The year 2021 will go down in history for a lot of factors. This year, 21 years later a 21-year-old brought the Miss Universe crown back to India. On December 12th, Indian model Harnaaz Sandhu was declared Miss Universe at the 70th edition of the pageant. She spoke to Wion. Here are some snippets from the interview.

Harnaaz Sandhu speaks to Wion | Exclusive | Miss Universe

It has been 133 days since the Taliban's second coming in Afghanistan, and from the last 100 days, the regime has cropped women's rights, plunged the country into an economic and humanitarian crisis and discarded democracy from the country. In the latest, the Taliban has dissolved Afghanistan's election commission which was a panel that supervised polls during the previous Western-backed administration.

Taliban dissolves Afghanistan's election commission that supervised polls for the previous regime

The Hero World Challenge ended in a dramatic fashion at the Albany Golf Course on December 05 (Sunday) in Nassau. While all eyes were on American golfer Collin Morikawa -- who had a five-stroke lead over the remainder of the field and was on the verge of becoming the fourth-youngest World No. 1 in golf history --&nbsp;Norway's Viktor Hovland came from behind and emerged on top to capture&nbsp;his second title of the fall at the tournament in Albany, Bahamas.

Hovland carded back-to-back eagles at the par-4 14th and par-5 15th holes, with a birdie following suit at No. 16 to reach 20 under. There were more twists and turns as he nearly gave away the lead with a bogey on the final two holes at Albany Golf Course, however, the 24-year-old youngster held his nerves to return victorious. 
 
As the Hero World Challenge summed up with several young stars making a resounding statement, WION's Sports Editor&nbsp;Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with&nbsp;some Indian golf experts,&nbsp;V Krishnaswamy and Joy Chakraborty.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tiger-woods-reveals-to-wion-his-thoughts-after-accident-it-was-on-the-table-that-i-may-lose-my-leg-433143">Tiger Woods reveals to WION his thoughts after accident: ‘It was on the table that I may lose my leg’</a>

Reacting to the surprising turn of events where Hovland triumphed, Krishnaswamy said, "It is never easy on a 5-shot lead especially with 20 of the world's best golf players being in this field. No lead is ever easy to protect. For Morikawa, he crumbled under pressure. Hovlin had the belief in himself and stayed in contention to emerge on top.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Victorious Viktor. 🏆 <a href="https://t.co/skVLTMxbu7">pic.twitter.com/skVLTMxbu7</a>
— PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) <a href="https://twitter.com/PGATOUR/status/1467610189776175104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 5, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

On the other hand, Joy opined, "Well, you needed Collin to make those mistakes early on. So early making those two double bogies opened it up for the field. It was a fantastic performance from Viktor."

Krishnaswamy added, "All kind of strange things happened. It was a dramatic day. Viktor coming on top from 6 shots behind....What was more intriguing was in the top 5, four of them&nbsp;were from 25 or under. So you really are seeing a new generational change in world golf. We saw the future of golf this week."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bryson-dechambeau-gets-candid-with-wion-on-his-unique-approach-to-the-sport-its-an-amazing-job-for-me-433886">Bryson DeChambeau gets candid with WION on his unique approach to the sport: 'It's an amazing job for me'</a>

Reacting to his emphatic victory, Hovland told, as per PTI, "Honestly, when I first teed off and obviously got off to just making a few pars early on, I didn't really think winning was even in question." He added, "But after I made three birdies in a row at the end of the front nine and I got to No. 9 and I was in the greenside bunker and I looked up at the leaderboard and I saw I believe I was tied for the lead, maybe one shot behind or something like that, that's when I knew, 'OK, if I play really well on the back nine, I've got a chance."

For the unversed, this was Hovland's third victory in the calendar year. Earlier, he had notched up victories in Mexico in November and in Germany on the European Tour. After the historic win, he was handed the winner's trophy from tournament host and legend Tiger Woods. Beaming with pride, Hovland recalled the time when the legendary golfer had registered his 15th Major at the Masters. Back then, the Norwegian youngster was only an amateur and sat next to Woods at the presentation.

Well, Viktor Hovland has surely come a long way and is set to achieve more success in near future.

The Hero World Challenge ended in a dramatic fashion at the Albany Golf Course on December 05 (Sunday) in Nassau. While all eyes were on American golfer Collin Morikawa -- who had a five-stroke lead over the remainder of the field and was on the verge of becoming the fourth-youngest World No.

The Hero World Challenge ended in a dramatic fashion at the Albany Golf Course on December 05 (Sunday) in Nassau. While all eyes were on American golfer Collin Morikawa -- who had a five-stroke lead over the remainder of the field and was on the verge of becoming the fourth-youngest World No. 1 in golf history -- Norway's Viktor Hovland came from behind and emerged on top to capture his second title of the fall at the tournament in Albany, Bahamas. Hovland carded back-to-back eagles at the par-4 14th and par-5 15th holes, with a birdie following suit at No. 16 to reach 20 under. There were more twists and turns as he nearly gave away the lead with a bogey on the final two holes at Albany Golf Course, however, the 24-year-old youngster held his nerves to return victorious. As the Hero World Challenge summed up with several young stars making a resounding statement, WION's Sports Editor Digvijay Singh Deo interacted with some Indian golf experts, V Krishnaswamy and Joy Chakraborty. ALSO READ | Tiger Woods reveals to WION his thoughts after accident: ‘It was on the table that I may lose my leg’ Reacting to the surprising turn of events where Hovland triumphed, Krishnaswamy said, "It is never easy on a 5-shot lead especially with 20 of the world's best golf players being in this field. No lead is ever easy to protect. For Morikawa, he crumbled under pressure. Hovlin had the belief in himself and stayed in contention to emerge on top. Victorious Viktor. 🏆 pic.twitter.com/skVLTMxbu7 — PGA TOUR (@PGATOUR) December 5, 2021 × On the other hand, Joy opined, "Well, you needed Collin to make those mistakes early on. So early making those two double bogies opened it up for the field. It was a fantastic performance from Viktor." Krishnaswamy added, "All kind of strange things happened. It was a dramatic day. Viktor coming on top from 6 shots behind....What was more intriguing was in the top 5, four of them were from 25 or under. So you really are seeing a new generational change in world golf. We saw the future of golf this week." ALSO READ | Bryson DeChambeau gets candid with WION on his unique approach to the sport: 'It's an amazing job for me' Reacting to his emphatic victory, Hovland told, as per PTI, "Honestly, when I first teed off and obviously got off to just making a few pars early on, I didn't really think winning was even in question." He added, "But after I made three birdies in a row at the end of the front nine and I got to No. 9 and I was in the greenside bunker and I looked up at the leaderboard and I saw I believe I was tied for the lead, maybe one shot behind or something like that, that's when I knew, 'OK, if I play really well on the back nine, I've got a chance." For the unversed, this was Hovland's third victory in the calendar year. Earlier, he had notched up victories in Mexico in November and in Germany on the European Tour. After the historic win, he was handed the winner's trophy from tournament host and legend Tiger Woods. Beaming with pride, Hovland recalled the time when the legendary golfer had registered his 15th Major at the Masters. Back then, the Norwegian youngster was only an amateur and sat next to Woods at the presentation. Well, Viktor Hovland has surely come a long way and is set to achieve more success in near future.

'We saw future of golf' - Indian experts react after Viktor Hovland's emphatic win at Hero World Challenge

Not often does one get to make a living out of his, or her, passion. Moreover, not many manage to don, and perform, various roles while following their passion at a professional level.

Not often does one get to make a living out of his, or her, passion. Moreover, not many manage to don, and perform, various roles while following their passion at a professional level. Coach Sanjay Singh has done it all. From starting as a player to turning into a physio and honing his skills as an international coach, Mr. Singh has ticked several boxes while staying relevant in the field of tennis for years. Above all, his childlike passion remains infectious. Such has been his success story that Mr. Singh has taken Indian tennis into uncharted territory. After all, how often do we see Indian coaches being active in WTA or ATP tours? Also, have we often heard about Indian coaches for elite non-Indian tennis players? The answer to both the queries would have been in the negative if not for Sanjay Singh. However, Mr. Singh is one such personality who has single-handedly kept Indian tennis' flag high with his presence as a coach of Brazilian youngster Luisa Stefani and American star Hayley Carter. ALSO READ | Peng Shuai row: China hits back at WTA for 'politicising sport' after it suspends all tournaments in country In an exclusive interaction with WION news' Aditya Sahay, Sanjay Singh dwelled upon many aspects of his career, the several role transformations, satisfying journey with Luisa and Carter so far, the camaraderie with Indian tennis great Leander Paes and the state of affairs with regard to tennis in the cricket-crazy country. EXCERPTS: Like mentioned, not often do we see Indian coaches for foreign players. You have changed it all in many ways. How did it all happen? (Laughs) Well, I was a player initially. I was playing in Orissa Open. It so happened that I was playing in one court and the other player had a cramp. Because I used to work as the helper, I was asked to chip in and help. I assisted him and came back to play my match. At that time, I thought we don't have focus on working on players' fitness in India. So, I thought to take this up. That's where I started as a physiotherapist. During Davis Cup tie, Ramesh Krishnan's trainer didn't turn up, hence, they called me and I worked with him. When his trainer came back, Leander asked me to join him. There is no end to learning. You learn from small kids also. In India, they think they know everything. They don't respect others. Among Indian players, only few are travelling abroad for training and all. You need to have awareness and the learning ability within you. Always!. In one of your interviews, you rightly pointed out how India is a country where people like to stay in their own preconceived views or opinions. Many labelled you as 'one who gives massages to Leander Paes'. Was it a conscious effort to revamp your image or you never paid heed to all such claims? Before I started off, I was a tennis player. Since there was no body looking after the players' body, their demands off the court and their suffering, I started working on this aspect. With Leander, I used to work with him. But since my knowledge of tennis was always there, he kept me involved asking 'Dadda (brother), what to do, did I mess it up?' I never had to tell people what I was doing with Leander. We both knew where we were heading and that's what mattered. End of the day 'let the racket talk'. It (criticism) never bothered me as it was all behind my back. Hence, many talented players' careers are now over. They stop working on themselves after a bit of initial success. It is sad. Many didn't want to learn that often. Leander always tries to grasp more in every scenario. Unlike in India, I get much more respect in Florida. For our Prime Minister, they still call him as 'the chaiwala (tea-seller)' but one doesn't see, or acknowledge, his journey and development. We need to respect each other and see one's growth. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × Coming to Luisa Stefani and Hayley Carter! Both are different individuals and, hence, have different styles, strengths and weaknesses. While Stefani is the first Brazilian woman to feature in the WTA's Top 10 and occupies the ninth rank in doubles, American star Carter has also come a long way to sit at the 25th spot in doubles rankings. How did your association begin with the duo? What defines them of both? Can you highlight few areas where they have shown vast improvement under your watchful eyes? When I used to travel with Leander, my base was in Florida. During my off-season, I used to train at Saddlebrook Tennis Academy. Back then, I was asked if I can train this young girl called Luisa Stefani. I saw her and was floored by her talent and skills. I was like 'wow, this girl has fire, she is fast and comes to the net'. Since she wanted to be pro, she had to change her visa. She couldn't get the visa initially and, thus, went back. In 2018, she returned. Then we started playing and practicing. There was one month of intense training. Her parents then asked me to travel with her. So I started in April 2019. In May, she won the Italy Championship in England. Thus, she had a chance to enter the Wimbledon but she was alternate, hence, couldn't get in. The same fate followed in the US Open. On the other hand, Hayley was looking for a partner. Luisa asked me and I told her play with Hayley. They won the Uzbekistan Championship (i.e. Tashkent Open) in 2019 and then they lost the third round in Australian Open 2020. Luisa has a big serve whereas Hayley attacked the net more often. Only drawback was the overhead shot. That was the area we were lagging behind. But we started combining well and then after that Hayley got hurt in Wimbledon this year. Then we got Gabriela Dabrowski with Luisa. We reached the final of Cincinnati 2021 and semi-final of US Open. During the pandemic, we weren't training. We used to be in the bubble. We were getting tested. RT-PCR tests and being confined inside was the new normal. Mentally it was very tough and, hence, many players are now burning out. The only time they opened up little bit was during the Cincinnati (Open). Life was tough. We couldn't go out. One had to resort to Uber Eats. We used to have a table downstairs in the lobby where the food was kept by the Uber guy and then we had to take it. It was all about dealing with the bio bubble life and surviving (sighs). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × The world of sports knows a lot about Leander Paes. He remains the face of Indian tennis. Share your equation with him. How did it start and where is it at present? How has he helped in your transformation from being a physio to coach? See, it was during the Davis Cup tie in New Delhi when I met him. I used to work in the hotel as a helper supervisor. In 1996, it was tough for me to manage work and my tennis stuff. So I left my job and came on board with Paes. He wanted me to learn everything because he never trusted anyone else. Let me tell you, I used to travel with a stringing machine as he was playing so much. Everyday 7-8 rackets were used. But, Leander has always encouraged me. He used to ask me to interact with people, observe others and share inputs. He always believed in me. I used to be his brother, buddy and everything. He says he wants to retire in Wimbledon 2022. Let's see. He tells me 'Dadda, you will get me ready for Wimbledon'. We both call each other 'Dadda'. That sums up the whole equation, doesn't it? (smiles). View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × ALSO READ | EXCLUSIVE | Dark clouds of struggle have a 'silver' lining for Mirabai Chanu's coach Vijay Sharma Lastly, thoughts on tennis in India. From Paes, Mahesh Bhupathi, Rohan Bopanna, Sania Mirza to Sumit Nagal, the sport has come a long way in the country but there obviously remains huge scope for improvement and participation among the youth. Your views regarding the status of the game in the country at present? In India, they should have a team who knows about the game firstly. Mr Sundar Iyer (Secretary of the Maharashtra Lawn Tennis Association (MSLTA) and Manager of Indian Davis Cup Team) is doing great in getting tournaments in India. He's doing very well. See, if youngsters play more tournaments, sponsor them. Work for the players. Give them their due by supplying resources and everything that matters to build their careers. Even a peon is getting an India jacket. Give it to people who need it more. They need to sponsor juniors so that they can play tournaments outside India. It helps in building their games at a young level. For the unversed, in Brazil there are 7-8 juniors playing on tours. How many in India? Hardly! For players, they should learn from Leander. If they do good in one game, they get complacent. Their collars go up after one good win. They don't know next week is a new week. Nowadays, we tend to go for shortcuts. Leander was never like this. Now I'm in states, when I see things there, players never have to worry about tennis court. Here, staff ask for INR 100 as court fees. Wherever you play, they will be charging you. How can a youngster manage all this, who is just trying to come up the ranks? Unless and until they change the entire system, nothing will happen. Hence, many players move abroad to train and manage themselves. Here for everything, they will charge and still not provide all facilities. They've to change a lot. We have to be player-friendly and not administration-friendly. India is such a great country. We have everything. But we face so many problems unnecessarily. Base has to change. Believe me, we have such great potential and that we can do wonders. But youngsters don't get support. In abroad, players get full support. Outside India, the association is taking care of players and coaches. In Brazil, association are paying for trainers who are travelling with players. Unimaginable. It cannot even be expected in India. Even such thinking is missing in the country. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sanjay singh (@coachsanjaysingh) × Luisa won the first medal for Brazil (bronze in women's doubles in Tokyo 2020). Their government called and felicitated me. As a foreign coach, they are calling and honouring me. This doesn't happen in India. The coach can give you the idea, but who will bring you to the court -- a trainer. If you have a Ferrari but the engine doesn't work properly, it is as good as a showpiece. Hence, a lot needs to change. Be more player-friendly, focus on coaches and trainers, give them their due and build youngsters' careers from the junior level itself.

EXCLUSIVE | Who is Sanjay Singh? A close ally of Leander Paes & guiding light of Luisa Stefani-Hayley Carter

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians. “(One) should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it,” explains Sulaiman, matter-of-factly. They make music out of sheer passion for the art form and not the fame that comes along with the territory, they insist.

 
In an exclusive interview with WION, the award-winning music composer duo—one of the few musician brothers to be working in Bollywood—discuss working with 25 other artists on their upcoming indie album ‘Bhoomi 2021’, the ‘insecurities’ they never had, the sibling rivalry that never brewed and the tragedy that is Afghanistan.&nbsp;

 
Excerpts from WION’s conversation with the celebrated music composers. Read on:

 
WION: To be a successful music-composing duo in Bollywood and releasing all-inclusive albums year after year. How do you both manage to do that?

 
Salim: Music is our only passion and we feel like we can do so much more with music. We have done so many movies and released a lot of singles. It's a very interesting time in music to grow as a business. That only happens when you continually consistently make music and excel in what you do. It is only because of this commitment to ourselves that we launched our own Music Label "Merchant Records". We feel very proud to be able to create something that will change the rules and keep music alive.We want budding artists to be fearless with their compositions and create music from the heart for the soul. We don’t want them to worry about pressures or costs involved in creating and delivering a hit.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: Music for us is not a profession it is a passion And therefore it never feels like you’re working. Whether we are making music for Films or advertising or non-film albums like Bhoomi, it’s the passion that drives both Salim and me to keep making music and entertaining people.We don’t just want to make great music but want to go about it the right way. Our Music label Merchant Records is not only for Salim-Sulaiman and our objective and long-term vision is to invite the creative community of established, new, and emerging talent to co-create quality music.

 
WION: Talking about inclusion, your independent album ‘Bhoomi 2021’ has other contemporary musicians’ joining forces with you. Don’t you both experience what we call an ‘artist’s insecurity’?

 
Salim: First of all Bhoomi 2021 follows the successful grand chapter of Bhoomi 2020 in the ongoing musical movement that Salim-Sulaiman started 20 years ago. Bhoomi is getting bigger and bigger each year as we have participation from so many incredible artists from India. Last year we did Bhoomi 2020 very successfully. This time we have had the vision to not just keep the languages of North India but also go South. We've gone East and West as well. Bhoomi is not just a project which expresses musically and it's not just about our culture but also about our tradition, history, our environment and also our faith.

 
Sulaiman: There is absolutely no insecurity between composers. At some stage of our lives, all of us cooperate, collaborate , work together, produce music together, sing for each other and there's great camaraderie between us. Insecurity kicks in only when you feel unequal to someone and we have never had that vibe. As far as Bhoomi 2021 is concerned, as the name suggests, it is about the musical influences in terms of styles, melodies, and lyrics across our own “Bhoomi”. So, working with different musicians from the length and breadth of our country brings another layer of authenticity to the concept. That is why in our album we have included three beautiful composers namely Anurag Saikia, Ricky Kej , and Shor Police. Going forward we intend to do more. We want more artists to participate in Bhoomi so that way the movement becomes bigger and we get more diversity in the style of music. There's no question of insecurity as we are all happily creating music without any agenda or competition.

 
WION: One of the songs you have produced (with Harshdeep Kaur in vocals) is about the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Since you talk about human tragedies in your music, what are your thoughts on the plight of Afghan artists fighting for life and artistic freedom?

 
Salim: I feel terrible about what Afghanistan as a country is going through. It is such a beautiful country with so much culture, tradition, artists and music but because of the current situation everyone is suffering. It's all gone back to hundreds of years behind. Art is one aspect but humanity has completely gone out of the window and that is something that is of a bigger concern.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: What’s unfolding in Afghanistan is tragic.Years of incremental progress appear to have been eroded in the blink of an eye. For a country with such a rich heritage and culture, this comes as a major setback. But, they’ve always been a resilient populace and I hope that they continue to dig deep and strive towards living as normal a life as possible. As part of the global community, we must do what we can to support them.

 
WION: You are to Bollywood what Russo brothers are to Hollywood—different genres, of course. But, have you ever felt sibling rivalry brewing between the two of you at any point in your career?

 
Salim: Sulaiman and I studied music together, we are always listening to music together, we were in bands together so it's only more powerful to have two instead of one. We don't have any sibling rivalry but when we make music, we have disagreements and arguments but ultimately music wins and that's the key to make good music and continue your relationship with your sibling and partner.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: Salim and I have been making music for the last 30 years. When you are brothers and partners especially when you’re doing something as creative as making music or performing together I don’t think rivalry even comes into the picture. We both have our strengths that we bring to the table. And we leave the insecurities and negative energies for other people.

<img alt="Salim-Sulaiman have made music for Chak De India, Fashion, Band Bajaa Baraat, Fashion, Rab Ne Bana Di Jodi , Krrish 3, Ladies vs Ricky Bahl and many more" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1361e3de-67a9-404e-bb6b-9f1ffab4be94" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20-%202021-10-17T162635.129.jpg" /> 
WION: A day will come when&nbsp;there will be fewer phone calls, lesser interview requests to attend. Does the inevitable withering away of fame leave you worried sick? What is fame to you, anyway?

 
Salim: Fame was never a criterion for us when we started to pursue music. I think we have a lot to yet achieve what we wanted to in music. Fame, Awards, Accolades was never our goal. We always want to make a good song and not a hit song. A hit song will come and go but a good song will be heard forever. We don't make music for fame or glory but we make music for happiness. Also remember that Love is bigger than anything else and is unquantifiable. It’s what keeps us grounded and motivated to do more. We are also deeply grateful to our gurus, mentors, and parents who have given us the knowledge, values, and humility - that gives us the strength, passion, and purpose to spread happiness, love, and peace through our music.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: You should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it. We have never chased fame and in fact it came to us when we were busy enjoying our work. If you keep that in mind right at the onset, you will never feel any insecurity. I would rather have my music famous and popular because that will stay on forever. In today's times, the biggest blessing is the fact that we are safe and that God had been kind to us.

 
WION: Chak De India has been a National Sports anthem for a very long time now. How do you handle the pressure of creating another sports anthem 'Haq Se India' that has a similar kind of expectations from people given the mood is pretty much the same? For this latest number, how do you plan on outdoing yourself?

 
Salim: When creating music, we always strive to maintain balance between retaining musicality and bringing out powerful emotions at the same time. Haq Se India was a huge challenge because it was encompassing the World Cup which India won in 2007 which was a miraculous victory. Chak De was a huge celebration as the Indian team returned and the movie released in 2007. The film "Haq se India" captures the spirit of that victory 14 years later and now it's releasing just before the World Cup. It was a big high for us and a huge challenge so we wanted to go higher and capture that spirit that Chak De had.Chants of “Indiaaaa” in the backdrop, and the eventual hookline recreate a stadium-like vibe that only add to the adrenaline.&nbsp;

 
Sulaiman: We wanted to bring back the joyous spirit once again. We hope "Haq Se India” will evoke strong feelings of patriotism and inspire supporters to get behind the current squad; in the run-up to the upcoming tournament. We have tried to create a motivational track that captures elements of team spirit, passion, hard work, celebration, and joy. Amitabh Bhattacharya’s passionate lyrics leave one with goosebumps as Raj Pandit’s high notes bring the track to life.

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians.

Straight shooters. High achievers. No-holds-barred interviewees. The Merchant brothers—popularly known as Salim-Sulaiman in Indian music industry—have no qualms about sharing space with other musicians. “(One) should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it,” explains Sulaiman, matter-of-factly. They make music out of sheer passion for the art form and not the fame that comes along with the territory, they insist. In an exclusive interview with WION, the award-winning music composer duo—one of the few musician brothers to be working in Bollywood—discuss working with 25 other artists on their upcoming indie album ‘Bhoomi 2021’, the ‘insecurities’ they never had, the sibling rivalry that never brewed and the tragedy that is Afghanistan. Excerpts from WION’s conversation with the celebrated music composers. Read on: WION: To be a successful music-composing duo in Bollywood and releasing all-inclusive albums year after year. How do you both manage to do that? Salim: Music is our only passion and we feel like we can do so much more with music. We have done so many movies and released a lot of singles. It's a very interesting time in music to grow as a business. That only happens when you continually consistently make music and excel in what you do. It is only because of this commitment to ourselves that we launched our own Music Label "Merchant Records". We feel very proud to be able to create something that will change the rules and keep music alive.We want budding artists to be fearless with their compositions and create music from the heart for the soul. We don’t want them to worry about pressures or costs involved in creating and delivering a hit. Sulaiman: Music for us is not a profession it is a passion And therefore it never feels like you’re working. Whether we are making music for Films or advertising or non-film albums like Bhoomi, it’s the passion that drives both Salim and me to keep making music and entertaining people.We don’t just want to make great music but want to go about it the right way. Our Music label Merchant Records is not only for Salim-Sulaiman and our objective and long-term vision is to invite the creative community of established, new, and emerging talent to co-create quality music. WION: Talking about inclusion, your independent album ‘Bhoomi 2021’ has other contemporary musicians’ joining forces with you. Don’t you both experience what we call an ‘artist’s insecurity’? Salim: First of all Bhoomi 2021 follows the successful grand chapter of Bhoomi 2020 in the ongoing musical movement that Salim-Sulaiman started 20 years ago. Bhoomi is getting bigger and bigger each year as we have participation from so many incredible artists from India. Last year we did Bhoomi 2020 very successfully. This time we have had the vision to not just keep the languages of North India but also go South. We've gone East and West as well. Bhoomi is not just a project which expresses musically and it's not just about our culture but also about our tradition, history, our environment and also our faith. Sulaiman: There is absolutely no insecurity between composers. At some stage of our lives, all of us cooperate, collaborate , work together, produce music together, sing for each other and there's great camaraderie between us. Insecurity kicks in only when you feel unequal to someone and we have never had that vibe. As far as Bhoomi 2021 is concerned, as the name suggests, it is about the musical influences in terms of styles, melodies, and lyrics across our own “Bhoomi”. So, working with different musicians from the length and breadth of our country brings another layer of authenticity to the concept. That is why in our album we have included three beautiful composers namely Anurag Saikia, Ricky Kej , and Shor Police. Going forward we intend to do more. We want more artists to participate in Bhoomi so that way the movement becomes bigger and we get more diversity in the style of music. There's no question of insecurity as we are all happily creating music without any agenda or competition. WION: One of the songs you have produced (with Harshdeep Kaur in vocals) is about the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre. Since you talk about human tragedies in your music, what are your thoughts on the plight of Afghan artists fighting for life and artistic freedom? Salim: I feel terrible about what Afghanistan as a country is going through. It is such a beautiful country with so much culture, tradition, artists and music but because of the current situation everyone is suffering. It's all gone back to hundreds of years behind. Art is one aspect but humanity has completely gone out of the window and that is something that is of a bigger concern. Sulaiman: What’s unfolding in Afghanistan is tragic.Years of incremental progress appear to have been eroded in the blink of an eye. For a country with such a rich heritage and culture, this comes as a major setback. But, they’ve always been a resilient populace and I hope that they continue to dig deep and strive towards living as normal a life as possible. As part of the global community, we must do what we can to support them. WION: You are to Bollywood what Russo brothers are to Hollywood—different genres, of course. But, have you ever felt sibling rivalry brewing between the two of you at any point in your career? Salim: Sulaiman and I studied music together, we are always listening to music together, we were in bands together so it's only more powerful to have two instead of one. We don't have any sibling rivalry but when we make music, we have disagreements and arguments but ultimately music wins and that's the key to make good music and continue your relationship with your sibling and partner. Sulaiman: Salim and I have been making music for the last 30 years. When you are brothers and partners especially when you’re doing something as creative as making music or performing together I don’t think rivalry even comes into the picture. We both have our strengths that we bring to the table. And we leave the insecurities and negative energies for other people. WION: A day will come when there will be fewer phone calls, lesser interview requests to attend. Does the inevitable withering away of fame leave you worried sick? What is fame to you, anyway? Salim: Fame was never a criterion for us when we started to pursue music. I think we have a lot to yet achieve what we wanted to in music. Fame, Awards, Accolades was never our goal. We always want to make a good song and not a hit song. A hit song will come and go but a good song will be heard forever. We don't make music for fame or glory but we make music for happiness. Also remember that Love is bigger than anything else and is unquantifiable. It’s what keeps us grounded and motivated to do more. We are also deeply grateful to our gurus, mentors, and parents who have given us the knowledge, values, and humility - that gives us the strength, passion, and purpose to spread happiness, love, and peace through our music. Sulaiman: You should get scared of the fame withering away only when you’re chasing it. We have never chased fame and in fact it came to us when we were busy enjoying our work. If you keep that in mind right at the onset, you will never feel any insecurity. I would rather have my music famous and popular because that will stay on forever. In today's times, the biggest blessing is the fact that we are safe and that God had been kind to us. WION: Chak De India has been a National Sports anthem for a very long time now. How do you handle the pressure of creating another sports anthem 'Haq Se India' that has a similar kind of expectations from people given the mood is pretty much the same? For this latest number, how do you plan on outdoing yourself? Salim: When creating music, we always strive to maintain balance between retaining musicality and bringing out powerful emotions at the same time. Haq Se India was a huge challenge because it was encompassing the World Cup which India won in 2007 which was a miraculous victory. Chak De was a huge celebration as the Indian team returned and the movie released in 2007. The film "Haq se India" captures the spirit of that victory 14 years later and now it's releasing just before the World Cup. It was a big high for us and a huge challenge so we wanted to go higher and capture that spirit that Chak De had.Chants of “Indiaaaa” in the backdrop, and the eventual hookline recreate a stadium-like vibe that only add to the adrenaline. Sulaiman: We wanted to bring back the joyous spirit once again. We hope "Haq Se India” will evoke strong feelings of patriotism and inspire supporters to get behind the current squad; in the run-up to the upcoming tournament. We have tried to create a motivational track that captures elements of team spirit, passion, hard work, celebration, and joy. Amitabh Bhattacharya’s passionate lyrics leave one with goosebumps as Raj Pandit’s high notes bring the track to life.

WION exclusive: Salim-Sulaiman- Art is one aspect, humanity has gone out the window in Afghanistan

Cyprus Foreign Minister Nikos Christodoulides has lauded his country's ties with India calling them "strong strategic, and indispensable" and highlighted how his country can become a "gateway for Europe" for Indian businesses and other people-to-people engagement.

Support enhancement of ties between Brussels & New Delhi: Cyprus FM Nikos Christodoulides

Ever since the Taliban took control of the Afghanistan, there has been two faces of the country- one which the Taliban tries to portray, the other one that are hidden inside the homes and alleys. Tonight, we bring you the story of a man who gives us first-hand account of what life is like under the Taliban.

Afghan Crisis: Is Taliban 2.0 any different? How is life under Taliban for women? | Exclusive

St Kitts and Nevis Foreign Affairs Minister Mark Brantley has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating the timely distribution of Covid vaccines, which he said enabled him to attend the United Nations General Assembly. &nbsp;

In an interview with WION’s Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Brantley said he was able to visit New York after being fully inoculated with AstraZeneca vaccine, which was made by the Serum Institute in India.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LIVE</a> | On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> with <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a> watch the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EXCLUSIVE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EXCLUSIVE</a> conversation with St. Kitts &amp; Nevis Foreign Affairs Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/markbrantley3?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@markbrantley3</a> <a href="https://t.co/9YP6glOoUR">https://t.co/9YP6glOoUR</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1442149588706545665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

“In the height of the pandemic, even as India itself was suffering the ravages of COVID-19, we were very impressed that the PM came forward and offered us vaccines. &nbsp;

"The vaccines allowed us in St Kitts and Nevis and most of the Caribbean to commence the vaccination process. It is a matter of tremendous merit,” said the minister. &nbsp;&nbsp;

“For this, we congratulate PM Modi, his government and people of India. Even as we were waiting for COVAX to deliver, the Indian government bilaterally was able to provide vaccines to us and our people.”&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-narendra-modis-secret-of-keeping-jetlag-away-during-busy-foreign-trips-revealed-416173" hreflang="en">PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed</a>

St Kitts and Nevis is a far-off Caribbean Island, which was badly affected by COVID-19 pandemic. &nbsp;

Both India and St Kitts and Nevis share a long history, as the first Indians there arrived in the country in 19th century mostly as indentured labour during the colonial era. &nbsp;

Although the relations established between India and St Kitts and Nevis go back a long way, the trade between the two countries has not really taken off. As of 2016, the bilateral trade was just about USD 2.36 billion. &nbsp;

“A lot of it has to do with geographical distance between the countries and absence of effective transportation both by sea and air," Brantley said.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/unsc-is-frozen-in-time-indian-envoy-to-un-ts-tirumurti-tells-wion-416148" hreflang="en">'UNSC is frozen in time,' Indian Envoy to UN TS Tirumurti tells WION</a>

"We are in that part of the world where trade has to go through two or more countries. It adds to the cost. Transportation links globally is always a problem. The more stops goods make before they arrive to us, the more difficult, and costly it becomes." &nbsp;

The minister said ties between the two countries goes well beyond trade, adding that relationship with India is one that he cherishes the most.&nbsp;

“I would like to thank government and people of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he was very generous. He came here in UN in 2019 and had a meeting with Caribbean leaders and expressed interest in working more closely with the Caribbean countries,” said the leader. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The Caribbean region has a very long history with India. St Kitts and Nevis as well as Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana have significant Indian populations.&nbsp;

St Kitts and Nevis Foreign Affairs Minister Mark Brantley has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating the timely distribution of Covid vaccines, which he said enabled him to attend the United Nations General Assembly.

St Kitts and Nevis Foreign Affairs Minister Mark Brantley has thanked Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for facilitating the timely distribution of Covid vaccines, which he said enabled him to attend the United Nations General Assembly. In an interview with WION’s Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, Brantley said he was able to visit New York after being fully inoculated with AstraZeneca vaccine, which was made by the Serum Institute in India. Watch: #LIVE | On #Gravitas with @palkisu watch the #EXCLUSIVE conversation with St. Kitts & Nevis Foreign Affairs Minister @markbrantley3 https://t.co/9YP6glOoUR — WION (@WIONews) September 26, 2021 × “In the height of the pandemic, even as India itself was suffering the ravages of COVID-19, we were very impressed that the PM came forward and offered us vaccines. "The vaccines allowed us in St Kitts and Nevis and most of the Caribbean to commence the vaccination process. It is a matter of tremendous merit,” said the minister. “For this, we congratulate PM Modi, his government and people of India. Even as we were waiting for COVAX to deliver, the Indian government bilaterally was able to provide vaccines to us and our people.” Also Read: PM Narendra Modi's 'secret' of keeping jetlag away during busy foreign trips revealed St Kitts and Nevis is a far-off Caribbean Island, which was badly affected by COVID-19 pandemic. Both India and St Kitts and Nevis share a long history, as the first Indians there arrived in the country in 19th century mostly as indentured labour during the colonial era. Although the relations established between India and St Kitts and Nevis go back a long way, the trade between the two countries has not really taken off. As of 2016, the bilateral trade was just about USD 2.36 billion. “A lot of it has to do with geographical distance between the countries and absence of effective transportation both by sea and air," Brantley said. Also Read: 'UNSC is frozen in time,' Indian Envoy to UN TS Tirumurti tells WION "We are in that part of the world where trade has to go through two or more countries. It adds to the cost. Transportation links globally is always a problem. The more stops goods make before they arrive to us, the more difficult, and costly it becomes." The minister said ties between the two countries goes well beyond trade, adding that relationship with India is one that he cherishes the most. “I would like to thank government and people of India and Prime Minister Narendra Modi as he was very generous. He came here in UN in 2019 and had a meeting with Caribbean leaders and expressed interest in working more closely with the Caribbean countries,” said the leader. The Caribbean region has a very long history with India. St Kitts and Nevis as well as Trinidad and Tobago, and Guyana have significant Indian populations.

Exclusive: St Kitts and Nevis foreign affairs minister thanks Indian PM Narendra Modi for Covid vaccines

In an ominous end to Afghanistan‘s resistance, Panjshir, which has long held iconic value as the last stand against the Taliban, has fallen as claimed by the Taliban. WION brings you an exclusive ground report from the frontlines in Panjshir.

WION in Panjshir: Final hours before the fall

“If I'm scared of that (being lost in the crowd),&nbsp;I cannot be a rapper," comes the sharp response from D/Evil, formally known as Dhaval Parab, whose humble beginnings—from a chawl in Mumbai’s Dadar area—did not deter him into dropping the mike and settle for what’s labeled conventional.&nbsp;

 
At the tender age of 16, he took pen to paper and has since been churning out rap songs in Mumbai’s beaming underground scene—“I was a battle rapper,” he informs—and was content with it, with the exception of working on ‘Gully Boy’ smash hit ‘Apna Time Aayega’. That was before an impressed Farhan Akhtar texted him to hop on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-rakeysh-omprakash-mehra-james-bond-daniel-craig-auditioned-for-rang-de-basanti-401475">‘Toofaan’ </a>train. Rest is, as they say, history.&nbsp;

 
In an exclusive chat with WION, the rapper discusses how an adult magazine had inspired his former moniker, when Farhan Akhtar showed up wearing the lyrics of his song to meet him, and why he feels there’s still hope for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-toofan-review-farhan-akhtar%E2%80%99s-our-million-dollar-baby%E2%80%A6-not-398340">Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s latest offering</a>.

 
Excerpts from that conversation:

 
WION: To create the title track for ‘Toofaan’, an Amazon Prime Video film, made by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and featuring Frahan Akhtar—that must have been huge for you. How did all that come along?

 
D’Evil: An unexpected text came from <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-toofan-review-farhan-akhtar%E2%80%99s-our-million-dollar-baby%E2%80%A6-not-398340">Farhan Akhtar</a>. When I called him he said that Ankur Tiwari is a singer/songwriter and music supervisor for the movie <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/gully-boy-review-ranveer-singh-alia-bhatts-film-has-multiple-heroes-197285">'Gully Boy'</a>. Had suggested my name for this project. I was very excited. I'm a huge fan of Rakyesh Omprakash Mehra and Farhan Akhtar. I grew up watching their films. This was a dream project for me. I immediately said 'yes'. &nbsp;

 
WION: Your journey has been a fascinating one—from a chawl in Dadar to sharing the writing credits for ‘Apna Time Ayega’—how did you know that lyric poetry was your true calling in life?

 
D’Evil: I wanted to make music after being inspired by various artists globally and in my own country. Coming from a chawl in Mumbai, I was exposed to all types of music in different languages. This made me feel like I have something I like . So I tried writing some rhymes and some poem as a teenager. Later, when I was introduced to hip-hop. I saw that rapping is for someone like me. I enjoyed my discovery of rap and hip-hop.

<img alt="safrjjhdsdASSA" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6830d0c3-b69d-4a74-9cf2-c6912a64e9c9" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2860%29_0.jpg" />

 
WION: Before being called D’Evil, you had another moniker: Hustler. What’s the story behind that?

 
D’Evil: Hustler was something I was known as during the initial phase of my career as a rapper. I was a battle rapper. And would go by Hustler is also an adult magazine and I didn't wanna share my name with them. So my friend's suggested me to go with D'Evil.&nbsp;&nbsp;

 
WION: You are signed with DIVINE’s independent record and have worked with him a few times. What is the biggest lesson—both as a person and rapper—that you have been handed down by him?

 
D’Evil: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/armaan-malik-divine-kaam-bhari-nominated-at-europe-music-awards-2020-333277">Vivian aka DIVINE</a> is an extraordinary personality. I have taken many lessons from him and his experiences. However my favourite one is that , you should always give back something from what you received. He taught me to share.

<img alt="cfhgnfdvsafd" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="86baf702-fb2c-45dc-9d2c-8d1e16b4e0c4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2859%29.jpg" /> 
&nbsp;

WION: You are a scriptwriter, too. What are you working on? What have you written so far? Tell us more.

 
D’Evil: I had a job as a script writer. I used to write scripts for TV &nbsp;commercials and small radio ad spots. Also I have written jingles and dialogues for small projects. It was a job where I used to get a salary. There is tons of content I wrote to make ends meet. &nbsp;

 
WION: A number of people have made the transition from Mumbai’s underground scene to mainstream Bollywood. Does that ever scare you that your talent may get lost in the crowd?

 
D’Evil: If I'm scared of that, I cannot be a rapper. This fear and pressure is what makes me perform my best. And I want more competition because I love to prove myself again and again. People forget.

 
WION: Although your track was fabulous, ‘Toofan’ didn’t do well in terms of reception. What do you say to that?

 
D’Evil: The pandemic has changed the way people consume cinema. But I'm sure <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-rakeysh-omprakash-mehra-james-bond-daniel-craig-auditioned-for-rang-de-basanti-401475">this film will grow on people</a> slowly. After they realise what this film is trying to say.

<img alt="fehthsACD" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a851ee1b-c70e-4a22-87e3-9f9741907ef4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/pjimage%20%2858%29.jpg" />

 
WION: Any fun/candid moments you had shared with Farhan that you would like to share with us?

 
D’Evil: I have met him only a couple of times. But I do remember him singing my lyrics out loud when he saw me in the studio. It was a great sight. He was also wearing a hoodie with ‘Todun Taak’ on it.

 
WION: You like Eminem and Snoop Dogg… what is it about them that prompted you to take up the notepad? You started at 16, right?

 
D’Evil: Yes. At 16, we didn't have a voice or a platform to say what we needed to say. Getting inspired from Eminem and snoop , watching them do shows or rap in videos made me think that I should even use this medium to say what I want to. &nbsp;

“If I'm scared of that (being lost in the crowd), I cannot be a rapper," comes the sharp response from D/Evil, formally known as Dhaval Parab, whose humble beginnings—from a chawl in Mumbai’s Dadar area—did not deter him into dropping the mike and settle for what’s labeled conventional.

“If I'm scared of that (being lost in the crowd), I cannot be a rapper," comes the sharp response from D/Evil, formally known as Dhaval Parab, whose humble beginnings—from a chawl in Mumbai’s Dadar area—did not deter him into dropping the mike and settle for what’s labeled conventional. At the tender age of 16, he took pen to paper and has since been churning out rap songs in Mumbai’s beaming underground scene—“I was a battle rapper,” he informs—and was content with it, with the exception of working on ‘Gully Boy’ smash hit ‘Apna Time Aayega’. That was before an impressed Farhan Akhtar texted him to hop on the ‘Toofaan’ train. Rest is, as they say, history. In an exclusive chat with WION, the rapper discusses how an adult magazine had inspired his former moniker, when Farhan Akhtar showed up wearing the lyrics of his song to meet him, and why he feels there’s still hope for Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra’s latest offering. Excerpts from that conversation: WION: To create the title track for ‘Toofaan’, an Amazon Prime Video film, made by Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra and featuring Frahan Akhtar—that must have been huge for you. How did all that come along? D’Evil: An unexpected text came from Farhan Akhtar. When I called him he said that Ankur Tiwari is a singer/songwriter and music supervisor for the movie 'Gully Boy'. Had suggested my name for this project. I was very excited. I'm a huge fan of Rakyesh Omprakash Mehra and Farhan Akhtar. I grew up watching their films. This was a dream project for me. I immediately said 'yes'. WION: Your journey has been a fascinating one—from a chawl in Dadar to sharing the writing credits for ‘Apna Time Ayega’—how did you know that lyric poetry was your true calling in life? D’Evil: I wanted to make music after being inspired by various artists globally and in my own country. Coming from a chawl in Mumbai, I was exposed to all types of music in different languages. This made me feel like I have something I like . So I tried writing some rhymes and some poem as a teenager. Later, when I was introduced to hip-hop. I saw that rapping is for someone like me. I enjoyed my discovery of rap and hip-hop. WION: Before being called D’Evil, you had another moniker: Hustler. What’s the story behind that? D’Evil: Hustler was something I was known as during the initial phase of my career as a rapper. I was a battle rapper. And would go by Hustler is also an adult magazine and I didn't wanna share my name with them. So my friend's suggested me to go with D'Evil. WION: You are signed with DIVINE’s independent record and have worked with him a few times. What is the biggest lesson—both as a person and rapper—that you have been handed down by him? D’Evil: Vivian aka DIVINE is an extraordinary personality. I have taken many lessons from him and his experiences. However my favourite one is that , you should always give back something from what you received. He taught me to share. WION: You are a scriptwriter, too. What are you working on? What have you written so far? Tell us more. D’Evil: I had a job as a script writer. I used to write scripts for TV commercials and small radio ad spots. Also I have written jingles and dialogues for small projects. It was a job where I used to get a salary. There is tons of content I wrote to make ends meet. WION: A number of people have made the transition from Mumbai’s underground scene to mainstream Bollywood. Does that ever scare you that your talent may get lost in the crowd? D’Evil: If I'm scared of that, I cannot be a rapper. This fear and pressure is what makes me perform my best. And I want more competition because I love to prove myself again and again. People forget. WION: Although your track was fabulous, ‘Toofan’ didn’t do well in terms of reception. What do you say to that? D’Evil: The pandemic has changed the way people consume cinema. But I'm sure this film will grow on people slowly. After they realise what this film is trying to say. WION: Any fun/candid moments you had shared with Farhan that you would like to share with us? D’Evil: I have met him only a couple of times. But I do remember him singing my lyrics out loud when he saw me in the studio. It was a great sight. He was also wearing a hoodie with ‘Todun Taak’ on it. WION: You like Eminem and Snoop Dogg… what is it about them that prompted you to take up the notepad? You started at 16, right? D’Evil: Yes. At 16, we didn't have a voice or a platform to say what we needed to say. Getting inspired from Eminem and snoop , watching them do shows or rap in videos made me think that I should even use this medium to say what I want to.

Chawl to Cinema: Indian rapper D'Evil talks about his struggles, Farhan Akhtar and an extraordinary DIVINE

A Stanford scientist is developing a 'Superhero vaccine' that will prevent death from heart diseases, strokes, liver problems.

Future of Medicine: What is the Superhero Vaccine?

Israel heading towards a full-blown war? Watch exclusive interview of Palestinian leader Nour Odeh on WION.

ISRAEL-GAZA Conflict: Palestinian leader Nour Odeh on WION

Highlighting that former prime minister of Nepal Pushpa Kumar Dahal is not "democratic" and "unstable", Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview to WION blamed Dahal for the political crisis in Nepal.&nbsp;

"Pushpa Kamal Dahal, his background, his history, activities are not exactly democratic," said Oli in an interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/exclusive-bhaskaracharya-discovered-gravitational-theory-before-newton-says-nepalese-pm-356122">EXCLUSIVE: Bhaskaracharya discovered gravitational theory before Newton, says Nepalese PM</a>

He said that he partnered with him to promulgate the constitution of the country.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-never-allow-china-to-put-checkposts-on-border-nepal-pm-oli-to-wion-356115">Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION</a>

"His character is unstable... I was careful about his character and instability would be the consequence of his character," Oli said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On criticism that his decision to dissolve the parliament but still remaining on power is a coup, Oli said that the decision was taken in the parliament and was constitutional.&nbsp;

"How can they describe the decision of parliament as a coup," asked the Nepalese PM.

He also said that he tried his best to continue the government for five years, but blamed the rival faction for pushing it towards "instability".&nbsp;

"Unfortunately, this time also, I am hoping and trying my best to continue govt for 5 years...but some people...from my party, they create such situations where they want to push govt towards instability," Oli said.&nbsp;

He also said that the position of the other faction of the party is still the same, adding that party's second chairman is Pushpa Kumar Dahal.&nbsp;

On the question of any possible reconciliation, Oli said he "can pardon them" if they sought the same.&nbsp;

Highlighting that former prime minister of Nepal Pushpa Kumar Dahal is not "democratic" and "unstable", Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview to WION blamed Dahal for the political crisis in Nepal.

Highlighting that former prime minister of Nepal Pushpa Kumar Dahal is not "democratic" and "unstable", Nepalese PM KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview to WION blamed Dahal for the political crisis in Nepal. "Pushpa Kamal Dahal, his background, his history, activities are not exactly democratic," said Oli in an interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma. Also read | EXCLUSIVE: Bhaskaracharya discovered gravitational theory before Newton, says Nepalese PM He said that he partnered with him to promulgate the constitution of the country. Also read | Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION "His character is unstable... I was careful about his character and instability would be the consequence of his character," Oli said. On criticism that his decision to dissolve the parliament but still remaining on power is a coup, Oli said that the decision was taken in the parliament and was constitutional. "How can they describe the decision of parliament as a coup," asked the Nepalese PM. He also said that he tried his best to continue the government for five years, but blamed the rival faction for pushing it towards "instability". "Unfortunately, this time also, I am hoping and trying my best to continue govt for 5 years...but some people...from my party, they create such situations where they want to push govt towards instability," Oli said. He also said that the position of the other faction of the party is still the same, adding that party's second chairman is Pushpa Kumar Dahal. On the question of any possible reconciliation, Oli said he "can pardon them" if they sought the same.

Nepalese PM Oli blames Pushpa Kumar Dahal for 'instability' in Nepal in exclusive chat

Nepalese Prime Minister in an exclusive interview on Monday underscored that the nation does not follow "instructions" by other countries and independently decide on its internal matters.

Oli, in an exclusive interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, answered questions on the interference of China in its politics.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepalese-pm-oli-blames-pushpa-kumar-for-instability-in-nepal-in-exclusive-chat-356127">Nepalese PM Oli blames Pushpa Kumar for 'instability' in Nepal in exclusive chat</a>

'We love our independence...freedom... we do not follow instructions by others...we independently decide on our matters," Oli said.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-never-allow-china-to-put-checkposts-on-border-nepal-pm-oli-to-wion-356115">Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION</a>

Oli also spoke on China's debt-trap policy by first offering financial assistance, Oli said that the country wants support for projects, investments, and they take loans "carefully".&nbsp;

"We are concentrating on our resources on economic development and our resources are not enough, (so) we want to support, investments, sometimes loans also for some projects but carefully," the Nepalese PM said.&nbsp;

"Taking loan and drinking ghee that's not our principle and yes we have to take some loans, grant also."

He said that as one country takes loans from other countries, similarly it takes loans from China and the amount is not "huge".&nbsp;

Oli also gave the example of the sort of loans where Chinese companies compete and if they win it, then they do the work.&nbsp;

"In construction, they compete, if they are rewarded then they do that work," he said.&nbsp;

Nepalese Prime Minister in an exclusive interview on Monday underscored that the nation does not follow "instructions" by other countries and independently decide on its internal matters.

Nepalese Prime Minister in an exclusive interview on Monday underscored that the nation does not follow "instructions" by other countries and independently decide on its internal matters. Oli, in an exclusive interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, answered questions on the interference of China in its politics. Also read | Nepalese PM Oli blames Pushpa Kumar for 'instability' in Nepal in exclusive chat 'We love our independence...freedom... we do not follow instructions by others...we independently decide on our matters," Oli said. Also read | Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION Oli also spoke on China's debt-trap policy by first offering financial assistance, Oli said that the country wants support for projects, investments, and they take loans "carefully". "We are concentrating on our resources on economic development and our resources are not enough, (so) we want to support, investments, sometimes loans also for some projects but carefully," the Nepalese PM said. "Taking loan and drinking ghee that's not our principle and yes we have to take some loans, grant also." He said that as one country takes loans from other countries, similarly it takes loans from China and the amount is not "huge". Oli also gave the example of the sort of loans where Chinese companies compete and if they win it, then they do the work. "In construction, they compete, if they are rewarded then they do that work," he said.

Exclusive- We don't take 'instructions' from other nations: Nepalese PM on China

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview continued to insist that Bhaskaracharya discovered about the theory of gravitation and Newton found it some "500 years late".&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Oli said that the Bhaskaracharya found the gravitational theory in 1150 AD.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-never-allow-china-to-put-checkposts-on-border-nepal-pm-oli-to-wion-356115">Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION</a>

"I am not talking not only about the glorious past of Nepal and the ancestors of Nepalis. I am talking about Bhaskaracharya who discovered the theory of gravitation and it was 1150 AD," the Nepalese PM said. &nbsp;

He added that Bhaskaracharya's book was published in 1210 AD and Newton found it after 500 years.&nbsp;

"Newton found the theory some 500 years late," Oli said.&nbsp;

Oli said that even in his coursebook, he was told that Galileo and Newton found out the theory of gravitation.&nbsp;

But, "that's not true," Oli said.

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview continued to insist that Bhaskaracharya discovered about the theory of gravitation and Newton found it some "500 years late".

Nepalese Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli in an exclusive interview continued to insist that Bhaskaracharya discovered about the theory of gravitation and Newton found it some "500 years late". In an exclusive conversation with WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma, Oli said that the Bhaskaracharya found the gravitational theory in 1150 AD. Also read | Will never allow China to put checkposts on border: Nepal PM Oli to WION "I am not talking not only about the glorious past of Nepal and the ancestors of Nepalis. I am talking about Bhaskaracharya who discovered the theory of gravitation and it was 1150 AD," the Nepalese PM said. He added that Bhaskaracharya's book was published in 1210 AD and Newton found it after 500 years. "Newton found the theory some 500 years late," Oli said. Oli said that even in his coursebook, he was told that Galileo and Newton found out the theory of gravitation. But, "that's not true," Oli said.

EXCLUSIVE: Bhaskaracharya discovered gravitational theory before Newton, says Nepalese PM

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy."

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect..

Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market.

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries...

Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds.

Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it.

Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society.

Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation.

Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed.&nbsp;

Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia.

Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.

Kazakhstan's President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev is expected to visit India in early 2021, which will be his first to the country since taking charge in 2019. Speaking exclusively to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kazakh envoy Yerlan Alimbayev said, "Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics.". He also spoke at length on the significance of First December in his country which is celebrated as "Day of the First President" to pay honour to the Nursultan Nazarbayev, who ruled the country for nearly 3 decades. Envoy Alimbayev said, "First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy." Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India Kazakh relations. Both are members of the SCO. Infact, Kazakhstan takes over as the new Chairman of SCO head of govt from India. What can we expect.. Yerlan Alimbayev: Since Nursultan Nazarbayev is the founder of independent Kazakhstan, it is difficult to overestimate his contribution to the establishment and development of bilateral relations between Kazakhstan and India. Relations between Kazakhstan and India have exhibited considerable dynamism and momentum. India was one of the first countries to recognize Kazakhstan as a free, sovereign state. It is particularly noteworthy to mention that India was the very first country Nursultan Nazarbayev visited in February 1992 as the President of independent Kazakhstan. Diplomatic relations were officially established during this historic visit. This decision demonstrated the deep respect and admiration in which President Nazarbayev and the people of Kazakhstan hold India as a country endowed with a glorious past, having a vibrant present and blessed with a bright future. In 2009, by signing the Declaration on Strategic Partnership cooperation between our countries was brought to a higher level. At present we are working on the first State visit of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev as soon as the situation with the pandemic stabilizes in early 2021. Kazakhstan remains a major trading partner of India in Central Asia and the second largest in CIS region. Our bilateral trade turnover has reached 2,2 billion USD over the 9 months of 2020. During the years of independence, Nursultan Nazarbayev was personally involved in the country's most significant investment projects, which to this day are successfully working in Kazakhstan. In particular, several Indian citizens and companies have a significant presence in Kazakhstan. Arcelor-Mittal Temirtau is a major investment project by an Indian non-resident. Several other well-known companies like Infosys, Punj Lloyd Kazakhstan Limited, KEC International Limited, TCS, ONGC Videsh Ltd. etc. have been active in this market in the area of construction of oil and gas, electric transmission lines, IT, etc. In the area of pharmaceuticals, large Indian companies are represented in the market. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of convergence we see on foreign affairs between the 2 countries... Yerlan Alimbayev: In the area of foreign relations, Kazakhstan launched the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) through the address by President Nazarbayev to the United Nations General Assembly in October 1992, and India has consistently and actively supported the CICA. Interaction in the UN and other international fora has been close and mutually supportive. Views of both countries coincide on all major domestic, regional and international issues. Nursultan Nazarbayev again showed the entire world his wisdom and leadership as a great politician, committed to democratic values, having voluntarily relinquished duties as President in March 2019. After the elections on June 9, 2019 Mr. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev was elected as the new President of Kazakhstan. Thus, a peaceful transition of power in Kazakhstan took place, political succession was announced and all priorities and goals of foreign policy of Kazakhstan remain unchanged. One immutable truth is obvious: Kazakhstan managed to overcome the dramatic rift of epochs only thanks to the wise state strategy, strong leadership, the enormous international authority of the First President of the Republic of Kazakhstan – Elbasy and his absolute national support. Kazakhstan is interested in expanding ties with India, given its growing role in world economy and politics. We are witnessing radical reforms underway in India that are aimed at the full-scale transformation of the country’s economy in order to improve the standard of living of citizens, as well as strengthening national unity and regional integration both inside the country and on a continental scale. Kazakhstan welcomes these transformations and wishes to consolidate our efforts to achieve bigger trade turnover, strengthen political and cultural bonds. Sidhant Sibal:December 1 has significance in your country, if you can elaborate on it. Yerlan Alimbayev: On December 1, Kazakhstan celebrates the Day of the First President. This date is of great importance in the history of modern Kazakhstan and is also important in terms of bilateral relations between India and Kazakhstan. Elected by the people to the highest post of the country on December 1, 1991, Nursultan Nazarbayev became the First President of the young state. The personality of Nazarbayev is important for us because his whole life is directly connected with creation and development of independent Kazakhstan. Of course, international activities of the First President are essential part of Kazakhstan's foreign policy. Nursultan Nazarbayev played the same large-scale role in the history of Kazakhstan as world-famous reformers such as Mahatma Gandhi in India, Charles de Gaulle in France, Lee Kuan Yew in Singapore, Atatürk in Turkey, Mahathir Mohammad in Malaysia and many others played in the development of their respective countries. As you know, Kazakhstan inherited unbalanced economy after disintegration of the Soviet Union. The First President went on to make decisive market reforms, sometimes unpopular and tough, but only in that way was it possible to ensure the growth of the economy and to create a stable middle class, a pillar of a stable society. Sidhant Sibal: Nazarbayev, what has been his legacy. He resigned last year but holds the title of Leader of the Nation. Yerlan Alimbayev: Recognizing the crucial importance of this factor, the First President proclaimed the equality of rights of all the people of Kazakhstan, regardless of ethnic and religious affiliations, as one of the fundamental principles of state policy. Ethnic diversity has become the country’s greatest strength. In this context, Kazakhstan, like India, is a state that unites many languages, religions, cultures and nationalities. Step by step, through the efforts of the First President, Kazakhstan has rebuilt on the ruins of the former Soviet state. During the first stage of modernization, as Nazarbayev described this period, the President worked to effect a system overhaul, restore the economy and form a new political system. He presented his own formula for development - "first-economy, politics-after". Today, this experience is known as "the Nazarbayev model" or the Kazakhstan way. A major successful achievement of the Republic in that period was the transfer and construction of the new capital of the state, which today bears the name of the First President – Nur-Sultan. From the very beginning of independence, the First President attached exceptional importance to the sphere of foreign policy. Given the realities of the modern multipolar world, he established a multi-vector foreign policy. Having closed the world’s largest Semipalatinsk nuclear test site and abandon of the nuclear weapon, Nursultan Nazarbayev carried out a truly great act of history, showing an example of his peace-promoting policy with his actions and his decision to denuclearize Kazakhstan. Due to close international cooperation and partnerships built by his efforts, Kazakhstan has achieved remarkable results. Over the years, many of the first President's ideas and initiatives have been implemented and are being consistently developed. Kazakhstan has pioneered a global nuclear security initiative, has achieved a number of results in peacemaking policy and conflict resolution around Nagorno-Karabakh, Iran, Ukraine and Syria. The Republic has launched and continues to develop a global interreligious dialogue based on regular Congresses of Leaders of World and Traditional Religions in its capital. Kazakhstan's peace-loving policy contributed to the country's election as the Chairman of the OSCE, SCO, OIC, non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2017-2019, and other international organizations. The Eurasian idea of Nursultan Nazarbayev announced back in 1992 nowadays is being implemented as the Eurasian Economic Union. Kazakhstan has become a member of the WTO, and thanks to the implementation of major infrastructure projects, it has become an operator of growing trade flows between the East and West of Eurasia. Constructive and reliable relations were established with all neighbouring countries. For the first time in history, Kazakhstan gained internationally recognized borders along its entire perimeter. This was a key and decisive achievement, marking a particularly important milestone in the construction of the state. Today, Kazakhstan is a globally recognized, highly respected and open country with great economic, political, social, innovative and intellectual potential.

Kazakh President to visit India in early 2021

The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, spokesperson Ibrahim Hood said, "We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities."

The spokesperson also talked about ties with India, saying, "As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements."&nbsp;

Ties between the 2 countries have grown under the present President Solih administration with increased high-level visits. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country in early November. New Delhi is involved in a number of infra projects in the country and has extended support amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

WION: How does the Maldives see its partnership with India in 2020? 
Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives continues to cherish the excellent partnership we have with India. Since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was sworn into office, his administration has made a determined effort to improve the Maldives’ relationships the world over and with its immediate neighbours in particular. As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements. During the first two years of this Administration’s time in office the Maldives and India have exchanged several high-level visits including State visits by President Solih and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the course of these engagements, we have expanded cooperation on all spheres, from fisheries and trade to tourism, healthcare and regional defence. Our ties with India cannot be limited to governmental interactions alone. Large communities of Maldivians call India a second home. In turn, the Maldives hosts a significant population of Indian expatriates. The cultural influence that India exerts on the Maldives through mediums such as Bollywood is immense, and the civilizational and cultural ties that bind our two countries together run deep. Complemented by our two governments’ determination to maintain friendly relations, these factors will keep the Maldives-India relationship strong and enduring.&nbsp;

WION: How has India helped the Maldives during the Covid-19 pandemic? 
Ibrahim Hood: India’s timely and generous assistance throughout the pandemic helped enhance the Maldives’ healthcare capacity, reduced the strain on our economy and increased the efficiency of our response to the disease. Through operation Sanjeevani they airlifted over six tons of essential medicines to the Maldives and sent a medical team to assist us with our health response. Prime Minister Modi’s early initiative to establish a South Asian Covid-19 fund to be used as a common resource to help the region combat the pandemic was also of great help to us. In addition to direct medical assistance, India has also provided us with support to help allay the indirect challenges of the disease, especially economic ones. They have provided us with budgetary support and set up lines of credit which have helped us shore up our foreign currency reserves. We cannot thank them enough for all that they have done for us. &nbsp;

WION: How are both countries working together on regional security in the Indian Ocean? 
Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives has always maintained the firm belief that the Indian ocean should be a zone of peace. The best way to do this is through increased cooperation amongst all stakeholders. All Indian Ocean States have a common interest in addressing the current drivers of regional insecurity from terrorism, to narcotics and human smuggling, to Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing, which diminishes our food security, to natural disasters such as the Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, which seriously endanger our populations, economies and physical infrastructure. These issues cannot be resolved unilaterally, and all South Asian States must cooperate on such things as intelligence sharing, monitoring the Indian ocean’s vast EEZs and ensuring the safety and security of its Sea Lanes of Communication. That is why the Maldives has joined regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) which strive to resolve these issues collectively.

WION: How do India and Maldives plan to work on issues such as connectivity? 
Ibrahim Hood: The South Asian region is one of the least integrated regions in the world. This is costing our populations. For instance, intraregional trade within South Asia is estimated to be 5% of our collective GDP compared to 25% for ASEAN countries. Reducing trade barriers between our countries could potentially raise billions of dollars for our economies. Furthermore, as I have alluded to in my answer to the previous question, South Asia faces a set of common challenges which can only be overcome by the region’s countries working together. The governments of both India and Maldives recognize these facts, which is why we have strengthened our bilateral partnerships with each other and with the rest of South Asia, and why we committed to strengthening the capacity of important regional bodies such as SAARC and IORA. &nbsp;&nbsp;

 
WION: How do you see the Indo-Pacific concept? Do you support this concept? 
Ibrahim Hood: As Japan’s former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo famously expressed during his remarks while addressing India’s Lok Sabha and referring to the increasing linkages between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans, there is now a salient ‘confluence between the two seas’. The Indian and Pacific region together are now at the heart of international relations; together, they comprise a region that stretches from the West coast of the United States to the Western shores of India. Contributing to 2/3rds of the global GDP growth, home to several major world powers, six of which possess nuclear weapons and containing over half of the world’s population, the region’s centrality to global geopolitics is unquestionable. That the Indian and Pacific oceans should be recognized as a single political construct is increasingly recognized by the world’s great powers. For instance, that is why the United States has combined their previously separate Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean fleets into a single Indo-Pacific fleet. As an island nation centrally located in the Indian Ocean, sitting astride several important sea lines of communication (SLOCS) linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Maldives must have a cohesive strategy regarding our Indo Pacific engagement, in terms of making use of the increased geopolitical attention given to this region, and making use of that to benefit our own development priorities. We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities.

The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said.

The Maldives is looking for a cohesive strategy for its Indo-Pacific engagement such that it can "benefit our own development priorities", the spokesperson for the Maldives President has said. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal from Male, spokesperson Ibrahim Hood said, "We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities." The spokesperson also talked about ties with India, saying, "As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements." Ties between the 2 countries have grown under the present President Solih administration with increased high-level visits. India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla had visited the country in early November. New Delhi is involved in a number of infra projects in the country and has extended support amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. WION: How does the Maldives see its partnership with India in 2020? Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives continues to cherish the excellent partnership we have with India. Since President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih was sworn into office, his administration has made a determined effort to improve the Maldives’ relationships the world over and with its immediate neighbours in particular. As our largest neighbour and one of our oldest development partners, India features prominently in our regional engagements. During the first two years of this Administration’s time in office the Maldives and India have exchanged several high-level visits including State visits by President Solih and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Over the course of these engagements, we have expanded cooperation on all spheres, from fisheries and trade to tourism, healthcare and regional defence. Our ties with India cannot be limited to governmental interactions alone. Large communities of Maldivians call India a second home. In turn, the Maldives hosts a significant population of Indian expatriates. The cultural influence that India exerts on the Maldives through mediums such as Bollywood is immense, and the civilizational and cultural ties that bind our two countries together run deep. Complemented by our two governments’ determination to maintain friendly relations, these factors will keep the Maldives-India relationship strong and enduring. WION: How has India helped the Maldives during the Covid-19 pandemic? Ibrahim Hood: India’s timely and generous assistance throughout the pandemic helped enhance the Maldives’ healthcare capacity, reduced the strain on our economy and increased the efficiency of our response to the disease. Through operation Sanjeevani they airlifted over six tons of essential medicines to the Maldives and sent a medical team to assist us with our health response. Prime Minister Modi’s early initiative to establish a South Asian Covid-19 fund to be used as a common resource to help the region combat the pandemic was also of great help to us. In addition to direct medical assistance, India has also provided us with support to help allay the indirect challenges of the disease, especially economic ones. They have provided us with budgetary support and set up lines of credit which have helped us shore up our foreign currency reserves. We cannot thank them enough for all that they have done for us. WION: How are both countries working together on regional security in the Indian Ocean? Ibrahim Hood: The Maldives has always maintained the firm belief that the Indian ocean should be a zone of peace. The best way to do this is through increased cooperation amongst all stakeholders. All Indian Ocean States have a common interest in addressing the current drivers of regional insecurity from terrorism, to narcotics and human smuggling, to Illegal, Unregulated and Unreported (IUU) fishing, which diminishes our food security, to natural disasters such as the Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, which seriously endanger our populations, economies and physical infrastructure. These issues cannot be resolved unilaterally, and all South Asian States must cooperate on such things as intelligence sharing, monitoring the Indian ocean’s vast EEZs and ensuring the safety and security of its Sea Lanes of Communication. That is why the Maldives has joined regional organizations such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) which strive to resolve these issues collectively. WION: How do India and Maldives plan to work on issues such as connectivity? Ibrahim Hood: The South Asian region is one of the least integrated regions in the world. This is costing our populations. For instance, intraregional trade within South Asia is estimated to be 5% of our collective GDP compared to 25% for ASEAN countries. Reducing trade barriers between our countries could potentially raise billions of dollars for our economies. Furthermore, as I have alluded to in my answer to the previous question, South Asia faces a set of common challenges which can only be overcome by the region’s countries working together. The governments of both India and Maldives recognize these facts, which is why we have strengthened our bilateral partnerships with each other and with the rest of South Asia, and why we committed to strengthening the capacity of important regional bodies such as SAARC and IORA. WION: How do you see the Indo-Pacific concept? Do you support this concept? Ibrahim Hood: As Japan’s former Prime Minister Abe Shinzo famously expressed during his remarks while addressing India’s Lok Sabha and referring to the increasing linkages between the Indian and the Pacific Oceans, there is now a salient ‘confluence between the two seas’. The Indian and Pacific region together are now at the heart of international relations; together, they comprise a region that stretches from the West coast of the United States to the Western shores of India. Contributing to 2/3rds of the global GDP growth, home to several major world powers, six of which possess nuclear weapons and containing over half of the world’s population, the region’s centrality to global geopolitics is unquestionable. That the Indian and Pacific oceans should be recognized as a single political construct is increasingly recognized by the world’s great powers. For instance, that is why the United States has combined their previously separate Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean fleets into a single Indo-Pacific fleet. As an island nation centrally located in the Indian Ocean, sitting astride several important sea lines of communication (SLOCS) linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans, the Maldives must have a cohesive strategy regarding our Indo Pacific engagement, in terms of making use of the increased geopolitical attention given to this region, and making use of that to benefit our own development priorities. We especially share our partners’ vision of keeping a Free and Open Indo-Pacific so that legitimate commercial activity across this vast expanse is unhindered and brings prosperity to all of its communities.

Indo-Pacific engagement should benefit development priorities: Maldives President Spokesperson

China and the Vatican renewed a secretive agreement signed two years ago. It allows both Beijing and the Vatican a say in appointing Bishops in China. The agreement gives Pope a final say in the appointments of the Bishop in China, but Beijing is the one that will have to come up with the choices.

Chinese authorities had previously selected bishops without the say of the Vatican. And a division formed between state-sanctioned clergy — and underground bishops who operated outside state control.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="409" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mgSGp2bjeG4" width="727"></iframe>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vatican-china-renew-bishop-appointment-deal-for-two-years-337095">Vatican, China renew bishop appointment deal for two years</a>

The former bishop of Hong Kong, Cardinal Joseph Zen, has spoken up about this. Cardinal Zen was born in Shanghai 88 years ago. He came to Hong Kong in 1948, just before the communist took power in China.

Cardinal Zen accuses says this deal is a betrayal to the 12 million Catholic population.&nbsp;

In an exclusive conversation with Praphul Singh from WION, Cardinal Joseph Zen reveals how the secret Vatican-China deal has worsened the situation for Catholics in China and Hong Kong.

WION: How do you see the two years of agreement between China and the Vatican? Did it improve anything in China for the Catholics?

Cardinal Zen: I don't even know the content of the agreement, the agreement is a secret, even for me, a Chinese cardinal. But then you can guess that the content is not very important. I mean, before this written agreement there was a compromise in the nomination of the Bishops. I mean, they had a kind of secret mutual understanding and then they try to appoint somebody acceptable to both, somebody, not the best but acceptable to both. But what happened with this deal is very much alarming because using this agreement they did many wrong things. They never named any Bishops in these 2 years. The two Bishops ordained in these 2 years were already agreed upon. But then, they legitimise 7 Bishops. Presenting it as a part of the agreement, but the agreement should be about future Bishops, not the bishops they ordained several years ago. Not, the legitimisation of those 7 is unacceptable. The people completely working for the govt, not for the church. They were ordained without permission of the Pope and during all those years they were defiant, disrespecting all the doctrines of faith and all the rules of cardinal law. They used the power, which they took by force. To ordain priests, to ordain the bishops, it was very bad behaviour over the years. And with this legitimisation, they should show some repentance of what they did. They should promise in some way to behave but nothing like that. They just went around triumphant because they succeeded by the pressure of the govt to be recognised as Bishops. Then the Holy Sea impose such people on the faithful. It is a very cruel thing. Among them, there are two of them who doesn't follow the celibacy, just imagine. It is very sad, the holy sea got nothing but lost everything.

WION: Why do you think a Vatican-China deal is harming the Catholics in China? 
Cardinal Zen: Sometimes they say a bad agreement is better than no agreement, that's impossible to understand because a bad thing is bad. You may accept an imperfect agreement but not a bad agreement. The agreement is very bad because any agreement should be fair to both sides. And so both sides should gain something, but we gained nothing and the Chinese Government gained everything. I think in the negotiations, they should mention the Bishops and the arrest but nothing happened, even more, harsh persecution.&nbsp;

WION: Do you think that the Vatican is giving legitimacy to the Communist Party of China and their ways of persecuting the Catholics in China?

Cardinal Zen: In a big secret that the agreement is, the government use it to demand the faithful to do everything they want. For eg., they tell the underground churches to come out and join the independent church, if the people they, no, it isn't allowed, it is against our Catholic effect. The official says, no, the Pope has agreed already. But since the people don't know the content of the agreement, they are confused, if it is the Pope who has approved everything? Even the Vatican recognises something the govt is demanding was not in the agreement. But then last year a document came from the Holy Sea, encouraging the people to join the independent church. That's incredible because that church, that community is the cosmetic church, not the true catholic church. The Popes from all these years have abstained from calling it cosmetic church just because there were several good bishops, good priests and good people, but the situation worsened year by year just because of the wrong policy by the Holy Sea. This policy of compromise is a surrender. We didn't get the agreement but the agreement was a pretext, was an instrument in the hands of the government to persecute the church.

WION: You feel very strongly against the deal, so much so, that you flew to Rome a couple of years back to express your views? What did you say to Pope and how did he respond to it? 
Cardinal Zen: I flew to Rome several times in the year 2018 because I couldn't be sure that the Pope have been receiving my letters, the many letters that I have written to him. So I went to Rome to give letters to his hands, twice. He was very kind to see me and even give me a personal audience. But he did not answer my questions and last year towards the end of June a document came from the Holy Sea encouraging the people to join the Independent Church. It's a very contradictory attitude from the Holy Sea. On one side, they say, we have no agreement from the government so that the underground should come to the independent church, but then they encourage the underground priests to accept and sign the document for registration to become part of the independent church, that's terrible, that's why I took to the flight the next day to Rome, I asked the holy father to be present in the discussion between me and Cardinal Parolin, he was the author of the document, but I could not have that. The Holy Father even invited me to the supper with Cardinal Parolin but not to have such a discussion. I came back empty-handed, but not completely empty-handed, coz I could an embarrassment in the eyes of the Holy Father. It is also clear that Parolin, the Secretary of State is manipulating the Holy Father which is very saddening to see.

WION: How risky is it for people to worship in underground churches of China? 
Cardinal Zen: The underground church means a church which is against the law. So they can be any moment arrested and brought to prison. But, for many years the govt in some places, sometimes even tolerated the underground community. Why? Because they are good, hard-working, well-behaved people. In villages, they are the majority of people behaving very well, no fighting, no quarrels and so they just wanted a place to be able to worship. So the govt closed its eyes. In several places, there were churches, big buildings and they could worship there. In big cities like Shanghai, they couldn't allow the churches, but they allowed underground churches and allowed mass to happen. Everybody knew that it couldn't be a secret. But, two years ago, when they signed the agreement, the govt started to enforce those laws and they started to take away the churches because they said now you have to join the independent church, it is already recognised as the only church by the Holy Father. They told the priest that they cannot say the mass anymore in secret. The priest told the people to not go to the mass anymore because it was too dangerous. The government may arrest them, find them, they may lose all their money, their property and they may end up going to prison. But then, there are also other laws which they did not enforce before but after the agreement, they did enforce the law. One of the law was very harsh and terrible, any person below 18 years of age are not allowed to go to the church, are not allowed to join any religious activities. So all these activities were done on the pretext of the agreement, it was not written in the agreement. They used the agreement to enforce these things after the agreement was signed, so things are much worse than before.

WION: What kind of methods does China use to enforce a ban on underground churches? Do they arrest the Bishops? What do they do with them? 
Cardinal Zen: The underground bishops, they are always in danger of being arrested. Sometimes they arrest them and put them in prison. We have even 1 Bishop who disappeared 20 years ago, we don't even know whether he is still alive or dead. Several other Bishops gets arrested from time to time and then released. Mostly before summer Church festivities with continuous harassment. They use both the threats and enticement, they also use the family to threaten. They (Chinese Officials) may come to you and say, your brother is having difficulties at the workplace, do you want us to put in a word for him? If you agree to it, you will have to obey to them, but if you do not agree with them and say that you can manage on your own, then they will get your family member fired because the government can do anything. They will offer you to help your sick parents and if you agree you will feel obliged to obey to them, but if you deny to their help, they will order the hospital to not accept your sick family members. They use all kind of tactics. That's why the underground church over the years started weakening because we all are human beings and under such difficult situations people tend to give up and now with the Holy Sea allowing people to join the independent church, people are doing so unaware of the agreement. But still, there are many people left who aren't crumbling under the pressure as they think that this isn't allowed in their Catholic Doctrine.

WION: Do you think that Pope Francis is being lenient towards China and Xi Xinping? Also, does this mean that the Vatican is trying to appease Beijing just to have a deal with them?&nbsp; 
Cardinal Zen: They call this leniency, appeasement or politics, that means this is made to the use by the Chairman of the CCP or the government. The reason is since the communist maybe there for long we had to engage them and not ignore them completely. The Pope and the Vatican are practising that policy. The Pope who is very courageous to blame certain govt and unjust activities of those government never said any word to tell the Chinese govt that they should improve their human rights issue records. They should grant religious freedom. That is very sad. Not only for the Catholic church but similar persecution of the protestant church. because they tear down the crosses from their church, demolishing their churches as well. Even for the Buddhists in Tibet to the Muslims in Xinjiang, everybody knows what happens in those concentrations camps. The Chinese officials try to destroy their culture not only their faith. The ways through which they enforce including sterilization, they're doing something like genocide. Even people outside the church say why the Pope doesn't say anything about what China is doing. It is very sad. The Pope has spiritual power and he should use that power to encourage the govt to the better to change their ways. But, seemingly he believes that by this compromise, this leniency he can get anything, but the facts show that he got nothing during all these years.

WION: Aren't you scared of the new security law imposed by China and that you speaking out against the so-called deal might result in your arrest? Do you think that the deal is, in fact, a betrayal towards the Catholic Community in China?&nbsp; 
Cardinal Zen: When Hong Kong went back under the sovereignty of the Chinese govt they promise a high degree of autonomy and one country-two system. So they gave us the basic law which is like a mini-constitution and in that law Article-23 said, in HK we should have our law to guarantee the security of our nation. But, it was a failure because they drafted a very bad law. But now the CCP made a new law for us, with now consultation in the harshest terms. So we lost everything, even the freedom of speech. If we say anything against the govt we can be arrested, brought to mainland China with no lawyers to assist or even visited by our family members. This is a terrible new law. Do some people ask if you're afraid? I say, nowadays nobody in Hong Kong can feel safe because we are under such a limited faith. This is a betrayal to what they promised us. During the first years, we may have had some illusion that they may live by some promises but slowly we got to know that the central government is going back on their promises. We felt that we were more and more controlled by the Central Govt with very less autonomy. There is something very bad for everybody from people in Hong Kong to our relation with China. Even for China, it's sad, because HK is still very useful for China, but with this new law Hong Kong is just like any other city of Mainland China. The new law made all the people and country doing business with China lose their trust. They cannot trust the govt anymore, because we lost the rule of law. It's something terrible and a big betrayal. All of a sudden even many courageous people said that they wanted to leave Hong Kong, while some were scared to say anything as it can be damaging. It looks like the end of anything. We are really at the bottom. We hope that the whole world notices the terrible change in our situation and they may encourage the Chinese govt to be wiser. It is very dangerous today and I encourage people to go away if they are in the position to do that. Especially the people with children to go away because the education here is being used for brainwashing them.

WION: Is there a way that this deal can be modified for the better of the Catholic's in China?&nbsp; 
Cardinal Zen: You can be optimistic and pessimistic but you must have a foundation for that. There can be no optimism in this situation because there is no foundation. There are facts to see, the world can see that the Chinese totalitarian system is built on lies, they make fake promises and hide the truth, so there is no basis of any optimism. We must be cautious not to be deceived anymore, but then what we do for the church? We are in no position to do anything because we are confronting an enormous force and a strong govt and we have only the moral strength to resist peacefully against the persecution. It's imp for us to keep our faith, not to surrender our faith, we can even sacrifice the sacraments, when you are arrested you cannot keep the sacraments but your faith is in your hearts, to help you but you cannot deny your faith. People can be more prudent, don't provoke the regime because they can be terrible but in certain moments, tell the truth and do not support the lies. All religious leaders are forced to declare their very difficult position. How can you say that the new security law doesn't take away the religious freedom? It takes away all freedoms along with religious freedoms. In the mainland, all the religions have to cynicism or assimilate to be made Chinese. We must understand that it is about accepting the Chinese government and its authority, the authority of the communist party which cannot be accepted. The only thing we can do is raising questions. We can ask why the new security law is so harsh on us. We are in no position to do anything to harm the security of the country. We can ask, why are you going back to the basic law? Why are you risking your prestige in the international community? Why aren't you keeping your promises, because the people realise that you don't keep promise along with other nations? You don't respect your promises which is very damaging to the CCP too. We can raise questions but if we will say that this is a very bad law then we will be brought to the court in China. We have to avoid saying things too clearly. The most threatening thing is what they do to education. They don't respect the teachers, they disqualify the teachers who don't even say anything. The management committee of the schools says the teachers have done nothing wrong yet they face actions.

China and the Vatican renewed a secretive agreement signed two years ago. It allows both Beijing and the Vatican a say in appointing Bishops in China. The agreement gives Pope a final say in the appointments of the Bishop in China, but Beijing is the one that will have to come up with the choices.

China and the Vatican renewed a secretive agreement signed two years ago. It allows both Beijing and the Vatican a say in appointing Bishops in China. The agreement gives Pope a final say in the appointments of the Bishop in China, but Beijing is the one that will have to come up with the choices. Chinese authorities had previously selected bishops without the say of the Vatican. And a division formed between state-sanctioned clergy — and underground bishops who operated outside state control. Watch | Also read | Vatican, China renew bishop appointment deal for two years The former bishop of Hong Kong, Cardinal Joseph Zen, has spoken up about this. Cardinal Zen was born in Shanghai 88 years ago. He came to Hong Kong in 1948, just before the communist took power in China. Cardinal Zen accuses says this deal is a betrayal to the 12 million Catholic population. In an exclusive conversation with Praphul Singh from WION, Cardinal Joseph Zen reveals how the secret Vatican-China deal has worsened the situation for Catholics in China and Hong Kong. WION: How do you see the two years of agreement between China and the Vatican? Did it improve anything in China for the Catholics? Cardinal Zen: I don't even know the content of the agreement, the agreement is a secret, even for me, a Chinese cardinal. But then you can guess that the content is not very important. I mean, before this written agreement there was a compromise in the nomination of the Bishops. I mean, they had a kind of secret mutual understanding and then they try to appoint somebody acceptable to both, somebody, not the best but acceptable to both. But what happened with this deal is very much alarming because using this agreement they did many wrong things. They never named any Bishops in these 2 years. The two Bishops ordained in these 2 years were already agreed upon. But then, they legitimise 7 Bishops. Presenting it as a part of the agreement, but the agreement should be about future Bishops, not the bishops they ordained several years ago. Not, the legitimisation of those 7 is unacceptable. The people completely working for the govt, not for the church. They were ordained without permission of the Pope and during all those years they were defiant, disrespecting all the doctrines of faith and all the rules of cardinal law. They used the power, which they took by force. To ordain priests, to ordain the bishops, it was very bad behaviour over the years. And with this legitimisation, they should show some repentance of what they did. They should promise in some way to behave but nothing like that. They just went around triumphant because they succeeded by the pressure of the govt to be recognised as Bishops. Then the Holy Sea impose such people on the faithful. It is a very cruel thing. Among them, there are two of them who doesn't follow the celibacy, just imagine. It is very sad, the holy sea got nothing but lost everything. WION: Why do you think a Vatican-China deal is harming the Catholics in China? Cardinal Zen: Sometimes they say a bad agreement is better than no agreement, that's impossible to understand because a bad thing is bad. You may accept an imperfect agreement but not a bad agreement. The agreement is very bad because any agreement should be fair to both sides. And so both sides should gain something, but we gained nothing and the Chinese Government gained everything. I think in the negotiations, they should mention the Bishops and the arrest but nothing happened, even more, harsh persecution. WION: Do you think that the Vatican is giving legitimacy to the Communist Party of China and their ways of persecuting the Catholics in China? Cardinal Zen: In a big secret that the agreement is, the government use it to demand the faithful to do everything they want. For eg., they tell the underground churches to come out and join the independent church, if the people they, no, it isn't allowed, it is against our Catholic effect. The official says, no, the Pope has agreed already. But since the people don't know the content of the agreement, they are confused, if it is the Pope who has approved everything? Even the Vatican recognises something the govt is demanding was not in the agreement. But then last year a document came from the Holy Sea, encouraging the people to join the independent church. That's incredible because that church, that community is the cosmetic church, not the true catholic church. The Popes from all these years have abstained from calling it cosmetic church just because there were several good bishops, good priests and good people, but the situation worsened year by year just because of the wrong policy by the Holy Sea. This policy of compromise is a surrender. We didn't get the agreement but the agreement was a pretext, was an instrument in the hands of the government to persecute the church. WION: You feel very strongly against the deal, so much so, that you flew to Rome a couple of years back to express your views? What did you say to Pope and how did he respond to it? Cardinal Zen: I flew to Rome several times in the year 2018 because I couldn't be sure that the Pope have been receiving my letters, the many letters that I have written to him. So I went to Rome to give letters to his hands, twice. He was very kind to see me and even give me a personal audience. But he did not answer my questions and last year towards the end of June a document came from the Holy Sea encouraging the people to join the Independent Church. It's a very contradictory attitude from the Holy Sea. On one side, they say, we have no agreement from the government so that the underground should come to the independent church, but then they encourage the underground priests to accept and sign the document for registration to become part of the independent church, that's terrible, that's why I took to the flight the next day to Rome, I asked the holy father to be present in the discussion between me and Cardinal Parolin, he was the author of the document, but I could not have that. The Holy Father even invited me to the supper with Cardinal Parolin but not to have such a discussion. I came back empty-handed, but not completely empty-handed, coz I could an embarrassment in the eyes of the Holy Father. It is also clear that Parolin, the Secretary of State is manipulating the Holy Father which is very saddening to see. WION: How risky is it for people to worship in underground churches of China? Cardinal Zen: The underground church means a church which is against the law. So they can be any moment arrested and brought to prison. But, for many years the govt in some places, sometimes even tolerated the underground community. Why? Because they are good, hard-working, well-behaved people. In villages, they are the majority of people behaving very well, no fighting, no quarrels and so they just wanted a place to be able to worship. So the govt closed its eyes. In several places, there were churches, big buildings and they could worship there. In big cities like Shanghai, they couldn't allow the churches, but they allowed underground churches and allowed mass to happen. Everybody knew that it couldn't be a secret. But, two years ago, when they signed the agreement, the govt started to enforce those laws and they started to take away the churches because they said now you have to join the independent church, it is already recognised as the only church by the Holy Father. They told the priest that they cannot say the mass anymore in secret. The priest told the people to not go to the mass anymore because it was too dangerous. The government may arrest them, find them, they may lose all their money, their property and they may end up going to prison. But then, there are also other laws which they did not enforce before but after the agreement, they did enforce the law. One of the law was very harsh and terrible, any person below 18 years of age are not allowed to go to the church, are not allowed to join any religious activities. So all these activities were done on the pretext of the agreement, it was not written in the agreement. They used the agreement to enforce these things after the agreement was signed, so things are much worse than before. WION: What kind of methods does China use to enforce a ban on underground churches? Do they arrest the Bishops? What do they do with them? Cardinal Zen: The underground bishops, they are always in danger of being arrested. Sometimes they arrest them and put them in prison. We have even 1 Bishop who disappeared 20 years ago, we don't even know whether he is still alive or dead. Several other Bishops gets arrested from time to time and then released. Mostly before summer Church festivities with continuous harassment. They use both the threats and enticement, they also use the family to threaten. They (Chinese Officials) may come to you and say, your brother is having difficulties at the workplace, do you want us to put in a word for him? If you agree to it, you will have to obey to them, but if you do not agree with them and say that you can manage on your own, then they will get your family member fired because the government can do anything. They will offer you to help your sick parents and if you agree you will feel obliged to obey to them, but if you deny to their help, they will order the hospital to not accept your sick family members. They use all kind of tactics. That's why the underground church over the years started weakening because we all are human beings and under such difficult situations people tend to give up and now with the Holy Sea allowing people to join the independent church, people are doing so unaware of the agreement. But still, there are many people left who aren't crumbling under the pressure as they think that this isn't allowed in their Catholic Doctrine. WION: Do you think that Pope Francis is being lenient towards China and Xi Xinping? Also, does this mean that the Vatican is trying to appease Beijing just to have a deal with them? Cardinal Zen: They call this leniency, appeasement or politics, that means this is made to the use by the Chairman of the CCP or the government. The reason is since the communist maybe there for long we had to engage them and not ignore them completely. The Pope and the Vatican are practising that policy. The Pope who is very courageous to blame certain govt and unjust activities of those government never said any word to tell the Chinese govt that they should improve their human rights issue records. They should grant religious freedom. That is very sad. Not only for the Catholic church but similar persecution of the protestant church. because they tear down the crosses from their church, demolishing their churches as well. Even for the Buddhists in Tibet to the Muslims in Xinjiang, everybody knows what happens in those concentrations camps. The Chinese officials try to destroy their culture not only their faith. The ways through which they enforce including sterilization, they're doing something like genocide. Even people outside the church say why the Pope doesn't say anything about what China is doing. It is very sad. The Pope has spiritual power and he should use that power to encourage the govt to the better to change their ways. But, seemingly he believes that by this compromise, this leniency he can get anything, but the facts show that he got nothing during all these years. WION: Aren't you scared of the new security law imposed by China and that you speaking out against the so-called deal might result in your arrest? Do you think that the deal is, in fact, a betrayal towards the Catholic Community in China? Cardinal Zen: When Hong Kong went back under the sovereignty of the Chinese govt they promise a high degree of autonomy and one country-two system. So they gave us the basic law which is like a mini-constitution and in that law Article-23 said, in HK we should have our law to guarantee the security of our nation. But, it was a failure because they drafted a very bad law. But now the CCP made a new law for us, with now consultation in the harshest terms. So we lost everything, even the freedom of speech. If we say anything against the govt we can be arrested, brought to mainland China with no lawyers to assist or even visited by our family members. This is a terrible new law. Do some people ask if you're afraid? I say, nowadays nobody in Hong Kong can feel safe because we are under such a limited faith. This is a betrayal to what they promised us. During the first years, we may have had some illusion that they may live by some promises but slowly we got to know that the central government is going back on their promises. We felt that we were more and more controlled by the Central Govt with very less autonomy. There is something very bad for everybody from people in Hong Kong to our relation with China. Even for China, it's sad, because HK is still very useful for China, but with this new law Hong Kong is just like any other city of Mainland China. The new law made all the people and country doing business with China lose their trust. They cannot trust the govt anymore, because we lost the rule of law. It's something terrible and a big betrayal. All of a sudden even many courageous people said that they wanted to leave Hong Kong, while some were scared to say anything as it can be damaging. It looks like the end of anything. We are really at the bottom. We hope that the whole world notices the terrible change in our situation and they may encourage the Chinese govt to be wiser. It is very dangerous today and I encourage people to go away if they are in the position to do that. Especially the people with children to go away because the education here is being used for brainwashing them. WION: Is there a way that this deal can be modified for the better of the Catholic's in China? Cardinal Zen: You can be optimistic and pessimistic but you must have a foundation for that. There can be no optimism in this situation because there is no foundation. There are facts to see, the world can see that the Chinese totalitarian system is built on lies, they make fake promises and hide the truth, so there is no basis of any optimism. We must be cautious not to be deceived anymore, but then what we do for the church? We are in no position to do anything because we are confronting an enormous force and a strong govt and we have only the moral strength to resist peacefully against the persecution. It's imp for us to keep our faith, not to surrender our faith, we can even sacrifice the sacraments, when you are arrested you cannot keep the sacraments but your faith is in your hearts, to help you but you cannot deny your faith. People can be more prudent, don't provoke the regime because they can be terrible but in certain moments, tell the truth and do not support the lies. All religious leaders are forced to declare their very difficult position. How can you say that the new security law doesn't take away the religious freedom? It takes away all freedoms along with religious freedoms. In the mainland, all the religions have to cynicism or assimilate to be made Chinese. We must understand that it is about accepting the Chinese government and its authority, the authority of the communist party which cannot be accepted. The only thing we can do is raising questions. We can ask why the new security law is so harsh on us. We are in no position to do anything to harm the security of the country. We can ask, why are you going back to the basic law? Why are you risking your prestige in the international community? Why aren't you keeping your promises, because the people realise that you don't keep promise along with other nations? You don't respect your promises which is very damaging to the CCP too. We can raise questions but if we will say that this is a very bad law then we will be brought to the court in China. We have to avoid saying things too clearly. The most threatening thing is what they do to education. They don't respect the teachers, they disqualify the teachers who don't even say anything. The management committee of the schools says the teachers have done nothing wrong yet they face actions.

EXCLUSIVE: The Vatican got nothing, while China received everything, says Hong Kong's Cardinal Zen

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.&nbsp;

Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, &nbsp;"The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban."

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-strongly-rejects-claims-of-its-territory-being-used-for-terror-acts-against-pakistan-343314">Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan</a>

Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country.&nbsp;

He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar."&nbsp;

Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. "

He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties."

Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. &nbsp;This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.&nbsp;

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident.

Afghan govt has said that Pakistan Taliban had a role in the Helmand attacks and Afghan forces have killed around 200 Pakistani nationals involved in the incident. Afghan Interior Ministry spokesman Tariq Arian speaking to WION from Kabul said, "The Helmand attacks, planned by the Taliban, more than 200 Pakistani Taliban had participated in it and our Afghan National Defense and Security Forces (ANDSF) killed all the Taliban. This includes the Pakistani Taliban." Also read | Afghanistan 'strongly' rejects claims of its territory being used for terror acts against Pakistan Helmand province in southern Afghanistan has a major uptick in violence in the last few weeks. The violence comes even as the US plans to withdraw from the country by Christmas, sparking concerns of Pakistan increasing its foothold in the country. He highlighted that the Afghan and Pakistan Taliban has cooperation and "they had planned to attack ANDSF near the city of Helmand and district of Kandahar." Adding, "It was a success for our forces and we have shared the list of Taliban commanders, including Pakistani Taliban. More than 300 Pakistani Taliban had participated in this. Our ANDSF had success in other provinces like Kunduz. " He pointed out that in other provinces of Afghanistan, like Kandahar, "Taliban had planned attacks on ANDSF and response by us saw the killing of the Taliban, and they had casualties." Taliban and the Afghan government are in talks in Doha, which are leading nowhere. This year saw 2 important pacts, the Taliban and US govt pact in February, and in September start of talks in Doha. Despite the signing of a pact, and the start of talks, the Taliban is unwilling to reduce violence in the country.

Pakistani Taliban was involved in Helmand attacks: Afghan Interior Minister spokesperson to WION

Pankaj Tripathi is an actor who isn't always on everyone's mind. But you suddenly realise how much you missed him when he comes out with another of his masterful performance. His role of Akhandanand Tripathi aka Kaleen Bhaiya is being hailed by viewers as one of the greatest villains, at par with legendary performances like Mogambo and Shakaal. As the second season of the web series 'Mirzapur' hit Amazon Prime Video,&nbsp;fans went&nbsp;going gaga over it.&nbsp;

Pankaj Tripathi, on Wednesday, had an exclusive interaction with DNA.

Though his performance and the web series is being hailed by viewers and critics alike, Mirzapur has been a topic of hot debate.&nbsp;

Apart from the reel world of the web series, there is a real city named Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh and MP of Mirzapur was not happy the way reel Mirzapur has been depicted. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/mirzapur-2-review-pankaj-tripathi-ali-fazal-shweta-tripathi-are-back-with-all-guns-blazing-337268">Read WION's review of 'Mirzapur 2' here.</a>

Anupriya Patel, MP of Mirzapur demanded action against the web series recently. In her tweet, she expressed her displeasure over the depiction of violence in the series and said that the web series was showing real Mirzapur in a bad light.

"...Mirzapur is progressing. It is a centre of inclusion...' read part of her Hindi tweet as she complained that the web series was promoting communal rivalry. She had tagged PM Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath demanding action and inquiry against the web series.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
मिर्ज़ापुर ज़िले की सांसद होने के नाते मेरी माँग है कि इसकी जाँच होनी चाहिए और इसके विरुद्ध कार्यवाही होनी चाहिए <a href="https://twitter.com/PrakashJavdekar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PrakashJavdekar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/myogiadityanath?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@myogiadityanath</a> 
2/2
— Anupriya Patel (@AnupriyaSPatel) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnupriyaSPatel/status/1319905093311852544?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/bollywood/news-interview-ali-fazal-on-mirzapur-2-hollywood-films-and-fanboy-moments-as-he-meets-the-worlds-biggest-stars-337327" hreflang="en">Ali Fazal to WION on 'Mirzapur 2', Hollywood films and fanboy moments</a>

Reacting to Patel's demand, Pankaj Tripathi said,"There is a disclaimer that comes before every episode which reads that Mirzapur is a fictional story and does not have any relation to an individual and/or place. I am an actor and I wouldn't have much to say on this beyond what I have stated."&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/this-is-us-mirzapur-2-and-more-what-to-stream-this-october-331955">'This is Us', 'Mirzapur 2' and more: What to stream this October</a>

"Having said that, I would like to add that in 'Mirzapur' series, if there are criminals, there's also a hero by the name Ramakanth Pandit (Rajesh Tailang), who wants to do good for the city," he added.

Pankaj Tripathi is an actor who isn't always on everyone's mind. But you suddenly realise how much you missed him when he comes out with another of his masterful performance.

Pankaj Tripathi is an actor who isn't always on everyone's mind. But you suddenly realise how much you missed him when he comes out with another of his masterful performance. His role of Akhandanand Tripathi aka Kaleen Bhaiya is being hailed by viewers as one of the greatest villains, at par with legendary performances like Mogambo and Shakaal. As the second season of the web series 'Mirzapur' hit Amazon Prime Video, fans went going gaga over it. Pankaj Tripathi, on Wednesday, had an exclusive interaction with DNA. Though his performance and the web series is being hailed by viewers and critics alike, Mirzapur has been a topic of hot debate. Apart from the reel world of the web series, there is a real city named Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh and MP of Mirzapur was not happy the way reel Mirzapur has been depicted. Read WION's review of 'Mirzapur 2' here. Anupriya Patel, MP of Mirzapur demanded action against the web series recently. In her tweet, she expressed her displeasure over the depiction of violence in the series and said that the web series was showing real Mirzapur in a bad light. "...Mirzapur is progressing. It is a centre of inclusion...' read part of her Hindi tweet as she complained that the web series was promoting communal rivalry. She had tagged PM Modi and UP CM Yogi Adityanath demanding action and inquiry against the web series. मिर्ज़ापुर ज़िले की सांसद होने के नाते मेरी माँग है कि इसकी जाँच होनी चाहिए और इसके विरुद्ध कार्यवाही होनी चाहिए @PrakashJavdekar @narendramodi @myogiadityanath 2/2 — Anupriya Patel (@AnupriyaSPatel) October 24, 2020 × Ali Fazal to WION on 'Mirzapur 2', Hollywood films and fanboy moments Reacting to Patel's demand, Pankaj Tripathi said,"There is a disclaimer that comes before every episode which reads that Mirzapur is a fictional story and does not have any relation to an individual and/or place. I am an actor and I wouldn't have much to say on this beyond what I have stated." Also Read | 'This is Us', 'Mirzapur 2' and more: What to stream this October "Having said that, I would like to add that in 'Mirzapur' series, if there are criminals, there's also a hero by the name Ramakanth Pandit (Rajesh Tailang), who wants to do good for the city," he added.

Pankaj Tripathi reacts to Mirzapur MP's demand for action against web series

A day after India Denmark Prime Ministers meet for virtual summit, Denmark's envoy to India Freddy Svane speaking exclusively to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent batted for supply chain initiative, saying his country is ready for it. PM Modi had spoken about the need for alternate supply chains at the summit and cited how India, Japan, Australia are coming together for supply chain initiative. The envoy spoke about the Green Strategic partnership and how India's scale and Denmark's skills can come together, something that will be mutually beneficial. He also spoke about Kim Davy issue, something that India raised during the summit.

Exclusive: Denmark's envoy to India Freddy Svane speaks exclusively to WION

A day after India Denmark Prime Ministers meet for virtual summit, Denmark's envoy to India Freddy Svane speaking exclusively to WION's principal diplomatic correspondent batted for supply chain initative, saying his country is ready for it. PM Modi had spoken about the need for alternate supply chains at the summit and cited how India, Japan, Australia are coming together for supply chain initiative. The envoy spoke about the Green Strategic partnership and how India's scale and Denmark's skills can come together, something that will be mutually beneficial. He also spoke about Kim Davy issue, something that India raised during the summit.

Denmark's envoy to India Freddy Svane speaks exclusively to WION

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad admitted in an exclusive interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma that the relations between Malaysia and India deteriorated because of his comments on Kashmir.&nbsp;

"Well, it did because of my remarks on Kashmir. But, other than that the relationship was very good, even under my leadership," Mahathir said when asked whether the relations between both countries were hit.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"It is not about supporting Pakistan, it is about the people of Kashmir...": Former Malaysian PM <a href="https://twitter.com/chedetofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chedetofficial</a> talks to <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a> on his controversial remarks on Jammu and Kashmir<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahathirMohamadOnWION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahathirMohamadOnWION</a> <a href="https://t.co/juoGkmyyu2">pic.twitter.com/juoGkmyyu2</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1291746418198065153?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-making-claims-in-south-china-sea-but-we-cannot-go-to-war-says-mahathir-mohamad-to-wion-318909">China making claims in South China Sea but we cannot go to war, says Mahathir Mohamad to WION</a>

The former&nbsp; Malaysian prime minister added&nbsp;that traditionally the relations with India have "been very good".

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/would-like-to-send-zakir-naik-to-some-country-where-he-will-be-safe-says-mahathir-mohamad-to-wion-318916">Would like to send Zakir Naik to some country where he will be safe, says Mahathir Mohamad to WION</a>

"As you know we have a lot of people of Indian origin here in Malaysia and they still have connections in India."

However, the ex-PM said "some minor glitches" affected the relations, but, "very quickly we overcome such strains in our relationship".

He also hinted towards&nbsp;good relations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his former counterpart was one of the earlier PMs who called him up when he won his second term.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
"In many ways he has done well internationally but then of course we need to understand India better under Modi because he is different from previous prime ministers," says <a href="https://twitter.com/chedetofficial?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@chedetofficial</a> on India's role at the world stage under PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MahathirMohamadOnWION?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MahathirMohamadOnWION</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a> <a href="https://t.co/xsNGVGee7y">pic.twitter.com/xsNGVGee7y</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1291751451824230401?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 7, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"Apparently, we had met a long time ago, although I had forgotten and he was able to show a picture of us together from a long time ago, before he became the prime minister," Mahathir said.

"Well, we always want to maintain good relations, whoever may be the prime minister of India, it’s not something that we should take into consideration. Whoever is the prime minister we will develop good relations with the prime minister."

On his comments on Kashmir, he said he was speaking on events all over the world where some wrongs have been committed.&nbsp;

"It is not about supporting Pakistan, it is about the people of Kashmir," he added.&nbsp;

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad admitted in an exclusive interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma that the relations between Malaysia and India deteriorated because of his comments on Kashmir.

Former Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad admitted in an exclusive interview to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma that the relations between Malaysia and India deteriorated because of his comments on Kashmir. "Well, it did because of my remarks on Kashmir. But, other than that the relationship was very good, even under my leadership," Mahathir said when asked whether the relations between both countries were hit. "It is not about supporting Pakistan, it is about the people of Kashmir...": Former Malaysian PM @chedetofficial talks to @palkisu on his controversial remarks on Jammu and Kashmir#MahathirMohamadOnWION pic.twitter.com/juoGkmyyu2 — WION (@WIONews) August 7, 2020 × Also read | China making claims in South China Sea but we cannot go to war, says Mahathir Mohamad to WION The former Malaysian prime minister added that traditionally the relations with India have "been very good". Also read | Would like to send Zakir Naik to some country where he will be safe, says Mahathir Mohamad to WION "As you know we have a lot of people of Indian origin here in Malaysia and they still have connections in India." However, the ex-PM said "some minor glitches" affected the relations, but, "very quickly we overcome such strains in our relationship". He also hinted towards good relations with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying his former counterpart was one of the earlier PMs who called him up when he won his second term. "In many ways he has done well internationally but then of course we need to understand India better under Modi because he is different from previous prime ministers," says @chedetofficial on India's role at the world stage under PM @narendramodi#MahathirMohamadOnWION @palkisu pic.twitter.com/xsNGVGee7y — WION (@WIONews) August 7, 2020 × "Apparently, we had met a long time ago, although I had forgotten and he was able to show a picture of us together from a long time ago, before he became the prime minister," Mahathir said. "Well, we always want to maintain good relations, whoever may be the prime minister of India, it’s not something that we should take into consideration. Whoever is the prime minister we will develop good relations with the prime minister." On his comments on Kashmir, he said he was speaking on events all over the world where some wrongs have been committed. "It is not about supporting Pakistan, it is about the people of Kashmir," he added.

EXCLUSIVE: Ex-PM Mahathir admits his comments on Kashmir strained India-Malaysia ties

exclusive

Exclusive, News on Exclusive, stories on Exclusive, articles on Exclusive, Exclusive stories at Wion, Exclusive news, Exclusive latest news