his tour, Battulga will visit Delhi, Bodh Gaya and Bengaluru. India is helping the landlocked country build an oil refinery through a line of credit announced during PM Modi's visit to the country. In 2015, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the country. Mongolia, which is landlocked between Russia and China considers India as its "third neighbour" with which it has a spiritual connection. Last few years have seen a number of high-level visits from India to Mongolia, including the visit of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj in April 2018, former home minister Rajnath Singh in June 2018 and former minister of state for home Kiren Rijiju in July 2018

On sidelines of EEF, PM Modi meets Mongolian President; offers help on mitigating smog

Two people have been arrested after Pakistan's diaspora, along with Khalistanis, launched a massive protest outside the Indian High Commission in London on Tuesday and broke a windowpane of the premises. The incident drew widespread condemnation. &nbsp;

The Indian Mission in a tweet said, "Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises."&nbsp;

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Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises. <a href="https://twitter.com/foreignoffice?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@foreignoffice</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/UKinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UKinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DominicRaab?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DominicRaab</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PMOIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/tariqahmadbt?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@tariqahmadbt</a> <a href="https://t.co/2sv0Qt1xy8">pic.twitter.com/2sv0Qt1xy8</a>
— India in the UK (@HCI_London) <a href="https://twitter.com/HCI_London/status/1168921116762693635?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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London Mayor Sadiq Khan reacted to the incident saying, "I utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with Metropolitan Police to take action."&nbsp;

UK's Metropolitan Police in a statement to WION said, "There were two arrests for criminal damage at yesterday’s event outside the Indian High Commission".

New Delhi is expected to take up the matter with London on Tuesday's protests which were announced by Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi from the national assembly.

The protestors were opposing the revocation of special status for Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

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I utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with <a href="https://twitter.com/metpoliceuk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@metpoliceuk</a> to take action.
— Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) <a href="https://twitter.com/SadiqKhan/status/1168947795597901828?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is the second major incident of protest outside the Indian Mission in less than a month in London. The Pakistani diaspora launched a violent protest on Indian Independence Day outside the mission leaving many from the Indian community stranded. Four people were arrested by the Metropolitan Police at that time. &nbsp;

The second incident came on the day when British foreign secretary Dominic Raab "deplored" the violent protest on August 15.&nbsp;

"Such violence should not be conducted anywhere else for that matter. Communities now need to reduce that tension but on a positive note, such as buildup confidence-building measures. This would not only allow reducing tension between communities in Kashmir and also between India and Pakistan," Raab said in the British Parliament in response to a question.&nbsp;

Last week, ahead of their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and raised the issue of violent protests that took place outside the Indian Mission.&nbsp;

An Indian government readout said, that Prime Minister Modi "drew attention to the challenges posed by vested interests pursuing their motivated agenda, including by violent means."&nbsp;

Adding, "In this context, he referred to the violence and vandalism perpetrated by a large mob against the High Commission of India in London on the last Independence Day of India."&nbsp;

The British Prime minister has regretted the incident and assured the safety of the Indian Mission.&nbsp;

The readout said, Prime Minister Johnson "assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure safety and security of the High Commission, its personnel and visitors."&nbsp;

India had taken up with the United Kingdom the violent protests which took place outside the Indian High Commission on Independence Day and conveyed its concerns on how the security of the mission was undermined. &nbsp;

Two people have been arrested after Pakistan's diaspora, along with Khalistanis, launched a massive protest outside the Indian High Commission in London on Tuesday and broke a windowpane of the premises.

Two people have been arrested after Pakistan's diaspora, along with Khalistanis, launched a massive protest outside the Indian High Commission in London on Tuesday and broke a windowpane of the premises. The incident drew widespread condemnation. The Indian Mission in a tweet said, "Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises." Another violent protest outside the Indian High Commission in London today, 3 September 2019. Damage caused to the premises. @foreignoffice @UKinIndia @MEAIndia @DominicRaab @DrSJaishankar @PMOIndia @tariqahmadbt pic.twitter.com/2sv0Qt1xy8 — India in the UK (@HCI_London) September 3, 2019 × London Mayor Sadiq Khan reacted to the incident saying, "I utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with Metropolitan Police to take action." UK's Metropolitan Police in a statement to WION said, "There were two arrests for criminal damage at yesterday’s event outside the Indian High Commission". New Delhi is expected to take up the matter with London on Tuesday's protests which were announced by Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi from the national assembly. The protestors were opposing the revocation of special status for Jammu and Kashmir. I utterly condemn this unacceptable behaviour and have raised this incident with @metpoliceuk to take action. — Sadiq Khan (@SadiqKhan) September 3, 2019 × This is the second major incident of protest outside the Indian Mission in less than a month in London. The Pakistani diaspora launched a violent protest on Indian Independence Day outside the mission leaving many from the Indian community stranded. Four people were arrested by the Metropolitan Police at that time. The second incident came on the day when British foreign secretary Dominic Raab "deplored" the violent protest on August 15. "Such violence should not be conducted anywhere else for that matter. Communities now need to reduce that tension but on a positive note, such as buildup confidence-building measures. This would not only allow reducing tension between communities in Kashmir and also between India and Pakistan," Raab said in the British Parliament in response to a question. Last week, ahead of their meeting on the sidelines of the G7 summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had spoken to British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and raised the issue of violent protests that took place outside the Indian Mission. An Indian government readout said, that Prime Minister Modi "drew attention to the challenges posed by vested interests pursuing their motivated agenda, including by violent means." Adding, "In this context, he referred to the violence and vandalism perpetrated by a large mob against the High Commission of India in London on the last Independence Day of India." The British Prime minister has regretted the incident and assured the safety of the Indian Mission. The readout said, Prime Minister Johnson "assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure safety and security of the High Commission, its personnel and visitors." India had taken up with the United Kingdom the violent protests which took place outside the Indian High Commission on Independence Day and conveyed its concerns on how the security of the mission was undermined.

Two arrested for violent pro-Pakistan protests outside Indian High Commission in London

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