Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-to-embark-on-first-bilateral-visit-to-bhutan-today-225120">letter to S Jaishankar </a>congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India. Jaishankar took charge last Friday and was the former foreign secretary.

In the letter, Qureshi advocated talks between the two countries. India and Pakistan ties have been frayed since the Pulwama terror attack which took place on February, 14th, whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM).&nbsp;

This comes in the backdrop of the visit of Pakistani foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. MEA has clarified that his visit was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between the Pakistan foreign secretary and Indian officials.

Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs has dismissed reports of any meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization(SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, 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."

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi had asked the Pak prime minister to create an environment free of terror.

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a letter to S Jaishankar congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India.

Pakistani foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has written a letter to S Jaishankar congratulating him on his appointment as the external affairs minister of India. Jaishankar took charge last Friday and was the former foreign secretary. In the letter, Qureshi advocated talks between the two countries. India and Pakistan ties have been frayed since the Pulwama terror attack which took place on February, 14th, whose responsibility was claimed by Pakistan-based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad(JeM). This comes in the backdrop of the visit of Pakistani foreign secretary Sohail Mahmood to India on Eid, during which he offered Namaz at Delhi's historic Jama Masjid. MEA has clarified that his visit was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between the Pakistan foreign secretary and Indian officials. Meanwhile, the ministry of external affairs has dismissed reports of any meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai cooperation organization(SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, 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." Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi had asked the Pak prime minister to create an environment free of terror.

Pakistan foreign minister Qureshi writes to external affairs minister Jaishankar, advocates talks

PM Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modis-sri-lanka-visit-to-show-solidarity-with-people-foreign-secretary-225092">Sri Lanka on Saturday</a> which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections.&nbsp;

It has been eight years since an Indian PM visited the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011. During the visit, PM Modi will address Maldivian Parliament, the Majlis and meet the top leadership. Many MoUs are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping.

While giving details of the visit, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "The PM's visit is focused on three objectives, firstly it is to maintain contact at the highest level between the close neighbours, we want to assist the Maldives as a development partner, in the revival and development of there economy and third to strengthen people-to-people contact" 
&nbsp; 
Defence

Both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects - the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) - &nbsp;the total value of the two projects is $180 crores. The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility and "will enhance the capability of MNDF", according to foreign secretary Gokhale. The coastal surveillance radar system will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone.

Cricket

The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance. India in May had sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers, the supply of kits. India has given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers. India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people-to-people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan.

Connectivity

India is planning to start a ferry service from Kochi to the Maldives which the foreign secretary said will "significantly enhance connectivity". India is also working on fourteen high impact community projects which involves connectivity within the island, drug rehabilitation centre at a cost of Rs 50 crore. New Delhi also plans to provide speed boats for students.

In the last eight months, since the new government led by President Solih took charge in November last year, there have been a number of high-level visits.

While President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence minister Mariya Ahmed Didi visited India, PM Modi was in the country for the swearing-in ceremony of Solih and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj visited the country in March.

PM Modi will also be making a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka, while coming back from the Maldives on Sunday.&nbsp;

During the visit, PM Modi will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sri Lanka's Opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance.

Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said: "Visit to Sri Lanka&nbsp;is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of April 21st and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy".

"PM Modi will very clearly signal his commitment and intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership."

PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks in which over 250 people were killed. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi.

PM Modi has visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term, first in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar and Jaffna and then in 2017 when he was the chief guest at the Vesak day celebrations.

During PM's Jaffna visit, India had announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1,500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year.&nbsp;

India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the emergency service which was launched in July, 2016 under the Indian Grant Assistance of $7.55 million.&nbsp;

Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.&nbsp;

PM Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Saturday which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections. It has been eight years since an Indian PM visited the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011.

PM Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Saturday which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections. It has been eight years since an Indian PM visited the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011. During the visit, PM Modi will address Maldivian Parliament, the Majlis and meet the top leadership. Many MoUs are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping. While giving details of the visit, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "The PM's visit is focused on three objectives, firstly it is to maintain contact at the highest level between the close neighbours, we want to assist the Maldives as a development partner, in the revival and development of there economy and third to strengthen people-to-people contact" Defence Both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects - the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) - the total value of the two projects is $180 crores. The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility and "will enhance the capability of MNDF", according to foreign secretary Gokhale. The coastal surveillance radar system will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone. Cricket The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance. India in May had sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers, the supply of kits. India has given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers. India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people-to-people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan. Connectivity India is planning to start a ferry service from Kochi to the Maldives which the foreign secretary said will "significantly enhance connectivity". India is also working on fourteen high impact community projects which involves connectivity within the island, drug rehabilitation centre at a cost of Rs 50 crore. New Delhi also plans to provide speed boats for students. In the last eight months, since the new government led by President Solih took charge in November last year, there have been a number of high-level visits. While President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and Defence minister Mariya Ahmed Didi visited India, PM Modi was in the country for the swearing-in ceremony of Solih and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj visited the country in March. PM Modi will also be making a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka, while coming back from the Maldives on Sunday. During the visit, PM Modi will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, Sri Lanka's Opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance. Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said: "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of April 21st and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy". "PM Modi will very clearly signal his commitment and intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership." PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks in which over 250 people were killed. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi. PM Modi has visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term, first in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar and Jaffna and then in 2017 when he was the chief guest at the Vesak day celebrations. During PM's Jaffna visit, India had announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1,500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year. India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the emergency service which was launched in July, 2016 under the Indian Grant Assistance of $7.55 million. Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.

Coastal surveillance radar system, ferry service from Kochi high on PM Modi's agenda during Maldives visit

Indian experience can help Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic Asein Isaev has told WION. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibbal, envoy Isaev said they were taken by surprise with Indian invitation to his President for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30th at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Kyrgyzstan is the chair of SCO for this year and will host the summit on June 13&nbsp;&amp; 14&nbsp;in which PM Modi will participate.&nbsp;

WION: What will be the agenda of the SCO summit?

Asein Isaev: We will continue the Shanghai spirit. We have to strengthen our friendly relations in this region. After entering of India, SCO has became 3 and 1/2 billion strong. It is half of mankind. In this part of the world, everything will be good and peacefull and lead to development of the region.

WION: How are the preparations going?

Asein Isaev: This summit is very interesting. It's just not a&nbsp;political issue, it involves contact between people and countries. Before the summit&nbsp;we had a cultural and sports, and a joint military exercise. Our security forces had meetings. On June, 14th, there will be meetings of head of states.

WION: How do you see India's role?

Asein Isaev: The main objective of the organisation is the peaceful development of the region. We need Indian experience in all spheres - democratic development, security possibilities, cultural development and also we hope&nbsp;India will share experience with other members of the SCO.

WION: India invited President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi. How do you view it?

Asein Isaev: It was a big surprise. We were very excited by this invitation. Our president immediately answered, and immediately arrived. He was in Kazakhstan and after that he had to go to Saudi Arabia. He only had half a day but he decided to directly come here. Everytime close neighbours were invited, but this time invitation was also for our country, &nbsp;for our head of state.&nbsp;

It shows the growing importance of SCO countries, we are the chair of SCO. We have big intentions to be close friends and close partners of India. We very good relations with India in educational, medical, cultural and political sphere. We hope our relations will reach in the coming days to the level of strategic partnership. It's a big achievement for us. This coming visit of PM Modi has crucial importance for us.&nbsp;

WION: India has been focusing on programmes to connect central Asia? Your take.

Asein Isaev: &nbsp;One of the main problems in exporting goods from Kyrgyzstan to India and reverse is the issue of transportation. The completion of the transport corridor INSTC (providing the route for the delivery of goods from the seaport of Mumbai (India) to the port of Chabahar (Iran) will expand the opportunities and improve the economic situation of the country.&nbsp;

It would be a good help to India, too. We can export our agrarian products such as Kyrgyz ghee (yellow oil) that Indian people use in their food, it has excellent quality and taste. When my Indian friends have tasted it, they were definitely been very excited. We can also suggest white honey, dry fruits to our Indian friends.

Indian experience can help Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic Asein Isaev has told WION. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibbal, envoy Isaev said they were taken by surprise with Indian invitation to his President for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30th at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi.

Indian experience can help Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), ambassador of Kyrgyz Republic Asein Isaev has told WION. Speaking to WION's Sidhant Sibbal, envoy Isaev said they were taken by surprise with Indian invitation to his President for the oath-taking ceremony of Narendra Modi on May 30th at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. Kyrgyzstan is the chair of SCO for this year and will host the summit on June 13 & 14 in which PM Modi will participate. WION: What will be the agenda of the SCO summit? Asein Isaev: We will continue the Shanghai spirit. We have to strengthen our friendly relations in this region. After entering of India, SCO has became 3 and 1/2 billion strong. It is half of mankind. In this part of the world, everything will be good and peacefull and lead to development of the region. WION: How are the preparations going? Asein Isaev: This summit is very interesting. It's just not a political issue, it involves contact between people and countries. Before the summit we had a cultural and sports, and a joint military exercise. Our security forces had meetings. On June, 14th, there will be meetings of head of states. WION: How do you see India's role? Asein Isaev: The main objective of the organisation is the peaceful development of the region. We need Indian experience in all spheres - democratic development, security possibilities, cultural development and also we hope India will share experience with other members of the SCO. WION: India invited President of the Kyrgyz Republic Sooronbay Jeenbekov for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi. How do you view it? Asein Isaev: It was a big surprise. We were very excited by this invitation. Our president immediately answered, and immediately arrived. He was in Kazakhstan and after that he had to go to Saudi Arabia. He only had half a day but he decided to directly come here. Everytime close neighbours were invited, but this time invitation was also for our country, for our head of state. It shows the growing importance of SCO countries, we are the chair of SCO. We have big intentions to be close friends and close partners of India. We very good relations with India in educational, medical, cultural and political sphere. We hope our relations will reach in the coming days to the level of strategic partnership. It's a big achievement for us. This coming visit of PM Modi has crucial importance for us. WION: India has been focusing on programmes to connect central Asia? Your take. Asein Isaev: One of the main problems in exporting goods from Kyrgyzstan to India and reverse is the issue of transportation. The completion of the transport corridor INSTC (providing the route for the delivery of goods from the seaport of Mumbai (India) to the port of Chabahar (Iran) will expand the opportunities and improve the economic situation of the country. It would be a good help to India, too. We can export our agrarian products such as Kyrgyz ghee (yellow oil) that Indian people use in their food, it has excellent quality and taste. When my Indian friends have tasted it, they were definitely been very excited. We can also suggest white honey, dry fruits to our Indian friends.

Indian experience can help us, says SCO chair Kyrgyzstan

Ahead of his first foreign visit in the second term, PM Modi on Friday said the visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will strengthen "close and cordial ties" with both the maritime neighbours and is in line with India's ‘<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-to-travel-to-sri-lanka-on-sunday-will-visit-places-of-terror-attacks-225263">Neighbourhood-First Policy</a>’ and SAGAR or Security and Growth for All in the Region doctrine.

Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries.

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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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PM will be going to the Maldives on Saturday, which will be the first bilateral state visit by an Indian PM to the country in 8 years. Manmohan Singh undertook a visit to the country in 2011. Apart from meeting the top leadership, PM will also address the Maldivian parliament or People's Majlis.&nbsp;

In a departure statement, PM said, 'My visit to the Maldives is reflective of the importance we both attach to our relationship as maritime neighbours and long-standing friends."

"We regard the Maldives as a valued partner with whom we share deep bonds of history and culture. Our bilateral relations with the Maldives have been greatly strengthened in the recent past. I am confident that my visit will further deepen our multifaceted partnership," he added.

During the visit, both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/coastal-surveillance-radar-system-ferry-service-from-kochi-high-on-pm-modis-agenda-during-maldives-visit-225125">defence related projects</a> -- a coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) at the total cost of $180 crores. Many MoUs are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping.

Modi will be visiting Sri Lanka on Sunday, a visit that has been termed as a solidarity visit. The Indian PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the 21st April terror attacks that killed more than 250 people.&nbsp;

On Sri Lanka visit, PM said, "My visit to Sri Lanka is to express our solidarity with the government and the people of Sri Lanka in the wake of the terrible terrorist attacks there last Easter on 21 April 2019. India stands with Sri Lanka in the fight against terrorism."

During the visit, he will be visiting places impacted by the terror attacks which includes one of the churches in which the suicide attack took place.

Speaking to WION, Sri Lanka's envoy to India Austin Fernando told "Definitely he will like to visit places impacted sometimes because that is going to be standing with another set of people who have been victims of the disaster. His concerns once again, the human concern of the PM"

Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi.

Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term.&nbsp;

Ahead of his first foreign visit in the second term, PM Modi on Friday said the visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will strengthen "close and cordial ties" with both the maritime neighbours and is in line with India's ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and SAGAR or Security and Growth for All in the Region doctrine.

Ahead of his first foreign visit in the second term, PM Modi on Friday said the visit to the Maldives and Sri Lanka will strengthen "close and cordial ties" with both the maritime neighbours and is in line with India's ‘Neighbourhood-First Policy’ and SAGAR or Security and Growth for All in the Region doctrine. Under the SAGAR doctrine, India has been focusing on regional collaboration while under neighbourhood first policy, New Delhi has accorded priority to its relations with neighbouring countries. 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 × PM will be going to the Maldives on Saturday, which will be the first bilateral state visit by an Indian PM to the country in 8 years. Manmohan Singh undertook a visit to the country in 2011. Apart from meeting the top leadership, PM will also address the Maldivian parliament or People's Majlis. In a departure statement, PM said, 'My visit to the Maldives is reflective of the importance we both attach to our relationship as maritime neighbours and long-standing friends." "We regard the Maldives as a valued partner with whom we share deep bonds of history and culture. Our bilateral relations with the Maldives have been greatly strengthened in the recent past. I am confident that my visit will further deepen our multifaceted partnership," he added. During the visit, both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects -- a coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) at the total cost of $180 crores. Many MoUs are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping. Modi will be visiting Sri Lanka on Sunday, a visit that has been termed as a solidarity visit. The Indian PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the 21st April terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. On Sri Lanka visit, PM said, "My visit to Sri Lanka is to express our solidarity with the government and the people of Sri Lanka in the wake of the terrible terrorist attacks there last Easter on 21 April 2019. India stands with Sri Lanka in the fight against terrorism." During the visit, he will be visiting places impacted by the terror attacks which includes one of the churches in which the suicide attack took place. Speaking to WION, Sri Lanka's envoy to India Austin Fernando told "Definitely he will like to visit places impacted sometimes because that is going to be standing with another set of people who have been victims of the disaster. His concerns once again, the human concern of the PM" Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi. Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term.

With focus on 'neighbourhood first', PM Modi set for first foreign trip in second term   

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Saturday which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections.&nbsp;

It is after 8 years that an Indian PM will be on a state visit to the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011. During the visit, PM will address Maldivian Parliament, the Majlis and meet the top leadership. Many Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping.

While given details of the visit, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "The PM's visit is focused on three objectives, firstly it is to maintain contact at the highest level between the close neighbours, to assist the Maldives as a development partner, and to strengthen people to people contact" 
&nbsp; 
Defence

Both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects -- One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) -- at a total cost of $180 crores. The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility and "will enhance the capability of MNDF", according to FS Gokhale. The coastal surveillance radar system will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone.

Cricket

The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance. India in May sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers.&nbsp;

India has given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers. Earlier, India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people to people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan.

Connectivity

India is planning to start a ferry service from Kochi to the Maldives which the foreign secretary said will "significantly enhance connectivity".&nbsp;

India is also working on 14 high impact community projects which involves connectivity within the island, drug rehab centre and the total cost is Rs 50 crore. New Delhi also plans to provide speed boats for students.

Earlier this year, India and Maldives signed a visa facilitation agreement that came to force in March 2018 and New Delhi has pledged budgetary support of $ 200 million, of which $ 50 million has been given in cash and rest $150 in treasury bills. Both are finalising a currency swap agreement.&nbsp;

A line of credit of $ 800 million has been granted for water supply and sewerage for 36 islands, Addu urban development centre and SME development financing project, among several projects. In fact, India is also supporting Male's climate change efforts with the grants of LED bulbs for the capital.

In the last 8 months, since the new government led by President Solih took charge in November 2018, there have been a number of high-level visits.&nbsp;

While President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, ForeignMinister Abdulla Shahid &amp; Defence minister Mariya Ahmed Didi all have visited India, PM Modi was in the country for the swearing-in ceremony of Solih and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj visited the country in March of 2019.

Relationship between the two countries had suffered under the previous Yameen regime who had junked pro-India policy for a pro-china policy.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Saturday which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections. It is after 8 years that an Indian PM will be on a state visit to the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be leaving for the Maldives and Sri Lanka on Saturday which will be his first foreign visit after the general elections. It is after 8 years that an Indian PM will be on a state visit to the Maldives, the last was by Manmohan Singh in 2011. During the visit, PM will address Maldivian Parliament, the Majlis and meet the top leadership. Many Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) are expected to be signed including training of civil servants, customs and white shipping. While given details of the visit, foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale said, "The PM's visit is focused on three objectives, firstly it is to maintain contact at the highest level between the close neighbours, to assist the Maldives as a development partner, and to strengthen people to people contact" Defence Both PM Modi and President Solih will jointly inaugurate two defence related projects -- One is the coastal surveillance radar system and composite training centre for Maldives national defence forces (MNDF) -- at a total cost of $180 crores. The composite training centre was requested by the Maldives to provide a central training facility and "will enhance the capability of MNDF", according to FS Gokhale. The coastal surveillance radar system will help Malé monitor white shipping and preserve its sovereignty in EEZ or exclusive economic zone. Cricket The Maldives is keen to have its own cricket team and a cricket stadium and asked for Indian assistance. India in May sent a team of BCCI to the Maldives for the training of Maldivian cricketers. India has given cricket kits and is expected to coach Maldivian cricketers. Earlier, India had invited President Solih in April for an IPL match in Bengaluru. India sees it as important "people to people" exercise and has in the past helped countries like Afghanistan. Connectivity India is planning to start a ferry service from Kochi to the Maldives which the foreign secretary said will "significantly enhance connectivity". India is also working on 14 high impact community projects which involves connectivity within the island, drug rehab centre and the total cost is Rs 50 crore. New Delhi also plans to provide speed boats for students. Earlier this year, India and Maldives signed a visa facilitation agreement that came to force in March 2018 and New Delhi has pledged budgetary support of $ 200 million, of which $ 50 million has been given in cash and rest $150 in treasury bills. Both are finalising a currency swap agreement. A line of credit of $ 800 million has been granted for water supply and sewerage for 36 islands, Addu urban development centre and SME development financing project, among several projects. In fact, India is also supporting Male's climate change efforts with the grants of LED bulbs for the capital. In the last 8 months, since the new government led by President Solih took charge in November 2018, there have been a number of high-level visits. While President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih, ForeignMinister Abdulla Shahid & Defence minister Mariya Ahmed Didi all have visited India, PM Modi was in the country for the swearing-in ceremony of Solih and former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj visited the country in March of 2019. Relationship between the two countries had suffered under the previous Yameen regime who had junked pro-India policy for a pro-china policy.

Cricket, connectivity and defence top focus during PM Modi's Maldives visit  

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives.&nbsp;

During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance.

Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy".

Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership."

PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term.

Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations.

During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year.&nbsp;

India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million.&nbsp;

India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will make a short and packed visit to Sri Lanka on June 9, while coming back from the Maldives. During the visit, PM will meet Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Sri Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe, opposition leader Mahinda Rajapaksa and R. Sampanthan, president of the Tamil National Alliance. Giving details, Foreign security Vijay Gokhale said, "Visit to Sri Lanka is to show solidarity with the people and government of Sri Lanka in the wake of the tragic events of 21st April and expressing our confidence in the government of Sri Lanka in overcoming this national tragedy". Adding, "PM will very clearly signal his commitment and the intention of the government at the highest level to build a strong relationship based on mutual trust and mutual sensitivity to each other's concerns in the coming five years and discuss ways to enhance development partnership." PM will be the first foreign leader to visit Sri Lanka after the Easter terror attacks that killed more than 250 people. Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena had visited India last week for the oath-taking ceremony of PM Modi for his second term. Modi visited Sri Lanka twice in his first term -- in March of 2015 when he travelled to Anuradhapura, Talaimannar, and Jaffna and in 2017 when he was the Chief Guest at the Vesak day celebrations. During PM's Jaffna visit, India announced that it will hand over 14,000 houses to upcountry Tamils (Indian origin Tamils). The first tranche of houses of 1500 was handed in August 2018, rest will be handed later this year and the first half of next year. India has also provided over 280 ambulances to the country for the Emergency Ambulance Service that was launched in July of 2016 under Indian Grant Assistance of US $ 7.55 million. India along with Japan is trilaterally working with Sri Lanka to develop an LNG terminal and east container terminal at the Colombo port. On the connectivity front, India is providing railway rolling stock under an earlier line of credit of Rs 2800 crore.

PM Modi's Sri Lanka visit to show solidarity with people: Foreign secretary 

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June&nbsp;25-27.&nbsp;

US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month.

Pompeo last visited India in September of 2018 for the ''2+2 dialogue'' between the then Indian defence and foreign ministers with their American counterparts.

The visit will come just days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meet with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan from June 28-29.

After Trump's congratulatory call to Modi after re-election, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The two leaders agreed to meet at the forthcoming G-20 Summit in Japan, to discuss bilateral relations and global matters."

Trump, Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met for the first meet of JAI--Japan, America and India grouping--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018.

Lauding India-US ties, American envoy said, "US-India partnership is durable and effective because it is based on the foundation of common values are societies cherish, like individual liberties, free enterprise, human rights, open societies and rule of law"

India-US ties have grown in last few years, but thorny issues, especially on trade, remains. On Wednesday, Washington's Generalized System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries came to an end for New Delhi. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June 25-27. US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India from June 25-27. US envoy to India Kenneth Jester speaking at the American Independence Day celebrations in Delhi announced that Pompeo will visit India later this month. Pompeo last visited India in September of 2018 for the ''2+2 dialogue'' between the then Indian defence and foreign ministers with their American counterparts. The visit will come just days ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's meet with US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Osaka, Japan from June 28-29. After Trump's congratulatory call to Modi after re-election, the Ministry of External Affairs said, "The two leaders agreed to meet at the forthcoming G-20 Summit in Japan, to discuss bilateral relations and global matters." Trump, Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe met for the first meet of JAI--Japan, America and India grouping--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018. Lauding India-US ties, American envoy said, "US-India partnership is durable and effective because it is based on the foundation of common values are societies cherish, like individual liberties, free enterprise, human rights, open societies and rule of law" India-US ties have grown in last few years, but thorny issues, especially on trade, remains. On Wednesday, Washington's Generalized System of Preference (GSP) which is a trade preference programme for developing countries came to an end for New Delhi. India was the largest beneficiary of GSP in 2017 and was able to export $5.7 billion Indian goods to US duty-free.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to visit India later this month

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, 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."

Speculations were&nbsp;rife that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India.

MEA also clarified on his visit saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pak FS and any Indian official.

Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his election victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi asked Pak PM to create an environment free of terror.

Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack.&nbsp;

India has been asking Pakistan to act on terror and Modi government's policy in its first tenure has been talks and terror cant go together.

On cross border terror, the spokesperson said Pakistan needs to "walk the talk" and take action against terrorist on its territory.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan.

Ministry of External Affairs on Thursday said that no meeting is planned between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) next week in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. MEA's spokesperson Raveesh Kumar, in response to WION's question at the first weekly MEA presser of the new government, 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." Speculations were rife that both leaders may meet, especially with the visit of Pakistan Foreign Secretary Sohail Mahmood to India. MEA also clarified on his visit saying it was a "personal visit and there was no meeting scheduled" between Pak FS and any Indian official. Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had called PM Modi to congratulate after his election victory in the general elections. During the call, PM Modi asked Pak PM to create an environment free of terror. Ties between the two countries are frayed since the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Pakistan based United Nations listed terror group Jaish-e-Mohammad claimed responsibility for the attack. India has been asking Pakistan to act on terror and Modi government's policy in its first tenure has been talks and terror cant go together. On cross border terror, the spokesperson said Pakistan needs to "walk the talk" and take action against terrorist on its territory.

No Modi, Imran meeting planned on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organization, says MEA 

India will issue a commemorative coin of Rs 550 to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev which will be celebrated this November.

One side of the coin shall bear the picture of Gurudwara Shri Ber Sahib, Sultanpur Lodhi in Punjab with the inscription '550th Prakash Utsav of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji' in Hindi and English.&nbsp;

The inscription will be on the top periphery as well as the lower periphery. The year 1496 and 2019 will also be inscribed. 1496 was the year when founder of Sikhism and first of the 10 gurus, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was born.

The other side of the coin will bear Lion Capitol of the Ashoka Pillar in the centre with 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below. 'Bharat' will be inscribed in Devnagri while 'India' will be inscribed in English on the coin.Overall, the weight of the coin will be 35 gram.

As part of the commemoration of the 550th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Devji, the Indian cabinet in November 2018 announced the construction of Kartarpur corridor.

The corridor will be built from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to the International Border and will facilitate pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of the Ravi river in Pakistan. Guru Nanak Devji spent eighteen years here.&nbsp;

Along the corridor, the railways will run a train passing through various holy places of Sikhism. Indian missions will organize special events, including the ones that will be set up at a university in UK and Canada ahead of the 550th birth anniversary.

India will issue a commemorative coin of Rs 550 to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev which will be celebrated this November. One side of the coin shall bear the picture of Gurudwara Shri Ber Sahib, Sultanpur Lodhi in Punjab with the inscription '550th Prakash Utsav of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji' in Hindi and English.

India will issue a commemorative coin of Rs 550 to mark the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev which will be celebrated this November. One side of the coin shall bear the picture of Gurudwara Shri Ber Sahib, Sultanpur Lodhi in Punjab with the inscription '550th Prakash Utsav of Shri Guru Nanak Dev Ji' in Hindi and English. The inscription will be on the top periphery as well as the lower periphery. The year 1496 and 2019 will also be inscribed. 1496 was the year when founder of Sikhism and first of the 10 gurus, Guru Nanak Dev Ji, was born. The other side of the coin will bear Lion Capitol of the Ashoka Pillar in the centre with 'Satyameva Jayate' inscribed below. 'Bharat' will be inscribed in Devnagri while 'India' will be inscribed in English on the coin.Overall, the weight of the coin will be 35 gram. As part of the commemoration of the 550th birth anniversary of Shri Guru Nanak Devji, the Indian cabinet in November 2018 announced the construction of Kartarpur corridor. The corridor will be built from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district to the International Border and will facilitate pilgrims from India to visit Gurdwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur on the banks of the Ravi river in Pakistan. Guru Nanak Devji spent eighteen years here. Along the corridor, the railways will run a train passing through various holy places of Sikhism. Indian missions will organize special events, including the ones that will be set up at a university in UK and Canada ahead of the 550th birth anniversary.

India to issue Rs 550 coin to mark 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev 

India on Wednesday announced that it successfully conducted the transfer of personnel from a submarine to Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV).

The DSRV, based in Visakhapatnam, undertook "live mating exercise" or the transfer of personnel on Sunday.

The personnel were transferred to submarine, using DSRV, from INS Sindhudhvaj submarine which was the 'Distressed&nbsp;Submarine" using DSRV.&nbsp;

A Navy statement said, "live mating exercise is a historic achievement towards DSRV integration into the Indian Navy and would pave the way for the Indian Navy to emerge as a Submarine Rescue Provider in the Indian Ocean region".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IndianNavy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IndianNavy</a> Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) based at Visakhapatnam undertook live mating exercise 02Jun19 incl personnel transfer from bottomed s/m <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/INSSindhudhvaj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#INSSindhudhvaj</a>, simulating as a Distress Submarine to surface using the DSRV. <a href="https://t.co/XQF7ZHIuHr">pic.twitter.com/XQF7ZHIuHr</a>
— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) <a href="https://twitter.com/indiannavy/status/1136172111121096704?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It further added, "the submarine hatches, on which the mating was carried out, have been certified by the IN Submarine Designer i.e. DND (SDG). This is also a skill that has been newly acquired by the Indian Navy."

India had inducted DSRV last year, it is a small submarine used for rescue missions. Indian DSRV has the capability to rescue personnel from distressed submarines up to a depth of 650 metres.

India plans to emerge as a centre of regional excellence for Submarine Rescue Services.

DSRV is already being used by the US, Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, UK, South Korea, Russia, France, Norway and Italy.

India on Wednesday announced that it successfully conducted the transfer of personnel from a submarine to Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). The DSRV, based in Visakhapatnam, undertook "live mating exercise" or the transfer of personnel on Sunday.

India on Wednesday announced that it successfully conducted the transfer of personnel from a submarine to Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV). The DSRV, based in Visakhapatnam, undertook "live mating exercise" or the transfer of personnel on Sunday. The personnel were transferred to submarine, using DSRV, from INS Sindhudhvaj submarine which was the 'Distressed Submarine" using DSRV. A Navy statement said, "live mating exercise is a historic achievement towards DSRV integration into the Indian Navy and would pave the way for the Indian Navy to emerge as a Submarine Rescue Provider in the Indian Ocean region". #IndianNavy Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) based at Visakhapatnam undertook live mating exercise 02Jun19 incl personnel transfer from bottomed s/m #INSSindhudhvaj, simulating as a Distress Submarine to surface using the DSRV. pic.twitter.com/XQF7ZHIuHr — SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) June 5, 2019 × It further added, "the submarine hatches, on which the mating was carried out, have been certified by the IN Submarine Designer i.e. DND (SDG). This is also a skill that has been newly acquired by the Indian Navy." India had inducted DSRV last year, it is a small submarine used for rescue missions. Indian DSRV has the capability to rescue personnel from distressed submarines up to a depth of 650 metres. India plans to emerge as a centre of regional excellence for Submarine Rescue Services. DSRV is already being used by the US, Australia, China, Japan, Singapore, UK, South Korea, Russia, France, Norway and Italy.

In historic feat, India successfully transfers personnel using Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle 

Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's help in the aftermath of <a href="http://wionews.com/world/cyclone-idais-death-toll-rises-to-707-hundreds-of-thousands-displaced-206700">cyclone Idai that hit Africa's east coast in March</a> this year.&nbsp;

Cyclone Idai, a category-4 tropical cyclone caused massive damage in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi, killing more than a 1,000 people.

President Nyusi thanked PM Modi during a phone call on Tuesday and congratulated him on his re-election. The read out from the Ministry of External Affairs said, "President Nyusi thanked the Prime Minister for the timely assistance extended by the Indian Navy at the time".&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi conveyed his condolences to President Nyusi on the loss of life and property in the aftermath of the cyclone and said, "India will always stand with Mozambique in solidarity and partnership." PM Modi had visited the country in July 2016.

India, as one of the first responders, had dispatched four of its naval ships- INS Sujatha, INS Shardul, INS Sarathi and INS Magar - to the port city of Beira to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to people impacted by the cyclone.

Indian Naval Ships (INS) provided relief material in the form of food, clothes and medicine to the affected people. More than 200 people were rescued by Indian naval crew and medical assistance was provided to more than 1,300 people. Indian Navy's helicopters evacuated several people and also dropped food and water packets in cyclone-affected areas.&nbsp;

India has been extending humanitarian assistance to Mozambique and had provided 10 million dollars for food grains in 2017 after it suffered a food shortage as a result of natural calamities.

Assistance was also being sent to Zimbabwe and Malawi, two other countries hit by the deadly cyclone. The cyclone has been ranked the third deadliest on record in the southern hemisphere after the 1892 Mauritius cyclone and the 1973 Flores cyclone. 
&nbsp;

Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's help in the aftermath of cyclone Idai that hit Africa's east coast in March this year.

Mozambique's President Filipe Nyusi has thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi for India's help in the aftermath of cyclone Idai that hit Africa's east coast in March this year. Cyclone Idai, a category-4 tropical cyclone caused massive damage in Mozambique, Zimbabwe and Malawi, killing more than a 1,000 people. President Nyusi thanked PM Modi during a phone call on Tuesday and congratulated him on his re-election. The read out from the Ministry of External Affairs said, "President Nyusi thanked the Prime Minister for the timely assistance extended by the Indian Navy at the time". Prime Minister Modi conveyed his condolences to President Nyusi on the loss of life and property in the aftermath of the cyclone and said, "India will always stand with Mozambique in solidarity and partnership." PM Modi had visited the country in July 2016. India, as one of the first responders, had dispatched four of its naval ships- INS Sujatha, INS Shardul, INS Sarathi and INS Magar - to the port city of Beira to provide Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) to people impacted by the cyclone. Indian Naval Ships (INS) provided relief material in the form of food, clothes and medicine to the affected people. More than 200 people were rescued by Indian naval crew and medical assistance was provided to more than 1,300 people. Indian Navy's helicopters evacuated several people and also dropped food and water packets in cyclone-affected areas. India has been extending humanitarian assistance to Mozambique and had provided 10 million dollars for food grains in 2017 after it suffered a food shortage as a result of natural calamities. Assistance was also being sent to Zimbabwe and Malawi, two other countries hit by the deadly cyclone. The cyclone has been ranked the third deadliest on record in the southern hemisphere after the 1892 Mauritius cyclone and the 1973 Flores cyclone.

Cyclone Idai: Mozambique's President thanks PM Modi for India's help

The newly-appointed External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has said that India has a special relationship with Japan during a phone conversation with his Japanese counterpart Kono Taro, according to Japanese embassy readout.

The Japanese Foreign Minister had called Jaishankar to congratulate him on his appointment as the External Affairs Minister.&nbsp;

The Japanese embassy in Delhi said, "Subrahmanyam Jaishankar hopes to further expand the scope of cooperation with Japan with which India enjoys a special relationship, and looks forward to meeting Foreign Minister Kono Taro again."

During the conversation, the Japanese foreign minister said, ''India has an extremely huge role and responsibility as a global power for the realisation of a free and open Indo-Pacific."

Indo-Pacific as a concept has been gaining currency and has the backing of Tokyo, Washington and Delhi, but Bejing sees it suspiciously.&nbsp;

During the phone call, Kono confirmed the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to India later this year. Abe will be visiting&nbsp;for the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit which alternates between the two countries.&nbsp;

Last year Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit. In a special gesture, Modi's 2018 visit was hosted by Abe for a private dinner at his ancestral home in Yamanashi, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader. In 2017, Abe visited PM Modi's home state of Gujarat where he was given a special welcome.

Kono was the first foreign leader to congratulate Modi on phone for his reelection on May 23. Both leaders will be meeting by the end of this month in Osaka on the sidelines of G20 summit.

Meanwhile, Kono has invited Jaishankar to the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in November and said "He would like to coordinate the schedule to hold a '2+2' Ministerial meeting as soon as possible to which both Japan and India&nbsp;agreed.

Jaishankar had served at the Indian mission in Tokyo from 1996 to 2000 as the deputy chief of the mission and knows Japanese.

The newly-appointed External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has said that India has a special relationship with Japan during a phone conversation with his Japanese counterpart Kono Taro, according to Japanese embassy readout.

The newly-appointed External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has said that India has a special relationship with Japan during a phone conversation with his Japanese counterpart Kono Taro, according to Japanese embassy readout. The Japanese Foreign Minister had called Jaishankar to congratulate him on his appointment as the External Affairs Minister. The Japanese embassy in Delhi said, "Subrahmanyam Jaishankar hopes to further expand the scope of cooperation with Japan with which India enjoys a special relationship, and looks forward to meeting Foreign Minister Kono Taro again." During the conversation, the Japanese foreign minister said, ''India has an extremely huge role and responsibility as a global power for the realisation of a free and open Indo-Pacific." Indo-Pacific as a concept has been gaining currency and has the backing of Tokyo, Washington and Delhi, but Bejing sees it suspiciously. During the phone call, Kono confirmed the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to India later this year. Abe will be visiting for the 14th India-Japan Annual Summit which alternates between the two countries. Last year Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit. In a special gesture, Modi's 2018 visit was hosted by Abe for a private dinner at his ancestral home in Yamanashi, the first such reception to be extended to a foreign leader. In 2017, Abe visited PM Modi's home state of Gujarat where he was given a special welcome. Kono was the first foreign leader to congratulate Modi on phone for his reelection on May 23. Both leaders will be meeting by the end of this month in Osaka on the sidelines of G20 summit. Meanwhile, Kono has invited Jaishankar to the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in November and said "He would like to coordinate the schedule to hold a '2+2' Ministerial meeting as soon as possible to which both Japan and India agreed. Jaishankar had served at the Indian mission in Tokyo from 1996 to 2000 as the deputy chief of the mission and knows Japanese.

India has a special relationship with Japan: External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar

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