As leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet for the 19th summit in Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on Thursday many issues such as regional security architecture, counter-terror and trade would take centre stage. While India's presence in the group has been lauded by many members of the eight-country&nbsp;strong group, SCO Chair for this year, Kyrgyzstan told WION that New Delhi's experience can help other members in countering aforementioned&nbsp;issues.

Ambassador Asein Isaev, Kyrgyz's envoy to New Delhi said, "The main objective of the organisation is peaceful development of the region. We need Indian experience in all spheres --&nbsp;democratic development, security possibilities, cultural development; also we hope, India will share the experience with other members of SCO."

Meanwhile, Uzbek envoy to India Farhod Arziev said New Delhi has an important role to play in the international grouping&nbsp;that covers three-fifths of the Eurasian continent and nearly half of the human population.&nbsp;

He said, "We have supported full membership of India to SCO, and we believe it has been a big contribution to further expansion and development of the organisation as an international institution with India being one of the fastest growing countries. It has many things to offer for the development of SCO."

PM Modi will meet many world leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov who was invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi in May on the sidelines of the summit.&nbsp;

This will be PM Modi's first meeting with Chinese President since the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the United Nations.&nbsp;

India has also made it clear no meeting between PM Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is scheduled.&nbsp;

Raveesh Kumar, MEA's spokesperson in response to WION's question at the first weekly presser of the new government had said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek."

Speculation is rife&nbsp;that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid.&nbsp;

Indian foreign ministry has clarified on the visit, &nbsp;saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pakistan Foreign Secretary and an Indian official.&nbsp;

Watch: SCO to pitch for a new trading system

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This will be the first multilateral meet in Modi's second term as Prime Minister of the country.

India became a full member of the group in 2017 at the 17th summit of SCO in Astana, Kazakhstan.&nbsp;

As leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet for the 19th summit in Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on Thursday many issues such as regional security architecture, counter-terror and trade would take centre stage.

As leaders of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meet for the 19th summit in Kyrgyzstan's capital Bishkek on Thursday many issues such as regional security architecture, counter-terror and trade would take centre stage. While India's presence in the group has been lauded by many members of the eight-country strong group, SCO Chair for this year, Kyrgyzstan told WION that New Delhi's experience can help other members in countering aforementioned issues. Ambassador Asein Isaev, Kyrgyz's envoy to New Delhi said, "The main objective of the organisation is peaceful development of the region. We need Indian experience in all spheres -- democratic development, security possibilities, cultural development; also we hope, India will share the experience with other members of SCO." Meanwhile, Uzbek envoy to India Farhod Arziev said New Delhi has an important role to play in the international grouping that covers three-fifths of the Eurasian continent and nearly half of the human population. He said, "We have supported full membership of India to SCO, and we believe it has been a big contribution to further expansion and development of the organisation as an international institution with India being one of the fastest growing countries. It has many things to offer for the development of SCO." PM Modi will meet many world leaders including Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin and President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov who was invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi in May on the sidelines of the summit. This will be PM Modi's first meeting with Chinese President since the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the United Nations. India has also made it clear no meeting between PM Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan is scheduled. Raveesh Kumar, MEA's spokesperson in response to WION's question at the first weekly presser of the new government had said, "To the best of my knowledge no meeting has been planned between PM Modi and Pakistan PM Imran Khan at the SCO Summit in Bishkek." Speculation is rife that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid. Indian foreign ministry has clarified on the visit, saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pakistan Foreign Secretary and an Indian official. Watch: SCO to pitch for a new trading system × This will be the first multilateral meet in Modi's second term as Prime Minister of the country. India became a full member of the group in 2017 at the 17th summit of SCO in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Ahead of SCO summit, member countries say India has important role to play

Counter-terrorism, Afghanistan and ties with central Asian countries will be the top focus of India at the Shanghai cooperation organisation&nbsp; (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan between June 13 and 14. PM Modi will be in Bishkek for the summit, which will be his first international multilateral engagement in his second term.

Gitesh Sharma, Secretary (West), MEA, while briefing the media on PM's participation at the summit said,"if you look at the record of previous SCO interactions..terrorism does figure in the deliberations...on contact group of Afghanistan countries of the region are challenged by the situation there and have deep interest in stability of Afghanistan as well"

On central Asia, he said, "The way we approach SCO is that it provides as a framework where we can engage with the central Asian countries in particular. We have robust relations with each one of them."&nbsp;

This is Modi's first bilateral visit to&nbsp;Kyrgyzstan&nbsp;and Modi will be meeting his Kyrgyz counterpart. President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov as SCO chair was invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi in May.

Modi will also hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This will be his first meeting with Chinese leadership after the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the United Nations.&nbsp;

Sharma said,"We have excellent relations with Russia and China"

MEA meanwhile clarified that there will be no formal bilateral meet between PM Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Both leaders will be face to face for the first time in their present capacity.&nbsp;

India became full member of SCO in 2017 and this is the second head of states/government meet in which New Delhi is participating. Prime Minister Modi had also attended the last meet in Qingdao , China in June 2018.

SCO represents approximately 42 per cent of the world's population, 22 per cent of world's land area and 20 per cent of global GDP and has 8 members--India, Pakistan, Russia, China and four central asian countries -- Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.

Counter-terrorism, Afghanistan and ties with central Asian countries will be the top focus of India at the Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan between June 13 and 14.

Counter-terrorism, Afghanistan and ties with central Asian countries will be the top focus of India at the Shanghai cooperation organisation (SCO) Summit in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan between June 13 and 14. PM Modi will be in Bishkek for the summit, which will be his first international multilateral engagement in his second term. Gitesh Sharma, Secretary (West), MEA, while briefing the media on PM's participation at the summit said,"if you look at the record of previous SCO interactions..terrorism does figure in the deliberations...on contact group of Afghanistan countries of the region are challenged by the situation there and have deep interest in stability of Afghanistan as well" On central Asia, he said, "The way we approach SCO is that it provides as a framework where we can engage with the central Asian countries in particular. We have robust relations with each one of them." This is Modi's first bilateral visit to Kyrgyzstan and Modi will be meeting his Kyrgyz counterpart. President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov as SCO chair was invited for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi in May. Modi will also hold bilateral talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin. This will be his first meeting with Chinese leadership after the listing of Masood Azhar as an international terrorist by the United Nations. Sharma said,"We have excellent relations with Russia and China" MEA meanwhile clarified that there will be no formal bilateral meet between PM Modi and Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Both leaders will be face to face for the first time in their present capacity. India became full member of SCO in 2017 and this is the second head of states/government meet in which New Delhi is participating. Prime Minister Modi had also attended the last meet in Qingdao , China in June 2018. SCO represents approximately 42 per cent of the world's population, 22 per cent of world's land area and 20 per cent of global GDP and has 8 members--India, Pakistan, Russia, China and four central asian countries -- Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Tajikistan.

PM Modi's first multilateral engagement to coincide with SCO Summit

French minister of state for foreign affairs was in Delhi on Monday to meet External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, minister of state in Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan and minister of state in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Hardeep Singh Puri.

Terror, trade and defence engagement topped the agenda during his visit to lay the groundwork Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France to attend 45th G7 Summit in Biarritz on&nbsp;August 2019.

India confirmed that invite has been extended for G7 summit. &nbsp;

The MEA in a release said, "Prime Minister has received an invitation from the President of France Emmanuel Macron to attend the Outreach Session at the G-7 Summit in Biarritz as a Special Invitee."

"The invitation is a reflection of the personal chemistry between the two leaders, a demonstration of our deepening strategic partnership and recognition of India as a major economic power. PM has accepted the invitation to attend the event which will also include a bilateral component," the release added.

Speaking to media on French Invite for G7, the French minister said, "President Macron and PM Modi have a strong relationship personally and that is why President Macron was happy to invite PM Modi to join the G7 leaders meeting at the end of August."

On Rafale Deal, he said, "French government doesn't care about controversies. We just want to deliver; it's in the national interest of the two countries."

Explaining, that "We want France and India to be more sovereign and Rafale is a tool for better sovereignty for India."

This is the first French ministerial visit after the formation of the new government back home.

French minister of state for foreign affairs was in Delhi on Monday to meet External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, minister of state in Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan and minister of state in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Hardeep Singh Puri.

French minister of state for foreign affairs was in Delhi on Monday to meet External Affairs Minister Jaishankar, minister of state in Ministry of External Affairs V Muraleedharan and minister of state in the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Hardeep Singh Puri. Terror, trade and defence engagement topped the agenda during his visit to lay the groundwork Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to France to attend 45th G7 Summit in Biarritz on August 2019. India confirmed that invite has been extended for G7 summit. The MEA in a release said, "Prime Minister has received an invitation from the President of France Emmanuel Macron to attend the Outreach Session at the G-7 Summit in Biarritz as a Special Invitee." "The invitation is a reflection of the personal chemistry between the two leaders, a demonstration of our deepening strategic partnership and recognition of India as a major economic power. PM has accepted the invitation to attend the event which will also include a bilateral component," the release added. Speaking to media on French Invite for G7, the French minister said, "President Macron and PM Modi have a strong relationship personally and that is why President Macron was happy to invite PM Modi to join the G7 leaders meeting at the end of August." On Rafale Deal, he said, "French government doesn't care about controversies. We just want to deliver; it's in the national interest of the two countries." Explaining, that "We want France and India to be more sovereign and Rafale is a tool for better sovereignty for India." This is the first French ministerial visit after the formation of the new government back home.

French minister in Delhi to lay groundwork for Modi's visit to France

In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.&nbsp;

Speaking at G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Fukuoka, Japan, over the weekend she underscored the importance of international cooperation when it comes to dealing with economic offenders who "flee their countries to escape from the consequences of law".

A finance ministry statement said,"(FM) drew attention to the practice permitted by many jurisdictions, which allow economic offenders to use investment-based schemes to obtain residence or citizenship to escape from legal consequences and underlined the need to deal with such practices."

Adding, "she urged that closer collaboration and coordinated action were required to bring such economic offenders to face law."

Mehul Choksi wanted in the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/medical-reports-of-mehul-choksi-misleading-enforcement-directorate-tells-bombay-high-court-224145">multi-crore Punjab national bank</a>(PNB) scam took the citizenship of a Caribbean country Antigua and Barbuda under its "citizenship by Investment (CIP)" scheme.&nbsp;

According to the scheme, foreign clients can get citizenship by investing in the country upto $100,000. The person gets benefit since the Caribbean country's passport offers visa-free travel to over 100+ countries including EU, UK.

The Citizenship By Investment Unit (CIU) of Antigua received Mehul Choksi's application in May 2017.

In January of this year, Choksi surrendered his Indian passport to the High Commission in Guyana.&nbsp;

India is currently pursuing Choksi's return with the government of Antigua through diplomatic and legal channels and has sent an extradition request to the country.

The finance minister also highlighted how India has taken tough stance against economic offenders and passed a law that "provides for denial of access to courts until the fugitive returns to the country."

The law also provides for confiscation of their properties and selling them off.&nbsp;

In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.

In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices. Speaking at G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting in Fukuoka, Japan, over the weekend she underscored the importance of international cooperation when it comes to dealing with economic offenders who "flee their countries to escape from the consequences of law". A finance ministry statement said,"(FM) drew attention to the practice permitted by many jurisdictions, which allow economic offenders to use investment-based schemes to obtain residence or citizenship to escape from legal consequences and underlined the need to deal with such practices." Adding, "she urged that closer collaboration and coordinated action were required to bring such economic offenders to face law." Mehul Choksi wanted in the multi-crore Punjab national bank(PNB) scam took the citizenship of a Caribbean country Antigua and Barbuda under its "citizenship by Investment (CIP)" scheme. According to the scheme, foreign clients can get citizenship by investing in the country upto $100,000. The person gets benefit since the Caribbean country's passport offers visa-free travel to over 100+ countries including EU, UK. The Citizenship By Investment Unit (CIU) of Antigua received Mehul Choksi's application in May 2017. In January of this year, Choksi surrendered his Indian passport to the High Commission in Guyana. India is currently pursuing Choksi's return with the government of Antigua through diplomatic and legal channels and has sent an extradition request to the country. The finance minister also highlighted how India has taken tough stance against economic offenders and passed a law that "provides for denial of access to courts until the fugitive returns to the country." The law also provides for confiscation of their properties and selling them off.

At G20, finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman expresses concern over 'citizenship by investment' scheme for economic offenders

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/pm-modis-visit-to-sri-lanka-and-the-maldives-bolsters-long-term-maritime-strategy-for-india-225515"> two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka</a> stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways.

Counter-terror was a subject PM raised both in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

In a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/contribute-to-indias-development-modi-tells-diaspora-in-sri-lanka-225663">strong message of solidarity to terror-hit Sri Lanka</a>, Modi's first stop in the country was the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-message-of-solidarity-to-sri-lanka-pm-modi-visits-terror-hit-st-anthonys-church-in-colombo-225623">St Anthony's church in Kochchikade</a>. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21.&nbsp;

Over 93 people died in the Chruch in the Easter Sunday coordinated attacks that killed more than 250 people. "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," Modi tweeted immediately after his visit.

"My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured," He added.

Modi is the first head of any government to visit the island nation after the terror attacks.&nbsp;

Watch: How is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit perceived in Sri Lanka

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-maldives-pm-modi-held-talks-with-leaders-to-boost-bilateral-ties-225585">In the Maldives, Modi</a> called for an international conference on terror, saying "The water is now rising above the head".&nbsp;

India had proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism or CCIT in 1996 that called for a common definition for terror but the draft has remained a draft because of lack of consensus at the United Nations.

Without mentioning Pakistan PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today".

"Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists," Modi further said.

New Delhi's actions on terror in the past had the backing of both Sri Lanka and the Maldives.&nbsp;

India and Maldives both agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, Countering Violent Extremism and De-radicalisation.

Meanwhile, the mention of Indo-Pacific by PM Modi in the Maldivian Parliament is something that will not go unnoticed in several world capitals including Beijing which sees the concept very suspiciously.&nbsp;

Calling for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future."&nbsp;

"The maldives will be a great partner for" India's vision for Indo Pacific as both are "neighbours and friends," he added.

This is the second time, PM Modi has publically addressed the concept from an international forum. Last year PM spoke about Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore.

With increased Chinese influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, India is keen to engage with its maritime neighbours such as Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Seychelles.&nbsp;

To boost connectivity a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi in Malé was inaugurated during Modi's visit.

Sri Lanka

For Sri Lanka India has provided 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils), ambulances and rolling stock for railways. India is also working with Japan and Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port.&nbsp;

Modi's Sri Lanka visit was short and packed but saw him meeting the top leadership of the country and interact with the Indian community.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday wrapped up his two-nation visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka stressing on New Delhi's "neighbourhood first" policy and focusing on a range of issues from counter-terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific region. This was Modi's first visit abroad in the second term and symbolic in several ways. Counter-terror was a subject PM raised both in the Maldives and in Sri Lanka. In a strong message of solidarity to terror-hit Sri Lanka, Modi's first stop in the country was the St Anthony's church in Kochchikade. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21. Over 93 people died in the Chruch in the Easter Sunday coordinated attacks that killed more than 250 people. "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka," Modi tweeted immediately after his visit. "My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured," He added. Modi is the first head of any government to visit the island nation after the terror attacks. Watch: How is Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit perceived in Sri Lanka × In the Maldives, Modi called for an international conference on terror, saying "The water is now rising above the head". India had proposed Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism or CCIT in 1996 that called for a common definition for terror but the draft has remained a draft because of lack of consensus at the United Nations. Without mentioning Pakistan PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today". "Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists," Modi further said. New Delhi's actions on terror in the past had the backing of both Sri Lanka and the Maldives. India and Maldives both agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism, Countering Violent Extremism and De-radicalisation. Meanwhile, the mention of Indo-Pacific by PM Modi in the Maldivian Parliament is something that will not go unnoticed in several world capitals including Beijing which sees the concept very suspiciously. Calling for a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future." "The maldives will be a great partner for" India's vision for Indo Pacific as both are "neighbours and friends," he added. This is the second time, PM Modi has publically addressed the concept from an international forum. Last year PM spoke about Indo-Pacific at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore. With increased Chinese influence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean region, India is keen to engage with its maritime neighbours such as Mauritius, Maldives, Sri Lanka and Seychelles. To boost connectivity a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service between Kochi and Kulhudhuffushi in Malé was inaugurated during Modi's visit. Sri Lanka For Sri Lanka India has provided 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils), ambulances and rolling stock for railways. India is also working with Japan and Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. Modi's Sri Lanka visit was short and packed but saw him meeting the top leadership of the country and interact with the Indian community.

PM Modi sends powerful message against terror as he wraps up two-nation visit to Maldives and Sri Lanka 

In a strong message of solidarity to Sri Lanka, PM Narendra Modi's first stop during his <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-in-sri-lanka-today-will-be-personally-received-by-sri-lankan-counterpart-wickremesinghe-in-colombo-225582">ongoing visit to the country</a> was the St Anthony's church in Kochchikade, Sri Lanka. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21. Over 93 people died at the Chruch during the Easter Sunday attacks that killed more than 250 people.

Following his visit, the prime minister tweeted, "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka".

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I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. 
 
Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. 
 
India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka <a href="https://t.co/n8PA8pQnoJ">pic.twitter.com/n8PA8pQnoJ</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1137611919815090176?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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He tweeted, "My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured".

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Started the Sri Lanka visit by paying my respect at one of the sites of the horrific Easter Sunday Attack, St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade. 
 
My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured. <a href="https://t.co/RTdmNGcDyg">pic.twitter.com/RTdmNGcDyg</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1137611294188507137?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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PM Modi is the first head of government to visit the country after the terror attacks.

St Anthony's church is one of the oldest churches in the Sri Lankan capital belonging to the Dutch era and was built by one of the priests from Cochin, India. In fact, it is one of the first buildings one can see when ships enter the Colombo port.

WION team, while covering the aftermath of the terror attacks in April, was present next to this church when a 'controlled explosion" took place. The impact of the explosion was such that it caused commotion around the place.

Speaking to WION, the head priest of the church Father Jude Fernando had said, "We will build the church, but can bring back the lives".

Earlier, the PM was received by Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Colombo airport and after his stop at the church, he was given a ceremonial reception at the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka. He also planted a sapling at the Presidential Secretariat and was accompanied by President Maithripala Sirisena.

PM Modi is on a short and packed 3-hour-long visit to Sri Lanka after his day-long tour to the Maldives - his first foreign visit in the second term.

In the Maldives also, PM had talked about terror. Speaking in the Maldivian Parliament he said, "Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists."

Without naming Pakistan, PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today"

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for Modi's oath-taking ceremony.

PM Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term, first in March 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and then in 2017 when he was the chief guest at the Vesak day celebrations. 
&nbsp;

In a strong message of solidarity to Sri Lanka, PM Narendra Modi's first stop during his ongoing visit to the country was the St Anthony's church in Kochchikade, Sri Lanka.

In a strong message of solidarity to Sri Lanka, PM Narendra Modi's first stop during his ongoing visit to the country was the St Anthony's church in Kochchikade, Sri Lanka. The church was the site of one of the terror attacks on April 21. Over 93 people died at the Chruch during the Easter Sunday attacks that killed more than 250 people. Following his visit, the prime minister tweeted, "I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka". I am confident Sri Lanka will rise again. Cowardly acts of terror cannot defeat the spirit of Sri Lanka. India stands in solidarity with the people of Sri Lanka pic.twitter.com/n8PA8pQnoJ — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 9, 2019 × He tweeted, "My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured". Started the Sri Lanka visit by paying my respect at one of the sites of the horrific Easter Sunday Attack, St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade. My heart goes out to the families of the victims and the injured. pic.twitter.com/RTdmNGcDyg — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 9, 2019 × PM Modi is the first head of government to visit the country after the terror attacks. St Anthony's church is one of the oldest churches in the Sri Lankan capital belonging to the Dutch era and was built by one of the priests from Cochin, India. In fact, it is one of the first buildings one can see when ships enter the Colombo port. WION team, while covering the aftermath of the terror attacks in April, was present next to this church when a 'controlled explosion" took place. The impact of the explosion was such that it caused commotion around the place. Speaking to WION, the head priest of the church Father Jude Fernando had said, "We will build the church, but can bring back the lives". Earlier, the PM was received by Sri Lankan PM Ranil Wickremesinghe at the Colombo airport and after his stop at the church, he was given a ceremonial reception at the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka. He also planted a sapling at the Presidential Secretariat and was accompanied by President Maithripala Sirisena. PM Modi is on a short and packed 3-hour-long visit to Sri Lanka after his day-long tour to the Maldives - his first foreign visit in the second term. In the Maldives also, PM had talked about terror. Speaking in the Maldivian Parliament he said, "Terrorism is not just a threat for a country, but to the entire civilisation. It is very unfortunate that people are still making the mistake of distinguishing between good terrorists and bad terrorists." Without naming Pakistan, PM said, "State sponsorship of terrorism is the biggest threat the world is facing today" Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for Modi's oath-taking ceremony. PM Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term, first in March 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and then in 2017 when he was the chief guest at the Vesak day celebrations.

In message of solidarity to Sri Lanka, PM Modi visits terror-hit St Anthony's church in Colombo 

Terror, climate change and Indo-pacific were the three main issues Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked about during his address to the Maldivian Parliament.&nbsp;

Modi is only the second foreign Head of State or Government to address the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-conferred-with-maldives-highest-honour-accorded-to-foreign-dignitaries-order-of-nishanizzuddeen-225498">People’s Majlis </a>in its 86 year history.

Coming hard on "state sponsorship of terror" PM called it a huge challenge which is a danger for the entire humanity and requested the international community to host a global conference to tackle terror.&nbsp;

He said, "There is not a single day when terrorist does not kill innocents.&nbsp;

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Terrorists don't have their banks or ammunition factories, yet they never have a lack of ammunition. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-cricket-diplomacy-as-pm-modi-gifts-bat-to-maldives-president-solih-225524">Who gives them these ammunitions?</a> This is a pity that people still try to differentiate between good and bad terrorists."

Calling climate change " not a myth", PM said "drying rivers and erratic weather is impacting farmers and rising water levels is threatening countries like Maldives." &nbsp;

India has supported the Maldives on climate change and has provided 2500 LED lights to the capital Male.&nbsp;

Without naming Pakistan, PM said, "the water is now rising above the head. Combating terrorism and radicalisation is the most accurate test of leadership in the world"

While lauding speaker of the Maldivian Parliament Mohamed Nasheed, who as the President held the first cabinet meeting underwater to highlight the challenges of climate change PM said, "The Maldives has taken a number of initiatives for sustainable development"

The focus was also on Indo-Pacific with PM saying there are a number of unresolved disputes in the region. Calling for a "Free and OpenIndo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future," adding, for "Maldives will be great partner for India's vision for Indo-Pacific as both are neighbours and friends".&nbsp;

PM Modi last year at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore detailed India's vision on Indo-Pacific which he said is inclusive.

The speaker of the Maldives Parliament gifted PM Modi the first copy of Maldivian constitution as a token of "India's defence towards Maldives".

This is the 11th time PM Modi addressed a Parliament of a foreign country since 2014 but first time in his second term. Overall in his first term, PM Modi addressed Parliaments of 10 countries. In the past he has addressed the parliaments of Bhutan, Nepal, Australia, Fiji, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Afghanistan, US and Uganda.&nbsp;

(Anshu Dubey contributed to this story)

Terror, climate change and Indo-pacific were the three main issues Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked about during his address to the Maldivian Parliament.

Terror, climate change and Indo-pacific were the three main issues Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi talked about during his address to the Maldivian Parliament. Modi is only the second foreign Head of State or Government to address the People’s Majlis in its 86 year history. Coming hard on "state sponsorship of terror" PM called it a huge challenge which is a danger for the entire humanity and requested the international community to host a global conference to tackle terror. He said, "There is not a single day when terrorist does not kill innocents. × Terrorists don't have their banks or ammunition factories, yet they never have a lack of ammunition. Who gives them these ammunitions? This is a pity that people still try to differentiate between good and bad terrorists." Calling climate change " not a myth", PM said "drying rivers and erratic weather is impacting farmers and rising water levels is threatening countries like Maldives." India has supported the Maldives on climate change and has provided 2500 LED lights to the capital Male. Without naming Pakistan, PM said, "the water is now rising above the head. Combating terrorism and radicalisation is the most accurate test of leadership in the world" While lauding speaker of the Maldivian Parliament Mohamed Nasheed, who as the President held the first cabinet meeting underwater to highlight the challenges of climate change PM said, "The Maldives has taken a number of initiatives for sustainable development" The focus was also on Indo-Pacific with PM saying there are a number of unresolved disputes in the region. Calling for a "Free and OpenIndo-Pacific", PM said, "India will not only use its strength to strengthen its own nation but also its neighbours and their bright future," adding, for "Maldives will be great partner for India's vision for Indo-Pacific as both are neighbours and friends". PM Modi last year at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore detailed India's vision on Indo-Pacific which he said is inclusive. The speaker of the Maldives Parliament gifted PM Modi the first copy of Maldivian constitution as a token of "India's defence towards Maldives". This is the 11th time PM Modi addressed a Parliament of a foreign country since 2014 but first time in his second term. Overall in his first term, PM Modi addressed Parliaments of 10 countries. In the past he has addressed the parliaments of Bhutan, Nepal, Australia, Fiji, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Mongolia, Afghanistan, US and Uganda. (Anshu Dubey contributed to this story)

Terror, climate change, Indo-Pacific dominate PM Modi's address to Maldivian Parliament

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago&nbsp;and give it utmost priority.&nbsp;

Modi in his address after holding bilateral talks with country's&nbsp;President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, said, "India gives utmost importance to its relationship with the Maldives. We want to have a strong partnership with each other, adding that it is "willing to help in every way possible."

"May the friendship between India and Maldives last forever," PM Modi added.

Mentioning Solih's December visit, Modi spoke about India's development aid to the country and support to projects like community development centres, water supply,&nbsp;sewerage services, SME development financing and several other projects.

"People of our countries want stability and development", PM Modi said.

During the address, he reiterated the Indian government's "Neighbourhood First" policy and stressed on the "high importance" that India attaches to its relationship with the Maldives.

President Solih also congratulated PM Modi for his overwhelming mandate in the recently concluded&nbsp;general elections and reaffirmed his government’s "India-First Policy".

The two leaders reaffirmed their "unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, both within the region and elsewhere."

India and Maldives have agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on counter-terrorism, countering violent extremism and de-radicalisation.

India will support the conservation of Friday mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), which was built using Coral in Addu and to boost connectivity between the countries a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service will be launched between Kochi in India to Kulhudhuffushi and Malé in the Maldives.

To strengthen Maldives' defence, both leaders jointly inaugurated two important defence related projects--One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF).

The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility to its forces. The coastal surveillance radar will have 10 autonomous radar systems across the country &amp; will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone.&nbsp;

Six MoUs between the 2 countries, including in Hydrography, Health, Customs, Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea, training of civil servants and Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force

PM Modi arrived in the country on Saturday afternoon and was received at the airport by Foreign minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Indian envoy to the country Sanjay Sudhir. This is his first foreign visit abroad in his second term. He was later accorded ceremonial reception at capital's Male's Republic square, followed by a bilateral meet with President of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.&nbsp;

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago and give it utmost priority.

India on Saturday reaffirmed its ties with the Maldives with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying that New Delhi will always stand with the Indian Ocean archipelago and give it utmost priority. Modi in his address after holding bilateral talks with country's President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, said, "India gives utmost importance to its relationship with the Maldives. We want to have a strong partnership with each other, adding that it is "willing to help in every way possible." "May the friendship between India and Maldives last forever," PM Modi added. Mentioning Solih's December visit, Modi spoke about India's development aid to the country and support to projects like community development centres, water supply, sewerage services, SME development financing and several other projects. "People of our countries want stability and development", PM Modi said. During the address, he reiterated the Indian government's "Neighbourhood First" policy and stressed on the "high importance" that India attaches to its relationship with the Maldives. President Solih also congratulated PM Modi for his overwhelming mandate in the recently concluded general elections and reaffirmed his government’s "India-First Policy". The two leaders reaffirmed their "unequivocal and uncompromising position against terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, both within the region and elsewhere." India and Maldives have agreed to set up a Joint Working Group on counter-terrorism, countering violent extremism and de-radicalisation. India will support the conservation of Friday mosque (Hukuru Miskiy), which was built using Coral in Addu and to boost connectivity between the countries a passenger-cum-cargo ferry service will be launched between Kochi in India to Kulhudhuffushi and Malé in the Maldives. To strengthen Maldives' defence, both leaders jointly inaugurated two important defence related projects--One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF). The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility to its forces. The coastal surveillance radar will have 10 autonomous radar systems across the country & will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone. Six MoUs between the 2 countries, including in Hydrography, Health, Customs, Establishment of Passenger and Cargo Services by Sea, training of civil servants and Sharing White Shipping Information between the Indian Navy and the Maldives National Defence Force PM Modi arrived in the country on Saturday afternoon and was received at the airport by Foreign minister of Maldives Abdulla Shahid and Indian envoy to the country Sanjay Sudhir. This is his first foreign visit abroad in his second term. He was later accorded ceremonial reception at capital's Male's Republic square, followed by a bilateral meet with President of Ibrahim Mohamed Solih.

Important for world community to come together to fight challenge of terrorism and radicalisation: PM Modi

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10. The meet is devised to tackle regional challenges and development in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

India and the US are not part of the meeting, even though they are key stakeholders when it comes to the development in landlocked South Asian countries.&nbsp;

These are the number of processes currently underway to help stabilise Afghanistan including a Moscow-backed process which the US hasn't been keen to join.&nbsp;

New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest supporter in the region. India, through its community development scheme since 2005, has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion.&nbsp;

The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and, since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, has undertaken projects and programmes worth over $2 billion. 
&nbsp;

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10.

In a development that may raise eyebrows in Washington and New Delhi, Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries - Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Russia and China will be meeting in Kabul on June 10. The meet is devised to tackle regional challenges and development in Afghanistan. India and the US are not part of the meeting, even though they are key stakeholders when it comes to the development in landlocked South Asian countries. These are the number of processes currently underway to help stabilise Afghanistan including a Moscow-backed process which the US hasn't been keen to join. New Delhi has been Afghanistan's biggest supporter in the region. India, through its community development scheme since 2005, has supported over 550 projects throughout Afghanistan. Of these, around 345 projects have been completed while the remaining are in various stages of completion. The projects are aimed at building basic infrastructure such as schools, public health centres, bridges, roads for local communities. India is the largest donor to Afghanistan in the region and, since 2001 after the fall of the Taliban, has undertaken projects and programmes worth over $2 billion.

Deputy National Security Advisors of 5 countries to meet in Kabul; India, US not invited

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/great-honour-to-host-pm-modi-on-his-first-visit-abroad-maldivian-foreign-minister-to-wion-225418">Maldives will be conferring PM Modi</a> with its highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries - the Most Honourable Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen (Order of Nishanizzuddeen) - Maldivian President's house has announced.&nbsp;

The statement from the Maldivian President's house said that he is being conferred with the award, "in recognition of the many services he has performed to cement the longstanding, amicable ties between our two countries" and for the "magnanimous assistance that the Indian government has continued to provide the Maldives under <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-focus-on-neighbourhood-first-pm-modi-leaves-for-first-foreign-visit-on-saturday-225292">Prime Minister Modi</a>’s stewardship".

He will be conferred with the award at an event today evening at the Maldivian President's office.&nbsp;

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President <a href="https://twitter.com/ibusolih?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ibusolih</a> has announced his decision to confer on PM of India H.E. <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> the Maldives highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries, “The Most Honourable Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen” during PM’s visit today. Namaskar, Swagatham 🙏
— Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) <a href="https://twitter.com/abdulla_shahid/status/1137254270527426560?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 8, 2019</a></blockquote>
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“Order of Nishan Izzuddeen” in the past has been conferred by Maldives to Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip; Louis Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma; former President of South Korea, Chun Doo Hwan; former Secretary General of the Commonwealth Shridath Surendranath Ramphal and Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia.

Earlier this year, PM Modi was conferred with Russia and UAE's highest civilian award. While Russia conferred PM Modi with its "Order of St Andrew the Apostle", the UAE conferred him with the Zayed Medal.

In the past, PM Modi has been conferred with the highest civilian award of Saudi Arabia - the King Abdulaziz Sash ( 2016), Afghanistan's highest civilian honour, the Amir Amanullah Khan Award (2016); Grand Collar of the State of Palestine which is is the highest order given to foreign dignitaries (2018); UN's highest environmental honour - Champions of the Earth award (2018) and 2018 Seoul Peace Prize. 
&nbsp;

The Maldives will be conferring PM Modi with its highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries - the Most Honourable Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen (Order of Nishanizzuddeen) - Maldivian President's house has announced.

The Maldives will be conferring PM Modi with its highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries - the Most Honourable Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen (Order of Nishanizzuddeen) - Maldivian President's house has announced. The statement from the Maldivian President's house said that he is being conferred with the award, "in recognition of the many services he has performed to cement the longstanding, amicable ties between our two countries" and for the "magnanimous assistance that the Indian government has continued to provide the Maldives under Prime Minister Modi’s stewardship". He will be conferred with the award at an event today evening at the Maldivian President's office. President @ibusolih has announced his decision to confer on PM of India H.E. @narendramodi the Maldives highest honour accorded to foreign dignitaries, “The Most Honourable Order of the Distinguished Rule of Nishan Izzuddeen” during PM’s visit today. Namaskar, Swagatham 🙏 — Abdulla Shahid 🎈 (@abdulla_shahid) June 8, 2019 × “Order of Nishan Izzuddeen” in the past has been conferred by Maldives to Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip; Louis Mountbatten, 1st Earl Mountbatten of Burma; former President of South Korea, Chun Doo Hwan; former Secretary General of the Commonwealth Shridath Surendranath Ramphal and Prince Alwaleed Bin Talal Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia. Earlier this year, PM Modi was conferred with Russia and UAE's highest civilian award. While Russia conferred PM Modi with its "Order of St Andrew the Apostle", the UAE conferred him with the Zayed Medal. In the past, PM Modi has been conferred with the highest civilian award of Saudi Arabia - the King Abdulaziz Sash ( 2016), Afghanistan's highest civilian honour, the Amir Amanullah Khan Award (2016); Grand Collar of the State of Palestine which is is the highest order given to foreign dignitaries (2018); UN's highest environmental honour - Champions of the Earth award (2018) and 2018 Seoul Peace Prize.

Maldives to honour PM Modi with highest award offered to foreign dignitaries

Ahead of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-focus-on-neighbourhood-first-pm-modi-leaves-for-first-foreign-visit-on-saturday-225292">Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maldives visit</a>, Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid spoke exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal and called PM Modi's visit to his country a great honour.&nbsp;

Shahid also said India has a key role to play in the maintenance of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and thus the development and security of the Maldives.

WION: How do you see PM Modi's visit?

Abdulla Shahid: It is a great honour for the Maldives to host Prime Minister Modi for his first visit abroad after his appointment as Prime Minister on May 30 2019. It signals the exceptionally strong relationship between the Maldives and India, and President Solih and Prime Minister Modi. You would recall that President Solih’s first visit abroad was to India in December 2018, and PM Modi was a guest at President Solih’s swearing-in ceremony in November 2018. The Maldives is the only country in South Asia that PM Modi has not visited and for him to visit now, signals the government of India's trust in the government of President Solih and its vision for people-centred, inclusive, just government.

WION: Your thoughts on the current status of ties between India and Maldives

Abdulla Shahid: There is a renewed dynamism in the traditionally close Maldives-India relationship. With the exchange of high-level visits - including at the Head of State and Head of Government level and the foreign ministerial level - the two countries have further expanded and also strengthened the relationship. This year we will mark 54 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations but the ties go beyond that. Our people are connected, through shared values, culture, and affinity. With the recent entry into force of the Visa Facilitation Agreement, these people-to-people ties have expanded and strengthened.&nbsp;

Watch: Ahead of Maldives visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers at Guruvayur Temple in Thrissur

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kerala-prime-minister-narendra-modi-offers-prayers-at-sri-krishna-temple-in-guruvayur-of-thrissur-225376/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

WION: How are both countries cooperating in the maritime domain and security?

Abdulla Shahid: The Maldives recognises the profound link between stability and peace in the Indian Ocean and the stability, peace and progress of the Maldives. As well as the link between stability and peace in the Maldives, and stability and peace of the Indian Ocean. India has a key role to play in the maintenance of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and in turn the development and security of the Maldives. Recognising this link, both countries have cooperated in joint patrolling, aerial surveillance, held joint exercises and trilateral exercises with Sri Lanka. We recently concluded an exercise “Ekatha” in April 2019. The purpose of these exercises and joint activities is to maintain the peace and stability of the Indian Ocean for development to flourish. India is also working with our security personnel, and our police, to expand their capacity and increase technical know-how.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's development aid?

Abdulla Shahid: India has been a constant friend and a partner in the development journey of the Maldives. Most recently, India has extended a package of $1.4 billion, including budgetary support, currency swap and line of credit. This financial support will enable the government to achieve greater development, especially for the islands.&nbsp;

India’s support for our human development and capacity building is also of note. We are looking to build people who can lead the country to greater heights. And learning the technical know-how, getting the experience, learning from countries like India is immensely helpful. &nbsp;India’s support in other areas is also important, such as in the health sector. We are working with the Indian government to expand cooperation in the health sector, to train health care professionals across the country, in addition to doctors and nurses at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Maldives.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maldives visit, Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid spoke exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal and called PM Modi's visit to his country a great honour.

Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Maldives visit, Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid spoke exclusively to WION's Sidhant Sibal and called PM Modi's visit to his country a great honour. Shahid also said India has a key role to play in the maintenance of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and thus the development and security of the Maldives. WION: How do you see PM Modi's visit? Abdulla Shahid: It is a great honour for the Maldives to host Prime Minister Modi for his first visit abroad after his appointment as Prime Minister on May 30 2019. It signals the exceptionally strong relationship between the Maldives and India, and President Solih and Prime Minister Modi. You would recall that President Solih’s first visit abroad was to India in December 2018, and PM Modi was a guest at President Solih’s swearing-in ceremony in November 2018. The Maldives is the only country in South Asia that PM Modi has not visited and for him to visit now, signals the government of India's trust in the government of President Solih and its vision for people-centred, inclusive, just government. WION: Your thoughts on the current status of ties between India and Maldives Abdulla Shahid: There is a renewed dynamism in the traditionally close Maldives-India relationship. With the exchange of high-level visits - including at the Head of State and Head of Government level and the foreign ministerial level - the two countries have further expanded and also strengthened the relationship. This year we will mark 54 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations but the ties go beyond that. Our people are connected, through shared values, culture, and affinity. With the recent entry into force of the Visa Facilitation Agreement, these people-to-people ties have expanded and strengthened. Watch: Ahead of Maldives visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offers prayers at Guruvayur Temple in Thrissur WION: How are both countries cooperating in the maritime domain and security? Abdulla Shahid: The Maldives recognises the profound link between stability and peace in the Indian Ocean and the stability, peace and progress of the Maldives. As well as the link between stability and peace in the Maldives, and stability and peace of the Indian Ocean. India has a key role to play in the maintenance of peace and stability in the Indian Ocean and in turn the development and security of the Maldives. Recognising this link, both countries have cooperated in joint patrolling, aerial surveillance, held joint exercises and trilateral exercises with Sri Lanka. We recently concluded an exercise “Ekatha” in April 2019. The purpose of these exercises and joint activities is to maintain the peace and stability of the Indian Ocean for development to flourish. India is also working with our security personnel, and our police, to expand their capacity and increase technical know-how. WION: How do you see India's development aid? Abdulla Shahid: India has been a constant friend and a partner in the development journey of the Maldives. Most recently, India has extended a package of $1.4 billion, including budgetary support, currency swap and line of credit. This financial support will enable the government to achieve greater development, especially for the islands. India’s support for our human development and capacity building is also of note. We are looking to build people who can lead the country to greater heights. And learning the technical know-how, getting the experience, learning from countries like India is immensely helpful. India’s support in other areas is also important, such as in the health sector. We are working with the Indian government to expand cooperation in the health sector, to train health care professionals across the country, in addition to doctors and nurses at the Indira Gandhi Memorial Hospital in Maldives.

Great honour to host PM Modi on his first visit abroad: Maldivian foreign minister to WION

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-sri-lanka-visit-to-show-solidarity-with-people-foreign-secretary-225092">who will be travelling to Sri Lanka on Sunday</a> will be visiting places impacted by the terror attacks of April 21 in which more than 250 people died.&nbsp;

Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Sri Lankan envoy to India Austin Fernando said, PM Modi's visit is an endorsement of solidarity between the two neighbouring countries. Here is the full interview.

WION: How do you see this visit by PM Modi to your country?

Austin Fernando: Very important for us, especially after this disaster as you said, PM Modi going to Sri Lanka is an endorsement of solidarity between the two countries, the concern he has for Sri Lanka, his visit will be seen as others, like investors, tourists and people who want to do business with Sri Lanka, for trade, all these people will be enthused by the visit. It's very important for us. PM&nbsp;Modi, being head of government of the largest democracy itself is a thing we have to respect. India, being a neighbourhood country and also very friendly with us, we consider it an important visit.&nbsp;

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The people of India stand firmly with the people of Sri Lanka, who suffered great agony and destruction in the wake of the horrific terror attacks on Easter. We fully support Sri Lanka in the fight against terror.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1136959971952717824?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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WION: Can you tell us the agenda, places he will be going to?

Austin Fernando: Definitely PM Modi will like to visit places impacted from attack because that is going to be standing with another set of people who have been victims of the disaster. His concerns once again, human concern of the PM. Then he may have a chance of speaking to various people who have been doing a lot of things between the two countries, in economic field, educational field, technology field and security field. And then India being the country that had helped us in the investigation after this attack, we have things to contribute. Sri Lankan government officials will also have issues that can also be taken. India is the largest contributor to our visitors to Sri Lanka as a tourist.

WION: Travel advisories were imposed for your country after April 21 attack. How does it impact you?

Austin Fernando: Travel advisories have been removed, withdrawn by several countries. India also has relaxed it somewhat, the problem is we consider it somewhat, still restraining to people to go there. I think, if PM Modi when he will be there, having heard difficulties we are undergoing, if he changes it, makes up his mind to relax it, that is the best gift Indian government and PM Modi can give to Sri Lanka at present.

WION: How are both countries cooperating on terror front?

Austin Fernando: I think, India has, large amount of intelligence collection system and the technology and experience and the access to various sources which probably we may not have. This particular disaster, information was given by Indian intelligence to our people, unfortunately, there has been some problem. This is not a thing that is happening in isolation in India nor happening in isolation in Sri Lanka. International terrorist movements and the issues are connected to this, so therefore, rather than trying to sort out issues and problems as individual countries, if we can do this as joint exercise by people of these countries, the relevant, officials, that will bring better results than in isolations, especially, India can help us. Also, India and Sri Lanka can look at other countries also, internationally like US, UK, Japan or Australia, we can work with them also. We have to coordinate efforts.

WION: India's role in connectivity provider and ways to fight common challenges?

Austin Fernando: Best and easiest example is BIMSTEC. We had SAARC, we are having SAARC still, now there is BIMSTEC that has covered a larger geographical area. Then it has started working. Security of the area, growth of the area, poverty reduction of the area, these are issues that are problem for everyone in the area. India has taken initiative with BIMSTEC, so the grouping can be made use of by India and by other countries. You may even expand the relationships with other countries, other areas also and lot of internal issues can be evaporated from the system.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be travelling to Sri Lanka on Sunday will be visiting places impacted by the terror attacks of April 21 in which more than 250 people died.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who will be travelling to Sri Lanka on Sunday will be visiting places impacted by the terror attacks of April 21 in which more than 250 people died. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibal, Sri Lankan envoy to India Austin Fernando said, PM Modi's visit is an endorsement of solidarity between the two neighbouring countries. Here is the full interview. WION: How do you see this visit by PM Modi to your country? Austin Fernando: Very important for us, especially after this disaster as you said, PM Modi going to Sri Lanka is an endorsement of solidarity between the two countries, the concern he has for Sri Lanka, his visit will be seen as others, like investors, tourists and people who want to do business with Sri Lanka, for trade, all these people will be enthused by the visit. It's very important for us. PM Modi, being head of government of the largest democracy itself is a thing we have to respect. India, being a neighbourhood country and also very friendly with us, we consider it an important visit. The people of India stand firmly with the people of Sri Lanka, who suffered great agony and destruction in the wake of the horrific terror attacks on Easter. We fully support Sri Lanka in the fight against terror. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) June 7, 2019 × WION: Can you tell us the agenda, places he will be going to? Austin Fernando: Definitely PM Modi will like to visit places impacted from attack because that is going to be standing with another set of people who have been victims of the disaster. His concerns once again, human concern of the PM. Then he may have a chance of speaking to various people who have been doing a lot of things between the two countries, in economic field, educational field, technology field and security field. And then India being the country that had helped us in the investigation after this attack, we have things to contribute. Sri Lankan government officials will also have issues that can also be taken. India is the largest contributor to our visitors to Sri Lanka as a tourist. WION: Travel advisories were imposed for your country after April 21 attack. How does it impact you? Austin Fernando: Travel advisories have been removed, withdrawn by several countries. India also has relaxed it somewhat, the problem is we consider it somewhat, still restraining to people to go there. I think, if PM Modi when he will be there, having heard difficulties we are undergoing, if he changes it, makes up his mind to relax it, that is the best gift Indian government and PM Modi can give to Sri Lanka at present. WION: How are both countries cooperating on terror front? Austin Fernando: I think, India has, large amount of intelligence collection system and the technology and experience and the access to various sources which probably we may not have. This particular disaster, information was given by Indian intelligence to our people, unfortunately, there has been some problem. This is not a thing that is happening in isolation in India nor happening in isolation in Sri Lanka. International terrorist movements and the issues are connected to this, so therefore, rather than trying to sort out issues and problems as individual countries, if we can do this as joint exercise by people of these countries, the relevant, officials, that will bring better results than in isolations, especially, India can help us. Also, India and Sri Lanka can look at other countries also, internationally like US, UK, Japan or Australia, we can work with them also. We have to coordinate efforts. WION: India's role in connectivity provider and ways to fight common challenges? Austin Fernando: Best and easiest example is BIMSTEC. We had SAARC, we are having SAARC still, now there is BIMSTEC that has covered a larger geographical area. Then it has started working. Security of the area, growth of the area, poverty reduction of the area, these are issues that are problem for everyone in the area. India has taken initiative with BIMSTEC, so the grouping can be made use of by India and by other countries. You may even expand the relationships with other countries, other areas also and lot of internal issues can be evaporated from the system.

PM Modi to visit places of Easter terror attacks during Sri Lanka trip

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Sidhant Sibal

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