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

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a meeting with Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat, the three service chiefs and External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar over the recent developments in Eastern Ladakh on Tuesday.

China asks India to not take unilateral actions over violent stand-off at Galwan Valley

Rajnath Singh Meets CDS, Service Chiefs, EAM over LAC developments

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said.

They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-visit-maldives-for-indian-ocean-conference-246858">S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference</a>

Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/s-jaishankar-to-pay-two-day-visit-to-nepal-from-august-21-243944">S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21</a>

While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran.

The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar arrived on a surprise visit to Kashmir on Monday, officials said. They said the Union minister will visit the Srinagar Passport Office located on the banks of the famous Dal Lake in Boulevard area of the city. Also Read: S Jaishankar to visit Maldives for Indian Ocean Conference Jaishankar will also visit Passport Seva Kendra in Baramulla district of north Kashmir, the officials said. Also Read: S Jaishankar to pay two-day visit to Nepal from August 21 While the main purpose of the minister's visit is not yet known, there is speculation that he might meet families of the students stranded in Iran. The parents have been appealing the government to lift the students from Iran due to coronavirus scare.

EAM Jaishankar arrives on surprise visit to Kashmir

By Sidhant Sibal and Anshu Dubey

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo in Washington.&nbsp;

This is the fourth meet between Jaishankar and Pompeo in last four months. They two leaders first met in Delhi during Pompeo's India visit, the second meeting was held during ASEAN FMs meet in Bangkok. The third meet was held last week at the first-ever Quad Foreign ministers meet in New York and now in Washington.

After the meet, EAM Jaishanker said, "It was a very comfortable meeting, this is not the first time I am meeting him. A big part of it was spent on various bilateral issues and we did stocktaking post PM's meeting US President Donald Trump, both of us felt that trade issue has progressed for the larger relationship that was important. We see some early results"

He further added, "We obviously discussed our immediate region and what was happening in region East of India as well as South-East Asia. Some discussion on the Gulf. "

Jaishankar is in Washington after his New York visit during which he met more than 40 of his counterparts.

The meet also comes two days after PM Modi concluded his week-long high profile US visit. The visit, many see, helped bring US and India closers.

Both US President Donald Trump and PM Modi endorsed each other during the Indian diaspora event in Houston--Howdy Modi that saw the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian-Americans.

Using Trump's slogan "Make America Great Again", PM said, Trump has achieved much for the United States. Further endorsing him he said "abki baar baar Trump Sakar".

Trump meanwhile, called PM Modi as "One of Americas most devoted and most loyal friends" who is "doing a truly exceptional job for India and all of the Indian people".

Both sides are working on a trade agreement with trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his counterpart United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer last week in New York.

President Donald Trump and PM Modi have met four times in last four months--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Osaka, G7 summit in France, the Houston diaspora event and bilateral meet on the sidelines of United Nation General Assembly.&nbsp;

Both sides are working on US President Donald Trump's first India visit later this year. Talks are already underway for the visit and US President Donald Trump also hinted at it when he spoke at diaspora event last week in Texas.

"Thousands in Mumbai will watch the first-ever NBA game in India..am I invited Mr Prime Minister? I may come, be careful I may come", Trump said.

By Sidhant Sibal and Anshu Dubey India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo in Washington. This is the fourth meet between Jaishankar and Pompeo in last four months.

By Sidhant Sibal and Anshu Dubey India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo in Washington. This is the fourth meet between Jaishankar and Pompeo in last four months. They two leaders first met in Delhi during Pompeo's India visit, the second meeting was held during ASEAN FMs meet in Bangkok. The third meet was held last week at the first-ever Quad Foreign ministers meet in New York and now in Washington. After the meet, EAM Jaishanker said, "It was a very comfortable meeting, this is not the first time I am meeting him. A big part of it was spent on various bilateral issues and we did stocktaking post PM's meeting US President Donald Trump, both of us felt that trade issue has progressed for the larger relationship that was important. We see some early results" He further added, "We obviously discussed our immediate region and what was happening in region East of India as well as South-East Asia. Some discussion on the Gulf. " Jaishankar is in Washington after his New York visit during which he met more than 40 of his counterparts. The meet also comes two days after PM Modi concluded his week-long high profile US visit. The visit, many see, helped bring US and India closers. Both US President Donald Trump and PM Modi endorsed each other during the Indian diaspora event in Houston--Howdy Modi that saw the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian-Americans. Using Trump's slogan "Make America Great Again", PM said, Trump has achieved much for the United States. Further endorsing him he said "abki baar baar Trump Sakar". Trump meanwhile, called PM Modi as "One of Americas most devoted and most loyal friends" who is "doing a truly exceptional job for India and all of the Indian people". Both sides are working on a trade agreement with trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his counterpart United States Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer last week in New York. President Donald Trump and PM Modi have met four times in last four months--on the sidelines of G20 summit in Osaka, G7 summit in France, the Houston diaspora event and bilateral meet on the sidelines of United Nation General Assembly. Both sides are working on US President Donald Trump's first India visit later this year. Talks are already underway for the visit and US President Donald Trump also hinted at it when he spoke at diaspora event last week in Texas. "Thousands in Mumbai will watch the first-ever NBA game in India..am I invited Mr Prime Minister? I may come, be careful I may come", Trump said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar meets Pompeo in Washington

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister. During the visit, EAM will also work together on Indo-Pacific and resolve trade issues.&nbsp;

He already met Pompeo as part of the Quad Foreign Minister meet in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. Speaking on the meet, a senior state department official said, "They discussed how increased engagement in the region by Quad members individually and together contribute to improving maritime security, economic growth and development, and good governance."

Trade remains one of the main focus with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his American counterpart in New York last week.

India's consul general to New York Sandeep Chakravorty responding to WION's question on any India-US trade deal said, "People are working on it, the trajectory is very positive. We have bridged deficit with US through energy, defence. The announcement will come when it comes"

Meanwhile, PM Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, Representative of Hawaii and US Presidential candidate in New York just before leaving for New Delhi.

Speaking to DD News, Gabbard said, "It is really important that the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy continue to remain focused on strengthening our partnership. We have many shared interest from economy to trade to security to counter-terrorism to climate change."

On terror, she said," I think, counter-terrorism and getting rid of the threat coming from terrorism like Al Qaeda and ISIS is certainly in the interest of US and India"

EAM Jaishankar will return to Delhi on October 4.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister. During the visit, EAM will also work together on Indo-Pacific and resolve trade issues. He already met Pompeo as part of the Quad Foreign Minister meet in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. Speaking on the meet, a senior state department official said, "They discussed how increased engagement in the region by Quad members individually and together contribute to improving maritime security, economic growth and development, and good governance." Trade remains one of the main focus with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his American counterpart in New York last week. India's consul general to New York Sandeep Chakravorty responding to WION's question on any India-US trade deal said, "People are working on it, the trajectory is very positive. We have bridged deficit with US through energy, defence. The announcement will come when it comes" Meanwhile, PM Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, Representative of Hawaii and US Presidential candidate in New York just before leaving for New Delhi. Speaking to DD News, Gabbard said, "It is really important that the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy continue to remain focused on strengthening our partnership. We have many shared interest from economy to trade to security to counter-terrorism to climate change." On terror, she said," I think, counter-terrorism and getting rid of the threat coming from terrorism like Al Qaeda and ISIS is certainly in the interest of US and India" EAM Jaishankar will return to Delhi on October 4.

EAM Jaishankar begins his Washington visit, will meet Mike Pompeo

Asserting that there is an attitudinal shift in India on climate change, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi is "doing better" than many of the western countries in achieving the Paris Accord's commitment.

"My first point I would make is there is a big attitudinal shift on climate change, in India. And until a few years ago people looked at climate change as something that was a growing awareness," Jaishankar said in an interview to Asia Society Policy Institute President Kevin Rudd on Tuesday.

"Actually when it comes to delivering on the Paris commitment... Frankly, it appears from what I read... it seems India is doing better than the much of Europe and other countries in meeting the Paris Accord's commitment," he said.

Jaishnakar said that in 2015 when the Paris agreement was being discussed, New Delhi had decided to take the lead on addressing climate change.

He asserted that India is on its way of meeting the target of installing 175 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity.

"At Paris... I think we decided that we would actually take the lead in addressing climate change challenges. I think our lot of views and position influenced the Group of 77 definitely but what we did outside the Paris conference to my mind was a more important outcome to us and for the world," he said.

"We decided to take the lead on advocating and implementing the spread of solar energy. We unveiled one of the most ambitious solar projects up to date. We started what is called the International Solar Alliance. The target was 175 GW. We are on the way to meeting that," he asserted.

Jaishankar said that the success of the world on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be dependent on the accomplishment of India in terms of goals.

The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030.

"I think the big issue before the world and before the United Nations right now is how we're all going to deliver, or not, on the sustainable development goals. And this, I mean in a sense I say this, I mean this is an analytical observation. I think whether the world would be successful in achieving SDG&nbsp;targets would depend on whether India would be successful because our numbers are so big," he said.

 
&nbsp;

Asserting that there is an attitudinal shift in India on climate change, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi is "doing better" than many of the western countries in achieving the Paris Accord's commitment.

Asserting that there is an attitudinal shift in India on climate change, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that New Delhi is "doing better" than many of the western countries in achieving the Paris Accord's commitment. "My first point I would make is there is a big attitudinal shift on climate change, in India. And until a few years ago people looked at climate change as something that was a growing awareness," Jaishankar said in an interview to Asia Society Policy Institute President Kevin Rudd on Tuesday. "Actually when it comes to delivering on the Paris commitment... Frankly, it appears from what I read... it seems India is doing better than the much of Europe and other countries in meeting the Paris Accord's commitment," he said. Jaishnakar said that in 2015 when the Paris agreement was being discussed, New Delhi had decided to take the lead on addressing climate change. He asserted that India is on its way of meeting the target of installing 175 gigawatts of renewable energy capacity. "At Paris... I think we decided that we would actually take the lead in addressing climate change challenges. I think our lot of views and position influenced the Group of 77 definitely but what we did outside the Paris conference to my mind was a more important outcome to us and for the world," he said. "We decided to take the lead on advocating and implementing the spread of solar energy. We unveiled one of the most ambitious solar projects up to date. We started what is called the International Solar Alliance. The target was 175 GW. We are on the way to meeting that," he asserted. Jaishankar said that the success of the world on achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) would be dependent on the accomplishment of India in terms of goals. The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. "I think the big issue before the world and before the United Nations right now is how we're all going to deliver, or not, on the sustainable development goals. And this, I mean in a sense I say this, I mean this is an analytical observation. I think whether the world would be successful in achieving SDG targets would depend on whether India would be successful because our numbers are so big," he said.

India is 'doing better' than many Western countries in achieving Paris Accord's commitment: Jaishankar

It is often said that the presence of people can be felt long after they've left for higher places. Nothing stands truer, as the next UN General Assembly session fast approaches, without the presence of one of India's most beloved leaders, Sushma Swaraj.

The people's External Affairs Minister, Swaraj breathed her last in New Delhi on August 6. India's foreign policy under the Swaraj-Modi leadership put the country on the international map as a force which shapes global agenda.

Amongst other things, the stalwart never shied from shedding light on Pakistan and its "export of terrorism" on international platforms.

During her statement at the General Debate of the 72nd Session of the UNGA in 2017, she had famously highlighted how despite "being the principal destination of Pakistan's nefarious export of terrorism," India had produced scholars, engineers, and doctors while Islamabad had produced terrorists and terrorist camps.

"Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khakan Abbasi accused India of state-sponsored terrorism and of violating human rights. Those listening had only one observation, 'Look who's talking!'&nbsp;A country that has been the world's greatest exporter of havoc, death and inhumanity became a champion of hypocrisy by preaching about humanity from this podium," she had said.

Tearing into Pakistan, Swaraj further said that while India had created and established institutions like IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS which got pride to the country, Islamabad had created terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Haqqani network, to name a few.

Just last year, she tore into Pakistan again. New Delhi had also called off a meeting with Islamabad on the sidelines of the UNGA after three jawans were brutally killed by 'Pakistan-based entities'&nbsp;and Islamabad had released a series of postage stamps glorifying a terrorist and terrorism.

"On December 9, 2016, I personally went to Islamabad and offered a comprehensive bilateral dialogue. But soon after, Pak-sponsored terrorists attacked our air force base in Pathankot on 2nd January. Please explain to me how we could pursue talks in the midst of terrorist bloodshed?" Swaraj had questioned during her speech at the UNGA last year.

"Even now, after the new government came to power, the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan wrote to Prime Minister Modi suggesting a meeting between Foreign Ministers in New York. We accepted the proposal. But, within hours of our acceptance, news came that terrorists had killed three of our jawans. Does this indicate a desire for dialogue?" the late EAM had added during her speech.

Making India's stand against terrorism crystal clear, Swaraj told Pakistan that talks and terror could not go together. It has been India's long-standing condition that Islamabad needs to dismantle all terror infrastructure on its soil and stop providing support to terror outfits for the resumption of bilateral talks.

Even though the international community was made aware of Pakistan's hand-in-glove nature with terrorism through Swaraj's initiatives, the world was provided with cold, hard proof after the February 14 Pulwama terror attacks, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel.

A terrorist belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) had rammed his bomb-laden vehicle into a passing CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to the devastating loss of Indian personnel.

Refusing to be cornered because of Islamabad's patronage to terrorism, New Delhi launched extensive diplomatic efforts globally to get the Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar listed as a global terrorist at the United Nations Security Council which became a reality on May 1, handing New Delhi one of its biggest diplomatic victories.

Soon after India abrogated Article 370 which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Swaraj tweeted, "@narendramodiji - Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," before she was rushed to AIIMS in New Delhi, where she later breathed her last.

As Pakistan looks to rake up the Kashmir issue at the upcoming UNGA, India has vowed not to use the United Nations as a platform for "dramatic purposes."

"India is a serious actor. Its voice is heard with seriousness. What we do, when we do, we will do the way we want it. It's not for broadcast purposes you will appreciate. We are a player of consequence in the world, not dramatist personae who just is a fleeting presence on the world stage," India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin told ANI, while taking a veiled jibe at Pakistan.

Even as India preps to address another UNGA session, it is difficult to forget the role Swaraj took on to bring terrorism and climate change to the forefront of the global agenda.

There's no better partnership that comes to mind when deliberating on why India's voice is heard louder today on global platforms than of Swaraj and Modi's.

This is why it becomes important to remember the leader as we go forth on our path of becoming the superpower we`re projected to be.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

It is often said that the presence of people can be felt long after they've left for higher places. Nothing stands truer, as the next UN General Assembly session fast approaches, without the presence of one of India's most beloved leaders, Sushma Swaraj.

It is often said that the presence of people can be felt long after they've left for higher places. Nothing stands truer, as the next UN General Assembly session fast approaches, without the presence of one of India's most beloved leaders, Sushma Swaraj. The people's External Affairs Minister, Swaraj breathed her last in New Delhi on August 6. India's foreign policy under the Swaraj-Modi leadership put the country on the international map as a force which shapes global agenda. Amongst other things, the stalwart never shied from shedding light on Pakistan and its "export of terrorism" on international platforms. During her statement at the General Debate of the 72nd Session of the UNGA in 2017, she had famously highlighted how despite "being the principal destination of Pakistan's nefarious export of terrorism," India had produced scholars, engineers, and doctors while Islamabad had produced terrorists and terrorist camps. "Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahid Khakan Abbasi accused India of state-sponsored terrorism and of violating human rights. Those listening had only one observation, 'Look who's talking!' A country that has been the world's greatest exporter of havoc, death and inhumanity became a champion of hypocrisy by preaching about humanity from this podium," she had said. Tearing into Pakistan, Swaraj further said that while India had created and established institutions like IITs, IIMs, and AIIMS which got pride to the country, Islamabad had created terror groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, Haqqani network, to name a few. Just last year, she tore into Pakistan again. New Delhi had also called off a meeting with Islamabad on the sidelines of the UNGA after three jawans were brutally killed by 'Pakistan-based entities' and Islamabad had released a series of postage stamps glorifying a terrorist and terrorism. "On December 9, 2016, I personally went to Islamabad and offered a comprehensive bilateral dialogue. But soon after, Pak-sponsored terrorists attacked our air force base in Pathankot on 2nd January. Please explain to me how we could pursue talks in the midst of terrorist bloodshed?" Swaraj had questioned during her speech at the UNGA last year. "Even now, after the new government came to power, the Prime Minister of Pakistan Imran Khan wrote to Prime Minister Modi suggesting a meeting between Foreign Ministers in New York. We accepted the proposal. But, within hours of our acceptance, news came that terrorists had killed three of our jawans. Does this indicate a desire for dialogue?" the late EAM had added during her speech. Making India's stand against terrorism crystal clear, Swaraj told Pakistan that talks and terror could not go together. It has been India's long-standing condition that Islamabad needs to dismantle all terror infrastructure on its soil and stop providing support to terror outfits for the resumption of bilateral talks. Even though the international community was made aware of Pakistan's hand-in-glove nature with terrorism through Swaraj's initiatives, the world was provided with cold, hard proof after the February 14 Pulwama terror attacks, which claimed the lives of 40 CRPF personnel. A terrorist belonging to Pakistan-based terror outfit Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) had rammed his bomb-laden vehicle into a passing CRPF convoy in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, leading to the devastating loss of Indian personnel. Refusing to be cornered because of Islamabad's patronage to terrorism, New Delhi launched extensive diplomatic efforts globally to get the Pakistan-based JeM chief Masood Azhar listed as a global terrorist at the United Nations Security Council which became a reality on May 1, handing New Delhi one of its biggest diplomatic victories. Soon after India abrogated Article 370 which accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, Swaraj tweeted, "@narendramodiji - Thank you Prime Minister. Thank you very much. I was waiting to see this day in my lifetime," before she was rushed to AIIMS in New Delhi, where she later breathed her last. As Pakistan looks to rake up the Kashmir issue at the upcoming UNGA, India has vowed not to use the United Nations as a platform for "dramatic purposes." "India is a serious actor. Its voice is heard with seriousness. What we do, when we do, we will do the way we want it. It's not for broadcast purposes you will appreciate. We are a player of consequence in the world, not dramatist personae who just is a fleeting presence on the world stage," India's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Syed Akbaruddin told ANI, while taking a veiled jibe at Pakistan. Even as India preps to address another UNGA session, it is difficult to forget the role Swaraj took on to bring terrorism and climate change to the forefront of the global agenda. There's no better partnership that comes to mind when deliberating on why India's voice is heard louder today on global platforms than of Swaraj and Modi's. This is why it becomes important to remember the leader as we go forth on our path of becoming the superpower we`re projected to be.

As India preps to address another UNGA session, we remember Sushma Swaraj's contributions

It`s been more than five months that a boat allegedly sailed off from Kerala coast carrying over 243 Indians who went missing.&nbsp;

With no trace of them, their families are currently seeking help from the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi.

Kasturi, a relative of one of the 243 people, said, "My family informed us that they are going to Kerala and later we got to hear that they are going to New Zealand in a boat sailing off from Kerala coast. We came here to seek help from the government."

Sundar Lingam, a relative of one of the missing persons, said, "We are here to meet the External Affairs Minister and appeal the government to look into our issue. My family, relatives and beloved ones are missing and there`s no trace of them yet. I am not aware of a third party who is involved in this matter."

Devendra, who couldn`t go along with his wife and two children in the boat, told ANI, "People were taken in a bus to the coast. By the time it was my turn, the driver informed me that I can join them later as the bus would return and take remaining people. However, when I called them after a few hours, they informed me that the boat has already boarded from Kerala coast and there`s no space left."

He also alleged that a person named Ravinder allured the people of the Madangir village in the pretext of having a good life in New Zealand.

"Over 35 people from my family went in that boat and we have even approached the Kerala government to look into the matter. However, the government is paying no heed to our issue. Few enquiries were made by the police, but no action was taken in this regard," Ananti, another relative, told ANI.

Reportedly, many people from Madangir village have boarded the boat destined to New Zealand illegally in January.&nbsp;

It`s been more than five months that a boat allegedly sailed off from Kerala coast carrying over 243 Indians who went missing. With no trace of them, their families are currently seeking help from the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi.

It`s been more than five months that a boat allegedly sailed off from Kerala coast carrying over 243 Indians who went missing. With no trace of them, their families are currently seeking help from the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi. Kasturi, a relative of one of the 243 people, said, "My family informed us that they are going to Kerala and later we got to hear that they are going to New Zealand in a boat sailing off from Kerala coast. We came here to seek help from the government." Sundar Lingam, a relative of one of the missing persons, said, "We are here to meet the External Affairs Minister and appeal the government to look into our issue. My family, relatives and beloved ones are missing and there`s no trace of them yet. I am not aware of a third party who is involved in this matter." Devendra, who couldn`t go along with his wife and two children in the boat, told ANI, "People were taken in a bus to the coast. By the time it was my turn, the driver informed me that I can join them later as the bus would return and take remaining people. However, when I called them after a few hours, they informed me that the boat has already boarded from Kerala coast and there`s no space left." He also alleged that a person named Ravinder allured the people of the Madangir village in the pretext of having a good life in New Zealand. "Over 35 people from my family went in that boat and we have even approached the Kerala government to look into the matter. However, the government is paying no heed to our issue. Few enquiries were made by the police, but no action was taken in this regard," Ananti, another relative, told ANI. Reportedly, many people from Madangir village have boarded the boat destined to New Zealand illegally in January.

Families of 243 people missing from Kerala seek government's help

The former foreign Secretary S.Jaishankar now External Affairs Minister tweets from his office for the very first time. The official tweet says 'we the team @MEA at your service 24*7'.

EAM S.Jaishankar tweets for the first time, says 'At your service 24*7'

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday introduced the Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident of India Bill, 2019, which has stringent provisions in place for erring NRI spouses.&nbsp;

The objective of the Bill is to create more accountability and offer more protection against the exploitation of Indian women by their NRI spouses. &nbsp;

As per the bill, an erring NRI spouse could be declared a proclaimed offender or may have to face impounding of passport&nbsp;or the attachment of property. The Ministry has been receiving petitions from Indian women deserted or harassed by their NRI spouses.&nbsp;

The legislation will help in "better enforcement of rights of the deserted spouses under various family laws".

The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Under the legislation, a court can issue summons, warrants through the specially designated website of the Ministry of External Affairs in case of any violation.

If the person in question fails to appear before the court at the time and place mentioned in the warrant, a court may declare him a proclaimed offender. The court may also attach the properties belonging to the NRI.&nbsp;

Section 5 (5) says the court may "order the attachment of any property, movable or immovable, or both belonging to the proclaimed offender". If it is a joint property then the attachment will have effect only with regard to the interest of the proclaimed offender.

As per the bill, every NRI who married an Indian citizen needs to register it within a period of 30 days from the date of marriage. If the person doesn't register the marriage, the passport authority can impound the passport. For this, the bill amends the Passport Act, 1967.

Even before this provision was introduced, India impounded many passports to act in favour of distressed Indian women. The MEA revoked/impounded as many as 24 passports and suspended 21 passports of erring spouses based on the complaints received and the issuance of the Look Out Circulars by the Integrated Nodal Agency, Police and Courts.

The bill regards a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) as a citizen of India who resides outside&nbsp;India's territory. The MEA addressed 5,379 complaints of distressed Indian women deserted by their NRI spouses between January 2014 to December 2018. The amount of legal and financial assistance to the distressed Indian women has also been increased to $4,000 per case.&nbsp;

The MEA in a press release said, "the introduction of the Bill was necessitated by the Ministry of External Affairs due to numerous complaints received from Indian nationals mostly women deserted or harassed by their Non-Resident Indian Spouses."

Further elaborating, the MEA said the "Bill proposes to offer greater protection to Indian women married to NRIs and serve as a deterrent to NRIs against harassment of their spouses. This would provide much-needed relief to all Indian women married to NRIs worldwide."

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday introduced the Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident of India Bill, 2019, which has stringent provisions in place for erring NRI spouses.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj on Monday introduced the Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident of India Bill, 2019, which has stringent provisions in place for erring NRI spouses. The objective of the Bill is to create more accountability and offer more protection against the exploitation of Indian women by their NRI spouses. As per the bill, an erring NRI spouse could be declared a proclaimed offender or may have to face impounding of passport or the attachment of property. The Ministry has been receiving petitions from Indian women deserted or harassed by their NRI spouses. The legislation will help in "better enforcement of rights of the deserted spouses under various family laws". The bill amends the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Under the legislation, a court can issue summons, warrants through the specially designated website of the Ministry of External Affairs in case of any violation. If the person in question fails to appear before the court at the time and place mentioned in the warrant, a court may declare him a proclaimed offender. The court may also attach the properties belonging to the NRI. Section 5 (5) says the court may "order the attachment of any property, movable or immovable, or both belonging to the proclaimed offender". If it is a joint property then the attachment will have effect only with regard to the interest of the proclaimed offender. As per the bill, every NRI who married an Indian citizen needs to register it within a period of 30 days from the date of marriage. If the person doesn't register the marriage, the passport authority can impound the passport. For this, the bill amends the Passport Act, 1967. Even before this provision was introduced, India impounded many passports to act in favour of distressed Indian women. The MEA revoked/impounded as many as 24 passports and suspended 21 passports of erring spouses based on the complaints received and the issuance of the Look Out Circulars by the Integrated Nodal Agency, Police and Courts. The bill regards a Non-Resident Indian (NRI) as a citizen of India who resides outside India's territory. The MEA addressed 5,379 complaints of distressed Indian women deserted by their NRI spouses between January 2014 to December 2018. The amount of legal and financial assistance to the distressed Indian women has also been increased to $4,000 per case. The MEA in a press release said, "the introduction of the Bill was necessitated by the Ministry of External Affairs due to numerous complaints received from Indian nationals mostly women deserted or harassed by their Non-Resident Indian Spouses." Further elaborating, the MEA said the "Bill proposes to offer greater protection to Indian women married to NRIs and serve as a deterrent to NRIs against harassment of their spouses. This would provide much-needed relief to all Indian women married to NRIs worldwide."

Sushma Swaraj introduces bill that acts tough on erring NRI spouses 

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