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<p>Expressing condolences on the death of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-mayawati-pay-tributes-to-sushma-swaraj-at-her-residence-241276">former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj</a>, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani said that the nation has lost a remarkable leader.</p>

<p>"The nation has lost a remarkable leader. To me, it is an irreparable loss and I will miss Sushmaji's presence immensely. May her soul rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to Swaraj Ji, Bansuri and all members of her family. Om Shanti", LK Advani said in a condolence message.</p>

<p>Advani recalled his time as the party president in the eighties when he inducted a young <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-leaders-politicians-celebrities-to-common-man-all-flood-twitter-in-memory-of-sushma-swaraj-241242">Sushma Swaraj</a> into his team, calling her a 'promising young activist'.</p>

<p>"Sushmaji was someone who I have known and worked with since the beginning of her illustrious innings in the Bharatiya Janata Party. When I was the President of the BJP in the eighties, she was a promising young activist who I had inducted into my team", said Advani.</p>

<p>Praising the seven-time MP's leadership and oratory skills, he said, "Over the years, she became one of the most popular and prominent leaders of our party- in fact, a role model for women leaders. A brilliant orator, I was often amazed at her ability to recall incidents, events and present them with utmost clarity and eloquence."</p>

<p>"Sushmaji was also a fine human being. She touched everyone with her warmth and compassionate nature. I do not recall a single year when she missed bringing my favourite chocolate cake to me on my birthday." Advani added.</p>

<p>Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed his deep condolences over the passing away of Sushma Swaraj and called her an icon for millions of women in the country.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: Tearful PM Modi pays tribute to Sushma Swaraj</strong></p>

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<p>"Sushma Ji was a people's Minister in its truest sense. As a self-made public persona, she was an icon for millions of women of this country to be inspired. She was always out to help stranded Indians anywhere in the world. She was in the forefront in using social media for providing instant assistance to people in distress. Her multi-linguistic skills with convincing oratory made her a leader of the masses. She was respected across the spectrum of the socio-political milieu in India.", Patnaik said.</p>

<p>Puducherry Lieutenant-Governor Dr Kiran Bedi also paid her tribute to the former External Affairs Minister.</p>

<p>"Shall miss her presence @SushmaSwaraj. And the shared memories as a friend debating together during our university days in Chandigarh. My condolences to Swaraj Kaushal &amp; Family. Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that's troublesome. Isaac Asimov", Bedi tweeted.</p>

<p>An affable leader, an able administrator and an impressive orator - Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth.</p>

<p>Swaraj was admitted to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) following a deterioration in her health.</p>

<p>According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance.</p>

<p>A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt.</p>

<p>Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm. Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Expressing condolences on the death of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani said that the nation has lost a remarkable leader.

Expressing condolences on the death of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj, veteran Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Lal Krishna Advani said that the nation has lost a remarkable leader. "The nation has lost a remarkable leader. To me, it is an irreparable loss and I will miss Sushmaji's presence immensely. May her soul rest in peace. My heartfelt condolences to Swaraj Ji, Bansuri and all members of her family. Om Shanti", LK Advani said in a condolence message. Advani recalled his time as the party president in the eighties when he inducted a young Sushma Swaraj into his team, calling her a 'promising young activist'. "Sushmaji was someone who I have known and worked with since the beginning of her illustrious innings in the Bharatiya Janata Party. When I was the President of the BJP in the eighties, she was a promising young activist who I had inducted into my team", said Advani. Praising the seven-time MP's leadership and oratory skills, he said, "Over the years, she became one of the most popular and prominent leaders of our party- in fact, a role model for women leaders. A brilliant orator, I was often amazed at her ability to recall incidents, events and present them with utmost clarity and eloquence." "Sushmaji was also a fine human being. She touched everyone with her warmth and compassionate nature. I do not recall a single year when she missed bringing my favourite chocolate cake to me on my birthday." Advani added. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik also expressed his deep condolences over the passing away of Sushma Swaraj and called her an icon for millions of women in the country. Watch: Tearful PM Modi pays tribute to Sushma Swaraj × "Sushma Ji was a people's Minister in its truest sense. As a self-made public persona, she was an icon for millions of women of this country to be inspired. She was always out to help stranded Indians anywhere in the world. She was in the forefront in using social media for providing instant assistance to people in distress. Her multi-linguistic skills with convincing oratory made her a leader of the masses. She was respected across the spectrum of the socio-political milieu in India.", Patnaik said. Puducherry Lieutenant-Governor Dr Kiran Bedi also paid her tribute to the former External Affairs Minister. "Shall miss her presence @SushmaSwaraj. And the shared memories as a friend debating together during our university days in Chandigarh. My condolences to Swaraj Kaushal & Family. Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It's the transition that's troublesome. Isaac Asimov", Bedi tweeted. An affable leader, an able administrator and an impressive orator - Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth. Swaraj was admitted to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) following a deterioration in her health. According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm. Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons.

Nation has lost a remarkable leader: LK Advani pays homage to Sushma Swaraj

Once dubbed as 'Supermom of State' by the US media, Sushma Swaraj leaves behind a rich legacy and a void that will be hard to fill.

Tribute to Sushma Swaraj, the towering figure in world of diplomacy

Former Union Minister and firebrand Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sushma Swaraj, who died yesterday night owing to cardiac arrest, will be cremated today at Lodhi Road crematorium with full state honour. BJP working President JP Nadda informed about her last rights programmed to the media today. Watch this video to know more.

Sushma Swaraj's battle against health

Former Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj died at the age of 67 in the national capital on Tuesday. She was admitted to AIIMS on Tuesday evening after her health condition deteriorated. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest late in the night. Watch this video to know more.

Sushma Swaraj passes away, Tributes pour in from across the world

<p>Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-to-be-cremated-with-full-state-honours-on-wednesday-afternoon-bjp-241240">former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's</a> residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time.&nbsp;</p>

<p>President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-was-waiting-to-see-this-day-in-my-lifetime-said-sushma-swaraj-in-final-tweet-241263">tributes to Swaraj</a> at her residence in Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Clad in white kurta-pyjama, PM Modi bore a sombre look on his face, paid his tribute to the 'Iron Lady'&nbsp;and went on to express his condolences to the Swaraj family.</p>

<p>He held on to Sushma's husband Swaraj Kaushal's hand and listened to him patiently.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Union Home Minister Amit Shah also arrived at her residence to pay last respects. Former deputy PM LK Advani, Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati, were also present.</p>

<p>Kerala's former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi were among those who arrived at her residence. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Hema Malini, Yog guru Ramdev, Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal were also in attendance.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays last respects to former External Affairs Minister and BJP leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>. <a href="https://t.co/Sv02MtoSiH">pic.twitter.com/Sv02MtoSiH</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158957519903055873?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day from her residence. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla pays last respect to former External Affairs Minister &amp; BJP leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>, at her residence. She passed away last night due to cardiac arrest. <a href="https://t.co/DTRJEBM4mC">pic.twitter.com/DTRJEBM4mC</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158947170017579008?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, the Delhi government has announced a two-day state mourning on the sudden demise of Sushma Swaraj.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind pays last tribute to former External Affairs Minister &amp; Bharatiya Janata Party leader <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>, at her residence. <a href="https://t.co/7IAj9WINol">pic.twitter.com/7IAj9WINol</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158945611779137537?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"There will be no cultural events during this period in the state," a statement from issued by Delhi government read.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges.</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><strong>Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67</strong></div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo">&nbsp;</div>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjps-most-prominent-women-face-passes-away-at-age-of-67-241268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government.</p>

<p>A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her bad health.</p>

<p>The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour.&nbsp;</p>


Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time.

Wednesday morning saw political leaders and BJP stalwarts arriving at former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's residence to pay their tributes and get her glimpse for the last time. President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid their tributes to Swaraj at her residence in Delhi. Clad in white kurta-pyjama, PM Modi bore a sombre look on his face, paid his tribute to the 'Iron Lady' and went on to express his condolences to the Swaraj family. He held on to Sushma's husband Swaraj Kaushal's hand and listened to him patiently. Union Home Minister Amit Shah also arrived at her residence to pay last respects. Former deputy PM LK Advani, Rahul Gandhi, UPA chairperson Sonia Gandhi, former PM Manmohan Singh, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) Chief Mayawati, were also present. Kerala's former Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Trinamool Congress MP Derek O'Brien, Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi were among those who arrived at her residence. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Hema Malini, Yog guru Ramdev, Delhi Lt Governor Anil Baijal were also in attendance. #WATCH Prime Minister Narendra Modi pays last respects to former External Affairs Minister and BJP leader #SushmaSwaraj. pic.twitter.com/Sv02MtoSiH — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × Swaraj's mortal remains will be taken to the BJP headquarters later in the day from her residence. Her rites will take place after 3 pm, she will be cremated with full state honours. Delhi: Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla pays last respect to former External Affairs Minister & BJP leader #SushmaSwaraj, at her residence. She passed away last night due to cardiac arrest. pic.twitter.com/DTRJEBM4mC — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × Meanwhile, the Delhi government has announced a two-day state mourning on the sudden demise of Sushma Swaraj. Delhi: President Ram Nath Kovind pays last tribute to former External Affairs Minister & Bharatiya Janata Party leader #SushmaSwaraj, at her residence. pic.twitter.com/7IAj9WINol — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × "There will be no cultural events during this period in the state," a statement from issued by Delhi government read. Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges. Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at 67 Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government. A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her bad health. The 67-year-old accepted tough challenges which helped the BJP break new grounds. Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after suffering a cardiac arrest on Tuesday evening. She breathed her last after doctors failed to revive her after trying for over an hour.

PM Modi, President Kovind, Amit Shah pay tribute to Sushma Swaraj at her residence

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at ex-foreign minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/president-kovind-mayawati-pay-tributes-to-sushma-swaraj-at-her-residence-241276">Sushma Swaraj's residence</a> at New Delhi on Wednesday morning&nbsp;to pay his last respects as the nation mourned her sudden demise on Tuesday night.</p>

<p>A visibly emotional prime minister met Sushma Swaraj's family as visitors and political leaders thronged her residence.</p>

<p>Earlier, the Indian prime minister in a tweet had said that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-was-waiting-to-see-this-day-in-my-lifetime-said-sushma-swaraj-in-final-tweet-241263">Sushma Swaraj's demise</a> was a "personal loss",&nbsp;while adding that she would be remembered for everything that she had done for India.</p>

<p><strong>Watch Video:</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-tearful-pm-modi-pays-tribute-to-sushma-swaraj-241284/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>"A glorious chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. India grieves the demise of a remarkable leader who devoted her life to public service and bettering lives of the poor. Sushma Swaraj ji&nbsp;was one of her kind, who was a source of inspiration for crores of people," PM Modi had said in his tweet.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1158802378998419457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Sushma Swaraj had served in PM Modi's cabinet as external affairs minister throughout the NDA government's first term from 2014 to 2019. Swaraj had decided not to fight the general elections in 2019 due to ill health.</p>

<p>PM Modi while paying tribute to Sushma Swaraj said that she was an "excellent administrator", "prolific orator" and an "outstanding Parliamentarian" who "worked tirelessly" even when her health was not good.</p>

<p>"My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour," PM Modi added.</p>

<p>The BJP announced late on Tuesday night that the former external affairs minister would be cremated on Monday afternoon with full state honours at Lodhi crematorium in New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at ex-foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's residence at New Delhi on Wednesday morning to pay his last respects as the nation mourned her sudden demise on Tuesday night.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at ex-foreign minister Sushma Swaraj's residence at New Delhi on Wednesday morning to pay his last respects as the nation mourned her sudden demise on Tuesday night. A visibly emotional prime minister met Sushma Swaraj's family as visitors and political leaders thronged her residence. Earlier, the Indian prime minister in a tweet had said that Sushma Swaraj's demise was a "personal loss", while adding that she would be remembered for everything that she had done for India. Watch Video: "A glorious chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. India grieves the demise of a remarkable leader who devoted her life to public service and bettering lives of the poor. Sushma Swaraj ji was one of her kind, who was a source of inspiration for crores of people," PM Modi had said in his tweet. Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2019 × Sushma Swaraj had served in PM Modi's cabinet as external affairs minister throughout the NDA government's first term from 2014 to 2019. Swaraj had decided not to fight the general elections in 2019 due to ill health. PM Modi while paying tribute to Sushma Swaraj said that she was an "excellent administrator", "prolific orator" and an "outstanding Parliamentarian" who "worked tirelessly" even when her health was not good. "My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour," PM Modi added. The BJP announced late on Tuesday night that the former external affairs minister would be cremated on Monday afternoon with full state honours at Lodhi crematorium in New Delhi.

PM Modi bids emotional farewell to Sushma Swaraj

<p>Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-leaders-politicians-celebrities-to-common-man-all-flood-twitter-in-memory-of-sushma-swaraj-241242">demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj</a>. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories".</p>

<p>"With a feeling of deep sorrow we came to know about premature passing away of #SushmaSwaraj. Please accept my deepest condolences on this irreparable loss of your predecessor, India's outstanding politician and diplomat," Kudashev said a statement to India's current Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar.</p>

<p>"She was well-known in Russia as a steadfast defender and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-lady-who-brought-foreign-policy-to-people-addressed-every-distress-call-241281">promoter of international interests of India</a> and its global power reputation. She was a sincere and true friend of Russia, greatly contributing to the strengthening of special and privileged strategic partnership. She will always dwell in our hearts and memories. May her soul rest in peace," he further added.</p>

<p>Swaraj, the 67-year-old BJP veteran, was taken to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Tuesday night following a deterioration in her health. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-dignitaries-others-mourn-sushma-swarajs-demise-241258">She passed away</a> after suffering a cardiac arrest.</p>

<p><strong>Watch: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at age of 67</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/bjps-most-prominent-women-face-passes-away-at-age-of-67-241268/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance.</p>

<p>A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm.</p>

<p>Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014.</p>

<p>She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons.</p>

<p>During her tenure, the BJP leader had been active and popular on Twitter reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress for assistance.</p>


Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories".

Russian ambassador Nikolay Kudashev has expressed deep sorrow over the demise of India's former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj. In his message, the Russian ambassador said Swaraj will always "dwell in our hearts and memories". "With a feeling of deep sorrow we came to know about premature passing away of #SushmaSwaraj. Please accept my deepest condolences on this irreparable loss of your predecessor, India's outstanding politician and diplomat," Kudashev said a statement to India's current Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "She was well-known in Russia as a steadfast defender and promoter of international interests of India and its global power reputation. She was a sincere and true friend of Russia, greatly contributing to the strengthening of special and privileged strategic partnership. She will always dwell in our hearts and memories. May her soul rest in peace," he further added. Swaraj, the 67-year-old BJP veteran, was taken to All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on Tuesday night following a deterioration in her health. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest. Watch: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at age of 67 According to sources at AIIMS, the 67-year-old was feeling restless at 9 pm and reached the hospital at around 9:30 pm in an ambulance. A team of doctors tried to revive her for 70 to 80 minutes but failed in their attempt. Swaraj was declared dead at 10:50 pm. Swaraj was appointed the foreign minister in the first term of Modi government in 2014. She opted out of the 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing health reasons. During her tenure, the BJP leader had been active and popular on Twitter reaching out to the Indian diaspora in distress for assistance.

Sushma Swaraj was a sincere & true friend of Russia, says ambassador Nikolay Kudashev

<p>Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan after Modi government&nbsp;abrogated Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad has partially closed its airspace with India on the eastern front.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Three entry points out of the nine between India and Pakistan on the eastern front to be affected by this partial closure that lasts for some hours.</p>

<p>The airspace will be closed from August 6 to September 5 between 02:45 &nbsp;to 11:00 PST every day except Sundays.&nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Just In: Following heightened tensions between India &amp; Pakistan, Pakistan has now PARTIALLY CLOSED its airspace with India on the eastern front. 3 out of the 9 routes between <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pakistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Pakistan</a> on the eastern front to be effected by this partial closure that lasts for some hours. <a href="https://t.co/Xu3FQ06iBo">https://t.co/Xu3FQ06iBo</a></p>
— Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnasMallick/status/1159148827946786816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Pakistan has formally informed the Indian government of its decision to expel the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan and that the new high commissioner-designate of Pakistan to India will not be taking charge.</p>

<p>The announcement was made after Pakistan’s NSC decided to downgrade relations with India.</p>

<p>Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia were summoned by Pakistan Ministry of External Affairs and informed about the decision, according to Pakistan diplomatic sources.</p>


Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan after Modi government abrogated Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad has partially closed its airspace with India on the eastern front.

Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan after Modi government abrogated Article 370 that granted special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Islamabad has partially closed its airspace with India on the eastern front. Three entry points out of the nine between India and Pakistan on the eastern front to be affected by this partial closure that lasts for some hours. The airspace will be closed from August 6 to September 5 between 02:45 to 11:00 PST every day except Sundays. Just In: Following heightened tensions between India & Pakistan, Pakistan has now PARTIALLY CLOSED its airspace with India on the eastern front. 3 out of the 9 routes between #India & #Pakistan on the eastern front to be effected by this partial closure that lasts for some hours. https://t.co/Xu3FQ06iBo — Anas Mallick (@AnasMallick) August 7, 2019 × Earlier, Pakistan has formally informed the Indian government of its decision to expel the Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan and that the new high commissioner-designate of Pakistan to India will not be taking charge. The announcement was made after Pakistan’s NSC decided to downgrade relations with India. Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and Deputy High Commissioner Gaurav Ahluwalia were summoned by Pakistan Ministry of External Affairs and informed about the decision, according to Pakistan diplomatic sources.

Pakistan partially closes its airspace with India on eastern front

<p>After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).</p>

<p>The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country.</p>

<p>"The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said.</p>

<p>"We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added.</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority.</p>

<p>Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters.</p>

<p>The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency.</p>

<p>"We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said.</p>

<p>India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament.</p>

<p>The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature).<br />
<br />
<em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs).

After UAE and Sri Lanka, now the Maldives has backed India government's move to scrap Article 370, Article 35A and bifurcate Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories (UTs). The Maldivian government released a statement on Tuesday backing Indian move that aims integrate Kashmir more closely with the rest of the country. "The Maldives considers the decision taken by the Government of India regarding Article 370 of the Indian Constitution as an internal matter," an official statement by the Maldives government said. "We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required," it added. On Tuesday, Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe backed the creation of a new Union Territory of Ladakh, noting it would be the first Indian state with a Buddhist majority. Wickremesinghe, in a tweet, also said that the creation of Ladakh and the restructuring of Jammu and Kashmir were India's internal matters. The UAE Ambassador Ahmad Al Banna said his country has taken note of the Indian government`s decision to abrogate Article 370 that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir and added that it was India`s internal matter aimed at improving efficiency. "We also took note of the introduction of Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill in the Indian Parliament aimed at replacing Article 370 with the creation of Ladakh region and the state of Jammu and Kashmir as India`s two new Union Territories," he said. India abrogated Article 370 which accorded a special status to Jammu and Kashmir after a resolution regarding the same was passed in both houses of the Parliament. The Jammu and Kashmir (Reorganisation) Bill 2019 was also passed. It strips Jammu and Kashmir's status of a state, converting it into two Union Territories — namely Jammu and Kashmir (with a legislature) and Ladakh (without legislature). (With inputs from agencies)

Article 370: After UAE and Sri Lanka, now Maldives back  Indian government's move

Former Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj died at the age of 67 in the national capital on Tuesday. She was admitted to AIIMS on Tuesday evening after her health condition deteriorated. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest late in the night.

Sushma Swaraj's demise: Final rites to be performed at 3 pm today

<p>The India Meteorological Department said that isolated places over Konkan, Goa, South Interior, Coastal Karnataka and Odisha are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Wednesday.</p>

<p>"Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, East Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Telangana, North Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu," the weather forecasting stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin.</p>

<p>Heavy rainfall is also witnessed at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Gujarat region, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Lakshadweep.</p>

<p>Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over the entire Arabian Sea and West Coast and central and north Bay of Bengal, West Bengal and Odisha coasts.</p>

<p>The organisation&nbsp;has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;</p>


The India Meteorological Department said that isolated places over Konkan, Goa, South Interior, Coastal Karnataka and Odisha are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Wednesday.

The India Meteorological Department said that isolated places over Konkan, Goa, South Interior, Coastal Karnataka and Odisha are likely to receive heavy rainfall on Wednesday. "Heavy to very heavy rainfall with extremely heavy falls at isolated places over Chhattisgarh, East Madhya Pradesh, Madhya Maharashtra, West Madhya Pradesh, Vidarbha, Telangana, North Interior Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu," the weather forecasting stated in its All India Weather Warning Bulletin. Heavy rainfall is also witnessed at isolated places over Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Gangetic West Bengal, Gujarat region, Coastal Andhra Pradesh and Lakshadweep. Strong winds, speed reaching 40-50 kmph, are likely to prevail over the entire Arabian Sea and West Coast and central and north Bay of Bengal, West Bengal and Odisha coasts. The organisation has advised fishermen not to venture into these areas.

IMD issues heavy rainfall alert for Goa, Coastal Karnataka, Odisha

PM Modi: Swaraj was a prolific orator & outstanding parliamentarian

Sushma Swaraj: The approachable minister

Former Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj died at the age of 67 in the national capital on Tuesday. She was admitted to AIIMS on Tuesday evening after her health condition deteriorated. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest late in the night. In this video watch, teary-eyed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying tribute to former External Affairs Minister & Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushma Swaraj.

A tearful PM Modi pays tribute to Sushma Swaraj

Sushma Swaraj: BJP's most prominent woman face passes away at age of 67

<p>National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel,&nbsp;local Kashmiri people&nbsp;in Shopian.</p>

<p>Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh was also present at the moment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>'No violence has been reported in the Valley with the situation being largely peaceful," said DGP Dilbag Singh.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meets police personnel in Shopian. DGP Dilbag Singh also present. <a href="https://t.co/RmYdmdtcUH">pic.twitter.com/RmYdmdtcUH</a></p>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval interacts with locals in Shopian, has lunch with them. <a href="https://t.co/zPBNW1ZX9k">pic.twitter.com/zPBNW1ZX9k</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1159074596605300737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Security forces are on high alert to deal with any fallout of the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdrawal of special status to the state.</p>

<p>Doval has been given a detailed briefing on the prevailing security situation in the state.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, the LoC witnessed heavy shelling in the past few days and the Indian Army also foiled a Border Action Team (BAT) raid on its posts, killing at least five Pakistan Army commandos.&nbsp;<br />
&nbsp;<br />
The forces were expecting some retaliation and officials said they were prepared to meet any eventuality.</p>


National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel, local Kashmiri people in Shopian.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval on Wednesday took stock of Jammu and Kashmir's security situation and met police personnel, local Kashmiri people in Shopian. Jammu and Kashmir DGP Dilbag Singh was also present at the moment. 'No violence has been reported in the Valley with the situation being largely peaceful," said DGP Dilbag Singh. Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval meets police personnel in Shopian. DGP Dilbag Singh also present. pic.twitter.com/RmYdmdtcUH — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × #WATCH Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval interacts with locals in Shopian, has lunch with them. pic.twitter.com/zPBNW1ZX9k — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × The Security forces are on high alert to deal with any fallout of the bifurcation of Jammu and Kashmir into two Union Territories and withdrawal of special status to the state. Doval has been given a detailed briefing on the prevailing security situation in the state. Meanwhile, the LoC witnessed heavy shelling in the past few days and the Indian Army also foiled a Border Action Team (BAT) raid on its posts, killing at least five Pakistan Army commandos. The forces were expecting some retaliation and officials said they were prepared to meet any eventuality.

Jammu and Kashmir: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval takes stock of internal security situation, meets locals

Former Minister of External Affairs of India Sushma Swaraj died at the age of 67 in the national capital on Tuesday. She was admitted to AIIMS on Tuesday evening after her health condition deteriorated. She passed away after suffering a cardiac arrest late in the night. In this video watch, Indian President Ram Nath Kovind pays last tribute to former External Affairs Minister & Bharatiya Janata Party leader Sushma Swaraj.

Indian President Ram Nath Kovind pays tribute to Sushma Swaraj

<p>The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prepared a draft proposal on breath analyser (BA) tests for all those involved in flight operations.</p>

<p>Air traffic controllers (ATC), aircraft maintenance engineers (AME) and those handling ground operations may soon be required to undergo breath analyser tests before they start their work at the airport.</p>

<p>The DGCA has drafted a proposal on the above issue.</p>

<p>DGCA chief Arun Kumar mooted the proposal to expand the scope of aviation personnel for BA tests to enhance safety.</p>

<p>At present, only pilots and cabin crew have to mandatorily undergo these checks pre-flight for domestic flights and post-flight also for some international flights.</p>

<p>"Organisations engaged in the provision of air traffic control services, aerodrome management, aircraft maintenance and repair, ground handling agency, aircraft operation. (These include) air traffic controllers (ATCOs), flight dispatchers, fire and rescue personnel, vehicle drivers, ground equipment operators," said the draft proposal accessed by ANI.</p>

<p>The aviation regulator has proposed that organisations engaged in the provision of air navigation services, aerodrome management, aircraft maintenance and repair, shall ensure that at least 10 per cent individuals employed in their respective organisations and engaged in such functions are randomly subjected to breath analyser examination daily.</p>

<p>The DGCA wants a system to be devised for tests to be conducted testing so that "all employees have an equal chance of being tested each time the selections are made."</p>

<p>"It is a well-known fact that alcohol is a sedative, hypnotic, and addicting drug. It impairs judgment and leads to behaviour that can easily contribute to or cause accidents," the regulator observed.</p>

<p>While licensed personnel like ATCOs will have their licences suspended for three months and grounded for this period for failing the BA test first time or refusing to undergo the test, for non-licensed personnel like ground handling staff, the action to be taken will be decided by the service provider, according to the draft.</p>

<p>For a second violation, a licensed personnel's licence will be suspended for a year. And non-licensed personnel will be removed from the performance of safety-related functions.</p>

<p>A third violation will mean getting licence suspended for three years, while a fourth time will lead to cancellation of licence.</p>

<p>Federal Aviation Agency, USA and Civil Aviation Authority, UK have developed and published their policy for detection of consumption of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, by personnel engaged in safety-sensitive functions.</p>

<p>DGCA has uploaded the said Civil Aviation Regulation (CAR) and invited comments till September 5. Based on the feedback, the aviation watchdog will publish the final CAR.</p>


The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prepared a draft proposal on breath analyser (BA) tests for all those involved in flight operations. Air traffic controllers (ATC), aircraft maintenance engineers (AME) and those handling ground operations may soon be required to undergo breath analyser tests before they start their work at the airport.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has prepared a draft proposal on breath analyser (BA) tests for all those involved in flight operations. Air traffic controllers (ATC), aircraft maintenance engineers (AME) and those handling ground operations may soon be required to undergo breath analyser tests before they start their work at the airport. The DGCA has drafted a proposal on the above issue. DGCA chief Arun Kumar mooted the proposal to expand the scope of aviation personnel for BA tests to enhance safety. At present, only pilots and cabin crew have to mandatorily undergo these checks pre-flight for domestic flights and post-flight also for some international flights. "Organisations engaged in the provision of air traffic control services, aerodrome management, aircraft maintenance and repair, ground handling agency, aircraft operation. (These include) air traffic controllers (ATCOs), flight dispatchers, fire and rescue personnel, vehicle drivers, ground equipment operators," said the draft proposal accessed by ANI. The aviation regulator has proposed that organisations engaged in the provision of air navigation services, aerodrome management, aircraft maintenance and repair, shall ensure that at least 10 per cent individuals employed in their respective organisations and engaged in such functions are randomly subjected to breath analyser examination daily. The DGCA wants a system to be devised for tests to be conducted testing so that "all employees have an equal chance of being tested each time the selections are made." "It is a well-known fact that alcohol is a sedative, hypnotic, and addicting drug. It impairs judgment and leads to behaviour that can easily contribute to or cause accidents," the regulator observed. While licensed personnel like ATCOs will have their licences suspended for three months and grounded for this period for failing the BA test first time or refusing to undergo the test, for non-licensed personnel like ground handling staff, the action to be taken will be decided by the service provider, according to the draft. For a second violation, a licensed personnel's licence will be suspended for a year. And non-licensed personnel will be removed from the performance of safety-related functions. A third violation will mean getting licence suspended for three years, while a fourth time will lead to cancellation of licence. Federal Aviation Agency, USA and Civil Aviation Authority, UK have developed and published their policy for detection of consumption of psychoactive substances, including alcohol, by personnel engaged in safety-sensitive functions. DGCA has uploaded the said Civil Aviation Regulation (CAR) and invited comments till September 5. Based on the feedback, the aviation watchdog will publish the final CAR.

Don't drink and come to work: DGCA proposes strong norms

<p>Britain was seeking to fast-track a crucial post-Brexit trade deal with the United States on Wednesday after new Prime Minister Boris Johnson dispatched his top diplomat and foreign trade minister to Washington.</p>

<p>Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab was due to hold talks with his US counterpart Mike Pompeo at the State Department while the International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has lined up meetings with top American trade officials.</p>

<p>With Johnson determined to ensure Britain leaves the European Union on October 31, with or without a deal, striking some kind of trade accord with the Trump administration has taken on even greater importance.</p>

<p>Trump, who sees a like-minded leader in Johnson, has said that trade between the two countries could multiply once Britain leaves the EU and spoke to the British prime minister about a deal within days of his taking office last month.</p>

<p>"Negotiating and signing an exciting new free trade agreement with the US is one of my top priorities," said Truss, who supported remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum but later changed her position.</p>

<p>"Having already laid the groundwork, we are fast-tracking this deal so that businesses can take advantage of the golden opportunity to increase trade with the US as soon as possible," she added.</p>

<p>"The US is our biggest trading partner and we have more than $1 trillion invested in each other's economies. We want to get formal talks moving quickly."</p>

<p>Truss was due to meet Tuesday with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross later in the week, US officials said.</p>

<p>After his first phone call with Johnson, Trump told reporters that a bilateral deal with post-Brexit Britain could be "three to four, five times" bigger than current trade and once London is out of the European Union "we could do much more."</p>

<p>"We're working on a trade agreement already," Trump said. "I think it will be a very substantial trade agreement."</p>

<p><strong>'Desperate' for a deal</strong></p>

<p>Johnson, clearly enjoying warmer relations with Trump than his predecessor Theresa May, is hoping that he can clinch a swift deal that can send a message of Britain's ability to strike out on its own.</p>

<p>Trump's apparent enthusiasm for a deal is in marked contrast to the attitude of his predecessor Barack Obama, who said that Britain would be at the "back of the queue" for any kind of trade deal if it left the EU.</p>

<p>But there are warnings that Johnson's willingness to leave the EU without a negotiated settlement with Britain's longtime partners will play into the hands of Trump who prides himself on being a master negotiator.</p>

<p>Trump's good ties with leaders such as Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have not prevented him from playing hardball in negotiations with allies.</p>

<p>Larry Summers, who was US treasury secretary under President Bill Clinton, said that Britain could not mask the weakness of its hand.</p>

<p>"Look at it from America's point of view: Britain has much less to give than Europe as a whole did, therefore less reason for the United States to make concessions," he told BBC Radio 4 earlier this week.</p>

<p>"You make more concessions dealing with a wealthy man than you do dealing with a poor man.</p>

<p>"Britain has no leverage. Britain is desperate. Britain has nothing else. It needs an agreement very soon. When you have a desperate partner, that's when you strike the hardest bargain."</p>

<p>Last year, the United States ran a $20 billion trade surplus with Britain. The two countries exchanged $262 billion in goods and services, according to the US Trade Representative's office, meaning Britain was America's fifth-largest export market.</p>

<p>Top US exports are financial services and aircraft while British exports include autos and tourism.</p>


Britain was seeking to fast-track a crucial post-Brexit trade deal with the United States on Wednesday after new Prime Minister Boris Johnson dispatched his top diplomat and foreign trade minister to Washington.

Britain was seeking to fast-track a crucial post-Brexit trade deal with the United States on Wednesday after new Prime Minister Boris Johnson dispatched his top diplomat and foreign trade minister to Washington. Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab was due to hold talks with his US counterpart Mike Pompeo at the State Department while the International Trade Secretary Liz Truss has lined up meetings with top American trade officials. With Johnson determined to ensure Britain leaves the European Union on October 31, with or without a deal, striking some kind of trade accord with the Trump administration has taken on even greater importance. Trump, who sees a like-minded leader in Johnson, has said that trade between the two countries could multiply once Britain leaves the EU and spoke to the British prime minister about a deal within days of his taking office last month. "Negotiating and signing an exciting new free trade agreement with the US is one of my top priorities," said Truss, who supported remaining in the EU in the 2016 referendum but later changed her position. "Having already laid the groundwork, we are fast-tracking this deal so that businesses can take advantage of the golden opportunity to increase trade with the US as soon as possible," she added. "The US is our biggest trading partner and we have more than $1 trillion invested in each other's economies. We want to get formal talks moving quickly." Truss was due to meet Tuesday with US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross later in the week, US officials said. After his first phone call with Johnson, Trump told reporters that a bilateral deal with post-Brexit Britain could be "three to four, five times" bigger than current trade and once London is out of the European Union "we could do much more." "We're working on a trade agreement already," Trump said. "I think it will be a very substantial trade agreement." 'Desperate' for a deal Johnson, clearly enjoying warmer relations with Trump than his predecessor Theresa May, is hoping that he can clinch a swift deal that can send a message of Britain's ability to strike out on its own. Trump's apparent enthusiasm for a deal is in marked contrast to the attitude of his predecessor Barack Obama, who said that Britain would be at the "back of the queue" for any kind of trade deal if it left the EU. But there are warnings that Johnson's willingness to leave the EU without a negotiated settlement with Britain's longtime partners will play into the hands of Trump who prides himself on being a master negotiator. Trump's good ties with leaders such as Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have not prevented him from playing hardball in negotiations with allies. Larry Summers, who was US treasury secretary under President Bill Clinton, said that Britain could not mask the weakness of its hand. "Look at it from America's point of view: Britain has much less to give than Europe as a whole did, therefore less reason for the United States to make concessions," he told BBC Radio 4 earlier this week. "You make more concessions dealing with a wealthy man than you do dealing with a poor man. "Britain has no leverage. Britain is desperate. Britain has nothing else. It needs an agreement very soon. When you have a desperate partner, that's when you strike the hardest bargain." Last year, the United States ran a $20 billion trade surplus with Britain. The two countries exchanged $262 billion in goods and services, according to the US Trade Representative's office, meaning Britain was America's fifth-largest export market. Top US exports are financial services and aircraft while British exports include autos and tourism.

British ministers in US to 'fast-track' post-Brexit trade deal

<p>Nepal Prime Minister&nbsp;KP Sharma Oli expressed condolences at the death of former external<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/i-was-waiting-to-see-this-day-in-my-lifetime-said-sushma-swaraj-in-final-tweet-241263"> affairs minister Sushma Swaraj</a> on Tuesday.</p>

<p>"Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of Sushma Swaraj, a senior political leader of India and former external affairs minister," the Nepal prime minister said, adding,"heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the government and people of India as well as to the bereaved family members."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swarajs-demise-is-a-personal-loss-pm-modi-241253">Sushma Swaraj</a> passed at All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) on Tuesday night after she was rushed to the hospital when her condition suddenly deteriorated. The doctors tried to revive her for over an hour but failed. The doctors at AIIMS declared her dead at 10:50 pm.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">PM of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli: Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SushmaSwaraj?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SushmaSwaraj</a>, a senior political leader of India&amp;former External Affairs Minister. Heartfelt condolences&amp;deepest sympathies to the Govt&amp;people of India as well as to the bereaved family members.(file pic) <a href="https://t.co/wrXnxuoAqN">pic.twitter.com/wrXnxuoAqN</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1158920813904564230?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Earlier, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had expressed her condolences at Swaraj's sudden demise as the nation grieved.</p>

<p>"She (Sushma) was a good friend of Bangladesh. With her death Bangladesh has lost a good friend," the Bangladesh prime minister said.</p>

<p>"Bangladesh will recall her contributions in taking the relationship between the two countries to a new height," the Bangladesh prime minister said in a statement.</p>

<p>Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid while tweeting a video of a meeting with Swaraj, in a message said Sushma Swaraj was a "stateswoman extraordinaire" and "diplomat par excellence".</p>

<p>Sushma Swaraj will be cremated on Wednesday afternoon at Lodhi road crematorium with full state honours, the BJP announced late on Tuesday night.</p>


Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed condolences at the death of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday. "Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of Sushma Swaraj, a senior political leader of India and former external affairs minister," the Nepal prime minister said, adding,"heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the government and people of India as well as to the bereaved family members.

Nepal Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli expressed condolences at the death of former external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on Tuesday. "Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of Sushma Swaraj, a senior political leader of India and former external affairs minister," the Nepal prime minister said, adding,"heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathies to the government and people of India as well as to the bereaved family members." Sushma Swaraj passed at All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS) on Tuesday night after she was rushed to the hospital when her condition suddenly deteriorated. The doctors tried to revive her for over an hour but failed. The doctors at AIIMS declared her dead at 10:50 pm. PM of Nepal, KP Sharma Oli: Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of #SushmaSwaraj, a senior political leader of India&former External Affairs Minister. Heartfelt condolences&deepest sympathies to the Govt&people of India as well as to the bereaved family members.(file pic) pic.twitter.com/wrXnxuoAqN — ANI (@ANI) August 7, 2019 × Earlier, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina had expressed her condolences at Swaraj's sudden demise as the nation grieved. "She (Sushma) was a good friend of Bangladesh. With her death Bangladesh has lost a good friend," the Bangladesh prime minister said. "Bangladesh will recall her contributions in taking the relationship between the two countries to a new height," the Bangladesh prime minister said in a statement. Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid while tweeting a video of a meeting with Swaraj, in a message said Sushma Swaraj was a "stateswoman extraordinaire" and "diplomat par excellence". Sushma Swaraj will be cremated on Wednesday afternoon at Lodhi road crematorium with full state honours, the BJP announced late on Tuesday night.

Deeply shocked to learn of the passing away of Sushma Swaraj: Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli

<p>Pakistan on Wednesday announced that it will be downgrading diplomatic ties with New Delhi, expel Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and new Pakistan&nbsp;high commissioner to India Moin-ul-Haq won't be sent to Delhi by Islamabad.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a statement, Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pursuant to the decision of the National Security Committee today, the Government of India has been told to withdraw its High Commissioner to Pakistan."</p>

<p>Adding, "The Indian Government has also been informed that Pakistan will not be sending its High Commissioner-designate to India."</p>

<p>The decision was taken by&nbsp;Pakistan's&nbsp;National Security Committee (NSC), the highest security committee of the country. The meet that was chaired by&nbsp;Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and saw&nbsp;Pakistani Amry Chief&nbsp;Qamar Javed Bajwa participating along with top political and military leadership including&nbsp;DG ISI&nbsp;Lt Gen Faiz Hameed&nbsp;and&nbsp;Foreign Minister&nbsp;Shah Mahmood Qureshi.</p>

<p>Pakistan-India diplomatic relations have previously been downgraded in 1999 and 2002 and on both occasions, diplomatic missions were downgraded.&nbsp;Pakistan and India diplomatic relations have been suspended previously in 1965 and 1971.</p>

<p>Pakistan's&nbsp;NSC&nbsp;not only to downgrade diplomatic ties but suspend bilateral trade with India and raise the matter at United Nations including the United Nations Security Council.</p>

<p>Decisions by Pakistan on trade front&nbsp;won't be impacting India much given the fact trade is minuscule&nbsp;and at UNSC, UN, Islamabad won't be getting much traction.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Islamabad has decided to rope in&nbsp;all-weather ally&nbsp;China's support.&nbsp;Pakistani foreign minister&nbsp;speaking in the Parliament said that he will be going to China soon.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"India has broken the spirit of the Shimla agreement. We have decided, that we will go to the security council. One of the members of the security council who is an old friend. We are already having consultations with China, after the resolution, I might go to China for consultations," he said.</p>

<p>Interestingly, even as Pakistan is trying to garner global support, two members of the&nbsp;Organisation of Islamic Cooperation,&nbsp;Maldives &amp; UAE have backed India on abrogation of Article&nbsp;370 calling it New Delhi's internal matter.</p>

<p>The Maldives, calling it India's internal matter&nbsp;said, "We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required."<br />
&nbsp;</p>


Pakistan on Wednesday announced that it will be downgrading diplomatic ties with New Delhi, expel Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and new Pakistan high commissioner to India Moin-ul-Haq won't be sent to Delhi by Islamabad.

Pakistan on Wednesday announced that it will be downgrading diplomatic ties with New Delhi, expel Indian envoy to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria and new Pakistan high commissioner to India Moin-ul-Haq won't be sent to Delhi by Islamabad. In a statement, Pakistani foreign ministry said, "Pursuant to the decision of the National Security Committee today, the Government of India has been told to withdraw its High Commissioner to Pakistan." Adding, "The Indian Government has also been informed that Pakistan will not be sending its High Commissioner-designate to India." The decision was taken by Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC), the highest security committee of the country. The meet that was chaired by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan and saw Pakistani Amry Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa participating along with top political and military leadership including DG ISI Lt Gen Faiz Hameed and Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi. Pakistan-India diplomatic relations have previously been downgraded in 1999 and 2002 and on both occasions, diplomatic missions were downgraded. Pakistan and India diplomatic relations have been suspended previously in 1965 and 1971. Pakistan's NSC not only to downgrade diplomatic ties but suspend bilateral trade with India and raise the matter at United Nations including the United Nations Security Council. Decisions by Pakistan on trade front won't be impacting India much given the fact trade is minuscule and at UNSC, UN, Islamabad won't be getting much traction. Meanwhile, Islamabad has decided to rope in all-weather ally China's support. Pakistani foreign minister speaking in the Parliament said that he will be going to China soon. "India has broken the spirit of the Shimla agreement. We have decided, that we will go to the security council. One of the members of the security council who is an old friend. We are already having consultations with China, after the resolution, I might go to China for consultations," he said. Interestingly, even as Pakistan is trying to garner global support, two members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Maldives & UAE have backed India on abrogation of Article 370 calling it New Delhi's internal matter. The Maldives, calling it India's internal matter said, "We believe that it is the right of every sovereign nation to amend their laws as required."

Abrogation of Article 370: Pakistan downgrades ties with India, looks towards China for support 

<p>US President Donald Trump contended Wednesday there was no political support to implement tough controls on highly lethal assault weapons that were used in three mass shootings in the past two weeks.</p>

<p>Trump told reporters that he and leaders in Congress support legislation to prevent mentally ill people from possessing firearms via background checks.</p>

<p>"I think background checks are important. I don't want to put guns into the hands of mentally unstable people or people with rage or hate, sick people. I'm all in favour of it," he said.</p>

<p>But Trump replied negatively when asked if the US could ban assault rifles, like the semi-automatic weapons attackers used to kill 22 people on Saturday in El Paso, Texas and nine in Dayton, Ohio on Sunday.</p>

<p>"I can tell you there is no political appetite for that at this moment," he said.</p>

<p>"You could speak and do your own polling and there is no political appetite from the standpoint of the legislature."</p>

<p>"I can only do what I can do," he added.</p>

<p>"I think there's a great appetite to do something about making sure that mentally unstable, seriously ill people aren't carrying guns. And I've never seen the appetite as strong as it is now. I have not seen it about certain types of weapons," he said.</p>

<p>Trump spoke before travelling to Dayton and El Paso to "pay his respects" to victims and their families and meet with local officials.<br />
Those shootings, and a third in Gilroy, California on July 28 that left three people dead, involved AR-15 and AK-47-type assault rifles originally designed for war but now widely available in the United States.</p>

<p>The same weapons have been used in the deadliest massacres in the country over the past decade, and gun control advocates say their ban would reduce the toll in mass shootings.</p>

<p>Support for bans rise after mass shootings, but polls are generally inconclusive.</p>

<p>A Quinnipiac poll in May showed 63 per cent of voters favoured a ban on the sale of&nbsp;assault weapons.</p>

<p>In a Gallup poll taken shortly after October 1, 2017, Las Vegas massacre, in which a gunman who stockpiled nearly two dozen assault rifles killed 58 people at a concert, Americans were evenly divided on a total ban on the manufacture, sale or possession of such weapons.&nbsp;</p>

<p>But in a repeat poll in October 2018, Gallup said only 40 per cent supported such a sweeping ban, and 57 per cent opposed.</p>


US President Donald Trump contended Wednesday there was no political support to implement tough controls on highly lethal assault weapons that were used in three mass shootings in the past two weeks.

US President Donald Trump contended Wednesday there was no political support to implement tough controls on highly lethal assault weapons that were used in three mass shootings in the past two weeks. Trump told reporters that he and leaders in Congress support legislation to prevent mentally ill people from possessing firearms via background checks. "I think background checks are important. I don't want to put guns into the hands of mentally unstable people or people with rage or hate, sick people. I'm all in favour of it," he said. But Trump replied negatively when asked if the US could ban assault rifles, like the semi-automatic weapons attackers used to kill 22 people on Saturday in El Paso, Texas and nine in Dayton, Ohio on Sunday. "I can tell you there is no political appetite for that at this moment," he said. "You could speak and do your own polling and there is no political appetite from the standpoint of the legislature." "I can only do what I can do," he added. "I think there's a great appetite to do something about making sure that mentally unstable, seriously ill people aren't carrying guns. And I've never seen the appetite as strong as it is now. I have not seen it about certain types of weapons," he said. Trump spoke before travelling to Dayton and El Paso to "pay his respects" to victims and their families and meet with local officials. Those shootings, and a third in Gilroy, California on July 28 that left three people dead, involved AR-15 and AK-47-type assault rifles originally designed for war but now widely available in the United States. The same weapons have been used in the deadliest massacres in the country over the past decade, and gun control advocates say their ban would reduce the toll in mass shootings. Support for bans rise after mass shootings, but polls are generally inconclusive. A Quinnipiac poll in May showed 63 per cent of voters favoured a ban on the sale of assault weapons. In a Gallup poll taken shortly after October 1, 2017, Las Vegas massacre, in which a gunman who stockpiled nearly two dozen assault rifles killed 58 people at a concert, Americans were evenly divided on a total ban on the manufacture, sale or possession of such weapons. But in a repeat poll in October 2018, Gallup said only 40 per cent supported such a sweeping ban, and 57 per cent opposed.

Trump: No political support for assault rifle controls

BJP veteran Sushma Swaraj passes away at age of 67

<p>Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the sudden demise of Bharatiya Janata Party's most loved and admired leader, former External Affairs Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-leaders-politicians-celebrities-to-common-man-all-flood-twitter-in-memory-of-sushma-swaraj-241242">Sushma Swaraj</a>.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after she suffered a cardiac arrest but could not be resuscitated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The prime minister described her death as a "personal loss".&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti," PM Modi's tweet read.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">I can’t forget the manner in which Sushma Ji worked tirelessly as EAM in the last 5 years. Even when her health was not good, she would do everything possible to do justice to her work and remain up to date with matters of her Ministry. The spirit and commitment was unparalleled.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1158802261935415296?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>"A glorious chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. India grieves the demise of a remarkable leader who devoted her life to public service and bettering lives of the poor. Sushma Swaraj Ji was one of her kind, who was a source of inspiration for crores of people," his tweet read.&nbsp;</p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/a-glorious-chapter-in-indian-politics-comes-to-an-end-tweets-pm-modi-on-sushma-swarajs-demise-241233/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>The Prime Minister called her an "excellent administrator", "prolific orator" and an "outstanding Parliamentarian" who "worked tirelessly" even when her health was not good.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sushma-swaraj-to-be-cremated-with-full-state-honours-on-wednesday-afternoon-bjp-241240">Sushma Swaraj</a> was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges.</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti.</p>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1158802378998419457?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<p>Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government.</p>

<p>A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her ill health.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from ANI)</em></p>


Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the sudden demise of Bharatiya Janata Party's most loved and admired leader, former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday condoled the sudden demise of Bharatiya Janata Party's most loved and admired leader, former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Swaraj was rushed to AIIMS, Delhi after she suffered a cardiac arrest but could not be resuscitated. The prime minister described her death as a "personal loss". "Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti," PM Modi's tweet read. I can’t forget the manner in which Sushma Ji worked tirelessly as EAM in the last 5 years. Even when her health was not good, she would do everything possible to do justice to her work and remain up to date with matters of her Ministry. The spirit and commitment was unparalleled. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2019 × "A glorious chapter in Indian politics comes to an end. India grieves the demise of a remarkable leader who devoted her life to public service and bettering lives of the poor. Sushma Swaraj Ji was one of her kind, who was a source of inspiration for crores of people," his tweet read. The Prime Minister called her an "excellent administrator", "prolific orator" and an "outstanding Parliamentarian" who "worked tirelessly" even when her health was not good. Sushma Swaraj was one of the most prominent faces of the BJP who immensely contributed to the party's growth and never shied away from taking challenges. Sushma Ji’s demise is a personal loss. She will be remembered fondly for everything that she’s done for India. My thoughts are with her family, supporters and admirers in this very unfortunate hour. Om Shanti. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 6, 2019 × Her rise in politics coincided in some ways with the growth of BJP as a party. She left a mark in roles as a union minister in the Atal Bihari Vajpayee government, as leader of opposition in the Lok Sabha from 2009 to 2014, and as External Affairs Minister in the first term of Narendra Modi government. A four-time member of Lok Sabha and three-time of Rajya Sabha, she did not contest in 2019 Lok Sabha elections citing her ill health. (With inputs from ANI)

Sushma Swaraj's demise is a personal loss: PM Modi

<p>Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal on Wednesday condoled former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's death and hailed her as a "towering leader".</p>

<p>"Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal condoles the sad demise of former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj and conveys deep sympathy to bereaved family members and constituents. She was a towering leader and her contribution to the making of modern India will be remembered forever," a statement issued by his office read.</p>

<p>The statement added that upon learning of Swaraj's demise, the Governor cancelled all his programs for the day and visited Jagannath temple in Puri to pray for the departed soul.</p>

<p>"Governor cancelled all his engagements of the day and with First Lady visited Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri to pray for the soul of Swaraj to rest in peace," it read.</p>

<p>Sushma Swaraj, the most prominent woman face of the BJP, breathed her last on Tuesday.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, she was cremated with full state honours in the presence of various political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, and many others.</p>


Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal on Wednesday condoled former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's death and hailed her as a "towering leader". "Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal condoles the sad demise of former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj and conveys deep sympathy to bereaved family members and constituents.

Odisha Governor Ganeshi Lal on Wednesday condoled former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj's death and hailed her as a "towering leader". "Governor Prof. Ganeshi Lal condoles the sad demise of former Union Minister Sushma Swaraj and conveys deep sympathy to bereaved family members and constituents. She was a towering leader and her contribution to the making of modern India will be remembered forever," a statement issued by his office read. The statement added that upon learning of Swaraj's demise, the Governor cancelled all his programs for the day and visited Jagannath temple in Puri to pray for the departed soul. "Governor cancelled all his engagements of the day and with First Lady visited Shree Jagannath Temple, Puri to pray for the soul of Swaraj to rest in peace," it read. Sushma Swaraj, the most prominent woman face of the BJP, breathed her last on Tuesday. On Wednesday, she was cremated with full state honours in the presence of various political leaders, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, and many others.

Sushma Swaraj was a towering leader: Odisha Governor

Sushma Swaraj demise: Tributes pour in from across the world

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