Pakistan on Monday halted repatriation of two Indian civilian prisoners, just hours after the Indian government announced that it will be removing the special status for the Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370.

When the Indian officials reached the take custody of the prisoners, the Pakistan authorities refused. India later sent a note verbale regarding the issue.

Pakistan is mulling several actions against India in the backdrop of abrogation of Article 370 including cutting diplomatic ties, closure of Wagah border.

Former Pakistani Envoy to India Abdul Basit in a tweet said work on Kartarpur corridor that will allow Indian pilgrims to visit holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib without a visa in November 2019 to celebrate 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji.

He tweeted, "We would welcome Sikhs to come to Pakistan in November on the 550th birthday of Guru Nanak but work on Kartarpur Corridor should stop for now."

The situation of Indian and Pakistani prisoners languishing in each other's jail has been one of the biggest humanitarian issues between the two countries.

India in July released six Pakistani prisoners and returned them to Pakistan via the Attari-Wagah border. In April, Pakistan released 360 Indian prisoners after New Delhi in 4 batches.&nbsp;

In its first term, the Modi government was able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats.

In December 2018, Pakistan releasing Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after 6 years in jail. Hamid was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was found with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook.&nbsp;It was followed by the release of 2 Pakistani nationals by India—Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah.

Pakistan on Monday halted repatriation of two Indian civilian prisoners, just hours after the Indian government announced that it will be removing the special status for the Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370.

Pakistan on Monday halted repatriation of two Indian civilian prisoners, just hours after the Indian government announced that it will be removing the special status for the Jammu and Kashmir by abrogating Article 370. When the Indian officials reached the take custody of the prisoners, the Pakistan authorities refused. India later sent a note verbale regarding the issue. Pakistan is mulling several actions against India in the backdrop of abrogation of Article 370 including cutting diplomatic ties, closure of Wagah border. Former Pakistani Envoy to India Abdul Basit in a tweet said work on Kartarpur corridor that will allow Indian pilgrims to visit holy Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib without a visa in November 2019 to celebrate 550 birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. He tweeted, "We would welcome Sikhs to come to Pakistan in November on the 550th birthday of Guru Nanak but work on Kartarpur Corridor should stop for now." The situation of Indian and Pakistani prisoners languishing in each other's jail has been one of the biggest humanitarian issues between the two countries. India in July released six Pakistani prisoners and returned them to Pakistan via the Attari-Wagah border. In April, Pakistan released 360 Indian prisoners after New Delhi in 4 batches. In its first term, the Modi government was able to secure the release of 1749 Indian prisoners, including 1725 fishermen along with 57 boats. In December 2018, Pakistan releasing Indian Citizen Hamid Nehal Ansari after 6 years in jail. Hamid was arrested by Pakistani authorities in 2012 after he was found with a fake passport. He had gone to Pakistan via Afghanistan on a fake passport to meet a girl he befriended on Facebook. It was followed by the release of 2 Pakistani nationals by India—Imran Warsi and Abdullah Shah.

Abrogation of Article 370: Pakistan halts repatriation of two Indian prisoners

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal from Pakistan,&nbsp;he&nbsp;said when he was in India as the Pakistan envoy he had discussed the issue with Indian authorities including BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav.&nbsp;

Here is the full interview:

WION: Did you saw the abrogation of article 370&nbsp;coming?

Abdul Basit: definitely. as you remember in 2014, it was part of the BJP election manifesto and then this year election BJP was very clear that they would work towards&nbsp;the repealing both articles 35 A and 370. So, at least I am not surprised and I have been discussing this with my government as well as informally with Indian authorities. And I am not surprised as a matter of fact.

WION: When you were the high commissioner of India, did you at any time discussed it with Indian officials?

Abdul Basit: I have discussed, many times but informally I would say with Indian officials that there can be serious implications if these articles are abolished. I do remember especially discussing with BJP general secretary Ram Madhav. That was before elections in Jammu and Kashmir. That was on October 24 2014 that I met him and we had a detailed discussion as to how to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. I do remember because I have notes with me. We also discussed the articles and he was emphatic about it and I responded to them that even if you move unilaterally on these things, the dispute will be there. There are UNSC resolutions and both countries are committed to working out a solution following the aspirations of people of J&amp;K. So we had those discussions and he presented his views and I articulated our position on J&amp;K and we said goodbye to each other amicably.

WION: Did Pakistan anticipated such action by India?

Abdul Basit: We will never accept this unilateral decision and as I am sure you must have heard what MP Manish Tiwari Sahib has said&nbsp;(in the&nbsp;Lok Sabha&nbsp;on Tuesday)&nbsp;that this is against Indian constitution and this is illegal and then there are United Nations security council resolutions. Indians themselves have been saying so that they are committed to resolving this issue bilaterally as recently..your external affairs minister met secretary Pompeo. So this whole exercise is in conflict with the Indian constitution, with aspirations of the people of J&amp;K, with UNSC resolutions. India cannot be content with such unilateral steps and no one will accept them.

WION: Is there a sense of shock in Pakistan?

Abdul Basit: There is a sense of outrage in Pakistan. People are disturbed by unilateral steps with Indian govt, people are not happy and we are seeing more problems to come. There will be more problems. India has closed any possibility of a bilateral dialogue on Kashmir and we will seek UN Mediation on this because if India has acted against its own long-held bilateral position on J&amp;K. Pakistan has no avenue but to go to the UN or other countries to seek mediation.

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Former Pakistan Envoy to India, Abdul Basit has said that he was expecting BJP led govt to abrogate article 370 which granted special status to the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal from Pakistan, he said when he was in India as the Pakistan envoy he had discussed the issue with Indian authorities including BJP General Secretary Ram Madhav. Here is the full interview: WION: Did you saw the abrogation of article 370 coming? Abdul Basit: definitely. as you remember in 2014, it was part of the BJP election manifesto and then this year election BJP was very clear that they would work towards the repealing both articles 35 A and 370. So, at least I am not surprised and I have been discussing this with my government as well as informally with Indian authorities. And I am not surprised as a matter of fact. WION: When you were the high commissioner of India, did you at any time discussed it with Indian officials? Abdul Basit: I have discussed, many times but informally I would say with Indian officials that there can be serious implications if these articles are abolished. I do remember especially discussing with BJP general secretary Ram Madhav. That was before elections in Jammu and Kashmir. That was on October 24 2014 that I met him and we had a detailed discussion as to how to resolve the Jammu and Kashmir dispute. I do remember because I have notes with me. We also discussed the articles and he was emphatic about it and I responded to them that even if you move unilaterally on these things, the dispute will be there. There are UNSC resolutions and both countries are committed to working out a solution following the aspirations of people of J&K. So we had those discussions and he presented his views and I articulated our position on J&K and we said goodbye to each other amicably. WION: Did Pakistan anticipated such action by India? Abdul Basit: We will never accept this unilateral decision and as I am sure you must have heard what MP Manish Tiwari Sahib has said (in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday) that this is against Indian constitution and this is illegal and then there are United Nations security council resolutions. Indians themselves have been saying so that they are committed to resolving this issue bilaterally as recently..your external affairs minister met secretary Pompeo. So this whole exercise is in conflict with the Indian constitution, with aspirations of the people of J&K, with UNSC resolutions. India cannot be content with such unilateral steps and no one will accept them. WION: Is there a sense of shock in Pakistan? Abdul Basit: There is a sense of outrage in Pakistan. People are disturbed by unilateral steps with Indian govt, people are not happy and we are seeing more problems to come. There will be more problems. India has closed any possibility of a bilateral dialogue on Kashmir and we will seek UN Mediation on this because if India has acted against its own long-held bilateral position on J&K. Pakistan has no avenue but to go to the UN or other countries to seek mediation.

Former Pakistan envoy says he was expecting abrogation of Article 370 by BJP

US envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday met India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and briefed about the situation in Afghanistan. Both sides "shared views on how we could work together effectively", said Jaishankar in a tweet.

US envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad on Tuesday met India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and briefed about the situation in Afghanistan. Both sides "shared views on how we could work together effectively", said Jaishankar in a tweet. This Khalilzad's third trip to India in 2019 and comes even as Afghan Peace Process gathers pace. Useful discussions with US Special Representative @US4AfghanPeace Zalmay Khalilzad. Provided a comprehensive update on the situation in Afghanistan. Shared views on how we could work together effectively. pic.twitter.com/f5alfdB5cj — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 6, 2019 × Zalmay came directly to Delhi from Doha were he held the eighth round of talks with Taliban and a deal is expected soon which will pave way for the American troops to leave the landlocked South Asian country. Taliban expects the deal to be signed between Eid that begins on August 11 and August 14. Before leaving for Delhi, Zalmay in a tweet said, "My team and Taliban representatives will continue to discuss technical details as well as steps and mechanisms required for a successful implementation of the four-part agreement we've been working towards since my appointment. Agreement on these details is essential". 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.

US envoy for peace in Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad meets Jaishankar in Delhi

Global reactions have been pouring in the aftermath of India's removing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, with the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka reacting positively while the US coming out with a cautious statement.

Global reactions have been pouring in the aftermath of India's removing the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, with the United Arab Emirates and Sri Lanka reacting positively while the US coming out with a cautious statement. The UAE envoy to India Dr Ahmad Al Banna while taking note of the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir and removal of Article 370 called it internal matter of India said "We expect that the changes would improve social justice and security and confidence of the people in the local governance and will encourage further stability and peace". Recent years have seen India and UAE coming closers and an increase in number of high-level visits between the two countries. Indian PM Modi first visited the country in August of 2015 which was followed by the visit of Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in 2016. The following year the Crown Prince was the chief guest at India's republic day parade and again in 2018 PM Modi visited the country and was the chief guest at the sixth World Government Summit in Dubai. Earlier this year UAE awarded its highest civilian award, The Zayed Medal to PM Modi. The positive statement came from Sri Lanka with Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickramasinghe in a tweet welcomed the creation of "Ladakh state" which he said will be the "first Indian state with a Buddhist majority". In a tweet, he said, "Ladakh will become an Indian State. With 70% of Ladakh’s population being Buddhist it will be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Creation of Ladakh and consequential restructuring is India’s internal matter, it is a beautiful region well worth a visit" Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his first foreign visit in second term visited the Indian ocean Island country in June of 2019. The United States state department came out with a cautious statement on the Indian government's decision. The US State Dept while taking "note that the Indian government has described these actions as strictly an internal matter" said it is "concerned about reports of detentions and urge respect for individual rights and discussion with those in affected communities." It also called on India and Pakistan "to maintain peace and stability along the Line of Control.” Interestingly the state department statement made no mention of US President Donald Trump's mediation offer on Jammu and Kashmir, that was rejected New Delhi. India engages with global diplomatic community Meanwhile, Indian diplomats have up there efforts to make sure the global community understands New Delhi's action and also thwart any propaganda by Pakistan. The Indian envoy to Russia Bala Venkatesh Varma speaking to reporters in Moscow said, " its an internal matter and it also an internal administrative matter. We have not done anything to change the external parameters of Jammu and Kashmir state...we are not surprised that Pakistan is raising this, but our response will be the same that it is not a matter that concerns Pakistan" The ministry of external affairs continued briefing of envoys on Tuesday on the administrative developments in Kashmir which included briefing for Latin American and Caribbean countries envoys and envoys from neighbouring countries. Envoys from United Nations Security council and Asean countries were briefed on Monday with India explaining that the changed have been made to spur socio economic development of the region.

Global reaction on India's Kashmir decision; UAE, Sri Lanka positive while US issues a cautious statement

The Indian high commission has asked Pakistani authorities to beef up security around its premises in the backdrop of abrogation of Article 370 that stripped Jammu and Kashmir of special status.&nbsp;The fear is elements in Pakistani might try to create ruckus around high commission.

A note verbale was sent regarding this to Pakistani foreign ministry on Monday evening.&nbsp;

Indian diplomats and officials in Islamabad in the past have been facing harassment. On first June, guests and Indian diplomats faced a lot of harassment at the iftar hosted by Indian high commissioner.&nbsp;India had then strongly protested against the harassment &amp; asked the Pakistani govt to investigate "ugly" incident. But despite Indian request, there were six cases of harassment reported of Indian diplomats.&nbsp;

Harassment of Indian Diplomats in Pakistan have been reported since December of 2018. Incidents range from cutting off lights in winters to aggressive chasing of cars of Indian diplomats including the Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria.

The Indian high commission has asked Pakistani authorities to beef up security around its premises in the backdrop of abrogation of Article 370 that stripped Jammu and Kashmir of special status.

The Indian high commission has asked Pakistani authorities to beef up security around its premises in the backdrop of abrogation of Article 370 that stripped Jammu and Kashmir of special status. The fear is elements in Pakistani might try to create ruckus around high commission. A note verbale was sent regarding this to Pakistani foreign ministry on Monday evening. Indian diplomats and officials in Islamabad in the past have been facing harassment. On first June, guests and Indian diplomats faced a lot of harassment at the iftar hosted by Indian high commissioner. India had then strongly protested against the harassment & asked the Pakistani govt to investigate "ugly" incident. But despite Indian request, there were six cases of harassment reported of Indian diplomats. Harassment of Indian Diplomats in Pakistan have been reported since December of 2018. Incidents range from cutting off lights in winters to aggressive chasing of cars of Indian diplomats including the Indian high commissioner Ajay Bisaria.

Indian High Commission asks Pakistan to beef up security amid Article 370 revocation

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday briefed envoys of all countries in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) -permanent and non-permanent - on India's decision to remove the special status under article 370 for Jammu and Kashmir.

India explained that proposals under consideration in front of the Parliament on the administrative reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir and Article 370 is a matter internal to India and aimed at providing good governance and ensuring economic development in Jammu and Kashmir.

The MEA officials told envoys that it will increase administrative efficiency and promote social justice. A government source said that the briefing was done due to the interests expressed by members of the diplomatic community in Delhi on the proposals introduced by the government in Parliament on J&amp;K.

Other than the Permanent five of UNSC - China, Russia, US, Britain and France, the non-permanent members include Belgium, Côte d'Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Germany, Indonesia, Kuwait, Peru, Poland and South Africa.

This is significant, given the fact that Pakistan may try to approach UNSC on abrogation of Article 370 and try to internationalise the issue.&nbsp; 
Other than UNSC envoy, envoys of blocs such as ASEAN were also briefed. UNSC envoys and ASEAN group were briefed by Secretary East Vijay Thakur Singh. The group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries, or GRULAC, envoys will be briefed on Tuesday.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday briefed envoys of all countries in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) -permanent and non-permanent - on India's decision to remove the special status under article 370 for Jammu and Kashmir.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Monday briefed envoys of all countries in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) -permanent and non-permanent - on India's decision to remove the special status under article 370 for Jammu and Kashmir. India explained that proposals under consideration in front of the Parliament on the administrative reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir and Article 370 is a matter internal to India and aimed at providing good governance and ensuring economic development in Jammu and Kashmir. The MEA officials told envoys that it will increase administrative efficiency and promote social justice. A government source said that the briefing was done due to the interests expressed by members of the diplomatic community in Delhi on the proposals introduced by the government in Parliament on J&K. Other than the Permanent five of UNSC - China, Russia, US, Britain and France, the non-permanent members include Belgium, Côte d'Ivoire, Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Germany, Indonesia, Kuwait, Peru, Poland and South Africa. This is significant, given the fact that Pakistan may try to approach UNSC on abrogation of Article 370 and try to internationalise the issue. Other than UNSC envoy, envoys of blocs such as ASEAN were also briefed. UNSC envoys and ASEAN group were briefed by Secretary East Vijay Thakur Singh. The group of Latin America and Caribbean Countries, or GRULAC, envoys will be briefed on Tuesday.

Abrogation of Article 370: India briefs UNSC envoys, tells them decision aimed at improving governance

India has sought a technical meeting with Pakistan on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-welcomes-construction-of-kartarpur-corridor-236559">Kartarpur corridor</a>. The meeting will be the fourth of its kind this year.&nbsp;

There will be three things on the agenda during the talks - that Pakistan should build a service road till the time the bridge on Ravi river is not constructed, provision to help pilgrims if an emergency arises and a mechanism to share details of the pilgrims.

When <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kartarpur-corridor-talks-round-two-ends-pakistan-not-open-to-5000-pilgrims-daily-235729">the second round of talks</a> between Indian and Pak officials took place on July 14, Islamabad agreed to construct a bridge over the old Ravi creek that will allow an all-weather pilgrimage to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib, throughout the year.

Earlier, Pakistan was building a structure that could have caused flooding on the Indian side for which New Delhi had raised concerns. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
So far, three rounds of India-Pakistan technical meetings have taken place in March, April and May respectively. During the meetings, both sides endorsed the crossing-point coordinates.

Both sides are keen on opening the corridor which was agreed upon last year ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji this year in November.

Work is on in full swing on the Indian side of the corridor with 45 per cent of the work being completed. India is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal.&nbsp;

India has sought a technical meeting with Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor. The meeting will be the fourth of its kind this year. There will be three things on the agenda during the talks - that Pakistan should build a service road till the time the bridge on Ravi river is not constructed, provision to help pilgrims if an emergency arises and a mechanism to share details of the pilgrims.

India has sought a technical meeting with Pakistan on Kartarpur corridor. The meeting will be the fourth of its kind this year. There will be three things on the agenda during the talks - that Pakistan should build a service road till the time the bridge on Ravi river is not constructed, provision to help pilgrims if an emergency arises and a mechanism to share details of the pilgrims. When the second round of talks between Indian and Pak officials took place on July 14, Islamabad agreed to construct a bridge over the old Ravi creek that will allow an all-weather pilgrimage to Gurudwara Kartarpur Sahib, throughout the year. Earlier, Pakistan was building a structure that could have caused flooding on the Indian side for which New Delhi had raised concerns. So far, three rounds of India-Pakistan technical meetings have taken place in March, April and May respectively. During the meetings, both sides endorsed the crossing-point coordinates. Both sides are keen on opening the corridor which was agreed upon last year ahead of the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji this year in November. Work is on in full swing on the Indian side of the corridor with 45 per cent of the work being completed. India is building a 4-lane highway and a passenger bus terminal.

India seeks 4th technical meeting on Kartarpur corridor with Pakistan

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-beijing-to-prepare-for-pm-narendra-modi-xi-jinping-second-informal-summit-240245">two-day visit to Thailand</a>, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings.

The focus during his bilateral and multilateral meetings was on Indo-Pacific, terrorism and India's Act East policy.&nbsp;

The four big meetings in which Jaishankar took part includes, ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM), 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting.&nbsp;

At the meetings, Jaishankar called for a "collective action to secure the Indo-Pacific, where terrorism remains a common scourge" while underlining "ASEAN centrality in free, open and inclusive regional architecture."&nbsp;

The focus on Indo-Pacific in Bangkok meet got more steam this year as ASEAN released its outlook on the evolving concept which China views suspiciously earlier this year.

At the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, Jaishankar said, India seeks "greater connectedness with the ASEAN region," envisions "connectivity in very broad terms, including physical, economic, political connectivity and close contact at the people-to-people level."&nbsp;

While his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo remained much talked about which came in the backdrop of American President Donald Trump's recent remarks on Kashmir. Jaishankar also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. He also met his Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi counterpart, Tilak Marapana and Dr AK Abdul Momen.&nbsp;

The meeting between Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart ahead of his China visit on August 12, is being seen as preparatory the second India-China informal summit. The summit is set to take place by the end of this year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his two-day visit to Thailand, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings.

External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Friday wrapped up his two-day visit to Thailand, during which he had 18 bilateral, four multilateral meetings. He also had five pull-aside meetings. The focus during his bilateral and multilateral meetings was on Indo-Pacific, terrorism and India's Act East policy. The four big meetings in which Jaishankar took part includes, ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM), 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting. At the meetings, Jaishankar called for a "collective action to secure the Indo-Pacific, where terrorism remains a common scourge" while underlining "ASEAN centrality in free, open and inclusive regional architecture." The focus on Indo-Pacific in Bangkok meet got more steam this year as ASEAN released its outlook on the evolving concept which China views suspiciously earlier this year. At the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting, Jaishankar said, India seeks "greater connectedness with the ASEAN region," envisions "connectivity in very broad terms, including physical, economic, political connectivity and close contact at the people-to-people level." While his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo remained much talked about which came in the backdrop of American President Donald Trump's recent remarks on Kashmir. Jaishankar also met Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah, the new British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab. He also met his Sri Lankan and Bangladeshi counterpart, Tilak Marapana and Dr AK Abdul Momen. The meeting between Jaishankar and his Chinese counterpart ahead of his China visit on August 12, is being seen as preparatory the second India-China informal summit. The summit is set to take place by the end of this year.

In 2-day Bangkok visit, S Jaishankar holds meetings with 18 foreign ministers; discusses Indo-Pacific, Act East policy

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed.&nbsp;

The state dept public schedule said "Secretary Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, In Bangkok, Thailand." at 8.45 am IST.

Jaishankar, who is in Bangkok to participate in several ASEAN plus gatherings, will be participating in the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) &amp; ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) today.

The pull-aside between to two will be the first high-level engagement between the US and India since US President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump recently said PM Modi had asked him to mediate between India and Pakistan on Kashmir issue during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit.

This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

Jaishankar on the first day of his visit addressed ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of his counterparts.&nbsp;

The external affairs minister will visit China later this month to lay the groundwork for the second India-China informal summit that will take place by the end of this year.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is scheduled to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on the sidelines of East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers meet in Bangkok, Thailand today, the US State dept confirmed. The state dept public schedule said "Secretary Pompeo meets with Indian Minister of External Affairs Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, In Bangkok, Thailand." at 8.45 am IST. Jaishankar, who is in Bangkok to participate in several ASEAN plus gatherings, will be participating in the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) & ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) today. The pull-aside between to two will be the first high-level engagement between the US and India since US President Donald Trump's remarks on Kashmir. US President Donald Trump recently said PM Modi had asked him to mediate between India and Pakistan on Kashmir issue during their bilateral meeting on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit. This was dismissed by the Indian side with EAM Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. Jaishankar on the first day of his visit addressed ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting and Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of his counterparts. The external affairs minister will visit China later this month to lay the groundwork for the second India-China informal summit that will take place by the end of this year.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to meet Pompeo today

India has rejected the proposal of partial <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-proposes-consular-access-to-kulbhushan-jadhav-with-riders-239957">consular access for Kulbhushan Jhadav</a> given by Pakistan.&nbsp;

Calling Islamabad to provide full consular access for Jhadav, India in its response sent on Thursday evening asked Pakistan to provide "unimpeded consular access" in an "environment free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal, in the light of the orders of the International Court of Justice(ICJ)", according to the government sources.

Pakistan sent its proposal on July 30 but it had two riders--one that Pakistani security personnel will be present in the meet and there will be CCTV cameras present in the room.

According to the Vienna Convention, article 36, "Consular officer shall be free to communicate with nationals of the sending State and to have access to them" and the fact a Pakistani officer will be present means Pakistan is contravening the convention.&nbsp;

The Pakistani proposal had suggested a meet between Indian diplomat with Jadhav on Friday at 3pm, which will not take place now.

Pakistan spokesperson Mohammad Faisal during his weekly presser on Thursday said, "We have offered the Indian High Commission to avail consular access on this Friday."

The Pakistani proposal for consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav came 14 days after New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

On July 17, in its verdict, President of the ICJ Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said, "Islamic Republic of Pakistan is under an obligation to inform Kulbhushan Sudhir Jadhav without further delay of his rights and to provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations."

The Court declared that Pakistan is under an obligation to inform Jadhav without further "delay of his rights."&nbsp;

The court unanimously found that it had jurisdiction in the case and by a vote of 15-1, pronounced its verdict, with the sole dissenting Judge being Ad Hoc Judge Tassdduq Hussain Jillani was is the former Chief justice of Pakistan.

India has rejected the proposal of partial consular access for Kulbhushan Jhadav given by Pakistan. Calling Islamabad to provide full consular access for Jhadav, India in its response sent on Thursday evening asked Pakistan to provide "unimpeded consular access" in an "environment free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal, in the light of the orders of the International Court of Justice(ICJ)", according to the government sources.

India has rejected the proposal of partial consular access for Kulbhushan Jhadav given by Pakistan. Calling Islamabad to provide full consular access for Jhadav, India in its response sent on Thursday evening asked Pakistan to provide "unimpeded consular access" in an "environment free from the fear of intimidation and reprisal, in the light of the orders of the International Court of Justice(ICJ)", according to the government sources. Pakistan sent its proposal on July 30 but it had two riders--one that Pakistani security personnel will be present in the meet and there will be CCTV cameras present in the room. According to the Vienna Convention, article 36, "Consular officer shall be free to communicate with nationals of the sending State and to have access to them" and the fact a Pakistani officer will be present means Pakistan is contravening the convention. The Pakistani proposal had suggested a meet between Indian diplomat with Jadhav on Friday at 3pm, which will not take place now. Pakistan spokesperson Mohammad Faisal during his weekly presser on Thursday said, "We have offered the Indian High Commission to avail consular access on this Friday." The Pakistani proposal for consular access for Kulbhushan Jadhav came 14 days after New Delhi got a major diplomatic victory at the International Court of Justice (ICJ). On July 17, in its verdict, President of the ICJ Abdulqawi Ahmed Yusuf said, "Islamic Republic of Pakistan is under an obligation to inform Kulbhushan Sudhir Jadhav without further delay of his rights and to provide Indian consular officers access to him in accordance with Article 36 of the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations." The Court declared that Pakistan is under an obligation to inform Jadhav without further "delay of his rights." The court unanimously found that it had jurisdiction in the case and by a vote of 15-1, pronounced its verdict, with the sole dissenting Judge being Ad Hoc Judge Tassdduq Hussain Jillani was is the former Chief justice of Pakistan.

Pakistan must provide 'unimpeded consular access' to Kulbhushan Jadhav: India

Even as US President Donald Trump raked up Kashmir for the second time in 10 days, New Delhi has once again dismissed any mediation.&nbsp;

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Thailand, tweeted, "Have conveyed to American counterpart Sec Pompeo this morning in clear terms that any discussion on Kashmir if at all warranted, will only be with Pakistan and only bilaterally".&nbsp;

Both sides are also expected to have discussed issues of concerns like trade and convergences like Indo-Pacific.

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Wide ranging discussions with <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> on regional issues. <a href="https://t.co/SOLxBDe3Q0">pic.twitter.com/SOLxBDe3Q0</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1157141385411092481?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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US President Donald Trump in response to a question said on Thursday, "It’s really up to Prime Minister Modi (to accept the offer of mediation). I think they are fantastic people - Khan and Modi - I mean. I would imagine they could get along very well, but if they wanted somebody to intervene, to help them. And I spoke with Pakistan about that and I spoke frankly in India about it."

Adding, "If I can, if they wanted me to, I would certainly intervene." 
&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar meets US Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo in Bangkok. <a href="https://t.co/WRIgnRr48P">pic.twitter.com/WRIgnRr48P</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1157135853057015808?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Last month, US President Donald Trump, while sitting next to Pakistani PM Imran Khan in White House said PM Modi had called for mediation on Kashmir during Trump-Modi bilateral on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit.

This was dismissed by the Indian side with Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed.&nbsp;

Jaishankar is Bangkok for ASEAN plus gatherings.&nbsp;

Even as US President Donald Trump raked up Kashmir for the second time in 10 days, New Delhi has once again dismissed any mediation. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Thailand, tweeted, "Have conveyed to American counterpart Sec Pompeo this morning in clear terms that any discussion on Kashmir if at all warranted, will only be with Pakistan and only bilaterally".

Even as US President Donald Trump raked up Kashmir for the second time in 10 days, New Delhi has once again dismissed any mediation. India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Thailand, tweeted, "Have conveyed to American counterpart Sec Pompeo this morning in clear terms that any discussion on Kashmir if at all warranted, will only be with Pakistan and only bilaterally". Both sides are also expected to have discussed issues of concerns like trade and convergences like Indo-Pacific. Wide ranging discussions with @SecPompeo on regional issues. pic.twitter.com/SOLxBDe3Q0 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 2, 2019 × US President Donald Trump in response to a question said on Thursday, "It’s really up to Prime Minister Modi (to accept the offer of mediation). I think they are fantastic people - Khan and Modi - I mean. I would imagine they could get along very well, but if they wanted somebody to intervene, to help them. And I spoke with Pakistan about that and I spoke frankly in India about it." Adding, "If I can, if they wanted me to, I would certainly intervene." #WATCH: External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar meets US Secretary of State, Michael Pompeo in Bangkok. pic.twitter.com/WRIgnRr48P — ANI (@ANI) August 2, 2019 × Last month, US President Donald Trump, while sitting next to Pakistani PM Imran Khan in White House said PM Modi had called for mediation on Kashmir during Trump-Modi bilateral on the sidelines of Osaka G20 summit. This was dismissed by the Indian side with Jaishankar speaking in the Parliament saying all bilateral issues between India and Pakistan are governed by Shimla and Lahore agreements under which no third party mediation will be allowed. Jaishankar is Bangkok for ASEAN plus gatherings.

Conveyed to America in 'clear terms' that discussion on Kashmir only with Pakistan: S Jaishankar  

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation."

India's 'act east'&nbsp;policy that evolved from the "look east" policy call for greater engagement with ASEAN countries.&nbsp;

Talking about connectivity with ASEAN, EAM said, "India seeks greater connectedness with the ASEAN region. We envision connectivity with the region in very broad terms including physical, economic and political connectivity and close contact at people to people level."

Adding, "The historic, cultural, economic political that have existed between India and ASEAN region are the stepping stones to achieve the vision of a more connected India and ASEAN region and a closer partnership."

The ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting which was co-chaired by EAM and Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai also reviewed progress on implementation of decisions between ASEAN and India during the 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit held in New Delhi on 25 January 2018.&nbsp;

The Indo-pacific concept is expected to dominate conversations in Bangkok as Delhi and Washington are both keen on it and ASEAN has also issued its outlook on it.

"I was heartened to see ASEAN recently released its outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which also supports sovereignty, transparency, good governance, a rules-based order, among many other things" US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said during his opening remarks at U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial in Thailand on Thursday.

Prime Minister Modi had spoken about India's vision Indo-pacific concept last year at Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore and this year in Maldivian parliament and said New Delhi is vision is an inclusive one.&nbsp;

EAM also participated in 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of he counterparts on the sidelines of the Asean plus gathering. These were Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy &nbsp;Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab, Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan, &nbsp;Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Chinese FM Wang Yi.&nbsp;

EAM goes to China later this month for a preparatory visit for the 2nd India China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year.&nbsp;

On day 2 of his visit, Jaishankar will be participating at the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) &amp; 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation.

Day one of External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar's Thailand visit saw a focus on Act East policy, Indo Pacific concept and meeting 10 of his counterparts. EAM is who is on 2-day visit to Bangkok speaking at the ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting called the grouping a " critical element of India's act east policy and strategy" and that "acting east is also implementing our Indo Pacific outlook and its the logical extrapolation." India's 'act east' policy that evolved from the "look east" policy call for greater engagement with ASEAN countries. Talking about connectivity with ASEAN, EAM said, "India seeks greater connectedness with the ASEAN region. We envision connectivity with the region in very broad terms including physical, economic and political connectivity and close contact at people to people level." Adding, "The historic, cultural, economic political that have existed between India and ASEAN region are the stepping stones to achieve the vision of a more connected India and ASEAN region and a closer partnership." The ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting which was co-chaired by EAM and Thai Foreign Minister Don Pramudwinai also reviewed progress on implementation of decisions between ASEAN and India during the 25th Anniversary ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit held in New Delhi on 25 January 2018. The Indo-pacific concept is expected to dominate conversations in Bangkok as Delhi and Washington are both keen on it and ASEAN has also issued its outlook on it. "I was heartened to see ASEAN recently released its outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which also supports sovereignty, transparency, good governance, a rules-based order, among many other things" US secretary of state Mike Pompeo said during his opening remarks at U.S.-ASEAN Ministerial in Thailand on Thursday. Prime Minister Modi had spoken about India's vision Indo-pacific concept last year at Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore and this year in Maldivian parliament and said New Delhi is vision is an inclusive one. EAM also participated in 10th Mekong Ganga Cooperation (MGC) Ministerial Meeting and met 10 of he counterparts on the sidelines of the Asean plus gathering. These were Thai FM Don Pramudwinai, New Zealand FM Winston Peters, High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, Japan FM Taro Kono, Filipino Foreign Affairs Secretary Teodoro Locsin Jr, Indonesian FM Retno Marsudi, British FS Dominic Raab, Singapore's FM Vivian Balakrishnan, Foreign Minister of Australia Marise Payne and Chinese FM Wang Yi. EAM goes to China later this month for a preparatory visit for the 2nd India China informal summit that will happen by the end of this year. On day 2 of his visit, Jaishankar will be participating at the 9th East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (EAS FMM) & 26th ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF).

Day-1 of S Jaishankar in Thailand: Focus on Act East, Indo-Pacific and meeting 10 foreign ministers

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