India hosted the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs' Meeting in New Delhi, with National Security Adviser Ajit Doval chairing discussions involving security leaders from India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand. The meeting focused on strengthening regional cooperation in maritime security, counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, and supply chain resilience amid rising geopolitical tensions. NSA Doval emphasized India's Neighbourhood First Policy, Act East Policy, and MAHASAGAR vision while calling for greater collaboration to tackle common security challenges across the Bay of Bengal region. Bilateral meetings with several member nations also explored mechanisms to enhance intelligence cooperation and regional stability.

BIMSTEC Security chiefs meet in New Delhi | Ajit Doval leads talks on terrorism & maritime security 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's&nbsp;Indo-Pacific initiative.

Speaking at the 20th&nbsp;Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India summit in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Modi spoke of this year’s theme ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth’, and emphasised&nbsp;that the region plays an important role in global growth.

“This year's theme is ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. ASEAN matters because here everyone's voice is heard and ASEAN is the epicentre of growth because ASEAN plays an important role in global growth..."

He also highlighted that building a “rule-based world order” after the pandemic was essential going forward.

<h2>'A matter of pride'</h2>

The Indian prime minister said that it was a matter of pride for him to co-chair the ASEAN-India Summit while highlighting India-Indonesia partnership is entering its fourth decade.

“Our history and geography unite India and ASEAN. Along with it, our shared values, regional integration, and our shared belief in peace, prosperity and a multipolar world also unite us. ASEAN is the central pillar of India's Act East Policy. India supports ASEAN's outlook on ASEAN-India centrality and Indo-Pacific,” said the prime minister.

“Even in an environment of global uncertainties, our mutual cooperation is making steady progress. This is a testimony to the strength and resilience of our ties. 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — One Earth, One Family, One Future — is the theme of India's G20 presidency," PM Modi said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/more-than-400000-indians-waiting-for-green-card-wont-get-it-before-death-study-633040">More than 400,000 Indians waiting for Green Card won't get it before death: Study</a>

Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Jakarta earlier in the day to attend the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits.&nbsp;After the ASEAN summit, Modi will attend the East Asia Summit.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-reacts-to-controversial-sanatana-dharma-remark-by-udhayanidhi-stalin-says-needs-proper-response-632932">PM Modi reacts to controversial 'Sanatana Dharma' remark by Udhayanidhi Stalin, says it needs proper response</a>

“After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical cooperation measures to collectively address these global challenges,"&nbsp;Modi posted on social media platform X before leaving for Jakarta.

The Indian leader will&nbsp;return to the Indian capital Delhi tonight ahead of the G20 Summit which is being hosted in the national capital on September 9 and 10.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's Indo-Pacific initiative.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday (Sept 7) declared that the 21st century belongs to Asia and stressed that the ASEAN bloc is the central pillar of India’s Act East Policy, and plays a key role in India's Indo-Pacific initiative. Speaking at the 20th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)-India summit in Indonesia’s capital Jakarta, Modi spoke of this year’s theme ‘ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth’, and emphasised that the region plays an important role in global growth. “This year's theme is ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth. ASEAN matters because here everyone's voice is heard and ASEAN is the epicentre of growth because ASEAN plays an important role in global growth..." He also highlighted that building a “rule-based world order” after the pandemic was essential going forward. 'A matter of pride' The Indian prime minister said that it was a matter of pride for him to co-chair the ASEAN-India Summit while highlighting India-Indonesia partnership is entering its fourth decade. “Our history and geography unite India and ASEAN. Along with it, our shared values, regional integration, and our shared belief in peace, prosperity and a multipolar world also unite us. ASEAN is the central pillar of India's Act East Policy. India supports ASEAN's outlook on ASEAN-India centrality and Indo-Pacific,” said the prime minister. “Even in an environment of global uncertainties, our mutual cooperation is making steady progress. This is a testimony to the strength and resilience of our ties. 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam' — One Earth, One Family, One Future — is the theme of India's G20 presidency," PM Modi said. Also read | More than 400,000 Indians waiting for Green Card won't get it before death: Study Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed in Jakarta earlier in the day to attend the ASEAN-India and East Asia summits. After the ASEAN summit, Modi will attend the East Asia Summit. Also read | PM Modi reacts to controversial 'Sanatana Dharma' remark by Udhayanidhi Stalin, says it needs proper response “After that, I will be attending the 18th East Asia Summit. This forum provides a useful opportunity to deliberate on issues of importance to the region including food and energy security, environment, health, and digital transformation. I look forward to exchanging views with other EAS Leaders on practical cooperation measures to collectively address these global challenges," Modi posted on social media platform X before leaving for Jakarta. The Indian leader will return to the Indian capital Delhi tonight ahead of the G20 Summit which is being hosted in the national capital on September 9 and 10. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

'21st century belongs to Asia', declares PM Modi at ASEAN Summit

India is sending a naval task force to the South China Sea this month to expand security ties with friendly countries, officials said on Wednesday, signalling its intent to play a bigger role in regional efforts to counter China.

The Indian military has been traditionally wary of antagonising China but the mood has hardened following clashes between troops on the disputed land border last year. The government has since drawn closer to the United States in efforts to push back against China.

Four ships including a guided-missile destroyer and a missile frigate will be deployed for two months to southeast Asia, the South China Sea and the western Pacific, the navy said in a statement.

"The deployment of the Indian Navy ships seeks to underscore the operational reach, peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries towards ensuring good order in the maritime domain..." the navy said.

The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters.

In June, a US aircraft carrier group led by the USS Ronald Reagan entered the South China Sea as part of a routine mission and a British carrier group is due to undertake exercises in the Philippine Sea this month.

As part of their deployment, the Indian ships will take part in annual joint war drills involving the United States, Japan and Australia off the coast of Guam, the navy said.

The four countries make up the Quad, an informal group, that US President Joe Biden's administration is promoting as a way to counter an assertive China.

"These maritime initiatives enhance synergy and coordination between the Indian Navy and friendly countries, based on common maritime interests and commitment towards Freedom of Navigation at sea," the Indian navy said in its statement.

China has in the past criticised multilateral military manoeuvres as destabilising to the region.

India is sending a naval task force to the South China Sea this month to expand security ties with friendly countries, officials said on Wednesday, signalling its intent to play a bigger role in regional efforts to counter China.

India is sending a naval task force to the South China Sea this month to expand security ties with friendly countries, officials said on Wednesday, signalling its intent to play a bigger role in regional efforts to counter China. The Indian military has been traditionally wary of antagonising China but the mood has hardened following clashes between troops on the disputed land border last year. The government has since drawn closer to the United States in efforts to push back against China. Four ships including a guided-missile destroyer and a missile frigate will be deployed for two months to southeast Asia, the South China Sea and the western Pacific, the navy said in a statement. "The deployment of the Indian Navy ships seeks to underscore the operational reach, peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly countries towards ensuring good order in the maritime domain..." the navy said. The South China Sea has become one of many flashpoints in the testy relationship between China and the United States, with Washington rejecting what it calls unlawful territorial claims by Beijing in the resource-rich waters. In June, a US aircraft carrier group led by the USS Ronald Reagan entered the South China Sea as part of a routine mission and a British carrier group is due to undertake exercises in the Philippine Sea this month. As part of their deployment, the Indian ships will take part in annual joint war drills involving the United States, Japan and Australia off the coast of Guam, the navy said. The four countries make up the Quad, an informal group, that US President Joe Biden's administration is promoting as a way to counter an assertive China. "These maritime initiatives enhance synergy and coordination between the Indian Navy and friendly countries, based on common maritime interests and commitment towards Freedom of Navigation at sea," the Indian navy said in its statement. China has in the past criticised multilateral military manoeuvres as destabilising to the region.

Indian military deploys warships in the South China Sea as part of 'Act East' policy

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region.

He made these remarks at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Manipur Water Supply project via a video link.

While blockades have become a part of history in Manipur, the era of decades of violence has ceased in Assam, the prime minister said in his address.

In Tripura and Mizoram too, youngsters have abandoned the path of violence and the Bru-Reang refugees are moving towards a better life, he added.

The prime minister noted that the government is making constant efforts to improve connectivity in the northeast, be it highways, laying of rail tracks or upgrading airports.

The foundation stone-laying programme, he said, is an example of the fact that even during the crisis triggered by the coronavirus, the country has not stopped working.

Till the time a vaccine is developed, everyone has to vigorously fight against the virus and the development works should also be carried forward with full force, Modi said.

Referring to the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" (self-reliant India campaign), the prime minister said clusters are being developed for value addition and marketing of local products, where all facilities will be given to agro startups and other industries.

He said the northeast has the potential to replace the country's bamboo import with local production.

There is a huge demand for incense sticks in the country, but for this, India imports bamboo worth crores of rupees every year, the prime minister lamented.

A lot of work is being done to change this situation, he pointed out.

Modi said a huge investment is being made under the National Bamboo Mission, which will benefit youngsters in the northeast and startups.

Many institutes are being set up for health, education, skill development and startups, he added. With the setting up of a sports university and world-class stadia, Manipur is becoming a major hub for the country's sports talent, Modi observed.

Speaking on the water supply project, he said it is a big day for lakhs of people of Manipur, including the residents of its capital Imphal, as it will reduce their water problems.

The women will especially benefit as they will not have to travel for kilometres to fetch clean water, the prime minister said.

Noting that a better life is directly linked to connectivity, he said the connectivity of the northeast is essential for a secure, sure and self-reliant India.

Connectivity would give a fillip to India's Act East Policy and also provide a gateway to the country's travel and tourism sector, Modi said.

The prime minister referred to the more than 20 national waterways, including those in the northeast, which would provide a seamless connectivity.

He said the northeast represents the country's cultural diversity and strength, while pointing out that the region has a great tourism potential, which still remains unexplored.

Even as the country is fighting relentlessly against COVID-19, eastern and northeastern India also had to face the dual challenge of heavy rains and floods, which cost several lives and rendered many homeless, the prime minister said, adding that the Manipur government took all the necessary measures during the nationwide lockdown and made special arrangements for the return of migrants.

He said about 25 lakh poor people in Manipur have received free foodgrains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Similarly, more than 1.5 lakh women in the state were given free gas cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme, he added.

Referring to the water project, Modi said it has been designed keeping in mind the needs of the next 20-22 years, adding that lakhs of people will get access to clean drinking water while thousands will get employment.

He said water connections are being provided to about one lakh households in the country every day.

"Every day, we are removing such a big worry of water from the lives of one lakh mothers and sisters," he said.

The externally-funded Manipur Water Supply project was designed to provide freshwater household tap connections (FHTCs) to the remaining households in the Greater Imphal planning area and 1,731 rural habitations, covering 2,80,756 households in all 16 districts of the state.

The project outlay is Rs 3054.58 crore, with a loan component funded by the New Development Bank.

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region.

The northeast has the potential to become the country's growth engine, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Thursday, noting that peace is now being established in the entire region. He made these remarks at the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Manipur Water Supply project via a video link. While blockades have become a part of history in Manipur, the era of decades of violence has ceased in Assam, the prime minister said in his address. In Tripura and Mizoram too, youngsters have abandoned the path of violence and the Bru-Reang refugees are moving towards a better life, he added. The prime minister noted that the government is making constant efforts to improve connectivity in the northeast, be it highways, laying of rail tracks or upgrading airports. The foundation stone-laying programme, he said, is an example of the fact that even during the crisis triggered by the coronavirus, the country has not stopped working. Till the time a vaccine is developed, everyone has to vigorously fight against the virus and the development works should also be carried forward with full force, Modi said. Referring to the "Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan" (self-reliant India campaign), the prime minister said clusters are being developed for value addition and marketing of local products, where all facilities will be given to agro startups and other industries. He said the northeast has the potential to replace the country's bamboo import with local production. There is a huge demand for incense sticks in the country, but for this, India imports bamboo worth crores of rupees every year, the prime minister lamented. A lot of work is being done to change this situation, he pointed out. Modi said a huge investment is being made under the National Bamboo Mission, which will benefit youngsters in the northeast and startups. Many institutes are being set up for health, education, skill development and startups, he added. With the setting up of a sports university and world-class stadia, Manipur is becoming a major hub for the country's sports talent, Modi observed. Speaking on the water supply project, he said it is a big day for lakhs of people of Manipur, including the residents of its capital Imphal, as it will reduce their water problems. The women will especially benefit as they will not have to travel for kilometres to fetch clean water, the prime minister said. Noting that a better life is directly linked to connectivity, he said the connectivity of the northeast is essential for a secure, sure and self-reliant India. Connectivity would give a fillip to India's Act East Policy and also provide a gateway to the country's travel and tourism sector, Modi said. The prime minister referred to the more than 20 national waterways, including those in the northeast, which would provide a seamless connectivity. He said the northeast represents the country's cultural diversity and strength, while pointing out that the region has a great tourism potential, which still remains unexplored. Even as the country is fighting relentlessly against COVID-19, eastern and northeastern India also had to face the dual challenge of heavy rains and floods, which cost several lives and rendered many homeless, the prime minister said, adding that the Manipur government took all the necessary measures during the nationwide lockdown and made special arrangements for the return of migrants. He said about 25 lakh poor people in Manipur have received free foodgrains under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana. Similarly, more than 1.5 lakh women in the state were given free gas cylinders under the Ujjwala scheme, he added. Referring to the water project, Modi said it has been designed keeping in mind the needs of the next 20-22 years, adding that lakhs of people will get access to clean drinking water while thousands will get employment. He said water connections are being provided to about one lakh households in the country every day. "Every day, we are removing such a big worry of water from the lives of one lakh mothers and sisters," he said. The externally-funded Manipur Water Supply project was designed to provide freshwater household tap connections (FHTCs) to the remaining households in the Greater Imphal planning area and 1,731 rural habitations, covering 2,80,756 households in all 16 districts of the state. The project outlay is Rs 3054.58 crore, with a loan component funded by the New Development Bank.

Connectivity to northeast will give fillip to India's Act East policy: Modi

The 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and Japan symbolises the deep level of mutual trust and understanding between the two countries and reflects the synergy between New Delhi's Act East Policy and Japan's vision for free and open Indo-Pacific, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday.

Jaishankar made these remarks at the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) being held in New Delhi.

The meeting saw the participation of the Japanese Delegation led by country Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Taro Kono.

Jaishankar said that the fact that Japan is the only country with which India has an annual summit mechanism and a 2+2 ministerial dialogue underscores the importance New Delhi attaches to its relationship with Tokyo.

Speaking in turn, Motegi said that the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the two countries is symbolic of India's increasing importance in the Indo-Pacific and such meetings will contribute to Indo-Pacific's increasing safety and stability.

The meeting is being held in pursuance of the decision taken by Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe during the 13th India-Japan Annual Summit held in Japan in October 2018, with an aim to institute a Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue for further deepening bilateral security and defence cooperation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

The 2+2 meeting would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the status of and exchange further views on strengthening defence and security cooperation between India and Japan so as to provide greater depth to the 'India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership'.

The two sides will also exchange views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and their respective efforts under India's 'Act East Policy'&nbsp;and Japan's 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision'&nbsp;for achieving their shared objective of peace, prosperity and progress to realise a better future for the people of the two countries and the region.

The dialogue has come ahead of the summit-level meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe later in the year.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

The 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and Japan symbolises the deep level of mutual trust and understanding between the two countries and reflects the synergy between New Delhi's Act East Policy and Japan's vision for free and open Indo-Pacific, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday.

The 2+2 ministerial dialogue between India and Japan symbolises the deep level of mutual trust and understanding between the two countries and reflects the synergy between New Delhi's Act East Policy and Japan's vision for free and open Indo-Pacific, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Saturday. Jaishankar made these remarks at the inaugural meeting of the India-Japan Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue (2+2) being held in New Delhi. The meeting saw the participation of the Japanese Delegation led by country Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Defence Minister Taro Kono. Jaishankar said that the fact that Japan is the only country with which India has an annual summit mechanism and a 2+2 ministerial dialogue underscores the importance New Delhi attaches to its relationship with Tokyo. Speaking in turn, Motegi said that the 2+2 ministerial dialogue between the two countries is symbolic of India's increasing importance in the Indo-Pacific and such meetings will contribute to Indo-Pacific's increasing safety and stability. The meeting is being held in pursuance of the decision taken by Modi and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe during the 13th India-Japan Annual Summit held in Japan in October 2018, with an aim to institute a Foreign and Defence Ministerial Dialogue for further deepening bilateral security and defence cooperation, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. The 2+2 meeting would provide an opportunity for the two sides to review the status of and exchange further views on strengthening defence and security cooperation between India and Japan so as to provide greater depth to the 'India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership'. The two sides will also exchange views on the situation in the Indo-Pacific region and their respective efforts under India's 'Act East Policy' and Japan's 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific Vision' for achieving their shared objective of peace, prosperity and progress to realise a better future for the people of the two countries and the region. The dialogue has come ahead of the summit-level meeting between Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and Shinzo Abe later in the year.

2+2 dialogue reflects synergy between India's Act East Policy and Japan's vision for free, open Indo-Pacific: Jaishankar

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy".

"I believe the Indian Navy is working as the most important component in our 'Act East Policy'. I believe Indian Navy will keep growing its strength," Singh said at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters here.

He also said that the Navy becomes more significant given neighbouring China's provocative activities. "Our neighbour China is always up to some activity or the other," he said.

He said the force not only plays an important role in maritime security but also assists authorities in tackling natural calamities.

Singh promised the naval personnel that he will try his best in resolving their housing problems. "I have been apprised about the housing problem. I will try my best to sort it out," he said.

Singh was on his maiden visit to the Eastern Naval Command as defence minister where he was briefed on the operational readiness of the Command and other aspects of maritime and coastal security on the eastern seaboard.

The minister also visited Indian Navy Submarines (INS) Shivalik and Sindhukirti and interacted with the crew members.

"Visited the indigenously conceived, designed and constructed frontline stealth frigate INS Shivalik and Indian Naval Submarine Sindhukirti at Visakhapatnam today. Indian Navy is maintaining a constant vigil against maritime threats and safeguarding our Nation's maritime interests," he tweeted.&nbsp;

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy".

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday hailed the Navy and called it the most important component of Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government's "Act East Policy". "I believe the Indian Navy is working as the most important component in our 'Act East Policy'. I believe Indian Navy will keep growing its strength," Singh said at the Eastern Naval Command headquarters here. He also said that the Navy becomes more significant given neighbouring China's provocative activities. "Our neighbour China is always up to some activity or the other," he said. He said the force not only plays an important role in maritime security but also assists authorities in tackling natural calamities. Singh promised the naval personnel that he will try his best in resolving their housing problems. "I have been apprised about the housing problem. I will try my best to sort it out," he said. Singh was on his maiden visit to the Eastern Naval Command as defence minister where he was briefed on the operational readiness of the Command and other aspects of maritime and coastal security on the eastern seaboard. The minister also visited Indian Navy Submarines (INS) Shivalik and Sindhukirti and interacted with the crew members. "Visited the indigenously conceived, designed and constructed frontline stealth frigate INS Shivalik and Indian Naval Submarine Sindhukirti at Visakhapatnam today. Indian Navy is maintaining a constant vigil against maritime threats and safeguarding our Nation's maritime interests," he tweeted.

Navy has important role in Act East Policy: Rajnath Singh

At a time when Pakistan is under immense global pressure on terrorism, the country's <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/crown-prince-visit-pakistan-needs-saudi-arabias-crutches-to-survive-but-india-doesnt-198700">cash-strapped government</a> has gifted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman a gold-plated assault rifle, a media report said.

The unusual gift for a visiting foreign dignitary was presented to<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/complicity-of-pakistan-in-pulwama-strike-underlined-during-india-saudi-talks-mea-198582"> Mohammad during his first official visit to Islamabad</a>.

The News International reported that Pakistan's Senate delegation called on the Crown Prince at the Prime Minister's House where Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani gifted him a portrait and a gold-plated gun.

The Prince is also Saudi Arabia's defence minister.

In a similar gesture from the cash-rich kingdom in January, Saudi Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, also the Tabuk Governor, presented a gift of 'gold Kalashnikov' and bullets to Prime Minister Khan at the Prime Minister's Office here.

Khan had thanked him for the gold-plated Russian gun.

The Saudi Crown Prince's just-concluded high-profile visit to Islamabad came in the midst of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following one of the worst terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in which 40 CRPF soldiers were killed. The attack was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad.

The international community led by the US has pressed Pakistan to deny safe haven to terror groups operating from its soil and bring the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack to justice.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide a welcome relief to the teetering economy of cash-strapped Pakistan.

Pakistan is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund a multi-billion bailout package to overcome the country's financial instability.

China, Islamabad's close ally, has also offered financial aid to the country.

Pakistan Monday conferred its highest civilian award Nishan-e-Pakistan on Salman for his "outstanding support" in reinvigorating the ties between the two countries.&nbsp;

At a time when Pakistan is under immense global pressure on terrorism, the country's cash-strapped government has gifted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman a gold-plated assault rifle, a media report said.

At a time when Pakistan is under immense global pressure on terrorism, the country's cash-strapped government has gifted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman a gold-plated assault rifle, a media report said. The unusual gift for a visiting foreign dignitary was presented to Mohammad during his first official visit to Islamabad. The News International reported that Pakistan's Senate delegation called on the Crown Prince at the Prime Minister's House where Senate Chairman Sadiq Sanjrani gifted him a portrait and a gold-plated gun. The Prince is also Saudi Arabia's defence minister. In a similar gesture from the cash-rich kingdom in January, Saudi Prince Fahd Bin Sultan Bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud, also the Tabuk Governor, presented a gift of 'gold Kalashnikov' and bullets to Prime Minister Khan at the Prime Minister's Office here. Khan had thanked him for the gold-plated Russian gun. The Saudi Crown Prince's just-concluded high-profile visit to Islamabad came in the midst of heightened tensions between India and Pakistan following one of the worst terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir in which 40 CRPF soldiers were killed. The attack was carried out by Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammad. The international community led by the US has pressed Pakistan to deny safe haven to terror groups operating from its soil and bring the perpetrators of the Pulwama attack to justice. Pakistan and Saudi Arabia on Sunday signed a slew of investment agreements worth $20 billion which will provide a welcome relief to the teetering economy of cash-strapped Pakistan. Pakistan is negotiating with the International Monetary Fund a multi-billion bailout package to overcome the country's financial instability. China, Islamabad's close ally, has also offered financial aid to the country. Pakistan Monday conferred its highest civilian award Nishan-e-Pakistan on Salman for his "outstanding support" in reinvigorating the ties between the two countries.

Pakistan gifts gold-plated assault rifle to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman: Report

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Thursday afternoon for his three-day-visit and was welcomed by the Indian community with full enthusiasm and warmth. This visit is said to be crucial for the Act East Policy.&nbsp;

"There is a great deal of anticipation and expectations on what&nbsp;Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision is about the Indo-Pacific region," New Delhi's envoy to Singapore, Jawed Ashraf&nbsp;told ANI in an interview.

"We have strong bilateral relationships and a productive, meaningful partnership in the international platform. Singapore is really a springboard, a gateway to South East Asia. It is also a very important defence partner of India. We have the longest running uninterrupted naval exercises and we train together every year, across the three wings of the armed forces," said Ashraf.

The four pillars of the India-Singapore partnership are strategic, economic, innovation and technology, human and cultural links, he added.

India and Singapore are also working in areas like humanitarian assistance in disaster relief, keeping the seas safe, and boosting tourism.

The Prime Minister would be joining a wide range of programmes during this visit. Foreign Minister Raveesh Kumar said that other than meeting the big leadership of Singapore, PM Modi would also deliver keynote address at the 18th Shangri-La Dialogue.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the Indian Heritage Centre in Little India, where he will launch a permanent platform to bring Indian artisans, craftsmen to showcase their crafts to support rural livelihood. Furthermore, he will be launching schemes like Bheem, RuPay, which is a new Domestic Card Payment Scheme, to take Digital India to a new level.

Eight agreements in collaboration with the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) would be signed for higher education, technology and research work during the Prime Minister's visit.

PM Modi is set to visit India-Singapore Enterprise and Innovation exhibitions at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre today which will address topics related to social impact - how can they work towards making changes in health, education, water and agriculture.&nbsp;

After which he will be attending a business and community event with nearly 5,000 people in attendance.&nbsp;

On Friday, he is scheduled to visit the Arjuna's Chariot and the Istiqal Mosque. He will then go to the Indian Heritage Centre, where he is expected to launch a platform to bring Indian artisans and craftsmen to showcase their work to support rural livelihood.

Finally, he will be visiting the Changi Naval Base, where he will be interacting with the naval officers and sailors.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, a MoU between Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Singapore was signed on Wednesday, a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in the country on a three-day visit.

Singapore startups can now gain faster entry to India's vibrant startup ecosystem to form partnerships and co-innovate with Indian startups, said ESG in a statement yesterday.

As a start, TiE Singapore will be running a startup mission in July with 10 Singapore startups to meet with Indian startups, corporates, mentors and investors to partner and co-innovate solutions in fintech, e-services and deeptech.

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The Indian community accorded a warm welcome to PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> in Singapore. The Prime Minister would be joining a wide range of programmes during his Singapore visit. <a href="https://t.co/KHz656LWj2">pic.twitter.com/KHz656LWj2</a>
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The Prime Minister would be joining a wide range of programmes during this visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Singapore on Thursday afternoon for his three-day-visit and was welcomed by the Indian community with full enthusiasm and warmth. This visit is said to be crucial for the Act East Policy. "There is a great deal of anticipation and expectations on what Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision is about the Indo-Pacific region," New Delhi's envoy to Singapore, Jawed Ashraf told ANI in an interview. "We have strong bilateral relationships and a productive, meaningful partnership in the international platform. Singapore is really a springboard, a gateway to South East Asia. It is also a very important defence partner of India. We have the longest running uninterrupted naval exercises and we train together every year, across the three wings of the armed forces," said Ashraf. The four pillars of the India-Singapore partnership are strategic, economic, innovation and technology, human and cultural links, he added. India and Singapore are also working in areas like humanitarian assistance in disaster relief, keeping the seas safe, and boosting tourism. The Prime Minister would be joining a wide range of programmes during this visit. Foreign Minister Raveesh Kumar said that other than meeting the big leadership of Singapore, PM Modi would also deliver keynote address at the 18th Shangri-La Dialogue. Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to visit the Indian Heritage Centre in Little India, where he will launch a permanent platform to bring Indian artisans, craftsmen to showcase their crafts to support rural livelihood. Furthermore, he will be launching schemes like Bheem, RuPay, which is a new Domestic Card Payment Scheme, to take Digital India to a new level. Eight agreements in collaboration with the Nanyang Technological University (NTU) would be signed for higher education, technology and research work during the Prime Minister's visit. PM Modi is set to visit India-Singapore Enterprise and Innovation exhibitions at the Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre today which will address topics related to social impact - how can they work towards making changes in health, education, water and agriculture. After which he will be attending a business and community event with nearly 5,000 people in attendance. On Friday, he is scheduled to visit the Arjuna's Chariot and the Istiqal Mosque. He will then go to the Indian Heritage Centre, where he is expected to launch a platform to bring Indian artisans and craftsmen to showcase their work to support rural livelihood. Finally, he will be visiting the Changi Naval Base, where he will be interacting with the naval officers and sailors. Meanwhile, a MoU between Enterprise Singapore (ESG) and The Indus Entrepreneurs (TiE) Singapore was signed on Wednesday, a day before Prime Minister Narendra Modi's arrival in the country on a three-day visit. Singapore startups can now gain faster entry to India's vibrant startup ecosystem to form partnerships and co-innovate with Indian startups, said ESG in a statement yesterday. As a start, TiE Singapore will be running a startup mission in July with 10 Singapore startups to meet with Indian startups, corporates, mentors and investors to partner and co-innovate solutions in fintech, e-services and deeptech. The Indian community accorded a warm welcome to PM @narendramodi in Singapore. The Prime Minister would be joining a wide range of programmes during his Singapore visit. pic.twitter.com/KHz656LWj2 — PMO India (@PMOIndia) May 31, 2018 ×

PM Modi arrives in Singapore, visit set to be crucial for Act East Policy

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on the first leg of his three-nation tour in Southeast Asia, will visit Indonesia Arjuna Wijaya Monument&nbsp;in Jakarta on Wednesday.

The Arjuna Wijaya Monument is one of the iconic monuments in Jakarta, which is located at a central location in Jakarta, just next to Monas -- a national monument of Indonesia. Arjuna Wijaya means Victory of Arjuna and it depicts a scene from Indian epic Mahabharata.

During the day PM Modi is also scheduled to hold detailed discussions with Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Jakarta.&nbsp;

He will also interact with Chief Executive Officers and the Indian community in Indonesia.

He is also scheduled to address the Indian gathering in Jakarta tomorrow at 4 pm local time.

It will be followed by a brief stopover at Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur, where Prime Minister will congratulate the newly elected Prime Minister of Malaysia Dr Mahathir Mohammad.

This is the first time PM Modi is visiting Indonesia.

The enormous Monument , Arjuna Wijaya, depicts a scene from Indian epic Mahabharata, where Arjuna and Lord Krishna are in a chariot being pulled by eight horses symbolizing eight philosophies of leadership called Asta Brata, namely, Kisma (Earth), Surya (Sun), Agni (fire), Kartika (stars), Baruna (ocean), Samirana (wind), Tirta (rain) and Candra (month).&nbsp;

The monument is significant for both countries as it portrays the strong connection between India and Indonesia through the epic Mahabharata and its central character Arjuna which is a household name in Indonesia.&nbsp;

The Arjuna Wijaya cost around IDR 300 million in 1987 and was removed in early 2014 for renovation work. &nbsp;It was re-opened by Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama on 11 January 2015.

The prime minister arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday evening as he is visiting three south-east Asian countries -- Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore -- to enhance India's relations and engagements under his "act east" policy.

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The Arjuna Wijaya Monument is one of the iconic monuments in Jakarta, which is located at a central location in Jakarta, just next to Monas, national monument of Indonesia

Prime Minister Narendra Modi who is on the first leg of his three-nation tour in Southeast Asia, will visit Indonesia Arjuna Wijaya Monument in Jakarta on Wednesday. The Arjuna Wijaya Monument is one of the iconic monuments in Jakarta, which is located at a central location in Jakarta, just next to Monas -- a national monument of Indonesia. Arjuna Wijaya means Victory of Arjuna and it depicts a scene from Indian epic Mahabharata. During the day PM Modi is also scheduled to hold detailed discussions with Indonesian President Joko Widodo in Jakarta. He will also interact with Chief Executive Officers and the Indian community in Indonesia. He is also scheduled to address the Indian gathering in Jakarta tomorrow at 4 pm local time. It will be followed by a brief stopover at Malaysia’s Kuala Lumpur, where Prime Minister will congratulate the newly elected Prime Minister of Malaysia Dr Mahathir Mohammad. This is the first time PM Modi is visiting Indonesia. The enormous Monument , Arjuna Wijaya, depicts a scene from Indian epic Mahabharata, where Arjuna and Lord Krishna are in a chariot being pulled by eight horses symbolizing eight philosophies of leadership called Asta Brata, namely, Kisma (Earth), Surya (Sun), Agni (fire), Kartika (stars), Baruna (ocean), Samirana (wind), Tirta (rain) and Candra (month). The monument is significant for both countries as it portrays the strong connection between India and Indonesia through the epic Mahabharata and its central character Arjuna which is a household name in Indonesia. The Arjuna Wijaya cost around IDR 300 million in 1987 and was removed in early 2014 for renovation work. It was re-opened by Jakarta Governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama on 11 January 2015. The prime minister arrived in Indonesia on Tuesday evening as he is visiting three south-east Asian countries -- Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore -- to enhance India's relations and engagements under his "act east" policy. ×

PM Narendra Modi to visit Indonesia's iconic Arjuna Wijaya monument today

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