India expelled a Pakistani diplomat from the Pakistan High Commission, accusing them of espionage activities inconsistent with their official status, and gave them 24 hours to leave. In response, Pakistan declared an Indian staffer in Islamabad persona non grata on similar espionage charges, effectively expelling them.

India expels Pakistani diplomat for espionage, Pakistan retaliates

India has taken prompt action against the Pahalgam terror attack, that killed at least 27 on Tuesday, as it announced to halt the Indus Water Treaty temporarily, along with other stern actions.&nbsp;
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday made announcements based on the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting, recognising the "seriousness of this terrorist attack".
<h2>Indus Water Treaty held in 'abeyance'</h2>
He announced that the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 will be held in 'abeyance' with immediate effect until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism.&nbsp;
He further said that the Wagha Attari border was to be closed with immediate effect. "The Integrated Check Post Attari will be closed with immediate effect," Misri said.
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pahalgam-terror-attack-jharkhand-man-arrested-for-posting-thank-you-pakistan-lashkar-e-taiba-on-social-media-8994752">Pahalgam terror attack: Jharkhand man arrested for posting &lsquo;Thank you Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Taiba&rsquo; on social media</a>
"Those who have crossed over with valid endorsements may return through that route before May 1, 2025," he added.&nbsp;
The MEA further announced to shut down the integrity check post starting immediately.&nbsp;
<h2>Pak nationals prohibited to visit India</h2>
The foreign secretary said that Pakistan nationals will not be permitted to visit India under the SAARC visa Exemption scheme.
"Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas. Any SVES visas issued in the past to Pakistani nationals are deemed cancelled," he announced during the MEA briefing.&nbsp;
Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trf-not-only-one-list-of-terror-groups-affiliated-to-pakistan-based-lashkar-and-jaish-that-are-active-in-jk-8993360">TRF not the only one: List of terror groups affiliated to Pakistan-based Lashkar and Jaish that are active in J&amp;K post 2019</a>
<h2>'Persona non grata'</h2>
The defence, military, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi are declared persona non grata and they would have to leave India in a week, Misri announced.&nbsp;
India will be withdrawing its own Defence, Navy and Air advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. These posts in the respective High Commissions are deemed annulled," he said.
Moreover, the overall strength of the High Commissions will be brought down to 30 from the present 55 through further reductions, to be effected from May 1, 2025.&nbsp;
Read more: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trf-not-only-one-list-of-terror-groups-affiliated-to-pakistan-based-lashkar-and-jaish-that-are-active-in-jk-8993360">TRF not the only one: List of terror groups affiliated to Pakistan-based Lashkar and Jaish that are active in J&amp;K post 2019</a>
This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of CCS, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar over the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam.
PM Modi also held security review meetings after arriving in India from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night.&nbsp;
However, Pakistan&rsquo;s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday said that their country has nothing to do with the Pahalgam terror attack.
&ldquo;Pakistan has no link with the Pahalgam terror attack," claiming that it was a reaction by those who opposed the Indian government, citing unrest in regions like Nagaland, Kashmir, and Manipur," he said.&nbsp;
Describing the attack as "homegrown," he said, "The central government in India is facing protests in many states, including Nagaland, Manipur, Kashmir, and Chhattisgarh. This is home-grown as the government is exploiting many."
&ldquo;However, if local forces are targeting the Indian government, it becomes easy to target Pakistan," Asif asserted.
WATCH | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pahalgam-attack-anger-on-kashmirs-streets-locals-urge-for-national-unity-against-terrorism-8994912">Pahalgam attack: Anger on Kashmir's streets, locals urge for national unity against terrorism</a>
&nbsp;

India's Foreign Secretary made announcements based on the Cabinet Committee on Security meeting, recognising the "seriousness of the terror attack". India news | Pakistan

India has taken prompt action against the Pahalgam terror attack, that killed at least 27 on Tuesday, as it announced to halt the Indus Water Treaty temporarily, along with other stern actions. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri on Wednesday made announcements based on the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting, recognising the "seriousness of this terrorist attack". Indus Water Treaty held in 'abeyance' He announced that the Indus Water Treaty of 1960 will be held in 'abeyance' with immediate effect until Pakistan credibly and irrevocably abjures its support for cross-border terrorism. He further said that the Wagha Attari border was to be closed with immediate effect. "The Integrated Check Post Attari will be closed with immediate effect," Misri said. Also read: Pahalgam terror attack: Jharkhand man arrested for posting ‘Thank you Pakistan, Lashkar-e-Taiba’ on social media "Those who have crossed over with valid endorsements may return through that route before May 1, 2025," he added. The MEA further announced to shut down the integrity check post starting immediately. Pak nationals prohibited to visit India The foreign secretary said that Pakistan nationals will not be permitted to visit India under the SAARC visa Exemption scheme. "Pakistani nationals will not be permitted to travel to India under the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) visas. Any SVES visas issued in the past to Pakistani nationals are deemed cancelled," he announced during the MEA briefing. Also read: TRF not the only one: List of terror groups affiliated to Pakistan-based Lashkar and Jaish that are active in J&K post 2019 'Persona non grata' The defence, military, naval, and air advisors in New Delhi are declared persona non grata and they would have to leave India in a week, Misri announced. India will be withdrawing its own Defence, Navy and Air advisors from the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. These posts in the respective High Commissions are deemed annulled," he said. Moreover, the overall strength of the High Commissions will be brought down to 30 from the present 55 through further reductions, to be effected from May 1, 2025. Read more: TRF not the only one: List of terror groups affiliated to Pakistan-based Lashkar and Jaish that are active in J&K post 2019 This comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of CCS, with Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar over the deadly terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam. PM Modi also held security review meetings after arriving in India from Saudi Arabia on Tuesday night. However, Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Wednesday said that their country has nothing to do with the Pahalgam terror attack. “Pakistan has no link with the Pahalgam terror attack," claiming that it was a reaction by those who opposed the Indian government, citing unrest in regions like Nagaland, Kashmir, and Manipur," he said. Describing the attack as "homegrown," he said, "The central government in India is facing protests in many states, including Nagaland, Manipur, Kashmir, and Chhattisgarh. This is home-grown as the government is exploiting many." “However, if local forces are targeting the Indian government, it becomes easy to target Pakistan," Asif asserted. WATCH | Pahalgam attack: Anger on Kashmir's streets, locals urge for national unity against terrorism

India's BIG action after Pahalgam attack: Indus treaty halted, diplomats expelled, Pakistanis stopped from entering India

Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage.

"China strongly condemns and firmly rejects this wanton and provocative action," a foreign ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

"China calls on Lithuania to immediately stop undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stop creating difficulty for bilateral relations," they added.

Two Baltic Sea telecommunications cables were severed last month in Swedish territorial waters, including one running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/lithuania-kicks-out-three-chinese-embassy-staff-amidst-tensions-over-taiwan-780353">Also read:&nbsp;Lithuania kicks out three Chinese embassy staff amidst tensions over Taiwan</a>

Suspicions have been directed at a Chinese ship -- the Yi Peng 3 -- which tracking sites said had sailed over the cables around the time they were cut.

On Friday, Lithuania's foreign ministry said three Chinese staff members "have been declared undesirable in the country".

The ministry did not give the precise reasons for the expulsion, citing only "activities which violate the Vienna Convention and the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania".

On Wednesday, Lithuania said it was setting up a joint team with Sweden and Finland to investigate the damaged cables, with the support of Eurojust, the European Union's agency for criminal justice cooperation.

China has denied any responsibility in the matter and said Friday it was "willing to work" with a probe.

Ties between Vilnius and Beijing had already been tense after Lithuania in 2021 allowed Taiwan to open a de facto embassy under the island's name.

Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, on Monday accused Vilnius of "acting in serious violation of the one-China principle".

"This has caused severe difficulty for bilateral ties," the spokesperson said.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION&nbsp;audience.

Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage.

Beijing warned Monday it could take "countermeasures" against Lithuania after the expulsion of three Chinese embassy staff, as relations fray over Vilnius's Taiwan ties and the suspected involvement of a Chinese ship in sea cables damage. "China strongly condemns and firmly rejects this wanton and provocative action," a foreign ministry spokesperson said in a statement. "China calls on Lithuania to immediately stop undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity, and stop creating difficulty for bilateral relations," they added. Two Baltic Sea telecommunications cables were severed last month in Swedish territorial waters, including one running from the Swedish island of Gotland to Lithuania. Also read: Lithuania kicks out three Chinese embassy staff amidst tensions over Taiwan Suspicions have been directed at a Chinese ship -- the Yi Peng 3 -- which tracking sites said had sailed over the cables around the time they were cut. On Friday, Lithuania's foreign ministry said three Chinese staff members "have been declared undesirable in the country". The ministry did not give the precise reasons for the expulsion, citing only "activities which violate the Vienna Convention and the legislation of the Republic of Lithuania". On Wednesday, Lithuania said it was setting up a joint team with Sweden and Finland to investigate the damaged cables, with the support of Eurojust, the European Union's agency for criminal justice cooperation. China has denied any responsibility in the matter and said Friday it was "willing to work" with a probe. Ties between Vilnius and Beijing had already been tense after Lithuania in 2021 allowed Taiwan to open a de facto embassy under the island's name. Beijing, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, on Monday accused Vilnius of "acting in serious violation of the one-China principle". "This has caused severe difficulty for bilateral ties," the spokesperson said. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

China warns retaliation after Lithuania expels three embassy staffers, says could take 'countermeasures'

Amid the ongoing India-Canada row, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)&nbsp;on Thursday (Oct 17) reiterated that after putting "serious allegations" on India for its role in the death of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Ottawa&nbsp;has not given any evidence so far to prove it.&nbsp;

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday admitted that his&nbsp;government did not have any hard evidence while alleging that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Nijjar.&nbsp;

MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing a weekly briefing, emphasised that India has made its position "very clear".&nbsp;

"You would have seen that several press releases have been issued in the last two days putting out our position, which we are very clear that since September of 2023, the Canadian government has not shared any shred of information with us. Yesterday, again, after the public, public hearing, we had again issued a statement saying that Canada has leveled serious allegations, but has so far not given any evidence to cut it up," he said.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/justin-trudeau-admits-having-no-hard-proof-when-indian-confronted-about-nijjar-killing-768123">Also read:&nbsp;Justin Trudeau admits Canada had no ‘hard proof’ of India’s role in Nijjar killing, only ‘intel’</a>

He further denied the reports that Ottawa&nbsp;had expelled six Indian diplomats, adding that New Delhi acted first. "We have withdrawn our diplomats before Canada took any step," Jaiswal said. "We reject false implications against our diplomats. Canada has not shared any evidence with us."

The MEA spokesperson further stressed that till date, 26 extradition requests have been made by India to Canada for wanted criminals, however, no action has been taken.&nbsp;

"We have asked Canada and given them identities of people of Lawrence Bishnoi Gang. RCMP blaming us is a contradiction," he said.&nbsp;

Highlighting the attack on Canadian journalists of Indian origin, Randhir Jaiswal said that these are clear examples of "intimidations", adding that shifting the blame to India does not work.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;India-Canada Row: Five Eyes Allies Senda Support To Canada, 'Serious Allegations'&nbsp;

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"These are clear examples of intimidation and violence by those who openly espouse extremist and separatist ideology. It is also an example, or these are also examples of what afflicts Canada today and which reveals the sources of violence. Shifting the blame to India does not work anyhow," the MEA spokesperson said.&nbsp;

In a late night statement on Wednesday, the Indian foreign affairs ministry called out Trudeau’s "cavalier attitude", adding, “What we have heard today only confirms what we have been saying consistently all along — Canada has presented us (India) no evidence whatsoever in support of the serious allegations that it has chosen to level against India and Indian diplomats."

Moreover, New Delhi also held Trudeau responsible for severed diplomatic ties between the two nations.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Amid the ongoing India-Canada row, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (Oct 17) reiterated that after putting "serious allegations" on India for its role in the death of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Ottawa has not given any evidence so far to prove it.

Amid the ongoing India-Canada row, India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Thursday (Oct 17) reiterated that after putting "serious allegations" on India for its role in the death of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Ottawa has not given any evidence so far to prove it. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday admitted that his government did not have any hard evidence while alleging that the Indian government was involved in the killing of Nijjar. MEA Spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal, while addressing a weekly briefing, emphasised that India has made its position "very clear". "You would have seen that several press releases have been issued in the last two days putting out our position, which we are very clear that since September of 2023, the Canadian government has not shared any shred of information with us. Yesterday, again, after the public, public hearing, we had again issued a statement saying that Canada has leveled serious allegations, but has so far not given any evidence to cut it up," he said. Also read: Justin Trudeau admits Canada had no ‘hard proof’ of India’s role in Nijjar killing, only ‘intel’ He further denied the reports that Ottawa had expelled six Indian diplomats, adding that New Delhi acted first. "We have withdrawn our diplomats before Canada took any step," Jaiswal said. "We reject false implications against our diplomats. Canada has not shared any evidence with us." The MEA spokesperson further stressed that till date, 26 extradition requests have been made by India to Canada for wanted criminals, however, no action has been taken. "We have asked Canada and given them identities of people of Lawrence Bishnoi Gang. RCMP blaming us is a contradiction," he said. Highlighting the attack on Canadian journalists of Indian origin, Randhir Jaiswal said that these are clear examples of "intimidations", adding that shifting the blame to India does not work. Watch | India-Canada Row: Five Eyes Allies Senda Support To Canada, 'Serious Allegations' × "These are clear examples of intimidation and violence by those who openly espouse extremist and separatist ideology. It is also an example, or these are also examples of what afflicts Canada today and which reveals the sources of violence. Shifting the blame to India does not work anyhow," the MEA spokesperson said. In a late night statement on Wednesday, the Indian foreign affairs ministry called out Trudeau’s "cavalier attitude", adding, “What we have heard today only confirms what we have been saying consistently all along — Canada has presented us (India) no evidence whatsoever in support of the serious allegations that it has chosen to level against India and Indian diplomats." Moreover, New Delhi also held Trudeau responsible for severed diplomatic ties between the two nations. (With inputs from agencies)

'False implications': MEA denies Canada expelled envoys, says India pulled its diplomats first

In Pics | CM Yogi Adityanath celebrates Dev Deepawali with various diplomats and ambassadors at Varanasi

India has called on Canada to prevent misuse of freedom of expression, disallow activities&nbsp;of groups promoting extremism, prevent attacks on places of worship of religious&nbsp;minorities, and work to address hate crime in the country.&nbsp;

This comes during a meeting in Geneva in November where Canada’s human rights record were examined for the fourth time by the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group.&nbsp;

The UPR Working Group, which carries out a regular assessment of the human rights records of all UN Member&nbsp;States, consists of 47 member states of the UN Human Rights Council. However, when it comes to reviewing human rights records for any country, each one of the 193 UN Member States can participate.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jewish-school-in-canadas-montreal-targeted-by-gunfire-for-second-time-in-a-week-657922">Jewish school in Canada’s Montreal targeted by gunfire for second time in a week</a>

With diplomatic relations between India and Canada at an all-time low, Indian diplomat Mohammed Hussain, in his remarks at the council, urged Canada to “further strengthen the domestic framework to prevent misuse of freedom of expression for inciting violence and disallow activities of groups which are promoting extremism."&nbsp;

New Delhi at the UN also asked Canada to “effectively prevent attacks on places of worships of religious and racial minorities” as well as&nbsp;“strengthen legislative and other measures to address hate crimes and hate speech”.

Moreover, India took the opportunity to also direct Canada to stand up for indigenous rights and stop any discrimination against the community.&nbsp;“Put an end to structural discrimination against children belonging to indigenous groups. And address disparities in access to services by all children,” the Indian diplomat added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hostage-negotiations-in-flux-netanyahu-signals-potential-deal-while-hamas-announces-suspension-of-talks-657915">Hostage negotiations in flux: Netanyahu signals potential deal, while Hamas announces suspension of talks</a>

In the session, a total of 14 countries were reviewed and the delegation of Canada was led by Minister of Justice and Attorney General Arif Virani.

<h2>India-Canada row worsens&nbsp;</h2>

This comes as Canada continues with its inaction on Khalistani terrorists brewing on its soil, with the latest being a threat issue against an Indian airline by Sikh for Justice's Gurpatwant Singh Pannun.

After Canada's "baseless" and unprecedented accusations against India in connection to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was gunned down outside a Gurdwara in Canada in June,&nbsp;Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma also took a swipe at the country.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-latest-on-ground-update-from-gaza-strip-657906">Israel-Hamas war: Latest on ground update from Gaza strip</a>

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Raising questions over Canada's grave allegations, he urged the nation to show evidence against India proving it is involved in the Nijjar's killing. In an interview with Canadian platform The Globe and Mail on Friday (Nov 3), Verma said, "There is no specific or relevant information provided in this case for us to assist them in the investigation."

(With inputs from agencies)

India has called on Canada to prevent misuse of freedom of expression, disallow activities of groups promoting extremism, prevent attacks on places of worship of religious minorities, and work to address hate crime in the country.

India has called on Canada to prevent misuse of freedom of expression, disallow activities of groups promoting extremism, prevent attacks on places of worship of religious minorities, and work to address hate crime in the country. This comes during a meeting in Geneva in November where Canada’s human rights record were examined for the fourth time by the United Nations Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR) Working Group. The UPR Working Group, which carries out a regular assessment of the human rights records of all UN Member States, consists of 47 member states of the UN Human Rights Council. However, when it comes to reviewing human rights records for any country, each one of the 193 UN Member States can participate. Also Read | Jewish school in Canada’s Montreal targeted by gunfire for second time in a week With diplomatic relations between India and Canada at an all-time low, Indian diplomat Mohammed Hussain, in his remarks at the council, urged Canada to “further strengthen the domestic framework to prevent misuse of freedom of expression for inciting violence and disallow activities of groups which are promoting extremism." New Delhi at the UN also asked Canada to “effectively prevent attacks on places of worships of religious and racial minorities” as well as “strengthen legislative and other measures to address hate crimes and hate speech”. Moreover, India took the opportunity to also direct Canada to stand up for indigenous rights and stop any discrimination against the community. “Put an end to structural discrimination against children belonging to indigenous groups. And address disparities in access to services by all children,” the Indian diplomat added. Also Read | Hostage negotiations in flux: Netanyahu signals potential deal, while Hamas announces suspension of talks In the session, a total of 14 countries were reviewed and the delegation of Canada was led by Minister of Justice and Attorney General Arif Virani. India-Canada row worsens This comes as Canada continues with its inaction on Khalistani terrorists brewing on its soil, with the latest being a threat issue against an Indian airline by Sikh for Justice's Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. After Canada's "baseless" and unprecedented accusations against India in connection to Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was gunned down outside a Gurdwara in Canada in June, Indian High Commissioner to Canada Sanjay Kumar Verma also took a swipe at the country. Watch | Israel-Hamas war: Latest on ground update from Gaza strip × Raising questions over Canada's grave allegations, he urged the nation to show evidence against India proving it is involved in the Nijjar's killing. In an interview with Canadian platform The Globe and Mail on Friday (Nov 3), Verma said, "There is no specific or relevant information provided in this case for us to assist them in the investigation." (With inputs from agencies)

India at UN urges Canada to take action against 'extremism', 'misuse' of freedom of expression

South Africa on Monday (Nov 6) announced that it would recall its diplomats from Israel in a bid to express concerns over the upsurge of violence in the West Bank.

"The South African government has decided to withdraw all its diplomats in Tel Aviv for consultation," Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, a minister in the president's office, told a press briefing without providing further details.

The South African government also said that the position of the Israeli ambassador to the country was becoming "more and more untenable", condemning the diplomat for making "disparaging remarks" about people denouncing Israel.&nbsp;

South Africa has been an advocate for peace in the Middle East and has also strongly supported the Palestinian cause, linking it to its struggle against apartheid.

<h2>Recalling of diplomats, normal practice:&nbsp;Foreign Minister</h2>

Dubbing the return of diplomats a 'normal practice', Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor stated that the recall was to determine "whether there is any potential for you to be of assistance and whether the continued relationship is actually able to be sustained in all terms."

"We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of the response by Israel has become one of collective punishment," Pandor told a press conference on Monday, as she hosted her Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba.

"We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation (of hostilities)."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/antony-blinken-meets-turkish-counterpart-hakan-fidan-discusses-efforts-to-expand-aid-in-gaza-655824">Blinken meets Turkish FM Fidan, discusses efforts to expand aid in Gaza</a>

Earlier, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni had accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky, of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including members of government, "who are speaking against the holocaust being committed by the Israeli government".

She said that the foreign ministry had been instructed "to convey the South African government's displeasure with the ambassador" through diplomatic channels.

"We felt it important that we should call the ambassador in," added Pandor.

"There seems to be a strange practice among some ambassadors in South Africa, that they can just say what they like... I don't know if it's because it's an African country and they disrespect us but it's something that we should not tolerate."

(With inputs from agencies)

South Africa on Monday (Nov 6) announced that it would recall its diplomats from Israel in a bid to express concerns over the upsurge of violence in the West Bank.

South Africa on Monday (Nov 6) announced that it would recall its diplomats from Israel in a bid to express concerns over the upsurge of violence in the West Bank. "The South African government has decided to withdraw all its diplomats in Tel Aviv for consultation," Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, a minister in the president's office, told a press briefing without providing further details. The South African government also said that the position of the Israeli ambassador to the country was becoming "more and more untenable", condemning the diplomat for making "disparaging remarks" about people denouncing Israel. South Africa has been an advocate for peace in the Middle East and has also strongly supported the Palestinian cause, linking it to its struggle against apartheid. Recalling of diplomats, normal practice: Foreign Minister Dubbing the return of diplomats a 'normal practice', Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor stated that the recall was to determine "whether there is any potential for you to be of assistance and whether the continued relationship is actually able to be sustained in all terms." "We are... extremely concerned at the continued killing of children and innocent civilians in the Palestinian territories and we believe the nature of the response by Israel has become one of collective punishment," Pandor told a press conference on Monday, as she hosted her Ukrainian counterpart Dmytro Kuleba. "We felt it important that we do signal the concern of South Africa while continuing to call for a comprehensive cessation (of hostilities)." Also read: Blinken meets Turkish FM Fidan, discusses efforts to expand aid in Gaza Earlier, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni had accused Israeli ambassador Eliav Belotsercovsky, of making derogatory remarks about South Africans, including members of government, "who are speaking against the holocaust being committed by the Israeli government". She said that the foreign ministry had been instructed "to convey the South African government's displeasure with the ambassador" through diplomatic channels. "We felt it important that we should call the ambassador in," added Pandor. "There seems to be a strange practice among some ambassadors in South Africa, that they can just say what they like... I don't know if it's because it's an African country and they disrespect us but it's something that we should not tolerate." (With inputs from agencies)

South Africa recalls diplomats from Israel, to assess relationship with country

Canada's Conservative Party leader and main rival to Justin Trudeau in the upcoming elections, Pierre Poilievre, has opened salvos at the Canadian prime minister&nbsp;stating that he has made himself a "laughing stock" in India. This comes after Trudeau and Canada's foreign minister gave a sequence of unwelcomed remarks accusing India of breaking international norms shortly after 41 Canadian diplomats left India following the diplomatic row over Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing.&nbsp;

In an interview with Nepal's Namaste Radio Toronto, Poilievre criticised the current state of the Canada-India relationship, blaming Trudeau for what he termed "incompetence and unprofessionalism." He also pledged to restore a "professional relationship" with India if his party were to assume power.

Poilievre lamented the deteriorating relations between the two nations, especially in the wake of the withdrawal of Canadian diplomats.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/invoked-diplomatic-parity-with-canada-because-jaishankar-on-withdrawal-of-canadian-diplomats-from-india-649985">'Invoked diplomatic parity with Canada because...': MEA S Jaishankar</a>

“Justin Trudeau is considered a laughing stock in India – the world’s biggest democracy,”&nbsp;Poilievre said and added,&nbsp;“This is another example of how Justin Trudeau is not worth the cost after eight long years."&nbsp;

“He has turned Canadians against each other at home and he has blown up our relations abroad,"&nbsp;the leader of the opposition in Canada said, adding,&nbsp;“He is so incompetent and unprofessional that now we are in major disputes with every major power in the world, and that includes India."&nbsp;

“We need a professional relationship with the Indian government. India is the largest democracy on Earth and it’s fine to have our disagreements and hold each other accountable, but we have to have a professional relationship and that is what I will restore when I am prime minister of this country,” he continued.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ripple-effects-of-israel-hamas-war-unclear-jaishankar-at-kautilya-economic-conclave-2023-649934">'Ripple effects' of Israel-Hamas war not entirely clear now: Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave 2023</a>

Poilievre also criticised various aspects of Trudeau's foreign policy, asserting that the Canadian prime minister allowed President Joe Biden to take advantage of him and accused China of interfering in Canadian democracy.

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-palestine-war-hope-rises-among-kin-of-hostages-649904">Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages</a>

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“After eight years of Trudeau, our reputation is in tatters. Beijing is interfering in our country, opening police stations in Canada to abuse our people," he said, adding, “President Biden is walking all over Trudeau and treating him like a doormat and slapping him around like a rag doll."

(With inputs from agencies)

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Canada's Conservative Party leader and main rival to Justin Trudeau in the upcoming elections, Pierre Poilievre, has opened salvos at the Canadian prime minister stating that he has made himself a "laughing stock" in India.

Canada's Conservative Party leader and main rival to Justin Trudeau in the upcoming elections, Pierre Poilievre, has opened salvos at the Canadian prime minister stating that he has made himself a "laughing stock" in India. This comes after Trudeau and Canada's foreign minister gave a sequence of unwelcomed remarks accusing India of breaking international norms shortly after 41 Canadian diplomats left India following the diplomatic row over Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. In an interview with Nepal's Namaste Radio Toronto, Poilievre criticised the current state of the Canada-India relationship, blaming Trudeau for what he termed "incompetence and unprofessionalism." He also pledged to restore a "professional relationship" with India if his party were to assume power. Poilievre lamented the deteriorating relations between the two nations, especially in the wake of the withdrawal of Canadian diplomats. Also Read | 'Invoked diplomatic parity with Canada because...': MEA S Jaishankar “Justin Trudeau is considered a laughing stock in India – the world’s biggest democracy,” Poilievre said and added, “This is another example of how Justin Trudeau is not worth the cost after eight long years." “He has turned Canadians against each other at home and he has blown up our relations abroad," the leader of the opposition in Canada said, adding, “He is so incompetent and unprofessional that now we are in major disputes with every major power in the world, and that includes India." “We need a professional relationship with the Indian government. India is the largest democracy on Earth and it’s fine to have our disagreements and hold each other accountable, but we have to have a professional relationship and that is what I will restore when I am prime minister of this country,” he continued. Also Read | 'Ripple effects' of Israel-Hamas war not entirely clear now: Jaishankar at Kautilya Economic Conclave 2023 Poilievre also criticised various aspects of Trudeau's foreign policy, asserting that the Canadian prime minister allowed President Joe Biden to take advantage of him and accused China of interfering in Canadian democracy. Watch | Israel-Palestine war: Hope rises among kin of hostages × “After eight years of Trudeau, our reputation is in tatters. Beijing is interfering in our country, opening police stations in Canada to abuse our people," he said, adding, “President Biden is walking all over Trudeau and treating him like a doormat and slapping him around like a rag doll." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Laughing stock, unprofessional...' Trudeau's political opponent fires salvos at him over row with India

In a diplomatic tit-for-tat move, the United States announced on Friday (Oct 6), that it had expelled two Russian embassy officials from the country. This move came in direct response to Russia's prior expulsion of two US diplomats from the American embassy in Moscow. The decision to expel Russian embassy officials is part of a broader pattern of diplomatic tension and strained relations between the two countries against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war.

"In response to the Russian Federation's specious expulsion of two U.S. Embassy Moscow diplomats, the State Department reciprocated by declaring persona non grata two Russian Embassy officials operating in the United States," a US State Department spokesman said.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ecuador-six-inmates-killed-in-guayaquil-prison-as-unrest-continues-643515">Ecuador: 6 inmates linked to murder of presidential candidate killed in prison</a>

"The Department will not tolerate the Russian government's pattern of harassment of our diplomats," the spokesman said and added that "unacceptable actions against our Embassy personnel in Moscow will have consequences."

According to an anonymous source within the Russian foreign ministry cited by Russia's RIA news agency, the expulsion was termed unjustified. The source&nbsp;asserted that Washington had leveraged Moscow's prior expulsion of two US diplomats, who were allegedly "caught red-handed engaging in spying activities", as a pretext for their own retaliatory action.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sikkim-flash-floods-53-killed-27-bodies-recovered-in-teesta-river-643539">Sikkim flash floods: 53 killed, 27 bodies recovered from Teesta river</a>

"We are not interested in escalation, but if such hostile actions continue, as always, we will respond firmly and decisively," RIA said while quoting the source.

The Russian government on Thursday (September 14) said it was expelling two US diplomats on accusations of collaborating with a spy. According to the Kremlin, the two diplomats had maintained contact with a Russian national who worked for the US Mission and had been accused of being an 'informant'.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/moldovan-president-says-russias-wagner-head-plotted-coup-against-her-643567">Moldovan President says Russia's Wagner head plotted coup against her</a>

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The Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement informed it had summoned US envoy Lynne Tracy, instructing her that embassy First Secretary Jeffrey Sillin and Second Secretary David Bernstein must leave the country within seven days.

Sillin and Bernstein were accused of having conducted "illegal activities by liaising with a Russian citizen, (Robert) Shonov". "It was also emphasised (to Tracy) that illegal activities of the US diplomatic mission, including interference in the internal affairs of the host country, are unacceptable and will be resolutely suppressed," it said.&nbsp;

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In a diplomatic tit-for-tat move, the United States announced on Friday (Oct 6), that it had expelled two Russian embassy officials from the country. This move came in direct response to Russia's prior expulsion of two US diplomats from the American embassy in Moscow.

In a diplomatic tit-for-tat move, the United States announced on Friday (Oct 6), that it had expelled two Russian embassy officials from the country. This move came in direct response to Russia's prior expulsion of two US diplomats from the American embassy in Moscow. The decision to expel Russian embassy officials is part of a broader pattern of diplomatic tension and strained relations between the two countries against the backdrop of the Russia-Ukraine war. "In response to the Russian Federation's specious expulsion of two U.S. Embassy Moscow diplomats, the State Department reciprocated by declaring persona non grata two Russian Embassy officials operating in the United States," a US State Department spokesman said. Also Read | Ecuador: 6 inmates linked to murder of presidential candidate killed in prison "The Department will not tolerate the Russian government's pattern of harassment of our diplomats," the spokesman said and added that "unacceptable actions against our Embassy personnel in Moscow will have consequences." According to an anonymous source within the Russian foreign ministry cited by Russia's RIA news agency, the expulsion was termed unjustified. The source asserted that Washington had leveraged Moscow's prior expulsion of two US diplomats, who were allegedly "caught red-handed engaging in spying activities", as a pretext for their own retaliatory action. Also Read | Sikkim flash floods: 53 killed, 27 bodies recovered from Teesta river "We are not interested in escalation, but if such hostile actions continue, as always, we will respond firmly and decisively," RIA said while quoting the source. The Russian government on Thursday (September 14) said it was expelling two US diplomats on accusations of collaborating with a spy. According to the Kremlin, the two diplomats had maintained contact with a Russian national who worked for the US Mission and had been accused of being an 'informant'. Watch | Moldovan President says Russia's Wagner head plotted coup against her × The Russian Foreign Ministry in a statement informed it had summoned US envoy Lynne Tracy, instructing her that embassy First Secretary Jeffrey Sillin and Second Secretary David Bernstein must leave the country within seven days. Sillin and Bernstein were accused of having conducted "illegal activities by liaising with a Russian citizen, (Robert) Shonov". "It was also emphasised (to Tracy) that illegal activities of the US diplomatic mission, including interference in the internal affairs of the host country, are unacceptable and will be resolutely suppressed," it said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

Diplomatic tit-for-tat: US expels Russian embassy officials after similar move by Moscow

Days after India asked Canada to withdraw at least 41 diplomats from New Delhi by October 10 so that parity can be achieved in the number of diplomatic staff present in each country, Ottawa evacuated its diplomatic staff from its High Commission in India and shifted them to Southeast Asia, as per a media report.<o:p></o:p>

Canada’s 62 diplomats were working in its High Commission in India before the evacuation.<o:p></o:p>

The CTV report stated that the majority of its diplomatic staff have been evacuated from India and shifted to either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). However, there was no official word on the evacuation of the diplomats from New Delhi.<o:p></o:p>

The media report came days after Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly claimed that the government was diplomatically engaged with India over the topic of staff reduction.

<o:p>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</o:p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-tells-canada-to-repatriate-41-envoys-by-oct-10-issues-warning-report-642030">India warns Canada to repatriate 41 envoys by Oct 10, or else...: Report</a>

“We are in contact with the government of India. We take Canadian diplomats’ safety very seriously, and we will continue to engage privately because we think that diplomatic conversations are best when they remain private,” Joly&nbsp;had stated.<o:p></o:p>

In the wake of deteriorating bilateral ties, Canada was asked by India to withdraw its 41 diplomats from New Delhi by October 10 and added that if they failed to comply with the given deadline, the officials would lose their diplomatic immunity.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">India seeks parity in diplomatic presence<o:p></o:p></h2>

Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Ministry on Thursday (Oct 5) said that they have sought a parity in diplomatic presence.<o:p></o:p>

"On discussions on parity, given the much higher presence of diplomats or diplomatic presence here and their interference in our internal matters, we have sought parity in our respective diplomatic presence," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi,&nbsp;while speaking to media persons in response to a question over the issue.<o:p></o:p>

He further stated that discussions were ongoing to achieve parity. "Given that Canadian diplomatic presence is higher, we would assume that there would be a reduction," he stated.

WATCH |&nbsp;India-Canada row: Canada tones down on Nijjar killing row | WION

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The diplomatic relations between India and Canada hit an all-time low last month after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian intelligence agents in the murder of Sikh pro-Khalistan hardliner Hardeep Singh Nijjar.&nbsp;After the allegations of Trudeau, the countries expelled each other’s diplomats. The allegations of Canada were also termed by India as "absurd" and “politically driven”.

<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from agencies)

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Days after India asked Canada to withdraw at least 41 diplomats from New Delhi by October 10 so that parity can be achieved in the number of diplomatic staff present in each country, Ottawa evacuated its diplomatic staff from its High Commission in India and shifted them to Southeast Asia, as per a media report.

Days after India asked Canada to withdraw at least 41 diplomats from New Delhi by October 10 so that parity can be achieved in the number of diplomatic staff present in each country, Ottawa evacuated its diplomatic staff from its High Commission in India and shifted them to Southeast Asia, as per a media report. Canada’s 62 diplomats were working in its High Commission in India before the evacuation. The CTV report stated that the majority of its diplomatic staff have been evacuated from India and shifted to either Singapore or Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). However, there was no official word on the evacuation of the diplomats from New Delhi. The media report came days after Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly claimed that the government was diplomatically engaged with India over the topic of staff reduction. ALSO READ | India warns Canada to repatriate 41 envoys by Oct 10, or else...: Report “We are in contact with the government of India. We take Canadian diplomats’ safety very seriously, and we will continue to engage privately because we think that diplomatic conversations are best when they remain private,” Joly had stated. In the wake of deteriorating bilateral ties, Canada was asked by India to withdraw its 41 diplomats from New Delhi by October 10 and added that if they failed to comply with the given deadline, the officials would lose their diplomatic immunity. India seeks parity in diplomatic presence Meanwhile, India’s External Affairs Ministry on Thursday (Oct 5) said that they have sought a parity in diplomatic presence. "On discussions on parity, given the much higher presence of diplomats or diplomatic presence here and their interference in our internal matters, we have sought parity in our respective diplomatic presence," said External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, while speaking to media persons in response to a question over the issue. He further stated that discussions were ongoing to achieve parity. "Given that Canadian diplomatic presence is higher, we would assume that there would be a reduction," he stated. WATCH | India-Canada row: Canada tones down on Nijjar killing row | WION The diplomatic relations between India and Canada hit an all-time low last month after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian intelligence agents in the murder of Sikh pro-Khalistan hardliner Hardeep Singh Nijjar. After the allegations of Trudeau, the countries expelled each other’s diplomats. The allegations of Canada were also termed by India as "absurd" and “politically driven”. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Nijjar row: Canada evacuates diplomats from India, moves them to Singapore, Malaysia

Tensions are on the rise in Eastern Europe Moldova is now all set to expel about 45 employees of the Russian Embassy. The reason cited by the Moldovan authorities is the years of hostile actions by Russia according to officials. The employees include at least about 10 diplomats and 15 employees charged with administrative and Technical functions.

Russia-Moldova ties tense after Ukraine war

Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers&nbsp;will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.&nbsp;

The Russian foreign ministry summoned&nbsp;Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed&nbsp;him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions".

The procedure will be imposed on&nbsp;"accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals.&nbsp;

The diplomats will need to provide information of at least&nbsp;five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-kyiv-used-missiles-from-uk-to-attack-luhansk-says-russia-592157">Also read |&nbsp;Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia</a>

Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the&nbsp;"hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats.&nbsp;

<h2>Britain continues to impose sanctions&nbsp;</h2>

Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on&nbsp;13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded&nbsp;Wagner Group.&nbsp;

"Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ukraine-war-exposes-the-weaknesses-in-uk-military-617070">Watch |&nbsp;Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military</a>

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On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister&nbsp;Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to&nbsp;"Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity".&nbsp;

"In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.&nbsp;

Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to&nbsp;Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
 
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Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report.

Worsening the relations, Kremlin on Thursday announced restrictions on the movement of British diplomats working in Russia. Moscow said the British workers will have to notify authorities about their movements in advance, according to an AFP report. The Russian foreign ministry summoned Britain's charge d'affaires Tom Dodd and informed him of a "notification procedure for the movement of employees of British diplomatic missions". The procedure will be imposed on "accredited personnel" of the British embassy in Moscow and the consulate general in Yekaterinburg, in the Urals. The diplomats will need to provide information of at least five working days of travel outside the "120-kilometre (75-mile) free movement zone". Additionally, the information provided should contain "the timings, purpose, type of trip, planned business contacts, accompanying persons, mode of transport, places of visit and accommodation as well as the route of the trip". Also read | Ukraine war: Kyiv used missiles from UK to attack Luhansk, claims Russia Moscow defended the decision saying it was introduced to counter the "hostile actions" of London, a key ally of Ukraine. It added the caveat that measures will not apply to the British ambassador and several other diplomats. Britain continues to impose sanctions Earlier in the day, the British government imposed sanctions on 13 individuals and businesses in the Central African Republic, Mali and Sudan that had alleged links to Russia's now-disbanded Wagner Group. "Wherever Wagner operates, it has a catastrophic effect on communities, worsens existing conflicts and damages the reputations of countries that host them," said Britain's minister for Development and Africa Andrew Mitchell. Watch | Ukraine war exposes the weaknesses in UK military × On Monday (July 17), Russian Education Minister Sergey Kravtsov was also placed on the sanctions list by the Rishi Sunak administration for hatching the forced deportation of Ukrainian children programme. Overall, 13 new sanctions were imposed, in response to "Russia's attempts to destroy Ukrainian national identity". "In his chilling programme of forced child deportation, and the hate-filled propaganda spewed by his lackeys, we see (Russian President Vladimir) Putin's true intention - to wipe Ukraine from the map," said British Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. Earlier this month, Moscow informed it had brought over 700,00 children from the conflict zones in Ukraine into Russian territory for protection. However, the Western world reacted sharply to the announcement saying Russia was sending these kids to "re-education camps" where they were being exposed to Russia-centric academic, cultural, patriotic, and military education. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Moscow restricts movement of British diplomats in Russia. Know why

Romania is recalling its ambassador to Kenya back to Bucharest and has apologized after its envoy in Nairobi allegedly compared a monkey to African diplomats.

Romania recalls ambassador who allegedly compared a monkey to African diplomats

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met Pakistan's former army chief&nbsp;Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa before requesting India on sending its diplomats and technical personnel back to Kabul, revealed a book.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The book is written by Hassan Abbas, a professor of international affairs at the National Defence University (NDU), Washington.

India's return to Kabul "could not have happened without Pakistan, and Pakistan acted this way because it just might open up prospects of some aid for the Taliban in Afghanistan," writes Abbas, who contends that Pakistan is as desperate for financial support to run Afghanistan as the Taliban themselves.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-fox-news-host-tucker-carlson-takes-dig-at-us-media-586500">Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson takes dig at US media</a>

The book further asserts that for the sake of "international legitimacy and recognition," Kabul wants to patch things up with New Delhi. It emphasises that India had severed links with Afghanistan when the Taliban took power but has strategic interests in the country, reported Dawn citing the book.&nbsp;

It also makes note of the fact that "India is now seriously reassessing its position and moving towards a balancing act in its effort to engage with the Taliban and help stabilise Afghanistan."

The book states that "the Taliban desire is simple — international legitimacy and recognition" when discussing why the Taliban are ready to repair their relationship with India.

India has the financial means to provide the "huge external investments" that Kabul's new rulers require "to reconstruct and revive the country."

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/argentina-moves-away-from-us-dollar-for-trade-in-chinese-currency-586465">Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency</a>

The "Return of the Taliban" illustrates "how as rulers they struggle to reconcile pressures for transition with their rigid ideology," according to Marvin G. Weinbaum, the senior specialist of South Asian affairs in Washington.

It also reveals "the pivotal decisions leading to the Taliban's seizure of power."

Watch | Gemini Sankaran, pioneer of Indian Circus dies at age of 99 in Kerala's Kannur

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The book tells the story of Taliban minister of finance Hidayatullah Badri, also known as Gul Agha Ishaqzai,&nbsp; and how Muttaqi "personally escorted him to Gen. Bajwa." According to the book, Badri was only given the chance to become the nation's finance minister because of Bajwa's endorsement.

“This trend was an important agenda item in the conversation between ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum, and CIA Director William Burns in early May 2022, in Washington. The Pakistani delegation included the former ISI chief Gen Hamid as well,” the book said.

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Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met Pakistan's former army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa before requesting India on sending its diplomats and technical personnel back to Kabul, revealed a book.

Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi met Pakistan's former army chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa before requesting India on sending its diplomats and technical personnel back to Kabul, revealed a book. The book is written by Hassan Abbas, a professor of international affairs at the National Defence University (NDU), Washington. India's return to Kabul "could not have happened without Pakistan, and Pakistan acted this way because it just might open up prospects of some aid for the Taliban in Afghanistan," writes Abbas, who contends that Pakistan is as desperate for financial support to run Afghanistan as the Taliban themselves. Also Read | Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson takes dig at US media The book further asserts that for the sake of "international legitimacy and recognition," Kabul wants to patch things up with New Delhi. It emphasises that India had severed links with Afghanistan when the Taliban took power but has strategic interests in the country, reported Dawn citing the book. It also makes note of the fact that "India is now seriously reassessing its position and moving towards a balancing act in its effort to engage with the Taliban and help stabilise Afghanistan." The book states that "the Taliban desire is simple — international legitimacy and recognition" when discussing why the Taliban are ready to repair their relationship with India. India has the financial means to provide the "huge external investments" that Kabul's new rulers require "to reconstruct and revive the country." Also Read | Argentina moves away from US dollar for trade in Chinese currency The "Return of the Taliban" illustrates "how as rulers they struggle to reconcile pressures for transition with their rigid ideology," according to Marvin G. Weinbaum, the senior specialist of South Asian affairs in Washington. It also reveals "the pivotal decisions leading to the Taliban's seizure of power." Watch | Gemini Sankaran, pioneer of Indian Circus dies at age of 99 in Kerala's Kannur × The book tells the story of Taliban minister of finance Hidayatullah Badri, also known as Gul Agha Ishaqzai, and how Muttaqi "personally escorted him to Gen. Bajwa." According to the book, Badri was only given the chance to become the nation's finance minister because of Bajwa's endorsement. “This trend was an important agenda item in the conversation between ISI chief Lt Gen Nadeem Anjum, and CIA Director William Burns in early May 2022, in Washington. The Pakistani delegation included the former ISI chief Gen Hamid as well,” the book said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Taliban 'consulted' ex-Pak army chief Gen Bajwa before urging India to send diplomats to Kabul

France has started rapid evacuation operation of its citizens and diplomatic staff from violence-hit Sudan, the country’s foreign ministry said Sunday.

It would include citizens of “European and allied partner” nations, the ministry said.

As violence rages on in conflict-hit Sudan, the country's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said early on Sunday the US diplomats and their families have been evacuated in coordination with US forces.&nbsp;&nbsp;

It also confirmed coordinating with the US forces in the evacuation of the embassy personnel. "The Rapid Support Forces Command has coordinated with the U.S Forces Mission consisting of 6 aircraft, for evacuating diplomats and their families on Sunday morning," the paramilitary group said in a tweet.

According to RSF, a US forces mission with six aircraft evacuated the US officials and their family members.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indians-stuck-in-sudan-arrive-in-jeddah-after-safe-evacuation-585185">Indians stuck in Sudan arrive in Jeddah after safe evacuation</a>

A source with knowledge of the situation who asked to remain anonymous confirmed to Reuters that the US military had successfully carried out the evacuation. However, it fell short of providing any other information related to the evacuation.

No comment was immediately made by the Pentagon too in this regard. The armed combat between opposing factions has so far claimed hundreds of lives.

The Sudanese Army said on Saturday, April 22, that additional countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and China, would also be evacuating their diplomats and citizens from the violence-hit nation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-puts-military-on-alert-fearing-north-korean-missile-585189">Japan puts military on alert fearing North Korean missile</a>

US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said Friday that US troops were positioned near Sudan to ensure safety for the Americans. "We always want to make sure that we're doing prudent planning, which is what we're doing," Austin said.

"We've deployed some forces into the theater to ensure that we provide as many options as possible if we are called on to do something. We haven't been called on to do anything yet."

According to World Health Organization, at least 413 people have died so far in the crossfire and 3,551 are left injured.

The announcement of the evacuation of US embassy personnel comes hours after the foreign ministry of Saudi Arabia said that about 150 people were rescued from Sudan and safely arrived in Jeddah.&nbsp;

Among those who arrived safely were diplomats and officials from several countries, including India. Saudi Arabia's naval forces coordinated the evacuation of these civilians.

As per the Kingdom's foreign ministry, as many as 91 of those evacuated were Saudi citizens and about 66 citizens from 12 other nations.

Moreover, people from Kuwait, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Canada, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Tunisia, and Burkina Faso were also evacuated, as reported by the Hindustan Times.

Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story

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Last week, fighting broke out in Sudan between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's army and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, his former deputy and challenger.

Daglo is in charge of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a formidable paramilitary organisation. Mohamed Hamdan Daglo and Abdel Fattah al-Burhan seized power in a coup in 2021.

According to AFP, heavy gunfire from both sides continued in a number of locations around Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, leaving hundreds of people dead and thousands more injured.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) declared that "we urgently need a humanitarian pause so that wounded and sick civilians can reach hospitals."

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France has started rapid evacuation operation of its citizens and diplomatic staff from violence-hit Sudan, the country’s foreign ministry said Sunday. It would include citizens of “European and allied partner” nations, the ministry said.

France has started rapid evacuation operation of its citizens and diplomatic staff from violence-hit Sudan, the country’s foreign ministry said Sunday. It would include citizens of “European and allied partner” nations, the ministry said. As violence rages on in conflict-hit Sudan, the country's paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) said early on Sunday the US diplomats and their families have been evacuated in coordination with US forces. It also confirmed coordinating with the US forces in the evacuation of the embassy personnel. "The Rapid Support Forces Command has coordinated with the U.S Forces Mission consisting of 6 aircraft, for evacuating diplomats and their families on Sunday morning," the paramilitary group said in a tweet. According to RSF, a US forces mission with six aircraft evacuated the US officials and their family members. Also Read | Indians stuck in Sudan arrive in Jeddah after safe evacuation A source with knowledge of the situation who asked to remain anonymous confirmed to Reuters that the US military had successfully carried out the evacuation. However, it fell short of providing any other information related to the evacuation. No comment was immediately made by the Pentagon too in this regard. The armed combat between opposing factions has so far claimed hundreds of lives. The Sudanese Army said on Saturday, April 22, that additional countries, including the United Kingdom, France, and China, would also be evacuating their diplomats and citizens from the violence-hit nation. Also Read | Japan puts military on alert fearing North Korean missile US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said Friday that US troops were positioned near Sudan to ensure safety for the Americans. "We always want to make sure that we're doing prudent planning, which is what we're doing," Austin said. "We've deployed some forces into the theater to ensure that we provide as many options as possible if we are called on to do something. We haven't been called on to do anything yet." According to World Health Organization, at least 413 people have died so far in the crossfire and 3,551 are left injured. The announcement of the evacuation of US embassy personnel comes hours after the foreign ministry of Saudi Arabia said that about 150 people were rescued from Sudan and safely arrived in Jeddah. Among those who arrived safely were diplomats and officials from several countries, including India. Saudi Arabia's naval forces coordinated the evacuation of these civilians. As per the Kingdom's foreign ministry, as many as 91 of those evacuated were Saudi citizens and about 66 citizens from 12 other nations. Moreover, people from Kuwait, Pakistan, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Canada, Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, Tunisia, and Burkina Faso were also evacuated, as reported by the Hindustan Times. Watch | 'India's high population not a problem,' says Manish Sabharwal, VC Teamlease Services | India Story × Last week, fighting broke out in Sudan between Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's army and Mohamed Hamdan Daglo, his former deputy and challenger. Daglo is in charge of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), a formidable paramilitary organisation. Mohamed Hamdan Daglo and Abdel Fattah al-Burhan seized power in a coup in 2021. According to AFP, heavy gunfire from both sides continued in a number of locations around Khartoum, the Sudanese capital, leaving hundreds of people dead and thousands more injured. The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) declared that "we urgently need a humanitarian pause so that wounded and sick civilians can reach hospitals." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Sudan: France begins evacuation of embassy staff, citizens of 'European and allied partner' nations

In response to Berlin's claim that some Russian diplomats had departed Germany, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced on Saturday that Moscow was expelling around 34&nbsp;German diplomats, according to RIA Novosti.

Following the expulsion announcement of German diplomats by&nbsp;Russia, a German foreign ministry official said Berlin and Moscow had been in touch&nbsp;about their respective representations in the last few weeks with the aim of reducing Russia’s intelligence presence in Germany, Reuters reports.

"Today's departure of Russian embassy staff is related to this," said the official. The German ministry declined to say how many Russian diplomats had left.

Since Moscow deployed its armed forces into Ukraine in February 2022 and the West responded with sanctions and weaponry for Ukraine, relations between Russia and Germany, which used to be the main customer of Russian oil and gas, have deteriorated.

Commenting on Germany's expulsions, the Russian Foreign Ministry said: "We strongly condemn these actions by Berlin, which continues to demonstratively destroy the entire array of Russian-German relations."

ALSO WATCH |&nbsp;G7 nations mulling near-total ban on exports to Russia

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It claimed that its own expulsions were "reciprocal" and announced that it was going to significantly decrease the maximum staff size at German diplomatic missions.

It said that during negotiations on April 5, the ambassador of Germany was informed of the actions.

According to the German daily Bild, 34 of the 90 German diplomats still stationed in Moscow have been ordered to leave the country.

The maximum number of staff at German diplomatic missions will also be restricted, according to Moscow, which claimed that Germany's ambassador, Geza Andreas von Geyr, was informed of the measures on April 5.

Germany used to be the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas.

But since Moscow pushed its troops into Ukraine in February 2022 and the West responded with sanctions and arms for Ukraine, relations between the two nations have deteriorated.

<h2>Latest on the Russia-Ukraine war</h2>

The Donetsk region's contested city of Bakhmut has been divided into three western districts, according to the Russian army ministry.

It is believed that the soldiers that have entered Bakhmut are mercenaries from the Wagner group. &nbsp;The city has had numerous wars for power because it has been on the front line between Russia and Ukraine.

“The airborne troops were restraining the Ukrainian units on the flanks and supported the actions of the assault squads to capture the city,” the ministry said in its latest bulletin.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In response to Berlin's claim that some Russian diplomats had departed Germany, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced on Saturday that Moscow was expelling around 34 German diplomats, according to RIA Novosti.

In response to Berlin's claim that some Russian diplomats had departed Germany, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova announced on Saturday that Moscow was expelling around 34 German diplomats, according to RIA Novosti. Following the expulsion announcement of German diplomats by Russia, a German foreign ministry official said Berlin and Moscow had been in touch about their respective representations in the last few weeks with the aim of reducing Russia’s intelligence presence in Germany, Reuters reports. "Today's departure of Russian embassy staff is related to this," said the official. The German ministry declined to say how many Russian diplomats had left. Since Moscow deployed its armed forces into Ukraine in February 2022 and the West responded with sanctions and weaponry for Ukraine, relations between Russia and Germany, which used to be the main customer of Russian oil and gas, have deteriorated. Commenting on Germany's expulsions, the Russian Foreign Ministry said: "We strongly condemn these actions by Berlin, which continues to demonstratively destroy the entire array of Russian-German relations." ALSO WATCH | G7 nations mulling near-total ban on exports to Russia It claimed that its own expulsions were "reciprocal" and announced that it was going to significantly decrease the maximum staff size at German diplomatic missions. It said that during negotiations on April 5, the ambassador of Germany was informed of the actions. According to the German daily Bild, 34 of the 90 German diplomats still stationed in Moscow have been ordered to leave the country. The maximum number of staff at German diplomatic missions will also be restricted, according to Moscow, which claimed that Germany's ambassador, Geza Andreas von Geyr, was informed of the measures on April 5. Germany used to be the biggest buyer of Russian oil and gas. But since Moscow pushed its troops into Ukraine in February 2022 and the West responded with sanctions and arms for Ukraine, relations between the two nations have deteriorated. Latest on the Russia-Ukraine war The Donetsk region's contested city of Bakhmut has been divided into three western districts, according to the Russian army ministry. It is believed that the soldiers that have entered Bakhmut are mercenaries from the Wagner group. The city has had numerous wars for power because it has been on the front line between Russia and Ukraine. “The airborne troops were restraining the Ukrainian units on the flanks and supported the actions of the assault squads to capture the city,” the ministry said in its latest bulletin. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Russia to expel 34 out of over 90 German diplomats working in Moscow

China is on a diplomatic blitz to win friends. Its leaders & diplomats are travelling globally to strike new alliances. Molly Gambhir reports.

Gravitas: China is trying to make friends

In Kabul today, a team of Indian diplomats met with a senior leader of the Taliban. What happened at the meeting? What's driving India's engagement with the Taliban? Palki Sharma gets you a report.

Gravitas: Indian diplomats meet senior Taliban leadership

The European countries are expelling Russian diplomats amid the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine. Now, Russia has retaliated by expelling 10 envoys from the Baltic states.

EU countries expel Russian diplomats, Russia retaliates & expels 10 envoys from Baltic states

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf.

The junta's leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba has in the past week been in talks with international organisations and donors after ousting president Roch Marc Christian Kabore on January 24.

Kabore's toppling came after public anger over his handling of a jihadist insurgency in the impoverished country that has claimed more than 2,000 lives and displaced 1.5 million since 2015.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijings-genocide-games-kick-off-amid-backlash-from-all-across-the-world-450560">Also read |&nbsp;Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world</a>

Diplomats representing China, the European Union, France and neighbouring Mali on Friday met Damiba.

Chinese ambassador Li Jian said after the meeting that those who attended would contribute to restoring security in the country.

"We will make our contribution, we will walk together in a spirit of solidarity and brotherhood so that (Burkina Faso) can restore peace and security as soon as possible," he said, without providing more details.

Mali is also ruled by a military junta following two coups since August 2020 and battling jihadists on its soil.

France has around 4,000 troops deployed across West Africa's Sahel region to fight the jihadists.

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf.

Diplomats in Burkina Faso on Friday said they would help the junta that seized power last month restore security to the jihadist-wracked country, the Chinese ambassador announced on their behalf. The junta's leader Paul-Henri Sandaogo Damiba has in the past week been in talks with international organisations and donors after ousting president Roch Marc Christian Kabore on January 24. Kabore's toppling came after public anger over his handling of a jihadist insurgency in the impoverished country that has claimed more than 2,000 lives and displaced 1.5 million since 2015. Also read | Beijing's 'Genocide Games' kick off amid backlash from all across the world Diplomats representing China, the European Union, France and neighbouring Mali on Friday met Damiba. Chinese ambassador Li Jian said after the meeting that those who attended would contribute to restoring security in the country. "We will make our contribution, we will walk together in a spirit of solidarity and brotherhood so that (Burkina Faso) can restore peace and security as soon as possible," he said, without providing more details. Mali is also ruled by a military junta following two coups since August 2020 and battling jihadists on its soil. France has around 4,000 troops deployed across West Africa's Sahel region to fight the jihadists.

Burkina Faso: Diplomats say they would help junta, vow to 'restore security'

The United States has ordered family members of its embassy staff in Ukraine to leave the country, the decision comes due to the ongoing threat of Russia's military action. Other US nationals in Ukraine have also been advised to leave, the US has also advised its citizens against traveling to Russia.

United States orders departure of its diplomats' families from Kyiv amid Russia-Ukraine conflict

Foreign ministers from 4 Gulf nations are visiting China. Their talks are expected to cover energy and west Asian power plays. Can China draw Gulf nations away from America? Palki Sharma tells you.

Gravitas: Top Gulf diplomats visit China

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Saturday that he had ordered expulsion of 10 foreign ambassadors including those from US, France, Germany and Denmark who called for the release of a jailed philanthropist Osman Kavala.

Turkey: Philanthropist Osman Kavala jailed in jail for 4 years

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters.

Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during the country's Ebola epidemic from 2018 to 2020, an independent commission said last month.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/travellers-vaccinated-with-who-approved-covid-vaccines-can-enter-us-cdc-419527">Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC</a>

Women accused local and foreign aid workers of demanding sex in exchange for jobs and there were nine alleged rapes, the panel said in a report on the large-scale abuse in North Kivu and Ituri provinces.

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and aides have shared its draft action plan with major donors - including the United States, Britain, European powers, Canada and Australia - prompting their calls for an external oversight body while the WHO also revamps internal policies, diplomats said.

The probe should examine how WHO management reacted to growing allegations and aim to establish wider accountability, they said.

The management plan, currently being revised and expected to be presented to WHO's 194 member states on Thursday, should set out robust action and identify management failures to prevent future abuses in emergency operations, they added.

"My understanding for the delay is they are actually beefing it up," a Western diplomat told Reuters.

The WHO said in an email reply that it has consulted staff, member states and others on its comprehensive plan to address the report`s recommendations and prevention in its operations.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-experts-back-extra-covid-19-jab-for-immunocompromised-419991">WHO experts back extra COVID-19 jab for immunocompromised</a>

"The consultations with member states continue this week. WHO will integrate their feedback into the plan; we aim to finalise it shortly and present it to member states," it said.

A second Western diplomat said, "the draft needs to specifically mention and include an external investigation and be independent."

"Enormous Concern"&nbsp;

The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) would be well-suited to lead the review "which should find mechanisms to ensure accountability goes as high as it needs to", he said.

"A lot of countries view these reports with enormous concern and are looking to the WHO for a major response that goes beyond treating the symptoms of the problem and makes sure something like this can never happen again," he added.

Tedros, who is seeking re-election next year, has said that WHO had terminated the contracts of four WHO employees and his priority was to hold perpetrators to account. His U.N. agency would address "management and staff failures".

Tedros, who visited Congo 14 times during the outbreak, launched the initial probe a year ago after an investigation by the Thomson Reuters Foundation and The New Humanitarian in which more than 50 women accused aid workers from the WHO and other charities of demanding sex.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-covid-19-update-high-infection-rate-in-0-19-age-group-in-india-globally-new-cases-fall-by-9-419214">WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9%</a>

The U.N. Children's Fund (UNICEF), asked whether any of its employees were implicated in the scandal, told Reuters on Wednesday: "At this point we have not received any information linking any of the subjects identified to UNICEF."

The commission cited "clear (WHO) structural failures and unpreparedness to manage the risks of incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse" and internal emails showing that the agency was aware of some incidents by May 2019.

A third diplomat said,&nbsp;"clearly it is an unfinished investigation".

"We don't have full sight of the delegation of authority or management reporting process," she said, adding that a cultural change was required, with greater emphasis on prevention and risk mitigation measures.

Another diplomat said, "we are calling for zero tolerance to be embedded in operations. We will be watching closely."

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters.

Major Western donors have pressed the World Health Organization to launch a deeper external probe demanding how a major sexual abuse scandal in the Democratic Republic of Congo involving its staff was allowed to happen, diplomats told Reuters. Some 83 aid workers, a quarter of them employed by the WHO, were involved in sexual exploitation and abuse during the country's Ebola epidemic from 2018 to 2020, an independent commission said last month. Also Read | Travellers vaccinated with WHO approved Covid vaccines can enter US: CDC Women accused local and foreign aid workers of demanding sex in exchange for jobs and there were nine alleged rapes, the panel said in a report on the large-scale abuse in North Kivu and Ituri provinces. WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus and aides have shared its draft action plan with major donors - including the United States, Britain, European powers, Canada and Australia - prompting their calls for an external oversight body while the WHO also revamps internal policies, diplomats said. The probe should examine how WHO management reacted to growing allegations and aim to establish wider accountability, they said. The management plan, currently being revised and expected to be presented to WHO's 194 member states on Thursday, should set out robust action and identify management failures to prevent future abuses in emergency operations, they added. "My understanding for the delay is they are actually beefing it up," a Western diplomat told Reuters. The WHO said in an email reply that it has consulted staff, member states and others on its comprehensive plan to address the report`s recommendations and prevention in its operations. Also read | WHO experts back extra COVID-19 jab for immunocompromised "The consultations with member states continue this week. WHO will integrate their feedback into the plan; we aim to finalise it shortly and present it to member states," it said. A second Western diplomat said, "the draft needs to specifically mention and include an external investigation and be independent." "Enormous Concern" The UN's Office of Internal Oversight Services (OIOS) would be well-suited to lead the review "which should find mechanisms to ensure accountability goes as high as it needs to", he said. "A lot of countries view these reports with enormous concern and are looking to the WHO for a major response that goes beyond treating the symptoms of the problem and makes sure something like this can never happen again," he added. Tedros, who is seeking re-election next year, has said that WHO had terminated the contracts of four WHO employees and his priority was to hold perpetrators to account. His U.N. agency would address "management and staff failures". Tedros, who visited Congo 14 times during the outbreak, launched the initial probe a year ago after an investigation by the Thomson Reuters Foundation and The New Humanitarian in which more than 50 women accused aid workers from the WHO and other charities of demanding sex. Also read | WHO COVID-19 Update: High infection rate in 0-19 age group in India, globally new cases fall by 9% The U.N. Children's Fund (UNICEF), asked whether any of its employees were implicated in the scandal, told Reuters on Wednesday: "At this point we have not received any information linking any of the subjects identified to UNICEF." The commission cited "clear (WHO) structural failures and unpreparedness to manage the risks of incidents of sexual exploitation and abuse" and internal emails showing that the agency was aware of some incidents by May 2019. A third diplomat said, "clearly it is an unfinished investigation". "We don't have full sight of the delegation of authority or management reporting process," she said, adding that a cultural change was required, with greater emphasis on prevention and risk mitigation measures. Another diplomat said, "we are calling for zero tolerance to be embedded in operations. We will be watching closely."

WHO donors seek deeper probe into Congo sexual abuse: Diplomats

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment? Well, such things don't come out in public when they are actually happening.

The latest intrigue is about the so-called 'Havana Syndrome', back in the news due to delay in US Vice-President Kamala Harris' flight from Singapore to Vietnam. On Wednesday, Harris' flight was delayed for three hours after reports that someone in Vietnam suffered from Havana Syndrome.

What is the Havana Syndrome?

The first case was observed in 2016 when a US intelligence agent in US embassy in Havana complained of vertigo, ear pain, tinnitus. As per report in Politico, the doctor said that the agent had inner ear damage likely caused due to projected energy device.

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Diplomats and their families in Cuba complained of complained of nosebleeds, migraines and nausea.

They said that the complaints started after experiencing piercing sounds at night

Since then similar complaints have been reported from US officials in China, Russia and inside the United States.

In July the New Yorker reported that since President Joe Biden took office this year, about two dozen US intelligence officers, diplomats and other government officials in Austria have reported problems similar to the Havana syndrome.

Are these piercing sounds natural? Or are they projected by agents of rival countries who want to impair abilities of US agents and diplomats is still being ascertained

What exactly is causing the Havana Syndrome?&nbsp;

Earlier this month, the US appeared still unsure as to the exact cause of the syndrome.

The director of national intelligence said she had convened a meeting with top cabinet officials and other experts Friday to discuss the problem, which has led to unproven allegations that Russians or others used sonic or other high-intensity electronic devices to physically harm US diplomats in Cuba, China and other countries.

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment?

The world of diplomacy is filled with the usual diplomatic tussle. The sparring diplomats try tricks in their games of one-upmanship. But addling with abilities of rival diplomats with spycraft and equipment? Well, such things don't come out in public when they are actually happening. The latest intrigue is about the so-called 'Havana Syndrome', back in the news due to delay in US Vice-President Kamala Harris' flight from Singapore to Vietnam. On Wednesday, Harris' flight was delayed for three hours after reports that someone in Vietnam suffered from Havana Syndrome. What is the Havana Syndrome? The first case was observed in 2016 when a US intelligence agent in US embassy in Havana complained of vertigo, ear pain, tinnitus. As per report in Politico, the doctor said that the agent had inner ear damage likely caused due to projected energy device. × Diplomats and their families in Cuba complained of complained of nosebleeds, migraines and nausea. They said that the complaints started after experiencing piercing sounds at night Since then similar complaints have been reported from US officials in China, Russia and inside the United States. In July the New Yorker reported that since President Joe Biden took office this year, about two dozen US intelligence officers, diplomats and other government officials in Austria have reported problems similar to the Havana syndrome. Are these piercing sounds natural? Or are they projected by agents of rival countries who want to impair abilities of US agents and diplomats is still being ascertained What exactly is causing the Havana Syndrome? Earlier this month, the US appeared still unsure as to the exact cause of the syndrome. The director of national intelligence said she had convened a meeting with top cabinet officials and other experts Friday to discuss the problem, which has led to unproven allegations that Russians or others used sonic or other high-intensity electronic devices to physically harm US diplomats in Cuba, China and other countries.

Havana Syndrome strikes again? What is it exactly?

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries.

A special flight transporting Indian nationals will depart Mazar later today, according to the Indian embassy.&nbsp;

The development comes days after India evacuated its diplomats from Kandahar, in Southern Afghanistan.

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(2/2) Indian citizens desiring to leave by special flight should immediately convey their full name, passport number, date of expiry by whatsapp at the following numbers: 
 
0785891303 
0785891301
— India in Mazar (@IndianConsMazar) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianConsMazar/status/1424997196454195204?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Around 1500 Indian nationals are involved in various development projects in the country.&nbsp;

The situation in Afghanistan has continuously deteriorated as the Taliban launches its military offensive.

The Indian government has been leading diplomatic engagement. Last week, the President of the United Nations Security Council also held a meeting on Afghanistan.

Watch:

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At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, India's envoy to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti, called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations".

The meeting occurred just days after the Afghan foreign minister, Hanif Atmar, called India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and invited him to hold a dialogue, as the situation in his country deteriorates.

Tirumurti said the Taliban must "fully commit itself towards reaching a political solution" and that "violence and military threat can not be used to strengthen the negotiating position of any side". He also added that for this, a "tangible demonstration of this commitment is required."

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries.

India will soon bring back its diplomats from its consulate in Mazar-e-Sharif, the 4th largest city of Afghanistan and the capital of Balkh province, which borders Central Asian countries. A special flight transporting Indian nationals will depart Mazar later today, according to the Indian embassy. The development comes days after India evacuated its diplomats from Kandahar, in Southern Afghanistan. (2/2) Indian citizens desiring to leave by special flight should immediately convey their full name, passport number, date of expiry by whatsapp at the following numbers: 0785891303 0785891301 — India in Mazar (@IndianConsMazar) August 10, 2021 × Around 1500 Indian nationals are involved in various development projects in the country. The situation in Afghanistan has continuously deteriorated as the Taliban launches its military offensive. The Indian government has been leading diplomatic engagement. Last week, the President of the United Nations Security Council also held a meeting on Afghanistan. Watch: At the United Nations Security Council meeting on Afghanistan, India's envoy to the United Nations, T.S. Tirumurti, called on the Taliban to engage in "negotiations in good faith", "eschew the path of violence" and "severe ties with Al Qaeda and other terrorist organisations". The meeting occurred just days after the Afghan foreign minister, Hanif Atmar, called India's external affairs minister, Dr S Jaishankar, and invited him to hold a dialogue, as the situation in his country deteriorates. Tirumurti said the Taliban must "fully commit itself towards reaching a political solution" and that "violence and military threat can not be used to strengthen the negotiating position of any side". He also added that for this, a "tangible demonstration of this commitment is required."

India to evacuate diplomats and citizens from Mazar-e-Sharif consulate in Afghanistan

Sources claim that 50 Indian diplomats and officials in Kandahar have been relocated amid deteriorating security situation.

Turmoil in Afghanistan: India pulls out diplomats, other officials

The State Department said on Friday, it is allowing non-essential diplomats and the families of all American staff at the US Embassy in Kathmandu to leave Nepal at government expense due a surge in coronavirus cases. &nbsp;

The department also advised private Americans to reconsider any plans they may have to visit the Himalayan country and asked those already there, who wish to leave to submit information to the embassy. That step suggests the embassy may organise charter flights out of the country in the absence of regularly scheduled commercial flights. &nbsp;

"On May 7, the Department of State authorised the voluntary departure of family members of US government employees and non-emergency US Government employees from Nepal," the department said. "Commercial flights departing Nepal are currently not regularly available. US citizens, who wish to depart Nepal, should register their interest with the embassy."&nbsp;

Nepal borders India, which is seeing a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases. The State Department has already implemented so-called 'authorized departure' for non-essential workers and families of staff at US embassies and consulates in India.&nbsp;

Doctors in Nepal have warned of a major crisis as daily cases hit record highs and hospitals were running out of beds and oxygen. Nepal reported 9,070 new confirmed cases on Thursday, compared with 298 a month ago. The number of fatalities also reached peaks with 58 on Wednesday and 54 on Thursday, for a total of 3,529. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The State Department said on Friday, it is allowing non-essential diplomats and the families of all American staff at the US Embassy in Kathmandu to leave Nepal at government expense due a surge in coronavirus cases.

The State Department said on Friday, it is allowing non-essential diplomats and the families of all American staff at the US Embassy in Kathmandu to leave Nepal at government expense due a surge in coronavirus cases. The department also advised private Americans to reconsider any plans they may have to visit the Himalayan country and asked those already there, who wish to leave to submit information to the embassy. That step suggests the embassy may organise charter flights out of the country in the absence of regularly scheduled commercial flights. "On May 7, the Department of State authorised the voluntary departure of family members of US government employees and non-emergency US Government employees from Nepal," the department said. "Commercial flights departing Nepal are currently not regularly available. US citizens, who wish to depart Nepal, should register their interest with the embassy." Nepal borders India, which is seeing a devastating surge in COVID-19 cases. The State Department has already implemented so-called 'authorized departure' for non-essential workers and families of staff at US embassies and consulates in India. Doctors in Nepal have warned of a major crisis as daily cases hit record highs and hospitals were running out of beds and oxygen. Nepal reported 9,070 new confirmed cases on Thursday, compared with 298 a month ago. The number of fatalities also reached peaks with 58 on Wednesday and 54 on Thursday, for a total of 3,529. (With inputs from agencies)

US allows diplomats, embassy families to leave Nepal 

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration.&nbsp;

Attorney General Merrick Garland, Biden's chief domestic policy advisor Susan Rice and FBI chief Christopher Wray would be barred, the Russian foreign ministry said.

Also on the list were Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons Michael Carvajal, Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton and ex-head of the CIA James Woolsey.

Russian foreign ministry said that the officials had "participated in the anti-Russian push" of US politics.

The Russian move has come as a 'tit-for-tat' after US expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country on Thursday.

"We will respond to this measure in a tit-for-tat manner. We will ask ten US diplomats in Russia to leave the country," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the reporters earlier on Friday.

He also said that President Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, had recommended that US envoy John Sullivan leave for Washington to conduct "serious consultations."

On Thursday, US President Joe Biden <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-russia-expels-10-diplomats-377760">expelled 10 Russian diplomats</a> from the country and also slapped economic sanctions on Russia. The US said that this action was taken as a retaliation for&nbsp;Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack.

The White House on Thursday had said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action".

Russia under pressure

Russia saw itself under increasing international pressure as France, Germany and Ukraine called on it to pull back troops from the Ukrainian border to reduce tension.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-slaps-sanctions-on-russia-expels-10-diplomats-377760">US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack</a>

Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky "shared concerns about the build-up of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine and in the illegally annexed Crimea. They called for the reduction of these troop reinforcements in order to bring about a deescalation of the situation," said the German leader's spokesman in a statement.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration.

Russia said on Friday that it would ban FBI chief Christopher Wray from entering the country. The list of US officials who would be banned from entering Russia includes top officials from US President Joe Biden's administration. Attorney General Merrick Garland, Biden's chief domestic policy advisor Susan Rice and FBI chief Christopher Wray would be barred, the Russian foreign ministry said. Also on the list were Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines, Director of the Federal Bureau of Prisons Michael Carvajal, Donald Trump's National Security Advisor John Bolton and ex-head of the CIA James Woolsey. Russian foreign ministry said that the officials had "participated in the anti-Russian push" of US politics. The Russian move has come as a 'tit-for-tat' after US expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country on Thursday. "We will respond to this measure in a tit-for-tat manner. We will ask ten US diplomats in Russia to leave the country," Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov told the reporters earlier on Friday. He also said that President Vladimir Putin's top foreign policy aide, Yury Ushakov, had recommended that US envoy John Sullivan leave for Washington to conduct "serious consultations." On Thursday, US President Joe Biden expelled 10 Russian diplomats from the country and also slapped economic sanctions on Russia. The US said that this action was taken as a retaliation for Kremlin's interference in US elections and other hostile activities including a massive cyber attack. The White House on Thursday had said that US President Joe Biden's executive order on sanctions "sends a signal that the United States will impose costs in a strategic and economically impactful manner on Russia if it continues or escalates its destabilising international action". Russia under pressure Russia saw itself under increasing international pressure as France, Germany and Ukraine called on it to pull back troops from the Ukrainian border to reduce tension. Also Read | US slaps sanctions on Russia, expels 10 diplomats over poll meddlling, cyber attack Chancellor Angela Merkel, President Emmanuel Macron and Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelensky "shared concerns about the build-up of Russian troops on the border with Ukraine and in the illegally annexed Crimea. They called for the reduction of these troop reinforcements in order to bring about a deescalation of the situation," said the German leader's spokesman in a statement. (With inputs from agencies)

'Tit-for-tat': Russia bans FBI chief, threatens to expel US diplomats

Italy expelled two Russian diplomats on Wednesday after police said they had arrested an Italian navy captain caught passing documents to a Russian official in return for money at a clandestine meeting.&nbsp;

The Italian, a captain of a frigate, and the Russian, a military official accredited at the embassy, were accused of 'serious crimes tied to spying and state security' after their meeting on Tuesday night, Italian Carabinieri police said.&nbsp;

The suspects were not identified.&nbsp;

Italy immediately summoned the Russian ambassador Sergey Razov and expelled two Russian officials believed to be involved in what Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio called an 'extremely grave matter'.&nbsp;

The Italian navy captain was taken into custody. Officials did not say whether the Russian army official, who had met him was one of the two, who were expelled.

Meanwhile, Britain on Wednesday said it 'stands in solidarity'&nbsp;with Italy over its expulsion of two Russian officials accused over a spy scandal, calling Moscow's actions 'malign and destabilising'.

"The UK stands in solidarity with Italy and its actions today, exposing and taking action against Russia's malign and destabilising activity that is designed to undermine our NATO ally," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab wrote on Twitter.

Russia's Interfax news agency quoted a Russian lawmaker as saying Moscow would reciprocate for the expulsions, standard practice in such cases.&nbsp;

However, statements from Moscow suggested Russia was keen to play down the incident. The Russian Foreign Ministry was quoted as saying that it regretted the expulsions, but that they did not threaten bilateral relations.&nbsp;

Earlier, the Kremlin said it did not have information about the circumstances of the case but hoped the two countries would maintain positive and constructive ties.&nbsp;

The incident was the latest in a series of spying accusations in recent months against Russians in European countries. Bulgaria expelled Russian officials on suspicion of spying in March, and the Netherlands did so in December.&nbsp;

NATO documents were among the files that the Italian passed to the Russian official, Ansa news agency said, raising potential security worries for other members of the Western military alliance.&nbsp;

The arrests were ordered by Rome prosecutors following a long investigation carried out by the Italian intelligence with the support of the military, the police force said.&nbsp;

Police did not specify where the arrests had taken place. No further comment would be made until a magistrate approves the arrest, they said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Italy expelled two Russian diplomats on Wednesday after police said they had arrested an Italian navy captain caught passing documents to a Russian official in return for money at a clandestine meeting.

Italy expelled two Russian diplomats on Wednesday after police said they had arrested an Italian navy captain caught passing documents to a Russian official in return for money at a clandestine meeting. The Italian, a captain of a frigate, and the Russian, a military official accredited at the embassy, were accused of 'serious crimes tied to spying and state security' after their meeting on Tuesday night, Italian Carabinieri police said. The suspects were not identified. Italy immediately summoned the Russian ambassador Sergey Razov and expelled two Russian officials believed to be involved in what Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio called an 'extremely grave matter'. The Italian navy captain was taken into custody. Officials did not say whether the Russian army official, who had met him was one of the two, who were expelled. Meanwhile, Britain on Wednesday said it 'stands in solidarity' with Italy over its expulsion of two Russian officials accused over a spy scandal, calling Moscow's actions 'malign and destabilising'. "The UK stands in solidarity with Italy and its actions today, exposing and taking action against Russia's malign and destabilising activity that is designed to undermine our NATO ally," Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab wrote on Twitter. Russia's Interfax news agency quoted a Russian lawmaker as saying Moscow would reciprocate for the expulsions, standard practice in such cases. However, statements from Moscow suggested Russia was keen to play down the incident. The Russian Foreign Ministry was quoted as saying that it regretted the expulsions, but that they did not threaten bilateral relations. Earlier, the Kremlin said it did not have information about the circumstances of the case but hoped the two countries would maintain positive and constructive ties. The incident was the latest in a series of spying accusations in recent months against Russians in European countries. Bulgaria expelled Russian officials on suspicion of spying in March, and the Netherlands did so in December. NATO documents were among the files that the Italian passed to the Russian official, Ansa news agency said, raising potential security worries for other members of the Western military alliance. The arrests were ordered by Rome prosecutors following a long investigation carried out by the Italian intelligence with the support of the military, the police force said. Police did not specify where the arrests had taken place. No further comment would be made until a magistrate approves the arrest, they said. (With inputs from agencies)

Italy expels two Russian diplomats, arrests navy captain for spying  

The European Union agreed on Wednesday to blacklist Chinese officials for human rights abuses, two diplomats said, the first sanctions against Beijing since an EU arms embargo in 1989 following the Tiananmen Square crackdown.&nbsp;

EU ambassadors approved the travel bans and asset freezes on four Chinese individuals and one entity, whose names will not be made public until formal approval by EU foreign ministers on March 22, as part of a new and wider rights sanctions list.&nbsp;

"Restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses adopted," one EU diplomat said.&nbsp;

The Chinese officials were accused of human rights abuses against China's Uighur Muslim minority, EU diplomats said. They said the move reflected deep concern about the Uighurs in Europe, the United States and Canada.&nbsp;

The EU last sanctioned China, its second-largest trade partner, in June 1989, imposing an arms embargo on Beijing that is still in place.&nbsp;

Activists and UN rights experts say at least one million Muslims are being detained in camps in the remote western region of Xinjiang. The activists and some Western politicians accuse China of using torture, forced labour and sterilisations.&nbsp;

The Dutch parliament followed Canada and the United States in labelling China's treatment of the Uighurs genocide, which China rejects.&nbsp;

On Twitter, the Chinese mission to the EU republished comments on the new sanctions made on Tuesday by China's ambassador to the bloc, Zhang Ming, saying that Beijing would not change its policies.&nbsp;

"Sanctions are confrontational," the Chinese mission said on Twitter. "We want dialogue, not confrontation. We ask the EU side to think twice. If some insist on confrontation, we will not back down, as we have no option other than fulfilling our responsibilities to the people."&nbsp;

China denies any human rights abuses in Xinjiang and says its camps provide vocational training and are needed to fight extremism.&nbsp;

The EU's full list of 11 names approved by EU ambassadors also include officials from Russia, Libya, South Sudan and North Korea, diplomats said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

The European Union agreed on Wednesday to blacklist Chinese officials for human rights abuses, two diplomats said, the first sanctions against Beijing since an EU arms embargo in 1989 following the Tiananmen Square crackdown.

The European Union agreed on Wednesday to blacklist Chinese officials for human rights abuses, two diplomats said, the first sanctions against Beijing since an EU arms embargo in 1989 following the Tiananmen Square crackdown. EU ambassadors approved the travel bans and asset freezes on four Chinese individuals and one entity, whose names will not be made public until formal approval by EU foreign ministers on March 22, as part of a new and wider rights sanctions list. "Restrictive measures against serious human rights violations and abuses adopted," one EU diplomat said. The Chinese officials were accused of human rights abuses against China's Uighur Muslim minority, EU diplomats said. They said the move reflected deep concern about the Uighurs in Europe, the United States and Canada. The EU last sanctioned China, its second-largest trade partner, in June 1989, imposing an arms embargo on Beijing that is still in place. Activists and UN rights experts say at least one million Muslims are being detained in camps in the remote western region of Xinjiang. The activists and some Western politicians accuse China of using torture, forced labour and sterilisations. The Dutch parliament followed Canada and the United States in labelling China's treatment of the Uighurs genocide, which China rejects. On Twitter, the Chinese mission to the EU republished comments on the new sanctions made on Tuesday by China's ambassador to the bloc, Zhang Ming, saying that Beijing would not change its policies. "Sanctions are confrontational," the Chinese mission said on Twitter. "We want dialogue, not confrontation. We ask the EU side to think twice. If some insist on confrontation, we will not back down, as we have no option other than fulfilling our responsibilities to the people." China denies any human rights abuses in Xinjiang and says its camps provide vocational training and are needed to fight extremism. The EU's full list of 11 names approved by EU ambassadors also include officials from Russia, Libya, South Sudan and North Korea, diplomats said. (With inputs from agencies)

EU envoys agree for first China sanctions in three decades: Diplomats  

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