In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The wide-ranging talks also covered bilateral issues. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The two leaders discussed ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. &nbsp;

In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." &nbsp;

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A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH <a href="https://twitter.com/FaisalbinFarhan?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Faisalbinfarhan</a>. 
 
Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. 
 
Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. <a href="https://t.co/0cYq6I5VUU">pic.twitter.com/0cYq6I5VUU</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439513708238049283?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” &nbsp;

On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/india-as-chair-of-united-nations-security-council-creates-record-of-sorts-414157" hreflang="en">India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts</a>

The Saudi foreign minister’s visit has come at a time when India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan after its takeover by the Taliban. &nbsp;

Afghanistan was a major area of focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.

In a meeting on Sunday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held discussion with Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud on various developments in Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. The wide-ranging talks also covered bilateral issues. The two leaders discussed ways of increasing cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Watch: × The Saudi minister has arrived in India on Saturday evening for a three-day visit. In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Delighted to welcome FM of Saudi Arabia HH Prince @Faisalbinfarhan for his first-ever visit to India." A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific. pic.twitter.com/0cYq6I5VUU — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 19, 2021 × The minister also tweeted, “A cordial and productive meeting with Saudi FM HH @Faisalbinfarhan. Discussed our cooperation in the political, security and socio-cultural pillars of our strategic partnership. Very useful exchange of views on Afghanistan, the Gulf and the Indo-Pacific.” On Monday, the Saudi foreign minister is scheduled to call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Also Read: India as chair of United Nations Security Council creates record of sorts The Saudi foreign minister’s visit has come at a time when India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan after its takeover by the Taliban. Afghanistan was a major area of focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud. (With inputs from agencies)

Indian EAM meets Saudi foreign minister, discusses regional, bilateral issues

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran this week to represent India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. The ceremony will take place in Tehran on August&nbsp;5,&nbsp;which will see participation by several heads of government and foreign ministers.&nbsp;

This will be Jaishankar's&nbsp;second visit to Iran in a matter of&nbsp;a&nbsp;month. Last month,&nbsp;he had visited Iran while going to Moscow. During the stopover,&nbsp;he called on President-elect Ebrahim Raisi,&nbsp;who is&nbsp;the first foreign minister to&nbsp;be slated to become president. During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi.&nbsp;

In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues."&nbsp;

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Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. <a href="https://t.co/Ef7iEutkZi">pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1412769835470180355?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 7, 2021</a></blockquote>
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He also held talks with Iran's foreign minister Zarif during which Afghanistan was the key focus. Iranian foreign ministry in a statement said,&nbsp;"The two sides also stressed&nbsp;on&nbsp;the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan,&nbsp;which leads to a comprehensive political solution".&nbsp;

Iran is&nbsp;the&nbsp;key to India's connectivity to the west due to the Chabahar port in which New Delhi has invested. The port provides connectivity to Afghanistan, Central Asia and will be part of the North-South International transport corridor that connects Mumbai with Moscow.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran this week to represent India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. The ceremony will take place in Tehran on August 5, which will see participation by several heads of government and foreign ministers.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will visit Iran this week to represent India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. The ceremony will take place in Tehran on August 5, which will see participation by several heads of government and foreign ministers. This will be Jaishankar's second visit to Iran in a matter of a month. Last month, he had visited Iran while going to Moscow. During the stopover, he called on President-elect Ebrahim Raisi, who is the first foreign minister to be slated to become president. During his meeting with the Iranian President-elect, he handed over a personal message from Indian PM Narendra Modi. In a tweet after the meet, Indian EAM said, "Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues." Thank President-elect Ebrahim Raisi for his gracious welcome. Handed over a personal message from PM @narendramodi. Appreciate his warm sentiments for India. Deeply value his strong commitment to strengthen our bilateral ties and expand cooperation on regional and global issues. pic.twitter.com/Ef7iEutkZi — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 7, 2021 × He also held talks with Iran's foreign minister Zarif during which Afghanistan was the key focus. Iranian foreign ministry in a statement said, "The two sides also stressed on the need to strengthen intra-Afghan dialogue in Afghanistan, which leads to a comprehensive political solution". Iran is the key to India's connectivity to the west due to the Chabahar port in which New Delhi has invested. The port provides connectivity to Afghanistan, Central Asia and will be part of the North-South International transport corridor that connects Mumbai with Moscow.

EAM Jaishankar to represent India at Iran President Raisi's oath-taking ceremony 

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to visit Kuwait on Wednesday to explore steps to further deepen India's ties with the oil-rich Gulf nation, diplomatic sources said.

The visit comes nearly three months after the two countries decided to establish a joint ministerial commission to formulate a framework to strengthen ties in sectors like energy, trade, investment, manpower and labour and information technology.

Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah visited India in March during which both sides decided to set up of the joint commission.

Jaishankar is likely to carry a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah on ways to enhance bilateral ties, the sources said.

During his visit to India, Al-Sabah said that the 'catalogue of cooperation' between India and Kuwait is vast and that there were lots of avenues to explore further.

It was announced during Al-Sabah's visit to India that the joint commission at the level of foreign ministers will steer the relationship and will act as an umbrella body for all bilateral institutional engagements.

Kuwait has been supporting India in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic by supplying relief material as well as medical oxygen. Indian Navy ships have brought large quantity of medical oxygen from Kuwait in the last few weeks.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to visit Kuwait on Wednesday to explore steps to further deepen India's ties with the oil-rich Gulf nation, diplomatic sources said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is expected to visit Kuwait on Wednesday to explore steps to further deepen India's ties with the oil-rich Gulf nation, diplomatic sources said. The visit comes nearly three months after the two countries decided to establish a joint ministerial commission to formulate a framework to strengthen ties in sectors like energy, trade, investment, manpower and labour and information technology. Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Sheikh Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah visited India in March during which both sides decided to set up of the joint commission. Jaishankar is likely to carry a letter from Prime Minister Narendra Modi for Kuwaiti Emir Sheikh Nawaf al-Ahmad al-Sabah on ways to enhance bilateral ties, the sources said. During his visit to India, Al-Sabah said that the 'catalogue of cooperation' between India and Kuwait is vast and that there were lots of avenues to explore further. It was announced during Al-Sabah's visit to India that the joint commission at the level of foreign ministers will steer the relationship and will act as an umbrella body for all bilateral institutional engagements. Kuwait has been supporting India in dealing with the coronavirus pandemic by supplying relief material as well as medical oxygen. Indian Navy ships have brought large quantity of medical oxygen from Kuwait in the last few weeks.

EAM Jaishankar likely to visit Kuwait on Wednesday

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue.&nbsp;

Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions."

In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace".

The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo &amp; Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC.&nbsp;

The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position.

India made clear on Thursday that its abstention at United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) vote calling for probe into Gaza violence was not indicative of a new position. The comment came a day after it emerged that Palestinian foreign minister had written a strong letter to India's external affairs minister (EAM) over the issue. Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi, in response to questions during weekly virtual press conference said, "I understand Palestine has written a similar letter to all countries who abstained during UNHRC vote. The position we took is not a new position and we have abstained on the previous occasions." In the letter, Palestinian Foreign Minister Dr. Riad Malki had expressed concerns over the "position taken by India" at the human rights council's special session. In the letter seen by WION, Malki said, "The Republic of India missed an opportunity to join the international community at this turning point" both "crucial and long overdue on the path to accountability, justice and peace". The resolution saw India among the 14 countries abstaining on the issue of the probe. Other countries that abstained included Bahamas, Brazil, Denmark, Fiji, France, Italy, Japan, Nepal, Netherlands, Poland, South Korea, Togo & Ukraine. The letter by Palestine's FM to EAM was sent on the 30th of May, 3 days after India abstained from the vote at the UNHRC. The resolution--"Ensuring respect for international human rights law and humanitarian law in occupied Palestinian territory including East Jerusalem and in Israel", was adopted with 24 countries voting in favor, 9 against at the 47-member strong Geneva headquartered UN Body. WION was the first new channel to break the story on Wednesday.

Our position not new, says India after Palestine FM writes to EAM

The White House said that US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan (NSA) and India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar met on Thursday to "review a strong partnership between the world's largest democracies".

EAM S. Jaishankar meets US NSA Sullivan, will meet US Secy of State on Friday

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar held a comprehensive personal meeting with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday and discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and effective global vaccine solutions.

S. Jaishankar discusses 'effective global vaccine solutions' with UN Secretary-General

S. Jaishankar meets Antonio Guterres in New York, discusses global vaccine solutions

India's Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar arrived in New York on Monday to begin his 5-day United States visit, meeting senior United States officials and discussing COVID-related cooperation between the two countries.

Indian External Affairs Minister on COVID vaccine mission to the United States

S. Jaishankar set to meet US Secy of State and UN Chief during 5-day US visit

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'. &nbsp;

Speaking at an event, he said, "Today as foreign minister, I am pushing other countries, particularly some big countries that look please keep the raw materials flowing for vaccines to be made in India."&nbsp;

He explained, "Can I go around the world and tell people that guys, keep your supply chains flowing towards me and by the way the end product.. I am asking you for raw material but I am not going to give you the vaccine. Look at the vaccine, your largest vaccine under production is an international product, It’s a co-creation, it’s a co-production." &nbsp;

The development comes even as the US has remained non-committal on allowing the opening up of export of raw material for vaccines to India. On Monday, questions were asked to both White House spokesperson Jen Psaki and US President Joe Biden's chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on the issue, but no direct answers came. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Dr Jaishankar also batted for the export of vaccines saying, those questioning it are 'shortsighted'. He said, "If you get into this, why are you exporting abroad, then someone else will ask, why I am exporting to India. That is so shortsighted, only really irresponsible people, non-serious people can make some kind of argument." &nbsp;

India has supplied 660.13 lakh doses of Covid vaccines to 92 countries along with UN health workers and UN Peacekeepers as of April 20. Of this, 106.15 lakh has been supplied as a gift, 357.92 commercially, and 192.06 under the Covax facility. India began the export of vaccines days after it began its domestic vaccination in January, with Bhutan and Maldives being the first countries to get it as a gift. Albania was the last country as of now to get on April 16, with a gift of 0.50 lakh doses. &nbsp;&nbsp;

He also dismissed 'those who talk about why you doing this to the world', highlighting, "It’s not we are not prioritising our people" and "when things got tough, we actually spoke to the world very honestly and said look we have done our best to live up to the commitments, contractual commitments to the producers, Covax commitments, GAVI...but right now, please understand I have a very situation at home, and most countries understand that."&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that he has asked 'some big countries' to keep raw material for Covid vaccine 'flowing'. India produces 60% of global vaccines and has been termed as the 'pharmacy of the world'. Speaking at an event, he said, "Today as foreign minister, I am pushing other countries, particularly some big countries that look please keep the raw materials flowing for vaccines to be made in India." He explained, "Can I go around the world and tell people that guys, keep your supply chains flowing towards me and by the way the end product.. I am asking you for raw material but I am not going to give you the vaccine. Look at the vaccine, your largest vaccine under production is an international product, It’s a co-creation, it’s a co-production." The development comes even as the US has remained non-committal on allowing the opening up of export of raw material for vaccines to India. On Monday, questions were asked to both White House spokesperson Jen Psaki and US President Joe Biden's chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on the issue, but no direct answers came. Dr Jaishankar also batted for the export of vaccines saying, those questioning it are 'shortsighted'. He said, "If you get into this, why are you exporting abroad, then someone else will ask, why I am exporting to India. That is so shortsighted, only really irresponsible people, non-serious people can make some kind of argument." India has supplied 660.13 lakh doses of Covid vaccines to 92 countries along with UN health workers and UN Peacekeepers as of April 20. Of this, 106.15 lakh has been supplied as a gift, 357.92 commercially, and 192.06 under the Covax facility. India began the export of vaccines days after it began its domestic vaccination in January, with Bhutan and Maldives being the first countries to get it as a gift. Albania was the last country as of now to get on April 16, with a gift of 0.50 lakh doses. He also dismissed 'those who talk about why you doing this to the world', highlighting, "It’s not we are not prioritising our people" and "when things got tough, we actually spoke to the world very honestly and said look we have done our best to live up to the commitments, contractual commitments to the producers, Covax commitments, GAVI...but right now, please understand I have a very situation at home, and most countries understand that."

Pushing countries to keep vaccine raw material flowing says EAM; Bats for vaccine export  

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

"First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address.

Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month.

Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action.

He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously.

He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure.

"We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India.

Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism.

"Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said.

In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks.

He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan. "First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address. Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month. Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action. He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously. He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure. "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan. In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India. Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism. "Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said. In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks. He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

Mumbai blasts perpetrators enjoying 5-star hospitality under State protection: Jaishankar tells UNSC

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit&nbsp;their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism."

EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle.&nbsp;Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable."

UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world.&nbsp;

During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful.&nbsp;In a veiled reference EAM slammed&nbsp;Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable."

UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s&nbsp;

India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb&nbsp;blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality."

This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period.

On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without&nbsp;any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing&nbsp;had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years.

In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed.

The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks".

Tunisia&nbsp;chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx.&nbsp;Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

The development comes at a time&nbsp;as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action".

Calling for "no ifs and buts" in the fight against terrorism, India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday gave an 8-point agenda at the United Nations Security Council for the "UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action". Speaking at a video conference meet on International cooperation in combating terrorism marking 20 years since the adoption of Resolution 1373 (2001) EAM said,"It is time that all nations walk the talk and commit their actions to the goal of zero tolerance for terrorism." EAM mentioned that "we must not countenance double standards in this battle. Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable." UNSC Resolution 1373 was adopted on September 28, 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. During his address, both Pakistan and China got an earful. In a veiled reference EAM slammed Pakistan at UNSC, saying "there are also other States that are clearly guilty of aiding and supporting terrorism, and wilfully provide financial assistance and safe havens...the international community must collectively call out the latter and hold them accountable." UN's 1267 committee lists largest numbers of Pakistanis as international terrorists. These include Masood Azhar, Hafiz Saeed, Zaki ur Rehman Lakhvi, many of whom responsible for terror attacks in India, including the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack.s India's EAM pointed out in the 8 point plan of action that, "linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously", explaining that, "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality." This is the first time India's EAM spoke at UNSC after India took over its membership on January 1, 2021 for a 2-year period. On China, without mentioning its name, EAM said, "The practice of placing blocks and holds on listing requests without any rhyme or reason must end. This only erodes our collective credibility." Remember, Beijing had thwarted bids to list Masood Azhar as an international terrorist for 10 years. In the plan of action, he listed "enlisting and delisting individuals and entities" under the UN sanctions regimes "must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations", calling the "proposals in this regard merit due examination before circulation". This is significant even as Pakistan has been trying to use loopholes in the sanctions regime to get "basic expense" for listed international terrorists like Hafiz Saeed. The focus was also on "preventing terrorists from accessing financial resources" with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) continuing to "identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks". Tunisia chaired the meet, given it is heading the UN body for the current month. Other key speakers at the meet were Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent. The development comes at a time as India chairs the Taliban Sanctions Committee and the Counter Terrorism Committee for the year 2022. With India chairing the 2 committees, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lack luster record on acting on cross-border terror.

At UNSC, EAM says 'no ifs and buts' in the fight against terrorism; Pakistan, China get earful

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”.

It will see all UNSC members speaking on 20 years of adoption of resolution 1373, which was adopted on 28th September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. The meet will happen via video conference and will start at around 7 pm IST or 8.30 am New York time (EST).

Tunisian foreign minister will chair the meet given that the country is the chair of the top body for the current month. Other key speakers will be Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. A presidential statement is under negotiation and is an anticipated outcome.

The development comes at a time even as India is all set to chair the Taliban sanctions committee and the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022. The Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror.

India took over its two-year term at the UNSC as a "non-permanent"&nbsp;member from January 1. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”. It will see all UNSC members speaking on 20 years of adoption of resolution 1373, which was adopted on 28th September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. The meet will happen via video conference and will start at around 7 pm IST or 8.30 am New York time (EST). Tunisian foreign minister will chair the meet given that the country is the chair of the top body for the current month. Other key speakers will be Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. A presidential statement is under negotiation and is an anticipated outcome. The development comes at a time even as India is all set to chair the Taliban sanctions committee and the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022. The Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror. India took over its two-year term at the UNSC as a "non-permanent" member from January 1. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

EAM Jaishankar to address UNSC on Tuesday

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived here on Tuesday on a three-day visit to Sri Lanka during which he will hold talks with the country's top leadership and discuss issues of mutual and bilateral interests,

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar reaches Sri Lanka to meet President & PM

Qatar is home to over seven lakh Indians. The bilateral trade was USD 10.95 billion in 2019-20, according to official data.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on 2-day visit to Qatar

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible".

In over one hour virtual meet, EAM said, &nbsp;"The general sense is Economy is coming back and coming back very very strongly. The feeling is Q1 &amp; Q2 of this financial year was obviously extremely tough, the feeling is now, all the feedback we get in terms of the critical sectors of the economy have been very positive."

Explaining that ,"there are areas, particularly the services sector, informal sector where recovery is not going to be so rapid. But again, there is economic confidence which is also visible, both the feeling that we can put the pandemic behind us as well as the economic consequences can be put behind us"

India's growth contracted to minus 23.9% in the first quarter of this financial year, and in the 2nd quarter, it came out at minus 7.5 % as the COVID crisis took a toll on the Economy. India along with all major economies saw contraction due to the pandemic.

EAM said India is "shifting gears" via Atmanirbhar Bharat which is "an expression, a desire to build stronger capabilities at home so that our participation in global economic activities is more effective"

Adding, "one of the issues with COVID has been that a lot of countries have been redoing supply chains, looking at on shoring many activities...Qatar is looking at its own near-term future, they have their own priorities, world cup football is significant among them and these are opportunities to draw the countries closer"

Qatar hosts more than 7 lakh Indians with bilateral trade at $10.95 billion in FY 2019-20. This is EAM's first visit to West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic. In September he made a stopover in Iran while going to Moscow, November saw a visit to UAE and Bahrain and currently, he is in Qatar. The increased high-level engagement between India and West Asian capitals comes even as both sides come closer in a number of areas from security to defence to people to people ties.

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible".

The external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar who is on a 2-day Qatar visit has told the Indian community that the economic impact of covid "can be put behind us" and the "economic confidence is visible". In over one hour virtual meet, EAM said, "The general sense is Economy is coming back and coming back very very strongly. The feeling is Q1 & Q2 of this financial year was obviously extremely tough, the feeling is now, all the feedback we get in terms of the critical sectors of the economy have been very positive." Explaining that ,"there are areas, particularly the services sector, informal sector where recovery is not going to be so rapid. But again, there is economic confidence which is also visible, both the feeling that we can put the pandemic behind us as well as the economic consequences can be put behind us" India's growth contracted to minus 23.9% in the first quarter of this financial year, and in the 2nd quarter, it came out at minus 7.5 % as the COVID crisis took a toll on the Economy. India along with all major economies saw contraction due to the pandemic. EAM said India is "shifting gears" via Atmanirbhar Bharat which is "an expression, a desire to build stronger capabilities at home so that our participation in global economic activities is more effective" Adding, "one of the issues with COVID has been that a lot of countries have been redoing supply chains, looking at on shoring many activities...Qatar is looking at its own near-term future, they have their own priorities, world cup football is significant among them and these are opportunities to draw the countries closer" Qatar hosts more than 7 lakh Indians with bilateral trade at $10.95 billion in FY 2019-20. This is EAM's first visit to West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic. In September he made a stopover in Iran while going to Moscow, November saw a visit to UAE and Bahrain and currently, he is in Qatar. The increased high-level engagement between India and West Asian capitals comes even as both sides come closer in a number of areas from security to defence to people to people ties.

EAM tells Indian community in Qatar, economic confidence visible in India

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders.

A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic."

This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months.&nbsp;

September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively.

October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November.

December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia.

Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year.

During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home.&nbsp;

India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues.

Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership.&nbsp;

In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha.

Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India.&nbsp;

The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20.

India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country. Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders. A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic." This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months. September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively. October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November. December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia. Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year. During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home. India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues. Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership. In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India. The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20. India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

Seventh high-level visit from India to West Asia begins as Jaishankar reaches Qatar

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi. During the talks, he briefed about the Afghan Peace Talks or the intra-Afghan talks between Afghan Govt and Taliban and how they are progressing.

A tweet by the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, “Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla welcomed Afghan leader Ata Mohammad Noor to India"

Adding, "Appreciated his insights and perspectives on recent developments. India remains committed to peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan."

Present during his meeting were Chargé d' Affaires of Afghan embassy Tahir Qadiry and Joint Secretary in PAI division of MEA, JP Singh.

Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month as peace talks in the country accelerate.&nbsp;

Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India.

In 2016, he personally took up arms back to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif &amp; protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in the 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Northern front.

He is currently CEO of Jamiat Party and in the past served as the Governor of Northern Balkh Province in Afghanistan.

Interestingly, Noor's son--Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan govt's negotiating team for Intra Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban.

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi.

Senior Afghan leader and a close ally of India, Ata Mohammad Noor on Wednesday met External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla in Delhi. During the talks, he briefed about the Afghan Peace Talks or the intra-Afghan talks between Afghan Govt and Taliban and how they are progressing. A tweet by the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said, “Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla welcomed Afghan leader Ata Mohammad Noor to India" Adding, "Appreciated his insights and perspectives on recent developments. India remains committed to peace, prosperity and stability in Afghanistan." Present during his meeting were Chargé d' Affaires of Afghan embassy Tahir Qadiry and Joint Secretary in PAI division of MEA, JP Singh. Noor, an ethnic Tajik is the 3rd prominent Afghan leader to visit India in last one month as peace talks in the country accelerate. Earlier Abdul Rashid Dostum, former vice president of Afghanistan and Chairperson of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation Dr Abdullah Abdullah had visited India. In 2016, he personally took up arms back to repel a terrorist attack on the Indian consulate in Mazar-i-Sharif & protected it. During the Taliban rein in the country in the 1990s, Noor had served as a commander in Ahmad Shah Massoud's Northern front. He is currently CEO of Jamiat Party and in the past served as the Governor of Northern Balkh Province in Afghanistan. Interestingly, Noor's son--Khalid Noor is part of the Afghan govt's negotiating team for Intra Afghan talks. In fact, at 25, Khalid Noor is the youngest member of the team negotiating with the Taliban.

Afghanistan's Ata Mohammad Noor meets EAM, Foreign Secretary in Delhi; briefs about the Afghan peace process

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country.

Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process.

"Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said.

Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said.

"FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu &amp; listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order &amp; rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted.

India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country.

On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference.

India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled.

India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. 
The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001.

India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate.

India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with former Afghan vice president Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum covering various aspects of the historic initiative to bring back peace and stability in Afghanistan. The visit of Dostum, an influential Afghan leader and former warlord, to India comes over a week after the Taliban and the Afghan government began direct talks for the first time to end 19 years of war that has killed tens of thousands of people and ravaged various parts of the country. Following the meeting, Jaishankar tweeted that India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process. "Glad to meet Marshal Abdul Rashid Dostum. Exchanged views on developments in Afghanistan and the larger region. His vast experience and deep insights were evident. India remains fully committed to an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process," he said. Dostum also met Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla during which issues like constitutional order and rights of all sections of Afghan society figured, External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava said. "FS @harshvshringl met Field Marshal @ARashidDostu & listened to his insights on the #Afghan peace process and evolving situation. Constitutional order & rights of all sections of Afghan society were also discussed. India has conveyed it's long term commitment to #Afghanistan," Srivastava tweeted. India has been a major stakeholder in peace and stability of Afghanistan. It has already invested USD two billion in aid and reconstruction activities in the country. On September 12, an Indian delegation attended the inaugural ceremony of the intra-Afghan negotiations in Doha while Jaishankar joined it through video conference. India has been supporting a national peace and reconciliation process which is Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled. India has been keenly following the evolving political situation after the US signed a peace deal with the Taliban in February. The deal provided for the withdrawal of American troops from Afghanistan, effectively drawing curtains to Washington's 18-year war in the country. The US has lost over 2,400 soldiers in Afghanistan since late 2001. India has also been maintaining that care should be taken to ensure that any such process does not lead to any "ungoverned spaces" where terrorists and their proxies can relocate. India has been calling upon all sections of the political spectrum in Afghanistan to work together to meet the aspirations of all people in that country including those from the minority community for a prosperous and safe future.

Jaishankar holds talks with former Afghan vice prez Abdul Rashid Dostum

Hitting out at Pakistan, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has listed 3 challenges in front of South Asia--Cross-border terrorism, blocking connectivity and obstructing trade at the virtually SAARC Foreign ministers meet. The informal SAARC FMs meet takes place every year on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, but this year taking place virtually due to COVID pandemic.

In the meet, EAM, "Reaffirmed India’s commitment to Neighbourhood First policy" and "towards building a connected, integrated, secure and prosperous South Asia".

Special focus was on jointly dealing the COVID crisis with Jaishankar highlighting how New Delhi committed to $ 10 million for COVID emergency fund and how it has reached out to several countries of SAARC with essential drugs, COVID protection &amp; testing kits.

He emphasized how India supported SAARC neighbours amidst COVID and give examples of Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka. India extended $ 150 million foreign currency swap support to the Maldives, Currency swap support of $ 200 million to Bhutan and $ 400 million to Sri Lanka during the course of this year.

Amidst the pandemic, health professionals of SAARC met to share information and best practices of the region and SAARC Food Bank mechanism was activated to mitigate the adverse impact of the crisis.

Indian Prime Minister has taken a lead in calling SAARC heads of governments virtual meet to deal with the crisis. This was the first such regional meet on COVID crisis anywhere in the world.

Bangladesh foreign minister Abdul Momen, Nepali FM Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Afghan FM Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid, Bhutan FMTandi Dorji, Sri Lankan FM Dinesh Gunawardene were present in the meet.

Hitting out at Pakistan, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has listed 3 challenges in front of South Asia--Cross-border terrorism, blocking connectivity and obstructing trade at the virtually SAARC Foreign ministers meet.

Hitting out at Pakistan, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has listed 3 challenges in front of South Asia--Cross-border terrorism, blocking connectivity and obstructing trade at the virtually SAARC Foreign ministers meet. The informal SAARC FMs meet takes place every year on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, but this year taking place virtually due to COVID pandemic. In the meet, EAM, "Reaffirmed India’s commitment to Neighbourhood First policy" and "towards building a connected, integrated, secure and prosperous South Asia". Special focus was on jointly dealing the COVID crisis with Jaishankar highlighting how New Delhi committed to $ 10 million for COVID emergency fund and how it has reached out to several countries of SAARC with essential drugs, COVID protection & testing kits. He emphasized how India supported SAARC neighbours amidst COVID and give examples of Bhutan, Maldives and Sri Lanka. India extended $ 150 million foreign currency swap support to the Maldives, Currency swap support of $ 200 million to Bhutan and $ 400 million to Sri Lanka during the course of this year. Amidst the pandemic, health professionals of SAARC met to share information and best practices of the region and SAARC Food Bank mechanism was activated to mitigate the adverse impact of the crisis. Indian Prime Minister has taken a lead in calling SAARC heads of governments virtual meet to deal with the crisis. This was the first such regional meet on COVID crisis anywhere in the world. Bangladesh foreign minister Abdul Momen, Nepali FM Pradeep Kumar Gyawali, Afghan FM Mohammad Hanif Atmar, Maldives FM Abdulla Shahid, Bhutan FMTandi Dorji, Sri Lankan FM Dinesh Gunawardene were present in the meet.

EAM lists Cross-border terrorism, blocking connectivity & obstructing trade as 3 challenges at SAARC FMs meet

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi offers Africa "an honest partnership" and believes in "empowering rather than extracting from" local.

He said, "India offers Africa an honest partnership, and room to maximize its space under the sun and multiply its options. Africa is of course not without options, and by no stretch does India claim to be the only one. However, what we can promise is to be Africa’s most steadfast partner."

Highlighting how despite the "pandemic and through the lockdown", New Delhi "kept its critical supply lines open to Africa. Indian medicines reached and were made available to patients in many African countries" and "These adverse times will not last; but Africa-India friendship and cooperation, trust me, will."

The comments come even as New Delhi has been reaching out to the continent especially as a development partner and helping in capacity and human resource building.

India has provided duty-free, quota-free market access 33 African least developing nations and has invested in oil and gas sector--like an investment of $ 7 billion in a gas field in Mozambique and half a billion dollars in South Sudan. In terms of human resource, 50,000 training slots have been given by India to African students under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programmes.

EAM said, “Africa’s rise as one of the global system’s poles is not just desirable, it is absolutely necessary" and is "fundamental to our foreign policy thinking" as "broader global rebalancing is incomplete without the genuine emergence of Africa. Only then will the world’s strategic diversity come into full play."

Since 2015, 34 high-level visits, at the level of Indian President, Vice-President or Prime Minister, have taken place to Africa and in last 6 years, 100 African leaders have visited India for bilateral or multilateral meetings.&nbsp;

The Third India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015 in Delhi saw all 54 African nations participating. India has missions now in 38 African nations, a quarter of which have opened in the past two years.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi offers Africa "an honest partnership" and believes in "empowering rather than extracting from" local.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi offers Africa "an honest partnership" and believes in "empowering rather than extracting from" local. He said, "India offers Africa an honest partnership, and room to maximize its space under the sun and multiply its options. Africa is of course not without options, and by no stretch does India claim to be the only one. However, what we can promise is to be Africa’s most steadfast partner." Highlighting how despite the "pandemic and through the lockdown", New Delhi "kept its critical supply lines open to Africa. Indian medicines reached and were made available to patients in many African countries" and "These adverse times will not last; but Africa-India friendship and cooperation, trust me, will." The comments come even as New Delhi has been reaching out to the continent especially as a development partner and helping in capacity and human resource building. India has provided duty-free, quota-free market access 33 African least developing nations and has invested in oil and gas sector--like an investment of $ 7 billion in a gas field in Mozambique and half a billion dollars in South Sudan. In terms of human resource, 50,000 training slots have been given by India to African students under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation programmes. EAM said, “Africa’s rise as one of the global system’s poles is not just desirable, it is absolutely necessary" and is "fundamental to our foreign policy thinking" as "broader global rebalancing is incomplete without the genuine emergence of Africa. Only then will the world’s strategic diversity come into full play." Since 2015, 34 high-level visits, at the level of Indian President, Vice-President or Prime Minister, have taken place to Africa and in last 6 years, 100 African leaders have visited India for bilateral or multilateral meetings. The Third India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015 in Delhi saw all 54 African nations participating. India has missions now in 38 African nations, a quarter of which have opened in the past two years.

India offers Africa an honest partnership: EAM Dr S Jaishankar 

China have confirmed that the missing youths from Arunachal Pradesh have been found by their side.

WION Dispatch: 5 Indians went missing near China-Arunachal border

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasized the collaboration to attain self-reliance. He addressed a virtual gathering India @75. Watch report.

EAM S Jaishankar speaks on technology, China at India @75 Summit

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) released a statement on Tuesday on the clash between Indian and Chinese armies at Galwan Valley

LAC Stand-off: 'China unilaterally tried to change the status quo' says MEA

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