UK envoy to UN Barbara Woodward on WION: "We need to find a political solution, UK is looking for an end to violence in Myanmar", Ambassador Barbara Woodward said to WION correspondent Susan Tehrani. She added that "path of democracy" was the only way forward.

UK is looking for an end to violence in Myanmar": Ambassador Barbara Woodward said to WION

The US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has departed for Turkey and the nearby region, the US State Department said on Saturday, in a push to encourage Afghan parties to accelerate negotiations to end conflict in the country.&nbsp;

President Joe Biden is deciding whether to meet a May 1 deadline for the withdrawal of the last 3,500 American troops in Afghanistan that was set in a February 2020 accord struck with the Taliban under former President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

Biden's administration has sought to build international pressure on the Taliban and US-backed Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's government to reach a peace agreement and a ceasefire before the deadline.&nbsp;

"He will engage the two sides on their preparatory efforts for talks on a political settlement that produces a permanent ceasefire and a durable and just peace," the State Department said in a statement, adding that Khalilzad departed for the talks on Thursday.&nbsp;

The Taliban on Friday said it would resume hostilities against foreign forces - which ended under the US-Taliban deal - if they remain beyond the deadline.&nbsp;

Biden on Thursday said it would be hard to comply with the deadline, which also requires the departure of some 7,000 allied forces.&nbsp;

The Taliban has said it was committed to the agreement, which it has termed the 'most sensible and shortest path' to end 20 years of war in Afghanistan - America's longest foreign conflict.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

The US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has departed for Turkey and the nearby region, the US State Department said on Saturday, in a push to encourage Afghan parties to accelerate negotiations to end conflict in the country.

The US special envoy for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad has departed for Turkey and the nearby region, the US State Department said on Saturday, in a push to encourage Afghan parties to accelerate negotiations to end conflict in the country. President Joe Biden is deciding whether to meet a May 1 deadline for the withdrawal of the last 3,500 American troops in Afghanistan that was set in a February 2020 accord struck with the Taliban under former President Donald Trump. Biden's administration has sought to build international pressure on the Taliban and US-backed Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's government to reach a peace agreement and a ceasefire before the deadline. "He will engage the two sides on their preparatory efforts for talks on a political settlement that produces a permanent ceasefire and a durable and just peace," the State Department said in a statement, adding that Khalilzad departed for the talks on Thursday. The Taliban on Friday said it would resume hostilities against foreign forces - which ended under the US-Taliban deal - if they remain beyond the deadline. Biden on Thursday said it would be hard to comply with the deadline, which also requires the departure of some 7,000 allied forces. The Taliban has said it was committed to the agreement, which it has termed the 'most sensible and shortest path' to end 20 years of war in Afghanistan - America's longest foreign conflict. (With inputs from agencies)

US envoy to Afghanistan heads to Turkey, region to push talks to end conflict 

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years.&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden on television earlier this week called the Russian leader a 'killer' spurring a terse quip from Vladimir Putin who responded that, 'it takes one to know one'.&nbsp;

The exchange pushed diplomatic relations to a new low even after Moscow's ties with Washington were already at rock bottom over election meddling allegations and the Kremlin's decision to jail opposition figure Alexei Navalny.&nbsp;

Russia's envoy to the United States Anatoly Antonov landed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport Sunday morning, Russian news agencies reported, after he was recalled last week over the spat. &nbsp;

Before takeoff in New York, he told agencies he would stay in Moscow 'as along as necessary' and that several meetings were scheduled.&nbsp;

"The Russian side has always stressed that we are interested in the development of Russian-American relations to the same extent as our American colleagues are," he was quoted as saying by TASS.&nbsp;

Moscow, which rarely returns ambassadors, last summoned its envoy in the US in 1998 over a Western bombing campaign in Iraq.&nbsp;

In 2014, after the US said Russia would face repercussions for annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, Putin held back on recalling Moscow's envoy, describing the measure as a 'last resort'. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years.

Russia's ambassador to the United States landed in Moscow on Sunday after being recalled for emergency consultations over the worst crisis in relations with the United States in years. US President Joe Biden on television earlier this week called the Russian leader a 'killer' spurring a terse quip from Vladimir Putin who responded that, 'it takes one to know one'. The exchange pushed diplomatic relations to a new low even after Moscow's ties with Washington were already at rock bottom over election meddling allegations and the Kremlin's decision to jail opposition figure Alexei Navalny. Russia's envoy to the United States Anatoly Antonov landed at Moscow's Sheremetyevo airport Sunday morning, Russian news agencies reported, after he was recalled last week over the spat. Before takeoff in New York, he told agencies he would stay in Moscow 'as along as necessary' and that several meetings were scheduled. "The Russian side has always stressed that we are interested in the development of Russian-American relations to the same extent as our American colleagues are," he was quoted as saying by TASS. Moscow, which rarely returns ambassadors, last summoned its envoy in the US in 1998 over a Western bombing campaign in Iraq. In 2014, after the US said Russia would face repercussions for annexation of Crimea from Ukraine, Putin held back on recalling Moscow's envoy, describing the measure as a 'last resort'. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia's US envoy Anatoly Antonov returns to Moscow after 'killer' row 

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'.&nbsp;

In a foreign and defence policy review published on Tuesday and endorsed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Britain said it needed to increase its nuclear arsenal in the face of evolving global security threats.&nbsp;

Britain said it would raise the upper limit on its nuclear warhead stock to 260 from 180. The same report also classified Russia as 'the most acute threat to our security' in the Euro-Atlantic region.&nbsp;

The Kremlin said at the time that it regretted the British nuclear decision, which it suggested would harm international stability, while the Russian foreign ministry described the move as a serious blow to international arms control.&nbsp;

Andrei Kelin, Russia's ambassador to Britain, went further in an interview due to be broadcast on the London-based LBC radio station on Sunday, saying the plan looked illegal.&nbsp;

"You are increasing the number of warheads by 40%. This is a violation of the treaty of non-proliferation and many, many other agreements that are saying only a decline or a reduction in the number of nukes," Kelin told LBC, according to a partial transcript on the radio station's website.&nbsp;

The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which Britain has ratified, came into force in 1970. The UK government has said its plans do not violate the pact.&nbsp;

Russian news agencies cited Kelin as saying that political relations between London and Moscow, which have become strained from events from Russia's jailing of opposition politician Alexei Navalny to the poisoning in 2018 of a Russian double agent and his daughter, were 'nearly dead'.&nbsp;

They cited Kelin as saying that only cultural and economic ties remained, while LBC cited him as saying that the last time, he had spoken to British foreign minister Dominic Raab was in December 2019.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'.

Russia's ambassador to Britain has accused the UK government of breaking its international treaty commitments with a plan to increase the country's nuclear arsenal and said the political relationship between Moscow and London is 'nearly dead'. In a foreign and defence policy review published on Tuesday and endorsed by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Britain said it needed to increase its nuclear arsenal in the face of evolving global security threats. Britain said it would raise the upper limit on its nuclear warhead stock to 260 from 180. The same report also classified Russia as 'the most acute threat to our security' in the Euro-Atlantic region. The Kremlin said at the time that it regretted the British nuclear decision, which it suggested would harm international stability, while the Russian foreign ministry described the move as a serious blow to international arms control. Andrei Kelin, Russia's ambassador to Britain, went further in an interview due to be broadcast on the London-based LBC radio station on Sunday, saying the plan looked illegal. "You are increasing the number of warheads by 40%. This is a violation of the treaty of non-proliferation and many, many other agreements that are saying only a decline or a reduction in the number of nukes," Kelin told LBC, according to a partial transcript on the radio station's website. The Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, which Britain has ratified, came into force in 1970. The UK government has said its plans do not violate the pact. Russian news agencies cited Kelin as saying that political relations between London and Moscow, which have become strained from events from Russia's jailing of opposition politician Alexei Navalny to the poisoning in 2018 of a Russian double agent and his daughter, were 'nearly dead'. They cited Kelin as saying that only cultural and economic ties remained, while LBC cited him as saying that the last time, he had spoken to British foreign minister Dominic Raab was in December 2019. (With inputs from agencies)

UK nuclear arms plan is illegal: Russian envoy  

Russia said&nbsp;on&nbsp;Wednesday it had summoned its Washington envoy back to the country for consultations on its ties with the United States but stressed it wanted to prevent an&nbsp;'irreversible deterioration'&nbsp;in relations.&nbsp;

"The Russian ambassador in Washington, Anatoly Antonov, has been invited to come to Moscow for consultations conducted with the aim of&nbsp;analysing&nbsp;what should be done and where to go in the context of ties with the United States," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement.&nbsp;

The announcement came after President Joe Biden said Russia will&nbsp;'pay a price'&nbsp;for meddling in US elections and he agrees with the assessment that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is a&nbsp;'killer'.&nbsp;

The Biden's statement has come after a 15-page report, released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Tuesday, claimed that the Russian President likely directed efforts to try and sabotage Biden's chances of winning the US election 2020 against Donald Trump.&nbsp;

"Putin had purview over the activities of Andriy Derkach," the report said. "Other senior officials also participated in Russia's election influence efforts - including senior national security and intelligence officials who we assess would not act without receiving at least Putin's tacit approval."&nbsp;

However, these claims were dismissed by Russia. "The document prepared by the US intelligence community is another set of groundless accusations against our country of interfering in American internal political processes. The conclusions of the report on Russia conducting influence operations in America are confirmed solely by the confidence of the intelligence services of their self-righteousness. No facts or specific evidence of such claims were provided,"&nbsp;the Russian Embassy in Washington said on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Immediately after Biden's statement, Russia's lower house of parliament denounced the US President for agreeing that Putin is a 'killer'. Claiming that attacks on Putin are attacks on Russia, State Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin wrote on his Telegram channel that "Biden insulted the citizens of our country with his statement".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Russia said on Wednesday it had summoned its Washington envoy back to the country for consultations on its ties with the United States but stressed it wanted to prevent an 'irreversible deterioration' in relations.

Russia said on Wednesday it had summoned its Washington envoy back to the country for consultations on its ties with the United States but stressed it wanted to prevent an 'irreversible deterioration' in relations. "The Russian ambassador in Washington, Anatoly Antonov, has been invited to come to Moscow for consultations conducted with the aim of analysing what should be done and where to go in the context of ties with the United States," the Russian foreign ministry said in a statement. The announcement came after President Joe Biden said Russia will 'pay a price' for meddling in US elections and he agrees with the assessment that his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin is a 'killer'. The Biden's statement has come after a 15-page report, released by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence on Tuesday, claimed that the Russian President likely directed efforts to try and sabotage Biden's chances of winning the US election 2020 against Donald Trump. "Putin had purview over the activities of Andriy Derkach," the report said. "Other senior officials also participated in Russia's election influence efforts - including senior national security and intelligence officials who we assess would not act without receiving at least Putin's tacit approval." However, these claims were dismissed by Russia. "The document prepared by the US intelligence community is another set of groundless accusations against our country of interfering in American internal political processes. The conclusions of the report on Russia conducting influence operations in America are confirmed solely by the confidence of the intelligence services of their self-righteousness. No facts or specific evidence of such claims were provided," the Russian Embassy in Washington said on Wednesday. Immediately after Biden's statement, Russia's lower house of parliament denounced the US President for agreeing that Putin is a 'killer'. Claiming that attacks on Putin are attacks on Russia, State Duma speaker Vyacheslav Volodin wrote on his Telegram channel that "Biden insulted the citizens of our country with his statement". (With inputs from agencies)

Russia recalls Washington envoy for consultations 

The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims.&nbsp;

Addressing a conference on religion on Saturday, Alvi said, "When you see that laws are being changed in favour of a majority to isolate a minority, that is a dangerous precedent."&nbsp;

Specifically referring to the legislation drafted after the beheading of a French teacher by an Islamist radical over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, Alvi said, "When you insult the Prophet, you insult all Muslims.&nbsp;

"I urge the political leadership of France not to entrench these attitudes into laws... You have to bring people together -- not to stamp a religion in a certain manner and create disharmony among the people or create bias."&nbsp;

Pakistan was one of several Muslim countries that saw angry anti-French protests in October over President Emmanuel Macron's defence of the right to show cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed.&nbsp;

The country with the second-largest number of Muslims in the world after Indonesia does not have an ambassador in France.&nbsp;

The French foreign ministry said late on Monday it had called in Pakistan's charge d'affaires to mark "our surprise and our disapproval (over Alvi's remarks), given that the bill contains no discriminatory element."&nbsp;

"It is guided by the basic principles of freedom of religion and conscience, makes no distinction between the different religions and applies therefore equally to all faiths," the ministry said.&nbsp;

"Pakistan must understand this and adopt a constructive attitude for our bilateral relations," it added.&nbsp;

The bill adopted by the lower house of the French parliament last week is dubbed the 'anti-separatism' bill in reference to Macron's claim that Islamists are closing themselves off from French society by refusing to embrace secularism, gender equality and other French values.&nbsp;

The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims.

The French foreign ministry has summoned Pakistan's envoy to protest claims by President Arif Alvi that a French bill cracking down on radical Islam stigmatises Muslims. Addressing a conference on religion on Saturday, Alvi said, "When you see that laws are being changed in favour of a majority to isolate a minority, that is a dangerous precedent." Specifically referring to the legislation drafted after the beheading of a French teacher by an Islamist radical over cartoons of the Prophet Mohammed, Alvi said, "When you insult the Prophet, you insult all Muslims. "I urge the political leadership of France not to entrench these attitudes into laws... You have to bring people together -- not to stamp a religion in a certain manner and create disharmony among the people or create bias." Pakistan was one of several Muslim countries that saw angry anti-French protests in October over President Emmanuel Macron's defence of the right to show cartoons depicting the Prophet Mohammed. The country with the second-largest number of Muslims in the world after Indonesia does not have an ambassador in France. The French foreign ministry said late on Monday it had called in Pakistan's charge d'affaires to mark "our surprise and our disapproval (over Alvi's remarks), given that the bill contains no discriminatory element." "It is guided by the basic principles of freedom of religion and conscience, makes no distinction between the different religions and applies therefore equally to all faiths," the ministry said. "Pakistan must understand this and adopt a constructive attitude for our bilateral relations," it added. The bill adopted by the lower house of the French parliament last week is dubbed the 'anti-separatism' bill in reference to Macron's claim that Islamists are closing themselves off from French society by refusing to embrace secularism, gender equality and other French values.

Paris raps Pak envoy over President Alvi remarks on French Muslims

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet.&nbsp;

EU envoy speaking to WION said, "In our interaction, we have taken note of recent steps taken, such as the election of the district development council, the resumption of 4G internet services. It is very important obviously, right to freedom of expression online and offline is a key-value for all democracies."&nbsp;

Adding, "We have also noted with great expectations as to other important steps to be taken in the political and economic sphere including the early organization of legislative assembly elections. Overall, the visit presented the opportunity to see the situation on the ground and interact with some local interlocutors as part of the European Union's outreach to all stakeholders and we definitely look forward to continuing our dialogue with our Indian interlocutor."&nbsp;

The two-day visit on Wednesday and Thursday saw 24 foreign heads of the mission visiting the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The envoys visited Srinagar, Budgam, and Jammu. The programme included meeting with the military and the civil authorities, including elected representative. During the Srinagar visit, the envoys met elected representatives of urban local bodies, DDC and block development councils from all districts of the Kashmir division. The group also visited the famous Hazratbal shrine, one of the holiest mosques in the union territory.&nbsp;

The biggest percentage of envoys in the present group came from Europe. These were the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. This is the third such visit of foreign envoys, with two batches visiting the Union territory last year in January and February. EU envoy was present in previous such visits as well.

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet.

European Union envoy to India Ugo Astuto has termed his visit to union territory of Jammu and Kashmir an 'opportunity' to see the 'situation on the ground' and during his interaction taken note of the recent district development council (DDC) elections and resumption of the 4G high-speed internet. EU envoy speaking to WION said, "In our interaction, we have taken note of recent steps taken, such as the election of the district development council, the resumption of 4G internet services. It is very important obviously, right to freedom of expression online and offline is a key-value for all democracies." Adding, "We have also noted with great expectations as to other important steps to be taken in the political and economic sphere including the early organization of legislative assembly elections. Overall, the visit presented the opportunity to see the situation on the ground and interact with some local interlocutors as part of the European Union's outreach to all stakeholders and we definitely look forward to continuing our dialogue with our Indian interlocutor." The two-day visit on Wednesday and Thursday saw 24 foreign heads of the mission visiting the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The envoys visited Srinagar, Budgam, and Jammu. The programme included meeting with the military and the civil authorities, including elected representative. During the Srinagar visit, the envoys met elected representatives of urban local bodies, DDC and block development councils from all districts of the Kashmir division. The group also visited the famous Hazratbal shrine, one of the holiest mosques in the union territory. The biggest percentage of envoys in the present group came from Europe. These were the EU, Finland, France, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, and Sweden. This is the third such visit of foreign envoys, with two batches visiting the Union territory last year in January and February. EU envoy was present in previous such visits as well.

J&K visit an opportunity to see ground situation: EU envoy

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday.

In his message on the French National Day -- Bastille Day, French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain said that since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the two countries have shown exceptional solidarity.

"India has provided much needed equipment and drugs to French hospitals. Friendship is a two-way road and France has reciprocated," Lenain said.

The French development agency AFD has granted an exceptional loan of 200 million euros (Rs 1,600 crore) to provide social services to the most vulnerable population in India, he said.

"We are going to announce soon an exceptional package comprising serological test (kits), ventilators and some expertise," the French envoy said in the message posted on all social media handles of the French Embassy here.

Solidarity has been exceptional in the way the India government has lent support to the operation to repatriate stranded tourists, he said, thanking Indian authorities for it.

Another great way to express solidarity is the involvement of French companies in corporate social responsibility, he said.

Lenain cited the example of French firms partnering Indian companies for producing ventilators and a French firm contributing 65 ICU beds.

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday.

France will soon announce an "exceptional package" for India, including ventilators and expertise, as part of its efforts to jointly combat the COVID-19 pandemic, the French envoy to India said on Tuesday. In his message on the French National Day -- Bastille Day, French Ambassador to India Emmanuel Lenain said that since the beginning of the COVID-19 crisis, the two countries have shown exceptional solidarity. "India has provided much needed equipment and drugs to French hospitals. Friendship is a two-way road and France has reciprocated," Lenain said. The French development agency AFD has granted an exceptional loan of 200 million euros (Rs 1,600 crore) to provide social services to the most vulnerable population in India, he said. "We are going to announce soon an exceptional package comprising serological test (kits), ventilators and some expertise," the French envoy said in the message posted on all social media handles of the French Embassy here. Solidarity has been exceptional in the way the India government has lent support to the operation to repatriate stranded tourists, he said, thanking Indian authorities for it. Another great way to express solidarity is the involvement of French companies in corporate social responsibility, he said. Lenain cited the example of French firms partnering Indian companies for producing ventilators and a French firm contributing 65 ICU beds.

France to announce 'exceptional package' boosting India's COVID-19 fight, says Envoy

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source. 
 
Two Pakistan Foreign Ministry's deputies are also part of the delegation. The source told that the Pakistani delegation will "apologise" to Afghan officials over the harassment of Afghanistan's ambassador in Islamabad. 
 
Neither the Afghan nor Pakistani government has confirmed the report so far. 
 
On November 3, Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel.

Afghanistan, on November 4, had&nbsp;objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. 
 
A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source.

A Pakistani delegation led by Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), chief General Faiz Hameed, arrived in Kabul on Monday to apologize to Afghan officials over the harassment of Kabul envoy, Tolo News reported citing a reliable source. Two Pakistan Foreign Ministry's deputies are also part of the delegation. The source told that the Pakistani delegation will "apologise" to Afghan officials over the harassment of Afghanistan's ambassador in Islamabad. Neither the Afghan nor Pakistani government has confirmed the report so far. On November 3, Pakistan Foreign Office summoned the Afghan envoy to convey its concerns over the safety and security of its diplomatic personnel. Afghanistan, on November 4, had objected to the summoning of its charge d'affaires by Pakistan's Foreign Ministry over the harassment claims made by Pakistani diplomats working in the country's embassy in Kabul. A statement by Afghan Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, "Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan expresses its severe objection and deepest concern over the summoning of the Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan to Islamabad by Pakistan's Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) and the misconduct of the entity's personnel, and deems this action in clear contradiction with diplomatic norms and principles."

Pakistan officials to apologise in Kabul for harassing Afghanistan envoy

Pakistan Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-prime-minister-imran-khan-arrives-in-us-ahead-of-74th-session-of-unga-251133">Imran Khan</a> on Sunday (local time) met United States' special envoy for Afghan peace talks Zalmay Khalilzad.

Khan is in New York to take part in the 74th UN General Assembly session.

Dawn quoted Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi as saying that Khalilzad "shared with the premier how far his negotiations with the Taliban had gone, the nature of the talks and what expectations he holds in the future".

In a statement here, the Pakistan Embassy said Khan and Khalilzad discussed Afghanistan and Pakistan-US joint efforts for peace in Afghanistan.

The Prime Minister "appreciated Khalilzad's efforts for promoting a peaceful, political settlement in Afghanistan" read the statement.

"He (Imran Khan) recalled that Pakistan had always held that there was no military solution to the Afghan conflict. Pakistan would, therefore, continue to support all initiatives towards achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan and hoped for an early resumption of the peace process," it further read.

Pakistan has been long accused of harbouring terrorist groups which wreak havoc in Afghanistan and seek to undermine the democratic process in the country.

However, the Pakistan Embassy said that Khan condemned the recent surge of violence in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-slams-pakistan-over-imran-khans-remarks-summons-pak-diplomat-recalls-its-envoy-205858">Afghanistan</a>.

The meeting comes weeks after US President Donald Trump called off negotiations with the Taliban and cancelled a 'secret meeting' with the group's representatives at Camp David in the wake of Kabul terror attack. The calling off of negotiations was seen as a blow to Pakistan.

On September 15, Trump said it was not a "good idea" for Taliban to launch a deadly blast in Kabul, which has claimed 12 lives including an American soldier, and stated that the militant group is aware that they have committed a "big mistake".

The US has been negotiating with the Taliban in the last few months at Doha despite the group's reluctance to hold direct talks with the Afghan government, which it views as a US puppet.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday (local time) met United States' special envoy for Afghan peace talks Zalmay Khalilzad. Khan is in New York to take part in the 74th UN General Assembly session.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan on Sunday (local time) met United States' special envoy for Afghan peace talks Zalmay Khalilzad. Khan is in New York to take part in the 74th UN General Assembly session. Dawn quoted Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi as saying that Khalilzad "shared with the premier how far his negotiations with the Taliban had gone, the nature of the talks and what expectations he holds in the future". In a statement here, the Pakistan Embassy said Khan and Khalilzad discussed Afghanistan and Pakistan-US joint efforts for peace in Afghanistan. The Prime Minister "appreciated Khalilzad's efforts for promoting a peaceful, political settlement in Afghanistan" read the statement. "He (Imran Khan) recalled that Pakistan had always held that there was no military solution to the Afghan conflict. Pakistan would, therefore, continue to support all initiatives towards achieving sustainable peace in Afghanistan and hoped for an early resumption of the peace process," it further read. Pakistan has been long accused of harbouring terrorist groups which wreak havoc in Afghanistan and seek to undermine the democratic process in the country. However, the Pakistan Embassy said that Khan condemned the recent surge of violence in Afghanistan. The meeting comes weeks after US President Donald Trump called off negotiations with the Taliban and cancelled a 'secret meeting' with the group's representatives at Camp David in the wake of Kabul terror attack. The calling off of negotiations was seen as a blow to Pakistan. On September 15, Trump said it was not a "good idea" for Taliban to launch a deadly blast in Kabul, which has claimed 12 lives including an American soldier, and stated that the militant group is aware that they have committed a "big mistake". The US has been negotiating with the Taliban in the last few months at Doha despite the group's reluctance to hold direct talks with the Afghan government, which it views as a US puppet.

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan meets US special envoy for Afghanistan in New York

On The Diplomacy Show, WION speaks to Ashley Tellis, Former senior advisor to U.S. Department of State about the role of the United States in shaping up the new world order. Former Indian diplomat and show host Arun K. Singh talks to Mr. Tellis about the latest Kashmir issue, trade war and also dissects the strategy of the U.S. on its Afghanistan exit.

The Diplomacy Show: India-U.S. relations today

On The Diplomacy Show, WION speaks to Panos Kalogeropoulos, Ambassador of Greece to India. Former Indian diplomat and show host Arun K. Singh talks to Mr. Kalogeropoulos about how the country tackled the 2008 financial crisis and the formation of the new government. The envoy also talks about how Greece has become a magnet for Indian filmmakers.

The Diplomacy Show with the Ambassador of Greece to India, Panos Kalogeropoulos

On ‘The Diplomacy Show’, WION speaks to Walter J Lindner, Ambassador of Germany to India. Former Indian diplomat and show host Arun K. Singh talks to Mr. Lindner about the many facets of his colourful personality - from his passion for music, to his love of being driven around New Delhi in a shiny red ambassador car. The new envoy also talks about how Germany is playing a key role in changing the world order and what it takes to strengthen ties between India and Germany.

The Diplomacy Show with Ambassador of Germany to India- Walter J Lindner

Kabul has taken a strong stance against remarks made by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who had on Monday had called for an interim administration in Afghanistan.&nbsp;

Afghanistan has dismissed the remarks by Khan, calling them irresponsible and interference in the internal affairs of the country.

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan summoned the counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Kabul over the recent remarks by Pakistan's Prime Minister Mr Imran Khan," Sebghat Ahmadi, the spokesperson of the ministry, said in a Tweet.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
1/3 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, summoned the Deputy Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with respect to the recent irresponsible remarks of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. <a href="https://t.co/HnVaB5zVD2">pic.twitter.com/HnVaB5zVD2</a>
— Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sibghat_Ah/status/1110568161802362881?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Summoning the deputy Pak envoy in Kabul, the Afghan Foreign Ministry expressed its "grave objection" on Pakistani PM's "reckless statements" about the peace process &amp; establishment of an interim government, "deemed such statements an obvious example of Pakistan's interventional policy and disrespect to the national sovereignty and determination of the people of Afghanistan."

The Afghanistan foreign ministry has also recalled its envoy from Islamabad for consultations in the backdrop of the comments.

Pakistan PM Imran Khan told a public gathering on Friday that peace was "around the corner" in Afghanistan and a "good government will be established".

"Negotiations have been initiated with the Taliban. God willing, our brothers in Afghanistan would live together in peace in the coming days...A good government will be established in Afghanistan, a government where all Afghans will be represented. The war will end and peace will be established there," the Pakistan Prime Minister said.

This is the second summoning of a Pakistani diplomat in 10 days by Afghan foreign ministry. Afghanistan had summoned a Pakistani diplomat on 16th March following comments by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan calling for "new government in Kabul"

Afghanistan in February complained to the United Nations security council (UNSC) against Islamabad due to its engagement with the Taliban and attempts to subvert the Afghan peace process.

Pakistan government in February had invited the Taliban for talks along with the United States in Islamabad infuriating Afghanistan. The meet was cancelled by the Taliban after the letter by Afghan govt to UNSC.

Islamabad sees Afghanistan has its own backyard and since the Afghan war in the 1980s has been trying to prop up regimes, including the Taliban in 1990s, that have been hindering the development of the country.

The development comes even as pressure mounts on Islamabad by New Delhi and Tehran to act on terror safe havens in its territory but Pakistan continues to turn a blind eye on them.

Kabul has taken a strong stance against remarks made by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who had on Monday had called for an interim administration in Afghanistan.

Kabul has taken a strong stance against remarks made by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan who had on Monday had called for an interim administration in Afghanistan. Afghanistan has dismissed the remarks by Khan, calling them irresponsible and interference in the internal affairs of the country. "The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan summoned the counsellor of the Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Kabul over the recent remarks by Pakistan's Prime Minister Mr Imran Khan," Sebghat Ahmadi, the spokesperson of the ministry, said in a Tweet. 1/3 Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan, summoned the Deputy Ambassador of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan with respect to the recent irresponsible remarks of Pakistan's Prime Minister Imran Khan. pic.twitter.com/HnVaB5zVD2 — Sibghatullah Ahmadi (@Sibghat_Ah) March 26, 2019 × Summoning the deputy Pak envoy in Kabul, the Afghan Foreign Ministry expressed its "grave objection" on Pakistani PM's "reckless statements" about the peace process & establishment of an interim government, "deemed such statements an obvious example of Pakistan's interventional policy and disrespect to the national sovereignty and determination of the people of Afghanistan." The Afghanistan foreign ministry has also recalled its envoy from Islamabad for consultations in the backdrop of the comments. Pakistan PM Imran Khan told a public gathering on Friday that peace was "around the corner" in Afghanistan and a "good government will be established". "Negotiations have been initiated with the Taliban. God willing, our brothers in Afghanistan would live together in peace in the coming days...A good government will be established in Afghanistan, a government where all Afghans will be represented. The war will end and peace will be established there," the Pakistan Prime Minister said. This is the second summoning of a Pakistani diplomat in 10 days by Afghan foreign ministry. Afghanistan had summoned a Pakistani diplomat on 16th March following comments by Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan calling for "new government in Kabul" Afghanistan in February complained to the United Nations security council (UNSC) against Islamabad due to its engagement with the Taliban and attempts to subvert the Afghan peace process. Pakistan government in February had invited the Taliban for talks along with the United States in Islamabad infuriating Afghanistan. The meet was cancelled by the Taliban after the letter by Afghan govt to UNSC. Islamabad sees Afghanistan has its own backyard and since the Afghan war in the 1980s has been trying to prop up regimes, including the Taliban in 1990s, that have been hindering the development of the country. The development comes even as pressure mounts on Islamabad by New Delhi and Tehran to act on terror safe havens in its territory but Pakistan continues to turn a blind eye on them.

Afghanistan slams Pakistan over Imran Khan's remarks; summons Pak diplomat, recalls its envoy

&nbsp;Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017.&nbsp;

The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics.&nbsp;

President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Sunday administered an oath of office to Acharya at the Rashtrapati Bhawan at Sheetal Niwas.&nbsp;

Bhandari congratulated Acharya for being an ambassador to a very close neighbour of Nepal.

Acharya is the first Nepalese ambassador to take an oath of office and secrecy from the president under a new provision.

Earlier, ambassadors were administered an oath of office by Supreme Court chief justice. 
&nbsp; 
A Moscow University graduate, Acharya was initially left-leaning but later joined the Nepali Congress party.&nbsp;

He was minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and Labour and Social Welfare in the interim government of 1990.&nbsp;

Foreign policy experts here say that Acharya faces huge challenges as he takes up his diplomatic assignment next month as the first envoy to New Delhi since the 2015 blockade after of the promulgation of the new Constitution in Nepal that had strained bilateral ties, The Kathmandu Post reported.

Nepal had blamed India for the blockade. India has denied the allegations, stating the shortage of essential supplies was caused by the unrest in the country due to Madheshi protests.

Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017. The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics.

Nilambar Acharya, Nepal's former law minister, has been appointed as the country's ambassador to India, a position that was vacant since October 2017. The position of the Nepalese ambassador to India was vacant for more than a year after Deep Kumar Upadhyay resigned to join politics. President Bidya Devi Bhandari on Sunday administered an oath of office to Acharya at the Rashtrapati Bhawan at Sheetal Niwas. Bhandari congratulated Acharya for being an ambassador to a very close neighbour of Nepal. Acharya is the first Nepalese ambassador to take an oath of office and secrecy from the president under a new provision. Earlier, ambassadors were administered an oath of office by Supreme Court chief justice. A Moscow University graduate, Acharya was initially left-leaning but later joined the Nepali Congress party. He was minister for Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs and Labour and Social Welfare in the interim government of 1990. Foreign policy experts here say that Acharya faces huge challenges as he takes up his diplomatic assignment next month as the first envoy to New Delhi since the 2015 blockade after of the promulgation of the new Constitution in Nepal that had strained bilateral ties, The Kathmandu Post reported. Nepal had blamed India for the blockade. India has denied the allegations, stating the shortage of essential supplies was caused by the unrest in the country due to Madheshi protests.

Nilambar Acharya appointed Nepal's envoy to India

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan.

The diplomat is visiting the country following Russia’s wish to discuss the Afghan peace process.&nbsp;

He was met by senior officials of the Foreign Office and Russian Embassy, Pakistan Today reported.

He will hold talks with Pakistan’s top civil and military leadership at the Foreign OfficeThe visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin`s special envoy for Afghanistan comes in the wake of last week’s marathon talks between US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban in Qatar.

The United States and Taliban have agreed in principle to chalk out a framework for a deal that could eventually end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan.

Khalilzad, in an interview to the New York Times, said the United States and the Taliban have agreed in principle on a framework for a peace deal.

According to the peace deal, the Taliban would guarantee that Afghanistan will never be used as a base for terrorism in return for a full American withdrawal from the country.

Last month, Russian Ambassador in Pakistan Alexey Dedov had said that Pakistan’s commitment and efforts for regional peace and stability are highlighted by the country’s decision to open the Kartarpur Corridor with India.

The Kartarpur Corridor will provide visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India.

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan.

Russia`s special envoy for Afghanistan Zamir Kabulov arrived in Pakistan on Tuesday to discuss the Afghan peace process, in the wake of the US and Taliban agreeing on a framework deal to end the 17-year-old conflict in Afghanistan. The diplomat is visiting the country following Russia’s wish to discuss the Afghan peace process. He was met by senior officials of the Foreign Office and Russian Embassy, Pakistan Today reported. He will hold talks with Pakistan’s top civil and military leadership at the Foreign OfficeThe visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin`s special envoy for Afghanistan comes in the wake of last week’s marathon talks between US special representative Zalmay Khalilzad and the Taliban in Qatar. The United States and Taliban have agreed in principle to chalk out a framework for a deal that could eventually end the 17-year old conflict in Afghanistan. Khalilzad, in an interview to the New York Times, said the United States and the Taliban have agreed in principle on a framework for a peace deal. According to the peace deal, the Taliban would guarantee that Afghanistan will never be used as a base for terrorism in return for a full American withdrawal from the country. Last month, Russian Ambassador in Pakistan Alexey Dedov had said that Pakistan’s commitment and efforts for regional peace and stability are highlighted by the country’s decision to open the Kartarpur Corridor with India. The Kartarpur Corridor will provide visa-free access to Sikh pilgrims from India.

Putin's envoy in Pakistan to discuss Afghan peace process

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/macron-to-blame-for-french-protests-italy-deputy-pm-matteo-salvini-182744">France's foreign ministry</a> on Monday summoned Italy's ambassador after Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio accused Paris of creating poverty in Africa and fueling mass migration to Europe.

"It's not the first time the Italian authorities have made unacceptable and aggressive comments," a French diplomatic source said.

Speaking on Saturday in central Italy, Di Maio attacked France's Africa policy — the latest chapter in a war of words between Rome and Paris since the anti-establishment 5-Star-Movement and far-right League won power last year.

"If we have people who are leaving Africa now it's because some European countries, and France in particular, have never stopped colonising Africa," said Di Maio, who leads the 5-Star.

"If France didn't have its African colonies, because that's what they should be called, it would be the 15th largest world economy. Instead, it's among the first, exactly because of what it is doing in Africa."

Ambassador Teresa Castaldo was summoned on Monday afternoon by the chief of staff of European Affairs Minister Nathalie Loiseau, the French diplomatic source said.

Di Maio himself refused to back down in the row, telling reporters late Monday that France was manipulating the economies of 14 African countries that use the CFA franc — a colonial-era currency which is underpinned by the French Treasury.

"France is one of those countries that by printing money for 14 African states prevents their economic development and contributes to the fact that the refugees leave and then die in the sea or arrive on our coasts," he said.

France argues that the CFA franc has brought welcome monetary stability to the countries that use it, but French President Emmanuel Macron said in 2017 that it was up to African governments to decide what to do with the currency.

The new Italian government has frequently clashed with Paris, be it on immigration or policy in Libya, eager to mark the difference between itself and the previous centre-left administration which had good ties with the French authorities.

"I've stopped being a hypocrite talking only about the effects of immigration and it's time to talk about the causes," Di Maio said at the weekend.

"The EU should sanction all those countries like France that are impoverishing African countries and are causing those people to leave."

France's foreign ministry on Monday summoned Italy's ambassador after Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio accused Paris of creating poverty in Africa and fueling mass migration to Europe.

France's foreign ministry on Monday summoned Italy's ambassador after Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio accused Paris of creating poverty in Africa and fueling mass migration to Europe. "It's not the first time the Italian authorities have made unacceptable and aggressive comments," a French diplomatic source said. Speaking on Saturday in central Italy, Di Maio attacked France's Africa policy — the latest chapter in a war of words between Rome and Paris since the anti-establishment 5-Star-Movement and far-right League won power last year. "If we have people who are leaving Africa now it's because some European countries, and France in particular, have never stopped colonising Africa," said Di Maio, who leads the 5-Star. "If France didn't have its African colonies, because that's what they should be called, it would be the 15th largest world economy. Instead, it's among the first, exactly because of what it is doing in Africa." Ambassador Teresa Castaldo was summoned on Monday afternoon by the chief of staff of European Affairs Minister Nathalie Loiseau, the French diplomatic source said. Di Maio himself refused to back down in the row, telling reporters late Monday that France was manipulating the economies of 14 African countries that use the CFA franc — a colonial-era currency which is underpinned by the French Treasury. "France is one of those countries that by printing money for 14 African states prevents their economic development and contributes to the fact that the refugees leave and then die in the sea or arrive on our coasts," he said. France argues that the CFA franc has brought welcome monetary stability to the countries that use it, but French President Emmanuel Macron said in 2017 that it was up to African governments to decide what to do with the currency. The new Italian government has frequently clashed with Paris, be it on immigration or policy in Libya, eager to mark the difference between itself and the previous centre-left administration which had good ties with the French authorities. "I've stopped being a hypocrite talking only about the effects of immigration and it's time to talk about the causes," Di Maio said at the weekend. "The EU should sanction all those countries like France that are impoverishing African countries and are causing those people to leave."

France summons envoy after deputy Italian PM says Paris creating poverty in Africa

Pakistan&#39;s High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood will not be returning to New Delhi anytime soon, an official from the Pakistan Foreign Office was quoted saying on Friday.&nbsp;

Officials from the Foreign Office said that Islamabad has decided not to send High Commissioner Mahmood back to New Delhi until the overall situation regarding treatment of diplomatic staff and their families is resolved.

&quot;Our high commissioner will not return to India anytime soon,&quot; the senior Foreign Office official was quoted by the Express Tribune, as saying just hours after Mahmood returned from New Delhi on Friday.

The official told the daily that the high commissioner would stay back for an indefinite period.&nbsp;

Initially, it was thought that he would return to New Delhi after consultations with relevant authorities on the continued harassment and bullying of Pakistani diplomatic staff and their families, including children by Indian secret agencies.

Pakistan called back its High Commissioner in Delhi for a meeting after alleging that its diplomats and their families were &quot;harassed and intimidated&quot; in the capital. Islamabad said in a statement that it had called envoy Sohail Mahmood for &quot;consultations&quot; after &quot;no positive action had been taken by India&quot;.

Pakistan had lodged a strong protest with both the Indian high commission in Islamabad as well as External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi.

The Indian government downplayed the move, calling it &quot;routine&quot;. &quot;He has been called back for consultation.&nbsp;

It may be recalled that in 2002, high commissioners of Pakistan and India were recalled to their respective countries following the December 13, 2001 terror attack on the Indian parliament.

Tensions between both countries are already running high because of frequent cease-fire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working International Boundary.

The official told the daily that the high commissioner would stay back for an indefinite period

Pakistan's High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood will not be returning to New Delhi anytime soon, an official from the Pakistan Foreign Office was quoted saying on Friday. Officials from the Foreign Office said that Islamabad has decided not to send High Commissioner Mahmood back to New Delhi until the overall situation regarding treatment of diplomatic staff and their families is resolved. "Our high commissioner will not return to India anytime soon," the senior Foreign Office official was quoted by the Express Tribune, as saying just hours after Mahmood returned from New Delhi on Friday. The official told the daily that the high commissioner would stay back for an indefinite period. Initially, it was thought that he would return to New Delhi after consultations with relevant authorities on the continued harassment and bullying of Pakistani diplomatic staff and their families, including children by Indian secret agencies. Pakistan called back its High Commissioner in Delhi for a meeting after alleging that its diplomats and their families were "harassed and intimidated" in the capital. Islamabad said in a statement that it had called envoy Sohail Mahmood for "consultations" after "no positive action had been taken by India". Pakistan had lodged a strong protest with both the Indian high commission in Islamabad as well as External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi. The Indian government downplayed the move, calling it "routine". "He has been called back for consultation. It may be recalled that in 2002, high commissioners of Pakistan and India were recalled to their respective countries following the December 13, 2001 terror attack on the Indian parliament. Tensions between both countries are already running high because of frequent cease-fire violations along the Line of Control (LoC) and the Working International Boundary.

Pakistan refuses to send envoy back to India

Russia&#39;s ambassador to Sudan, who was found dead in a swimming pool at his residence, died of a heart attack, the Russian foreign ministry said on Thursday. He was 62.

&quot;Everything happened around 6:00 pm local time. The Russian envoy was found in his residence with evidence of an acute heart attack,&quot; spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters.&nbsp;

Sudanese officials had announced the death of Mirgayas Shirinsky on Wednesday evening, saying that a preliminary investigation pointed to a natural death.&nbsp;

Shirinsky is the fourth Russian ambassador to die on the job over the last year, including the UN envoy Vitaly Churkin and India envoy Alexander Kadakin.

The ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov was shot by an assailant in December 2016.

Embassy staff called an ambulance but &quot;Shirinsky could not be saved,&quot; Zakharova said.

He was a &quot;great professional,&quot; she added.&nbsp;

&quot;He dedicated his life to diplomacy. We express sincere condolences to his family and loved ones.&quot;

Sudanese officials had announced the death of Mirgayas Shirinsky on Wednesday evening

Russia's ambassador to Sudan, who was found dead in a swimming pool at his residence, died of a heart attack, the Russian foreign ministry said on Thursday. He was 62. "Everything happened around 6:00 pm local time. The Russian envoy was found in his residence with evidence of an acute heart attack," spokeswoman Maria Zakharova told reporters. Sudanese officials had announced the death of Mirgayas Shirinsky on Wednesday evening, saying that a preliminary investigation pointed to a natural death. Shirinsky is the fourth Russian ambassador to die on the job over the last year, including the UN envoy Vitaly Churkin and India envoy Alexander Kadakin. The ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov was shot by an assailant in December 2016. Embassy staff called an ambulance but "Shirinsky could not be saved," Zakharova said. He was a "great professional," she added. "He dedicated his life to diplomacy. We express sincere condolences to his family and loved ones."

Mirgayas Shirinskiy, Russia to Sudan envoy found dead at his residence

United Nations deputy Syria envoy Ramzy Ezzeldin Ramzy on Sunday invited Damascus to new peace talks with the opposition at the end of August, drawing a positive response from the government. 
 
On Tuesday, the world body&#39;s special envoy Staffan de Mistura told reporters in Geneva he wanted &quot;to proceed with a third round of intra-Syrian talks towards the end of August&quot; after two previous rounds of talks this year ended in failure. 
 
De Mistura has struggled to keep the peace process alive amid a surge in fighting between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad&#39;s forces and rebel groups. 
 
&quot;I informed the minister and his deputy of the intention of the special envoy De Mistura to reconvene the inter-Syrian talks towards the end of August,&quot; Ramzy said after meeting foreign minister Walid Muallem and his deputy Faisal Muqdad. 
 
&quot;I explained to the minister how we intend to proceed, and we discussed how to render this process of political transition which has already been endorsed by the Security Council to be a credible one, and we exchanged views on that,&quot; Ramzy said. 
 
He said Muallem &quot;confirmed the intention of the Syrian government to participate in these talks once they are held&quot;. 
 
Muqdad said Syria&#39;s government was &quot;ready to resume the talks with no preconditions in an inter-Syrian context with no foreign interference&quot;, the official SANA news agency reported him as saying. 
 
De Mistura&#39;s announcement comes with the armed opposition facing difficulties, especially in the northern city of Aleppo where government forces are besieging rebel-held districts. 
 
A peace roadmap, endorsed in December by the UN, called for the creation of a transitional body, which should have occurred on August 1, a new constitution and elections by mid-2017. 
 
The UN-brokered talks have so far been deadlocked over Assad&#39;s fate. 
 
The government has ruled out negotiations on his possible departure, while the main opposition High Negotiations Committee has said it will not agree to any deal that leaves Assad in power. 
 
Since Syria was plunged into chaos in 2011, more than 280,000 people have been killed and upwards of half the population has been displaced. 
 
(AFP)

UN special envoy has struggled to keep the peace process alive amid a surge in fighting between Syrian forces and rebel groups

United Nations deputy Syria envoy Ramzy Ezzeldin Ramzy on Sunday invited Damascus to new peace talks with the opposition at the end of August, drawing a positive response from the government. On Tuesday, the world body's special envoy Staffan de Mistura told reporters in Geneva he wanted "to proceed with a third round of intra-Syrian talks towards the end of August" after two previous rounds of talks this year ended in failure. De Mistura has struggled to keep the peace process alive amid a surge in fighting between Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's forces and rebel groups. "I informed the minister and his deputy of the intention of the special envoy De Mistura to reconvene the inter-Syrian talks towards the end of August," Ramzy said after meeting foreign minister Walid Muallem and his deputy Faisal Muqdad. "I explained to the minister how we intend to proceed, and we discussed how to render this process of political transition which has already been endorsed by the Security Council to be a credible one, and we exchanged views on that," Ramzy said. He said Muallem "confirmed the intention of the Syrian government to participate in these talks once they are held". Muqdad said Syria's government was "ready to resume the talks with no preconditions in an inter-Syrian context with no foreign interference", the official SANA news agency reported him as saying. De Mistura's announcement comes with the armed opposition facing difficulties, especially in the northern city of Aleppo where government forces are besieging rebel-held districts. A peace roadmap, endorsed in December by the UN, called for the creation of a transitional body, which should have occurred on August 1, a new constitution and elections by mid-2017. The UN-brokered talks have so far been deadlocked over Assad's fate. The government has ruled out negotiations on his possible departure, while the main opposition High Negotiations Committee has said it will not agree to any deal that leaves Assad in power. Since Syria was plunged into chaos in 2011, more than 280,000 people have been killed and upwards of half the population has been displaced. (AFP)

UN initiates third round of peace talks with Syria

Declared a proclaimed offender in a money laundering case and wanted in India, liquor baron Vijay Mallya was spotted at a book launch event at the London School of Economics this week that was attended by Indian High Commissioner Navtej Sarna, causing flutters back home. 
 
Social media was in a frenzy after it emerged that Sarna, who was one of the special guests at the event on Thursday evening to mark the launch of socialite Suhel Seth&#39;s new book, was also present at the event when the business tycoon arrived. 
 
As television news channels showed pictures of Sarna and Mallya in the hall where the event was held, questions were raised over the presence of the high commissioner at an event where a personality wanted by enforcement agencies in India was also present. 
 
While Suhel Seth contended that it was an open event at the LSE, where anyone could come because of the open invitation, Mallya was not invited to the high commission reception nor was he present. 
 
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also got into the act when it issued a statement, saying Sarna left the event without waiting for the interactive session after he spotted Mallya. 
 
&quot;When the High Commissioner spotted Mallya in the audience he left the stage and venue immediately after making his comments and without waiting for the interactive session,&quot; the MEA said in the statement. 
 
The MEA said, &quot;there were two clear segments, the book launch by UK Minister Jo Johnson and discussion at LSE, and later a reception at the High Commission for select guests. 
 
&quot;The list of invitations for the LSE event was determined by LSE. They have written to the High Commissioner that Mallya was not on their list. They have also said that the event was advertised widely through social media and attendees were not required to register in advance. 
 
&quot;Mallya was certainly not an invitee to the reception at the High Commission for which the invitations were issued by the High Commission, and was not present.&quot; 
(PTI)&nbsp;

Questions are being raised after India's high commissioner and a man wanted by enforcement agencies appear in the same room on TV

Declared a proclaimed offender in a money laundering case and wanted in India, liquor baron Vijay Mallya was spotted at a book launch event at the London School of Economics this week that was attended by Indian High Commissioner Navtej Sarna, causing flutters back home. Social media was in a frenzy after it emerged that Sarna, who was one of the special guests at the event on Thursday evening to mark the launch of socialite Suhel Seth's new book, was also present at the event when the business tycoon arrived. As television news channels showed pictures of Sarna and Mallya in the hall where the event was held, questions were raised over the presence of the high commissioner at an event where a personality wanted by enforcement agencies in India was also present. While Suhel Seth contended that it was an open event at the LSE, where anyone could come because of the open invitation, Mallya was not invited to the high commission reception nor was he present. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) also got into the act when it issued a statement, saying Sarna left the event without waiting for the interactive session after he spotted Mallya. "When the High Commissioner spotted Mallya in the audience he left the stage and venue immediately after making his comments and without waiting for the interactive session," the MEA said in the statement. The MEA said, "there were two clear segments, the book launch by UK Minister Jo Johnson and discussion at LSE, and later a reception at the High Commission for select guests. "The list of invitations for the LSE event was determined by LSE. They have written to the High Commissioner that Mallya was not on their list. They have also said that the event was advertised widely through social media and attendees were not required to register in advance. "Mallya was certainly not an invitee to the reception at the High Commission for which the invitations were issued by the High Commission, and was not present." (PTI)

Mallya seen at book launch event attended by India's UK envoy

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