In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE. Their partnership, he emphasised, was not merely symbolic but deeply rooted in economic synergy. "India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership," Minister Al Sayegh stated, "with extensive collaborations across sectors like energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development."

The Minister went on to underline the remarkable growth in non-oil trade and investments between the two nations, illustrating the tangible benefits of their relationship. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal he pointed to "notable increases in non-oil trade" even as "investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries."

On India Middle East Europe connectivity project, the minister revealed that the UAE is actively participating in the project, an endeavour designed to export electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Furthermore, the Minister discussed the ambitious I2U2 project, which aims to strengthen economic cooperation across various sectors, emphasising, "These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity." 

Full interview

WION: How would you characterise India-UAE relations?

Ahmed Al Sayegh: The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of India have long-established strong and robust strategic relations, rooted in cultural and economic ties that have developed over many years.&nbsp;The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the UAE in February 2022 signified a deepening economic relationship, with the CEPA aiming to boost trade and investment between the two nations by reducing trade barriers and fostering economic cooperation.&nbsp;India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership, with the UAE being one of India's significant trading partners in the Gulf region. The two countries have extensive economic collaborations in sectors such as energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development.&nbsp;Furthermore, both India and the UAE are actively engaged in international forums such as the G20 and BRICS.&nbsp;Their participation in these groups highlights their growing roles on the global stage and their commitment to addressing pressing global issues collectively. These forums provide platforms for dialogue and cooperation on various global challenges, including economic stability and development.

WION:&nbsp;&nbsp;In terms of investment and trade relations, how has the relationship picked up, especially since the signing of the trade pact?

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;The UAE and India have experienced significant growth in trade relations, with notable increases in non-oil trade. Moreover, their investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries.&nbsp;More than one year on from its implementation, CEPA is increasingly emerging as the model for an effective and mutually beneficial economic partnership. By removing or reducing tariffs on 80 per cent of goods and eliminating unnecessary barriers to trade the UAE and India are benefitting from mutual strengths and ushering in a new era of dynamic, sustainable growth.&nbsp;The total non-oil trade between both countries experienced a notable 9.9 percent increase, rising from USD 44.8 billion in 2021 to USD 49.2 billion in 2022. This growth is primarily attributed to substantial increases in UAE imports, which surged by an impressive 26.4 percent, going from USD 20.8 billion in 2021 to USD 26.3 billion in 2022. Additionally, UAE re-exports demonstrated healthy growth, rising by 10.3 percent from USD 11.48 billion to USD 12.6 billion during the same period.&nbsp; &nbsp;In terms of investment relations, UAE investment flows into India have been substantial, amounting to approximately USD 36.6 billion between 2003 and 2022. Simultaneously, Indian investments in the UAE also reached a substantial figure of around USD 30.5 billion during the same period. These investments have been diverse, spanning various sectors such as communications, software, and IT services, real estate, consumer products, automotive industry, renewable energy, metals, hotels, and tourism. These figures underscore the mutual economic interests and commitments of both nations, contributing to the strengthening of economic ties.

WION: India invited UAE to participate at the G20 summit, how do you see that as?

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;The UAE’s participation in the G20 reflects the country’s steadfast commitment to multilateral cooperation and international priorities across all sectors. In this regard, the UAE is dedicated to supporting the global agenda while forging partnerships that will benefit the international community and future generations.&nbsp;The UAE commended the endeavors by the Indian Presidency describing it as the most ambitious in the history of the G20. Moreover, the country welcomed the efforts of the participating countries within the G20 meetings, their cooperation, and their commitment to working together to shape a brighter future through constructive international collaboration in the face of pressing challenges.&nbsp;Throughout the UAE's engagements with the G20, including its participation as a guest country in France in 2011, Saudi Arabia in 2020, Indonesia in 2022, and now with India in 2023, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aligning with the priorities of the G20.&nbsp;These commitments have encompassed a broad spectrum of crucial topics, including post-COVID-19 recovery, climate change mitigation, energy transition, disaster risk reduction, debt risk management, and the attainment of sustainable development goals.

WION: How does UAE see the India Middle East Europe connectivity project since it is part of it? any details as to how it will work, planned route?

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;One of the G20 initiatives, the UAE's participation in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project underscores its commitment to enhancing international partnerships and contributing to a sustainable future. As the host of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in November, the UAE recognizes the importance of initiatives such as IMEC.&nbsp;IMEC seeks to stimulate economic development by promoting economic connectivity and integration between regions, aligning perfectly with the UAE's foreign policy objectives of supporting economic prosperity and fostering strong international partnerships through trade, industry, and investment. As part of this project, participants, including the UAE, will explore the possibility of exporting electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating environmental conservation considerations.

WION: How has the I2U2 group been doing, what next for the grouping?

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to working closely and constructively with its partners in the I2U2 Initiative, which includes Israel, India, and the United States. The launch of the I2U2 website, which was recently announced on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, stands as a testament to this commitment and marks an exciting step forward in the journey of economic cooperation among these nations. The platform will serve as a hub for attracting new investment projects under the group’s umbrella, empowering businesses and investors to propose innovative projects, fostering collaboration and economic growth.

The overarching goal of the I2U2 Group is to strengthen economic cooperation among its member states across a wide spectrum of sectors, including food security, water, energy, space, transportation, health, and technology. Joint projects are set to be implemented through partnerships forged within the business sectors of the member countries. These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity.

The UAE is fully committed to its membership in the group and its initiatives, underscoring the vision of the UAE's wise leadership, which places a strong emphasis on building bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster peace and security for all. The efforts of the I2U2 Group align with the shared objective of enhancing stability and prosperity for the peoples of the region and beyond.

WION:&nbsp;Role played by the Indian diaspora in connecting the 2 countries. UAE hosts the largest number of Indians outside of India.

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;There is a substantial Indian expatriate community in the UAE, contributing significantly to the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the country. The people-to-people ties are strong and play a vital role in fostering goodwill and understanding between the nations, a further indication of the close ties across a multitude of areas. In addition,&nbsp;the Indian diaspora plays a significant role in the country's economic development. Many Indians are employed in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance, contributing to the UAE's economic growth through their expertise, labour, and investments.&nbsp;The UAE acknowledges and values the diverse contributions of the Indian diaspora to its society and economy, recognising them as an integral part of the country's growth and development.

WION: UAE will host the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), your expectations from India and do you see attendance of PM Modi?

Ahmed Al Sayegh:&nbsp;COP28 UAE carries significant expectations and ambitions to address the urgent global challenge of climate change. The UAE envisions this event as a pivotal moment in the world's efforts to combat climate change and is dedicated to catalyzing transformative and accelerated climate action. COP28’s Presidency is hoping that all participants will actively engage with the conference, and are confident of seeing high-level representation from all invited countries. COP28 UAE is expected to be a groundbreaking conference that not only underscores the urgency of climate action but also emphasizes the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and innovative solutions.&nbsp;The Presidency is fully committed to working with the global community to deliver unprecedented and impactful results, making COP28 a conference of action and a turning point in the fight against climate change.

&nbsp;

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In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE.

In an exclusive interview to WION, Minister of State of the UAE in the Foreign Ministry, Ahmed Al Sayegh, has highlighted the burgeoning ties between India and the UAE. Their partnership, he emphasised, was not merely symbolic but deeply rooted in economic synergy. "India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership," Minister Al Sayegh stated, "with extensive collaborations across sectors like energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development." The Minister went on to underline the remarkable growth in non-oil trade and investments between the two nations, illustrating the tangible benefits of their relationship. Speaking to our correspondent Sidhant Sibal he pointed to "notable increases in non-oil trade" even as "investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries." On India Middle East Europe connectivity project, the minister revealed that the UAE is actively participating in the project, an endeavour designed to export electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, the Minister discussed the ambitious I2U2 project, which aims to strengthen economic cooperation across various sectors, emphasising, "These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity." Full interview WION: How would you characterise India-UAE relations? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The United Arab Emirates and the Republic of India have long-established strong and robust strategic relations, rooted in cultural and economic ties that have developed over many years. The signing of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement between India and the UAE in February 2022 signified a deepening economic relationship, with the CEPA aiming to boost trade and investment between the two nations by reducing trade barriers and fostering economic cooperation. India and the UAE have a strong economic partnership, with the UAE being one of India's significant trading partners in the Gulf region. The two countries have extensive economic collaborations in sectors such as energy, trade, technology, and infrastructure development. Furthermore, both India and the UAE are actively engaged in international forums such as the G20 and BRICS. Their participation in these groups highlights their growing roles on the global stage and their commitment to addressing pressing global issues collectively. These forums provide platforms for dialogue and cooperation on various global challenges, including economic stability and development. WION: In terms of investment and trade relations, how has the relationship picked up, especially since the signing of the trade pact? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE and India have experienced significant growth in trade relations, with notable increases in non-oil trade. Moreover, their investment relations have thrived, with substantial investments flowing in both directions and spanning various key sectors. These developments reflect the strong economic cooperation and shared interests between the two countries. More than one year on from its implementation, CEPA is increasingly emerging as the model for an effective and mutually beneficial economic partnership. By removing or reducing tariffs on 80 per cent of goods and eliminating unnecessary barriers to trade the UAE and India are benefitting from mutual strengths and ushering in a new era of dynamic, sustainable growth. The total non-oil trade between both countries experienced a notable 9.9 percent increase, rising from USD 44.8 billion in 2021 to USD 49.2 billion in 2022. This growth is primarily attributed to substantial increases in UAE imports, which surged by an impressive 26.4 percent, going from USD 20.8 billion in 2021 to USD 26.3 billion in 2022. Additionally, UAE re-exports demonstrated healthy growth, rising by 10.3 percent from USD 11.48 billion to USD 12.6 billion during the same period. In terms of investment relations, UAE investment flows into India have been substantial, amounting to approximately USD 36.6 billion between 2003 and 2022. Simultaneously, Indian investments in the UAE also reached a substantial figure of around USD 30.5 billion during the same period. These investments have been diverse, spanning various sectors such as communications, software, and IT services, real estate, consumer products, automotive industry, renewable energy, metals, hotels, and tourism. These figures underscore the mutual economic interests and commitments of both nations, contributing to the strengthening of economic ties. WION: India invited UAE to participate at the G20 summit, how do you see that as? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE’s participation in the G20 reflects the country’s steadfast commitment to multilateral cooperation and international priorities across all sectors. In this regard, the UAE is dedicated to supporting the global agenda while forging partnerships that will benefit the international community and future generations. The UAE commended the endeavors by the Indian Presidency describing it as the most ambitious in the history of the G20. Moreover, the country welcomed the efforts of the participating countries within the G20 meetings, their cooperation, and their commitment to working together to shape a brighter future through constructive international collaboration in the face of pressing challenges. Throughout the UAE's engagements with the G20, including its participation as a guest country in France in 2011, Saudi Arabia in 2020, Indonesia in 2022, and now with India in 2023, the country has consistently demonstrated its commitment to aligning with the priorities of the G20. These commitments have encompassed a broad spectrum of crucial topics, including post-COVID-19 recovery, climate change mitigation, energy transition, disaster risk reduction, debt risk management, and the attainment of sustainable development goals. WION: How does UAE see the India Middle East Europe connectivity project since it is part of it? any details as to how it will work, planned route? Ahmed Al Sayegh: One of the G20 initiatives, the UAE's participation in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) project underscores its commitment to enhancing international partnerships and contributing to a sustainable future. As the host of the 28th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) in November, the UAE recognizes the importance of initiatives such as IMEC. IMEC seeks to stimulate economic development by promoting economic connectivity and integration between regions, aligning perfectly with the UAE's foreign policy objectives of supporting economic prosperity and fostering strong international partnerships through trade, industry, and investment. As part of this project, participants, including the UAE, will explore the possibility of exporting electricity and clean hydrogen to enhance regional supply chains, contributing to efforts aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and integrating environmental conservation considerations. WION: How has the I2U2 group been doing, what next for the grouping? Ahmed Al Sayegh: The UAE remains steadfast in its commitment to working closely and constructively with its partners in the I2U2 Initiative, which includes Israel, India, and the United States. The launch of the I2U2 website, which was recently announced on the sidelines of the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, stands as a testament to this commitment and marks an exciting step forward in the journey of economic cooperation among these nations. The platform will serve as a hub for attracting new investment projects under the group’s umbrella, empowering businesses and investors to propose innovative projects, fostering collaboration and economic growth. The overarching goal of the I2U2 Group is to strengthen economic cooperation among its member states across a wide spectrum of sectors, including food security, water, energy, space, transportation, health, and technology. Joint projects are set to be implemented through partnerships forged within the business sectors of the member countries. These collaborative efforts are aimed at reducing carbon emissions, advancing healthcare, and promoting green technologies, contributing to sustainable development and prosperity. The UAE is fully committed to its membership in the group and its initiatives, underscoring the vision of the UAE's wise leadership, which places a strong emphasis on building bilateral and multilateral partnerships to foster peace and security for all. The efforts of the I2U2 Group align with the shared objective of enhancing stability and prosperity for the peoples of the region and beyond. WION: Role played by the Indian diaspora in connecting the 2 countries. UAE hosts the largest number of Indians outside of India. Ahmed Al Sayegh: There is a substantial Indian expatriate community in the UAE, contributing significantly to the socio-economic and cultural fabric of the country. The people-to-people ties are strong and play a vital role in fostering goodwill and understanding between the nations, a further indication of the close ties across a multitude of areas. In addition, the Indian diaspora plays a significant role in the country's economic development. Many Indians are employed in diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, technology, and finance, contributing to the UAE's economic growth through their expertise, labour, and investments. The UAE acknowledges and values the diverse contributions of the Indian diaspora to its society and economy, recognising them as an integral part of the country's growth and development. WION: UAE will host the Conference of the Parties (COP 28), your expectations from India and do you see attendance of PM Modi? Ahmed Al Sayegh: COP28 UAE carries significant expectations and ambitions to address the urgent global challenge of climate change. The UAE envisions this event as a pivotal moment in the world's efforts to combat climate change and is dedicated to catalyzing transformative and accelerated climate action. COP28’s Presidency is hoping that all participants will actively engage with the conference, and are confident of seeing high-level representation from all invited countries. COP28 UAE is expected to be a groundbreaking conference that not only underscores the urgency of climate action but also emphasizes the need for collaboration, inclusivity, and innovative solutions. The Presidency is fully committed to working with the global community to deliver unprecedented and impactful results, making COP28 a conference of action and a turning point in the fight against climate change. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Exclusive: India and UAE have strong economic partnership, says UAE Minister Al Sayegh

Weeks after Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House, made a contentious visit to Taiwan, the US has stated that formal trade talks will soon begin with Taipei.

The Office of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-judge-sentences-wildlife-trafficker-to-more-than-5-years-in-jail-508347">US </a>trade representative said that the first round of bilateral talks would start in "early September."

Trade facilitation, digital trade, and anti-corruption standards will all be topics of discussion. Since Pelosi's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-continue-to-take-calm-and-resolute-steps-to-uphold-peace-and-stability-says-us-on-china-taiwan-tensions-508357">Taiwan </a>visit, ties between the US and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-china-test-fires-missile-in-xinjiang-brings-down-plane-in-drill-508430">China</a> have become more tense.

Both parties now claim they have "reached accord on the negotiation mandate" for the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade, which was first introduced in June.

The deputy US trade representative, Sarah Bianchi, said&nbsp;in a statement, "We plan to pursue an ambitious timeline... that will help construct a fairer, more affluent and resilient 21st century economy."

As reported by the BBC, nearly $106 billion&nbsp;in trade was conducted between the US and Taiwan in 2020.

Following Pelosi's visit earlier in August, China began its largest-ever military drills around Taiwan.

According to the "One China policy," the United States recognises and maintains formal ties with China rather than the island of Taiwan, but it also keeps a "strong unofficial" relationship with Taiwan, continuing to sell the island armaments so that it can defend itself.

The autonomous island is seen by Beijing as its own renegade area that needs to be merged with the mainland. However,&nbsp;Taiwan, a self-governing island, perceives itself as separate from the mainland.

Separately, top US ambassador for East Asia Daniel Kritenbrink stated that the Taiwan Strait's stability and peace are at risk due to Beijing's "increasing coercion."&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Also watch |&nbsp;Taipei simulates defence against invasion by China, Taiwan showcases most advanced fighter jets

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Weeks after Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House, made a contentious visit to Taiwan, the US has stated that formal trade talks will soon begin with Taipei. The Office of US trade representative said that the first round of bilateral talks would start in "early September.

Weeks after Nancy Pelosi, Speaker of the US House, made a contentious visit to Taiwan, the US has stated that formal trade talks will soon begin with Taipei. The Office of US trade representative said that the first round of bilateral talks would start in "early September." Trade facilitation, digital trade, and anti-corruption standards will all be topics of discussion. Since Pelosi's Taiwan visit, ties between the US and China have become more tense. Both parties now claim they have "reached accord on the negotiation mandate" for the US-Taiwan Initiative on 21st Century Trade, which was first introduced in June. The deputy US trade representative, Sarah Bianchi, said in a statement, "We plan to pursue an ambitious timeline... that will help construct a fairer, more affluent and resilient 21st century economy." As reported by the BBC, nearly $106 billion in trade was conducted between the US and Taiwan in 2020. Following Pelosi's visit earlier in August, China began its largest-ever military drills around Taiwan. According to the "One China policy," the United States recognises and maintains formal ties with China rather than the island of Taiwan, but it also keeps a "strong unofficial" relationship with Taiwan, continuing to sell the island armaments so that it can defend itself. The autonomous island is seen by Beijing as its own renegade area that needs to be merged with the mainland. However, Taiwan, a self-governing island, perceives itself as separate from the mainland. Separately, top US ambassador for East Asia Daniel Kritenbrink stated that the Taiwan Strait's stability and peace are at risk due to Beijing's "increasing coercion." (With inputs from agencies) Also watch | Taipei simulates defence against invasion by China, Taiwan showcases most advanced fighter jets

US and Taiwan announce official bilateral trade talks

Andorra's foreign minister Maria Ubach Font, who was on India visit earlier this week has said that her visit will "reinforce bilateral cooperation" even as she lauded India's "active" role at the United Nations. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, FM Font said," India is an active country and member of UNSC and I am sure that also brings ideas and new ways of working in order to help the house of the UN to go further in its objectives."

My visit to India will reinforce bilateral cooperation: Andorra Foreign Minister Font | Exclusive

Andorra's foreign minister Maria Ubach Font, who was on India, visit earlier this week has said that her visit will "reinforce bilateral cooperation" even as she lauded India's "active" role at the United Nations. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, FM Font said," India is an active country and member of UNSC and I am sure that also brings ideas and new ways of working in order to help the house of the UN to go further in its objectives."

This is the first-ever visit by any Andorran Foreign minister to India since the latter established diplomatic ties in 1994. The country, that lies between France and Spain is one of the smallest countries in the world, but has been in existence since 1200 AD.

During the interview, she emphasised on "multilateralism being a priority" for her country and explained how her country in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine supported European Union's position on sanctions. She said, "we have welcomed some refugees from Ukraine and permitted them health and social support and give them opportunity to integrate in the country."

During the 3-day long visit, she delivered a talk at Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and met NITI Aayog Vice Chairman and discussed Agenda 2030, SDGs and how India and Andorra can collaborate on tackling global challenges such as Climate Change.

WION: How do you&nbsp;see the relationship between Andorra and India?

Maria Ubach Font: This is the first time I have visited your country, and Andorra and India have established diplomatic relations in 1994 so that is a long time we have been working together between the 2 countries, and the first official visit to India. I am sure that it gives the possibility to reinforce bilateral cooperation.&nbsp;

WION: What is the focus of your India visit, the first such visit by Andorra's foreign minister since the promulgation of your constitution?

Maria Ubach Font: The will is to promote bilateral cooperation; we have to work further on the economic, fiscal and cultural point of view with the minister of foreign affairs, we have signed a declaration of good cooperation between the two&nbsp;ministries of foreign affairs that will permit us to work together in a more dynamic way between the two&nbsp;administrations.

WION: In Asia, you have focused on two&nbsp;countries, India and UAE, why is that?

Maria Ubach Font: As far as the circumstances concerning the emirates, the expo of Dubai this year happened, and Andorra had a pavilion in the expo, so that was a very good opportunity for our country to be part of this international event. It permits us to also have some meetings, high-level meetings with the authorities in the Emirates and try to develop that bilateral cooperation.&nbsp;

WION: What is your view of India's role at&nbsp;the UN, and a reformed UNSC?

Maria Ubach Font: For us, in a small country as in the case of Andorra, multilateralism is the top priority, we think it is impossible to bring out solutions without multilateralism and cooperation between states. That is why our priority at the ministry of foreign affairs and the government of Andorra is to work with the UN and other international organizations. Concerning the role of India at the UN, I may say, India is an active country and member of the UNSC and I am sure that also brings ideas and new ways of working in order to help the house of the UN to go further in its objectives.

WION: You have missions in Europe, in New York, do you plan to open missions in Asia and will India be the first country where Andorra opens missions in Asia?

Maria Ubach Font: For the time being we need to work with the missions that are open, mainly in Europe. We have to think about and analyse opening other embassies, but for the time being it is not the case of opening any embassies. So that is why we try to be present here through official visits and to have direct contact with the authorities. That is the first step, maybe in the future, it will be possible to open other embassies, but you know the Andorran administration is a very small one. When we think about opening new embassies, we need to bring some people to those embassies, so we need to go step by step in this procedure.

WION: What is your view about the Russian invasion of Ukraine?

Maria Ubach Font: Well, in Andorra, we cannot accept the violation of one state by another of international law. Andorra has adopted some sanctions against Russia following the position of the EU, we have welcomed some refugees from Ukraine and permitted them health and social support and given them the opportunity to integrate into the country.

WION: The war in Ukraine must have impacted you domestically...price rise, inflation, what have you done so to mitigate that?

Maria Ubach Font: The war has an impact, as is the case in the other states of Europe, the inflation is one of the consequences of war. The government of Andorra has adopted a special law to give the opportunity to people of Andorra to have more facilities to face the situation of rising prices. For example, we have permitted the increase of wages, a new policy to permit public transportation free of charge and financial help for people with less wages.

WION: I believe at the United Nation, Andorra has supported resolutions against Russia.

Maria Ubach Font: Yes, that is correct. We have supported the resolution, in March at the beginning of the war, we supported it. In our constitution the respect of international law is one of the principal points that we need to take into consideration.

WION: Has Andorra supported any resolution by India at the General assembly?

Maria Ubach Font: Well, we try to support, now we do not have in mind resolutions India has presented, but of course, we have good cooperation with the mission of India at the United Nations, and we try to follow up and cooperate as far as we can with India.

WION: Tensions between China and US impacted your country, can you elaborate on that?

Maria Ubach Font: We are living in a situation where the international order is changing and there is some situation between big countries and from Andorra we are observers of that, and in our position of course what we promote and we have always promoted dialogue between the two&nbsp;countries in order to face complicated situations and specifically in order to achieve a good solution for all the countries, especially population of those countries. We have to think about civil society, and that is why resolution by dialogue, a political solution is the best way to go.

WION: How do microstates face the current geopolitical changes...it looks very difficult, given major countries like China have been aggressive, what message you will give to microstates?

Maria Ubach Font: What we can say, we need to observe in a precise way how the world is going, that is why Andorra is part of international organisations...defend the principals of the international organization, multilateralism, incredible tool that permits to see how the evolution of the situation is going on.

Andorra's foreign minister Maria Ubach Font, who was on India, visit earlier this week has said that her visit will "reinforce bilateral cooperation" even as she lauded India's "active" role at the United Nations.

Andorra's foreign minister Maria Ubach Font, who was on India, visit earlier this week has said that her visit will "reinforce bilateral cooperation" even as she lauded India's "active" role at the United Nations. Speaking to WION’s diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, FM Font said," India is an active country and member of UNSC and I am sure that also brings ideas and new ways of working in order to help the house of the UN to go further in its objectives." This is the first-ever visit by any Andorran Foreign minister to India since the latter established diplomatic ties in 1994. The country, that lies between France and Spain is one of the smallest countries in the world, but has been in existence since 1200 AD. During the interview, she emphasised on "multilateralism being a priority" for her country and explained how her country in the aftermath of the Russian invasion of Ukraine supported European Union's position on sanctions. She said, "we have welcomed some refugees from Ukraine and permitted them health and social support and give them opportunity to integrate in the country." During the 3-day long visit, she delivered a talk at Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service and met NITI Aayog Vice Chairman and discussed Agenda 2030, SDGs and how India and Andorra can collaborate on tackling global challenges such as Climate Change. WION: How do you see the relationship between Andorra and India? Maria Ubach Font: This is the first time I have visited your country, and Andorra and India have established diplomatic relations in 1994 so that is a long time we have been working together between the 2 countries, and the first official visit to India. I am sure that it gives the possibility to reinforce bilateral cooperation. WION: What is the focus of your India visit, the first such visit by Andorra's foreign minister since the promulgation of your constitution? Maria Ubach Font: The will is to promote bilateral cooperation; we have to work further on the economic, fiscal and cultural point of view with the minister of foreign affairs, we have signed a declaration of good cooperation between the two ministries of foreign affairs that will permit us to work together in a more dynamic way between the two administrations. WION: In Asia, you have focused on two countries, India and UAE, why is that? Maria Ubach Font: As far as the circumstances concerning the emirates, the expo of Dubai this year happened, and Andorra had a pavilion in the expo, so that was a very good opportunity for our country to be part of this international event. It permits us to also have some meetings, high-level meetings with the authorities in the Emirates and try to develop that bilateral cooperation. WION: What is your view of India's role at the UN, and a reformed UNSC? Maria Ubach Font: For us, in a small country as in the case of Andorra, multilateralism is the top priority, we think it is impossible to bring out solutions without multilateralism and cooperation between states. That is why our priority at the ministry of foreign affairs and the government of Andorra is to work with the UN and other international organizations. Concerning the role of India at the UN, I may say, India is an active country and member of the UNSC and I am sure that also brings ideas and new ways of working in order to help the house of the UN to go further in its objectives. WION: You have missions in Europe, in New York, do you plan to open missions in Asia and will India be the first country where Andorra opens missions in Asia? Maria Ubach Font: For the time being we need to work with the missions that are open, mainly in Europe. We have to think about and analyse opening other embassies, but for the time being it is not the case of opening any embassies. So that is why we try to be present here through official visits and to have direct contact with the authorities. That is the first step, maybe in the future, it will be possible to open other embassies, but you know the Andorran administration is a very small one. When we think about opening new embassies, we need to bring some people to those embassies, so we need to go step by step in this procedure. WION: What is your view about the Russian invasion of Ukraine? Maria Ubach Font: Well, in Andorra, we cannot accept the violation of one state by another of international law. Andorra has adopted some sanctions against Russia following the position of the EU, we have welcomed some refugees from Ukraine and permitted them health and social support and given them the opportunity to integrate into the country. WION: The war in Ukraine must have impacted you domestically...price rise, inflation, what have you done so to mitigate that? Maria Ubach Font: The war has an impact, as is the case in the other states of Europe, the inflation is one of the consequences of war. The government of Andorra has adopted a special law to give the opportunity to people of Andorra to have more facilities to face the situation of rising prices. For example, we have permitted the increase of wages, a new policy to permit public transportation free of charge and financial help for people with less wages. WION: I believe at the United Nation, Andorra has supported resolutions against Russia. Maria Ubach Font: Yes, that is correct. We have supported the resolution, in March at the beginning of the war, we supported it. In our constitution the respect of international law is one of the principal points that we need to take into consideration. WION: Has Andorra supported any resolution by India at the General assembly? Maria Ubach Font: Well, we try to support, now we do not have in mind resolutions India has presented, but of course, we have good cooperation with the mission of India at the United Nations, and we try to follow up and cooperate as far as we can with India. WION: Tensions between China and US impacted your country, can you elaborate on that? Maria Ubach Font: We are living in a situation where the international order is changing and there is some situation between big countries and from Andorra we are observers of that, and in our position of course what we promote and we have always promoted dialogue between the two countries in order to face complicated situations and specifically in order to achieve a good solution for all the countries, especially population of those countries. We have to think about civil society, and that is why resolution by dialogue, a political solution is the best way to go. WION: How do microstates face the current geopolitical changes...it looks very difficult, given major countries like China have been aggressive, what message you will give to microstates? Maria Ubach Font: What we can say, we need to observe in a precise way how the world is going, that is why Andorra is part of international organisations...defend the principals of the international organization, multilateralism, incredible tool that permits to see how the evolution of the situation is going on.

WION Exclusive | My visit to India will reinforce bilateral cooperation: Andorra Foreign Minister Font

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia&nbsp;arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Mongolian President will jointly unveil the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via a video conference later today.

Battulga on Friday paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat here. He was joined by the Union Minister, Kiren Rijiju. Earlier today, Battulga received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here and was received by the President, Ram Nath Kovind.&nbsp;

"I am very happy that I am on a state visit to India with which [sic] we have centuries of spiritual and cultural relations and ties", President Battulga said. "We [President Ram Nath Kovind and I] were elected around the same time in July 2017, and I would like to invite the President of India to pay an official visit to Mongolia", he added.

The Mongolian President will also meet Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu. Battulga's visit to India is the first state visit by a Mongolian President in the last 10 years, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, noting that the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues.&nbsp;

It also said that the two countries would review ongoing cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture, and capacity building. The two countries had reached a strategic partnership in 2015 during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Mongolia. Several high-level exchanges have taken place since then and the partnership has seen considerable progress during the last few years.

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries.

Earlier on Thursday, Khaltmaagiin Battulga, the President of Mongolia arrived in India on a five-day visit to intensify bilateral ties between the two countries. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Mongolian President will jointly unveil the statue of Lord Buddha at Gandan Monastery via a video conference later today. Battulga on Friday paid a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat here. He was joined by the Union Minister, Kiren Rijiju. Earlier today, Battulga received a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan here and was received by the President, Ram Nath Kovind. "I am very happy that I am on a state visit to India with which [sic] we have centuries of spiritual and cultural relations and ties", President Battulga said. "We [President Ram Nath Kovind and I] were elected around the same time in July 2017, and I would like to invite the President of India to pay an official visit to Mongolia", he added. The Mongolian President will also meet Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu. Battulga's visit to India is the first state visit by a Mongolian President in the last 10 years, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said, noting that the two sides will hold in-depth discussions on a range of bilateral, regional, and global issues. It also said that the two countries would review ongoing cooperation in the fields of infrastructure, energy, disaster management, defence, security, culture, and capacity building. The two countries had reached a strategic partnership in 2015 during the visit of Prime Minister Modi to Mongolia. Several high-level exchanges have taken place since then and the partnership has seen considerable progress during the last few years.

Mongolian President Khaltmaagiin Battulga on five-day visit to India to intensify bilateral ties

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has alleged that India's "domestic political and electoral compulsions" were behind New Delhi's reluctance to talk to Imran Khan's new government in Pakistan.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi were slated to meet on the sidelines of the ongoing UN General Assembly session in New York.

However, India called off the meeting last week, citing the brutal killings of three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad releasing postage stamps "glorifying" terrorist Burhan Wani.

"Why are they reluctant? Simply politics, elections...they are scared of the electorate. They have swung the pendulum to such an extreme (that), now they're finding it difficult to bring it back. And (with) the elections round the corner, they (Indian government) felt that it could boomerang," Mr Qureshi alleged in response to a question at an event organised by the Asia Society in New York.

India has maintained that there can be no talks with Pakistan unless it stops supporting terrorists and terror outfits.

On Thursday Sushma Swaraj left a meeting of the SAARC foreign ministers early. Her move was seen as a huge snub to Pakistan. The meeting was also being attended by the Pakistani foreign minister.

Responding to a query about the incident, Qureshi termed it as "Politics, nothing else...domestic politics".

Ahead of his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday, the Pakistani foreign minister said, "Today, India is a strategic partner of the US. We have no qualms about it. But we feel that Pakistan is an ally who has always stood with the US."

Qureshi went on to say that "The Trump Administration will miss an opportunity if it does not engage with the new government of Pakistan."

Qureshi also sought US intervention in the Indo-Pak talks. "If the US wants us to help, and we want to help in our own interest because we want peace in the region, then they (America) have to tell the new strategic partner (India) to give us ease on the eastern side so that we can concentrate on areas of mutual interest," he said.

Pakistan has been consistently seeking US intervention in Indo-Pak talks. However, successive US governments have refused to entertain such a request asserting that it is for the two neighbours to decide on the pace and scope of the talks. India has also made it clear that no third party has any role in India-Pakistan relations.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has alleged that India's "domestic political and electoral compulsions" were behind New Delhi's reluctance to talk to Imran Khan's new government in Pakistan.

Pakistan's Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi has alleged that India's "domestic political and electoral compulsions" were behind New Delhi's reluctance to talk to Imran Khan's new government in Pakistan. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her counterpart Shah Mehmood Qureshi were slated to meet on the sidelines of the ongoing UN General Assembly session in New York. However, India called off the meeting last week, citing the brutal killings of three policemen in Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad releasing postage stamps "glorifying" terrorist Burhan Wani. "Why are they reluctant? Simply politics, elections...they are scared of the electorate. They have swung the pendulum to such an extreme (that), now they're finding it difficult to bring it back. And (with) the elections round the corner, they (Indian government) felt that it could boomerang," Mr Qureshi alleged in response to a question at an event organised by the Asia Society in New York. India has maintained that there can be no talks with Pakistan unless it stops supporting terrorists and terror outfits. On Thursday Sushma Swaraj left a meeting of the SAARC foreign ministers early. Her move was seen as a huge snub to Pakistan. The meeting was also being attended by the Pakistani foreign minister. Responding to a query about the incident, Qureshi termed it as "Politics, nothing else...domestic politics". Ahead of his meeting with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Tuesday, the Pakistani foreign minister said, "Today, India is a strategic partner of the US. We have no qualms about it. But we feel that Pakistan is an ally who has always stood with the US." Qureshi went on to say that "The Trump Administration will miss an opportunity if it does not engage with the new government of Pakistan." Qureshi also sought US intervention in the Indo-Pak talks. "If the US wants us to help, and we want to help in our own interest because we want peace in the region, then they (America) have to tell the new strategic partner (India) to give us ease on the eastern side so that we can concentrate on areas of mutual interest," he said. Pakistan has been consistently seeking US intervention in Indo-Pak talks. However, successive US governments have refused to entertain such a request asserting that it is for the two neighbours to decide on the pace and scope of the talks. India has also made it clear that no third party has any role in India-Pakistan relations.

India reluctant to talk because of 'domestic political compulsion': Pak

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met Swiss President Alain Berset here and discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual summit.

&quot;On reaching Davos, held talks with the President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr @alain_berset. We reviewed the scope of our bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to deepen it even further,&quot; Modi said in a tweet.

Berset said the discussions marked the meeting of the biggest and the oldest democracies in the world.

Thanking Modi, the Swiss President said he would continue to strengthen &quot;our relations&quot; with India.

&quot;First engagement in snowing #Davos, PM @narendramodi met with Swiss President @alain_berset. Two leaders had productive discussions on steps to further deepen our bilateral cooperation built upon our shared values of democracy and diversity. #IndiaMeansBusiness,&quot; an external affairs ministry spokesperson said in a tweet.

Sources said the two leaders are also believed to have discussed the progress on automatic exchange of tax information.

A legislation in this regard was passed by the Swiss Parliament, following which banks and financial institutions have begun collecting data for the first exchange that is to begin from next year.

Negotiations on EFTA (European Free Trade Association) trade pact and the bilateral investment protection agreement were also discussed, among various business and trade matters, they added.

Modi, who arrived at the ski-resort today, would be delivering the keynote address at the summit&#39;s plenary session today.&nbsp;

Berset said the discussions marked the meeting of the biggest and the oldest democracies in the world

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today met Swiss President Alain Berset here and discussed ways to deepen bilateral ties on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual summit. "On reaching Davos, held talks with the President of the Swiss Confederation, Mr @alain_berset. We reviewed the scope of our bilateral cooperation and discussed ways to deepen it even further," Modi said in a tweet. Berset said the discussions marked the meeting of the biggest and the oldest democracies in the world. Thanking Modi, the Swiss President said he would continue to strengthen "our relations" with India. "First engagement in snowing #Davos, PM @narendramodi met with Swiss President @alain_berset. Two leaders had productive discussions on steps to further deepen our bilateral cooperation built upon our shared values of democracy and diversity. #IndiaMeansBusiness," an external affairs ministry spokesperson said in a tweet. Sources said the two leaders are also believed to have discussed the progress on automatic exchange of tax information. A legislation in this regard was passed by the Swiss Parliament, following which banks and financial institutions have begun collecting data for the first exchange that is to begin from next year. Negotiations on EFTA (European Free Trade Association) trade pact and the bilateral investment protection agreement were also discussed, among various business and trade matters, they added. Modi, who arrived at the ski-resort today, would be delivering the keynote address at the summit's plenary session today.

At Davos, PM Modi and Swiss President discuss ways to deepen bilateral ties

China and Poland have agreed on Monday to upgrade their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership during Chinese President Xi Jinping&#39;s&nbsp;visit to the country.

The move was made as Xi met with Polish President Andrzej Duda, in a bid to further promote cooperation across the board and benefit the two peoples.

Xi said at the meeting that the two peoples have enjoyed lasting friendship since the two countries established diplomatic relations 67 years ago.

The two countries have borne fruitful results in high-level and people-to-people exchanges, and economic and trade cooperation, especially since they established a strategic partnership in 2011, said Xi.

He added that China has cherished the traditional friendship with Poland and stands ready to work with Poland to push forward the bilateral relations in a sound and steady way.

Xi also called for efforts to enhance mutual trust, align development strategies of the two countries and boost interconnectivity and production cooperation under the Belt and Road initiative.

Bilateral cooperation in economy and trade, finance, agriculture, science and technology should be promoted, according to Xi.

Hailing the bilateral ties, Duda said that Poland is willing to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the Sino-Polish comprehensive strategic partnership in various areas including the Belt and Road initiative, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and people-to-people exchanges.

A joint statement on the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership was inked after the meeting, as well as a memorandum of understanding on a bilateral cooperation blueprint.

Poland is the second leg of Xi&#39;s Eurasia tour. Before visiting Poland, Xi visited Serbia from June 17 to June 19.

After visiting Poland, Xi will travel to Uzbekistan for a state visit and attend a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. 
 
(Reuters)

A bunch of cooperation agreements signed covering various aspects, including infrastructure construction, education, culture and aerospace

China and Poland have agreed on Monday to upgrade their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership during Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to the country. The move was made as Xi met with Polish President Andrzej Duda, in a bid to further promote cooperation across the board and benefit the two peoples. Xi said at the meeting that the two peoples have enjoyed lasting friendship since the two countries established diplomatic relations 67 years ago. The two countries have borne fruitful results in high-level and people-to-people exchanges, and economic and trade cooperation, especially since they established a strategic partnership in 2011, said Xi. He added that China has cherished the traditional friendship with Poland and stands ready to work with Poland to push forward the bilateral relations in a sound and steady way. Xi also called for efforts to enhance mutual trust, align development strategies of the two countries and boost interconnectivity and production cooperation under the Belt and Road initiative. Bilateral cooperation in economy and trade, finance, agriculture, science and technology should be promoted, according to Xi. Hailing the bilateral ties, Duda said that Poland is willing to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the Sino-Polish comprehensive strategic partnership in various areas including the Belt and Road initiative, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, and people-to-people exchanges. A joint statement on the establishment of a comprehensive strategic partnership was inked after the meeting, as well as a memorandum of understanding on a bilateral cooperation blueprint. Poland is the second leg of Xi's Eurasia tour. Before visiting Poland, Xi visited Serbia from June 17 to June 19. After visiting Poland, Xi will travel to Uzbekistan for a state visit and attend a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. (Reuters)

China, Poland to lift ties to comprehensive strategic partnership

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