China's foreign minister Qin Gang was removed from office on Tuesday, state media reported.

'Missing' Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang removed from office

China's Foreign Minister Qin Gang is missing. He has not been seen in public for almost a month. Is Qin being punished for an extra-marital affair? Or is the real story very different? Is Xi Jinping hiding something? Listen in to @VikramChandra

Suspicion deepens as absence of China's foreign minister persists

More than 40 nations have indicated an interest in joining the BRICS bloc of major developing economies as it seeks to expand to grow its political clout, South Africa’s ambassador to the group said.

BRICS expansion plan draws interest from more than 40 nations

The Maldives Foreign Minister Abdullah Shahid is in New Delhi for a two-day visit and he met his counterpart Dr S. Jaishankar.

Maldives Foreign Minister, Abdulla Shahid in India to WION

As the country's economy is still being negatively impacted by excessive inflation, Turkish President Erdoan has vowed a return to Orthodox economics. The country's newly chosen finance minister is the re-elected leader, who has long favoured liberal policies.

Turkey: Erdogan appoints orthodox economist as Finance Minister

The arrest warrant against Russian President Vladimir Putin overshadowed the BRICS foreign ministers meeting in South Africa. Why the ICC issued an arrest warrant for Putin? What did the BRICS foreign ministers say during the meeting in Capetown? The power of an ICC arrest warrant versus the weight of diplomatic immunity and similar scenarios from the past & how they played out. BRICS leaders have said they are open to admitting new members, an expansion is likely on the agenda of the ongoing meeting. Iran's foreign minister and his Saudi counterpart were also in cape town to participate in the BRICS forum.

BRICS Summit 2023: South Africa FM says mulling over if Putin attend August meet

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday.

"I urge the current UNSC members to thwart any Russian attempts to abuse its presidency," said Kuleba at the start of Russia's tenure of the presidency.

Taking to Twitter, Kuleba called Russia "an outlaw on the UNSC".

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-orders-100-rosomak-armoured-vehicles-from-poland-578017">Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland</a>

Moscow has stated that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be chairing a UN Security Council meeting on "effective multilateralism" later this month.

Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Lavrov will discuss the Middle East on April 25.

The role of Russia was criticised by the United States and its permanent seat on the Security Council.

"A country that flagrantly violates the UN Charter and invades its neighbour has no place on the UN Security Council," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said.

"Unfortunately Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council and no feasible international legal pathway exists to change that reality," she had stated, calling the presidency "a largely ceremonial position."

Meanwhile, a top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia taking over the rotating presidency on Saturday.

WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately

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"It's not just a shame. It is another symbolic blow to the rules-based system of international relations," said Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, on Twitter.

Russia took over UN Security Council's presidency on Saturday which rotates every month. Moscow had last time held the post in February 2022 when its army troops had launched Ukraine's full-scale invasion.

(With inputs from agencies)

You can&nbsp;now write for wionews.com&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday.

Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday said that Russia's UN Security Council presidency in the month of April is "a slap in the face to the international community", said Ukraine's Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba on Saturday. "I urge the current UNSC members to thwart any Russian attempts to abuse its presidency," said Kuleba at the start of Russia's tenure of the presidency. Taking to Twitter, Kuleba called Russia "an outlaw on the UNSC". ALSO READ | Ukraine orders 100 Rosomak armoured vehicles from Poland Moscow has stated that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will be chairing a UN Security Council meeting on "effective multilateralism" later this month. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Lavrov will discuss the Middle East on April 25. The role of Russia was criticised by the United States and its permanent seat on the Security Council. "A country that flagrantly violates the UN Charter and invades its neighbour has no place on the UN Security Council," said White House spokesperson Karine Jean-Pierre said. "Unfortunately Russia is a permanent member of the Security Council and no feasible international legal pathway exists to change that reality," she had stated, calling the presidency "a largely ceremonial position." Meanwhile, a top Ukrainian official criticised the 'symbolic blow' of Russia taking over the rotating presidency on Saturday. WATCH | Belarus says fighting in Ukraine should stop immediately "It's not just a shame. It is another symbolic blow to the rules-based system of international relations," said Andriy Yermak, the Ukrainian president's chief of staff, on Twitter. Russia took over UN Security Council's presidency on Saturday which rotates every month. Moscow had last time held the post in February 2022 when its army troops had launched Ukraine's full-scale invasion. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia's presidency of Security Council a 'slap in the face': Ukraine FM

Foreign ministers from around the world will attend the G20 Summit which is taking place in New Delhi. The Principal correspondent of WION Siddhant Sibbal speaks with Denmark's foreign minister on the sidelines of G20 summit.

Denmark's Foreign Minister congratulates India on G20 Presidency

Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. 
&nbsp; 
WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan. Can Pakistan escape debt default?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: We will be able to service all our debt and fulfil all our international obligations. Of course, things have become very tight, but we had good meetings today with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and she has expressed her support for Pakistan. Yesterday we had an excellent meeting with the President of France, who is going to hold an international conference to help Pakistan. We are talking to our bilateral friends, donors, and multilateral agencies and I think Pakistan should be able to overcome this crisis easily. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Is Pakistan in a debt trap? And can Pakistan get out of it?&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: No, not at all. Yes, we have considerable debt, but if compared with many other countries of the world, it's quite low as a proportion of the GDP. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you think Pakistan should resume trade with India? Both the Prime Ministers at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation endorsed transit and connectivity as important. 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: I think because of floods in Pakistan and thus, shortage of necessary kitchen items like onion and tomato, and perhaps later on if we feel a shortage of cotton, because of our cotton crop in Sindh being washed away, I think it is important for Pakistan to look at all available options to import these things at reasonable prices. 
&nbsp; 
WION: What's the deal with Russia on oil and energy imports? Is Pakistan looking at it to bring supply and prices under control? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: During the previous government, Pakistan wrote a letter to the Russian government requesting oil supply but they were never replied to. But now I see that there is a slight change in the Russian position, and we are going to explore these options of importing LNG and other gas from Russia, including pipeline gas. Although that's a long-term project it is something Russia has expressed an interest in. 
&nbsp; 
WION: How much is political instability a factor in Pakistan's current state of affairs, given that Pakistan has hardly or never seen a full 5 term government? Friendly countries from the gulf also have now begun putting conditions, is that not an uneasy sign of lack of trust? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: Friendly countries from the gulf have helped in getting the IMF programme going and have expressed a lot of sympathies and have also provided material help to fight the floods. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Do you have a target to bring Pakistan financially on track? Can you quantify in years or months for the people to feel assured? 
&nbsp; 
Ismail: The economy will come back on track, but the floods of course have affected it quite negatively, but we'll be okay. 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

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Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan.

Correspondent Anas Mallick in conversation with Pakistani Finance Minister Miftah Ismail on the sidelines of the United National General Assembly meeting. WION: After the financial crisis, floods devastated Pakistan. Can Pakistan escape debt default? Ismail: We will be able to service all our debt and fulfil all our international obligations. Of course, things have become very tight, but we had good meetings today with the managing director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and she has expressed her support for Pakistan. Yesterday we had an excellent meeting with the President of France, who is going to hold an international conference to help Pakistan. We are talking to our bilateral friends, donors, and multilateral agencies and I think Pakistan should be able to overcome this crisis easily. WION: Is Pakistan in a debt trap? And can Pakistan get out of it? Ismail: No, not at all. Yes, we have considerable debt, but if compared with many other countries of the world, it's quite low as a proportion of the GDP. WION: Do you think Pakistan should resume trade with India? Both the Prime Ministers at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation endorsed transit and connectivity as important. Ismail: I think because of floods in Pakistan and thus, shortage of necessary kitchen items like onion and tomato, and perhaps later on if we feel a shortage of cotton, because of our cotton crop in Sindh being washed away, I think it is important for Pakistan to look at all available options to import these things at reasonable prices. WION: What's the deal with Russia on oil and energy imports? Is Pakistan looking at it to bring supply and prices under control? Ismail: During the previous government, Pakistan wrote a letter to the Russian government requesting oil supply but they were never replied to. But now I see that there is a slight change in the Russian position, and we are going to explore these options of importing LNG and other gas from Russia, including pipeline gas. Although that's a long-term project it is something Russia has expressed an interest in. WION: How much is political instability a factor in Pakistan's current state of affairs, given that Pakistan has hardly or never seen a full 5 term government? Friendly countries from the gulf also have now begun putting conditions, is that not an uneasy sign of lack of trust? Ismail: Friendly countries from the gulf have helped in getting the IMF programme going and have expressed a lot of sympathies and have also provided material help to fight the floods. WION: Do you have a target to bring Pakistan financially on track? Can you quantify in years or months for the people to feel assured? Ismail: The economy will come back on track, but the floods of course have affected it quite negatively, but we'll be okay.

Exclusive: Pak FM says will look at all available options on resuming trade with India

The Bangladesh Finance minister has warned developing countries to be wary of Chinese loans as Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi concludes Dhaka visit. Mustafa Kamal said that developing countries must think twice about taking loans via China's belt and road initiative.

Bangladesh FM warns against taking Chinese loans

North Korea has appointed veteran diplomat Choe Son Hui as its first female foreign minister. Choe, who formerly served as the North's vice foreign minister will replace Ri Son Gwon.

North Korea appoints first female foreign minister

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”.

A delegation led by Minister Khadka will participate in this year’s forum to be held from March 11 to 13 in Turkey.&nbsp;

At the invitation of Foreign Minister of Turkey H. E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Nepal Foreign Minister Khadka is scheduled to share panels with participating Foreign Ministers in two separate sessions entitled ‘Democratic Governance and Security’ and ‘Asia Anew: For a Sustained Regional Growth’.

Over 50 Foreign Ministers, together with a cross-section of policymakers and experts are attending the event.&nbsp;

Announcing the decision, the Ministry in a statement said, "On March 9, the minister will meet with officials of NRN-Turkey and Nepali entrepreneurs based in Istanbul to discuss business opportunities and challenges as well as problems faced by Nepali diaspora. He is holding interactive sessions with members of economic chambers in Istanbul and Antalya.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-500-nepalis-leave-ukraine-others-stranded-in-kyiv-await-rescue-459453">Also read |&nbsp;Over 500 Nepalis leave Ukraine, others stranded in Kyiv await rescue&nbsp;</a>

On the sidelines of the forum, Khadka will hold a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart. He will also meet with foreign ministers from different countries on the sidelines.

The visit is also expected to contribute to the growth of bilateral trade, investment, tourism, foreign employment and people-to-people contacts.

As per the ADF, diplomacy remains the core method of communication among leaders and states. “There is a whole set of other structural and systemic changes in the international environment that the diplomacy profession should respond to.”

Foreign Ministers of Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Taliban are also scheduled to participate in the ADF.&nbsp;

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”.

Nepal Foreign Minister Dr Narayan Khadka will be among the foreign leaders attending this year’s Antalya diplomacy forum (ADF). The participants will address a wide range of topics in international relations under the overarching theme of “Recoding Diplomacy”. A delegation led by Minister Khadka will participate in this year’s forum to be held from March 11 to 13 in Turkey. At the invitation of Foreign Minister of Turkey H. E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu, Nepal Foreign Minister Khadka is scheduled to share panels with participating Foreign Ministers in two separate sessions entitled ‘Democratic Governance and Security’ and ‘Asia Anew: For a Sustained Regional Growth’. Over 50 Foreign Ministers, together with a cross-section of policymakers and experts are attending the event. Announcing the decision, the Ministry in a statement said, "On March 9, the minister will meet with officials of NRN-Turkey and Nepali entrepreneurs based in Istanbul to discuss business opportunities and challenges as well as problems faced by Nepali diaspora. He is holding interactive sessions with members of economic chambers in Istanbul and Antalya.” Also read | Over 500 Nepalis leave Ukraine, others stranded in Kyiv await rescue On the sidelines of the forum, Khadka will hold a bilateral meeting with his Turkish counterpart. He will also meet with foreign ministers from different countries on the sidelines. The visit is also expected to contribute to the growth of bilateral trade, investment, tourism, foreign employment and people-to-people contacts. As per the ADF, diplomacy remains the core method of communication among leaders and states. “There is a whole set of other structural and systemic changes in the international environment that the diplomacy profession should respond to.” Foreign Ministers of Russia, Ukraine, Iran, Bangladesh, Pakistan and the Taliban are also scheduled to participate in the ADF.

Nepal FM Narayan Khadka to participate in Turkey’s Antalya diplomacy forum

A day after QUAD diplomats met and pledged for deeper cooperation, Australian foreign minister Marise Payne and Indian EAM S Jaishankar are currently holding press briefing.

'Relation between India, Australia on a high,' Australian, Indian FM hail bilateral ties

The Russian president Vladimir Putin is all set for the traditional annual summit between leaders of both countries as India gears up for the much anticipated, Modi-Putin talks. Reports indicate that there are 10 bilateral agreements that are likely to be signed during Putin's visit to boost the nations' strategic partnership. Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest world news from all across the world. Today, we are joined by WION's correspondent Siddhant Sibal and international affairs expert Harsh V Pant.

Modi-Putin meet today | Indian defence minister, FM hold talks with Russian counterpart

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said&nbsp;Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

Both sides discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, and political and economic relations between Afghanistan and China.&nbsp;This was the first face-to-face talks since the Afghanistan takeover. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-welcomes-reopening-of-european-unions-office-in-kabul-424004" hreflang="en">Taliban welcomes reopening of European Union’s office in Kabul &nbsp;</a>

On Monday, during the meeting, Wang, who is also the State Councillor, said that Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties. The leader added that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community, reported Xinhua news agency. &nbsp;

The Chinese foreign minister hoped that the Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-covid-19-outbreak-in-china-authorities-shut-down-lanzhou-city-of-4-million-people-424081" hreflang="en">New COVID-19 outbreak in China: Authorities shut down Lanzhou city</a>

On the current situation in Afghanistan, Baradar briefed Wang. He said it is under control and improving. The leader said government decrees are being carried out effectively. &nbsp;

The Afghan leader added the interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people. It will continue to learn from its historical experience to take the path of development in line with its conditions. &nbsp;

In Doha, Wang will also meet the Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid.

Taliban’s delegation led by First Deputy of Afghanistan's Prime Minister Mullah Baradar on Monday met Chinese delegation led by Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Doha, said Islamic Emirate spokesman Zabihullah Mujahid. Both sides discussed the ongoing situation in Afghanistan, and political and economic relations between Afghanistan and China. This was the first face-to-face talks since the Afghanistan takeover. Also Read: Taliban welcomes reopening of European Union’s office in Kabul On Monday, during the meeting, Wang, who is also the State Councillor, said that Afghanistan is facing quadruple challenges, namely the humanitarian crisis, economic chaos, terrorist threats and governance difficulties. The leader added that overcoming these challenges requires more understanding and support from the international community, reported Xinhua news agency. The Chinese foreign minister hoped that the Taliban will further demonstrate openness and tolerance, unite all ethnic groups and factions in Afghanistan to work together for peaceful reconstruction and effectively protect the rights and interests of women and children. Also Read: New COVID-19 outbreak in China: Authorities shut down Lanzhou city On the current situation in Afghanistan, Baradar briefed Wang. He said it is under control and improving. The leader said government decrees are being carried out effectively. The Afghan leader added the interim government is working hard to meet the needs of the people. It will continue to learn from its historical experience to take the path of development in line with its conditions. In Doha, Wang will also meet the Taliban's Acting Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi. (With inputs from agencies)

Chinese FM Wang Yi meets Taliban's acting Deputy PM Baradar in Doha

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood&nbsp;Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing&nbsp;to term al Qaeda&nbsp;founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in&nbsp;its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing.&nbsp;

In an interview with Lotfullah&nbsp;Najafizada of Afghan New Channel Tolo News, the minister was asked, "Is he a martyr? You disagree? Osama bin Laden?"

Qureshi said, "I will let that pass."&nbsp;

Before that, Najafizada&nbsp;recalled how the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had referred to Osama bin Laden as a&nbsp;'martyr', while speaking in the country's parliament.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617" hreflang="en">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

To this,&nbsp;Qureshi tried to make a case of misquoting, saying,&nbsp;"He was quoted out of context. And, a particular section of the media pair it up."&nbsp;

Bin Laden was killed by American forces in Pakistan's Abbottabad. The compound where he was staying was less than a mile away from the country's 70-year-old Pakistan Military Academy. Abbottabad in Northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is itself just&nbsp;two-hour drive from country's national capital,&nbsp;Islamabad.&nbsp;

In the 50-minute-long interview, Qureshi defended the Taliban as well, saying the group is ready for peace and&nbsp;"they have suffered as well’.

The Pakistani foreign minister explained, "if you try and create this impression that the violence is high because of Taliban...that would be an exaggeration."&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-system-only-way-to-afghan-peace-taliban-392753" hreflang="en">'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban</a>&nbsp;

Pakistan has been in talks with the Taliban as part of the peace process, with its leadership being hosted by the country.&nbsp;Names of various sections of Taliban have been named after Pakistani cities like&nbsp;Quetta Shura,&nbsp;Peshawar&nbsp;Shura.&nbsp;

Asked,&nbsp;"One would also raise the issue of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish Mohammed, are they Pakistan-based terrorist groups", Qureshi said,&nbsp;"We are not supporting&nbsp;any&nbsp;terrorist group."&nbsp;

Najafizada&nbsp;then responded,&nbsp;"Maybe you don’t&nbsp;recognise&nbsp;them as terrorists."&nbsp;

The issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan has been raised both by Kabul and New Delhi internationally.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing to term al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing.

Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi has once again raised eyebrows after failing to term al Qaeda founder Osama bin Laden as a terrorist. The comments come even as Financial Action Task Force (FATF) this week decides on Pakistan's continuance in its Grey List for not acting on the issue of terror financing. In an interview with Lotfullah Najafizada of Afghan New Channel Tolo News, the minister was asked, "Is he a martyr? You disagree? Osama bin Laden?" Qureshi said, "I will let that pass." Before that, Najafizada recalled how the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan had referred to Osama bin Laden as a 'martyr', while speaking in the country's parliament. Also Read | Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground To this, Qureshi tried to make a case of misquoting, saying, "He was quoted out of context. And, a particular section of the media pair it up." Bin Laden was killed by American forces in Pakistan's Abbottabad. The compound where he was staying was less than a mile away from the country's 70-year-old Pakistan Military Academy. Abbottabad in Northern Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province is itself just two-hour drive from country's national capital, Islamabad. In the 50-minute-long interview, Qureshi defended the Taliban as well, saying the group is ready for peace and "they have suffered as well’. The Pakistani foreign minister explained, "if you try and create this impression that the violence is high because of Taliban...that would be an exaggeration." Also Read | 'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban Pakistan has been in talks with the Taliban as part of the peace process, with its leadership being hosted by the country. Names of various sections of Taliban have been named after Pakistani cities like Quetta Shura, Peshawar Shura. Asked, "One would also raise the issue of Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish Mohammed, are they Pakistan-based terrorist groups", Qureshi said, "We are not supporting any terrorist group." Najafizada then responded, "Maybe you don’t recognise them as terrorists." The issue of cross-border terrorism from Pakistan has been raised both by Kabul and New Delhi internationally.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi hesitates to term Osama bin laden a terrorist 

Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday said in the Senate that Pakistan would not provide its military bases to the United States for future counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and also not allow drone attacks inside Pakistan.&nbsp;

The foreign minister rejected as unfounded the reports of Pakistan providing bases to the US, making it clear that Prime Minister Imran Khan would never allow it. He would also not&nbsp;allow drone attacks inside Pakistan, reported The News International.&nbsp;

"I want to assure the House that Pakistan is in safe hands," he remarked.

The remarks came after a Pentagon official said that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace and given ground access so that it could support its presence in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

Responding to the concerns of a senator, Qureshi, said, "Because what we were fearing and we still fear and are concerned that a vacuum created in Afghanistan can drag or suck the country back into the decade of 1990s".&nbsp;

Qureshi contended that as the US planned to withdraw its remaining troops from Afghanistan by September 11, Pakistan would continue playing its role for advancement of the peace process in that country, reported The News International.&nbsp;

Mian Raza Rabbani, ex-chairman of Senate, also said that Pakistan should not allow the United States the use of its air and ground facilities for action in Afghanistan and an international mechanism be thrashed out to prevent such circumstances from happening again.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, diplomatic sources in Washington told Dawn newspaper that Pakistan had always allowed overflights and ground access to the US to facilitate its military presence in Afghanistan and would continue to do so. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday said in the Senate that Pakistan would not provide its military bases to the United States for future counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and also not allow drone attacks inside Pakistan.

Foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi on Tuesday said in the Senate that Pakistan would not provide its military bases to the United States for future counter-terrorism operations in Afghanistan and also not allow drone attacks inside Pakistan. The foreign minister rejected as unfounded the reports of Pakistan providing bases to the US, making it clear that Prime Minister Imran Khan would never allow it. He would also not allow drone attacks inside Pakistan, reported The News International. "I want to assure the House that Pakistan is in safe hands," he remarked. The remarks came after a Pentagon official said that Pakistan had allowed the US military to use its airspace and given ground access so that it could support its presence in Afghanistan. Responding to the concerns of a senator, Qureshi, said, "Because what we were fearing and we still fear and are concerned that a vacuum created in Afghanistan can drag or suck the country back into the decade of 1990s". Qureshi contended that as the US planned to withdraw its remaining troops from Afghanistan by September 11, Pakistan would continue playing its role for advancement of the peace process in that country, reported The News International. Mian Raza Rabbani, ex-chairman of Senate, also said that Pakistan should not allow the United States the use of its air and ground facilities for action in Afghanistan and an international mechanism be thrashed out to prevent such circumstances from happening again. Meanwhile, diplomatic sources in Washington told Dawn newspaper that Pakistan had always allowed overflights and ground access to the US to facilitate its military presence in Afghanistan and would continue to do so. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan FM Qureshi rules out providing military bases to US for operations in Afghanistan

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

Citing Anadolu Agency of Turkey, Dawn reported, "If India is willing to revisit some of the decisions that it took on August 5, 2019, Pakistan will be more than happy to engage, sit and talk and resolve all outstanding issues," said Qureshi during his two-day visit to&nbsp;Turkey.&nbsp;

On&nbsp;August 5, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a bold move to scrap the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir by modifying Article 370 of the&nbsp;Constitution.&nbsp;

Same&nbsp;day, the Rajya Sabha also passed the Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;Reorganisation&nbsp;Bill, that bifurcated the state into two Union Territories-Ladakh and Jammu and&nbsp;Kashmir.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;said that Pakistan had outstanding issues with India including Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek, water and other minor issues and the only sensible way forward was the dialogue, reported&nbsp;Dawn.&nbsp;

"We&nbsp;cannot afford to go to war, you know, it will be mutually suicidal. And no sensible person will advocate a policy of that nature. So, we need to sit and we need to talk," he&nbsp;remarked.&nbsp;

He&nbsp;said that one recent development of recommitment to ceasefire was during the conversation between Directors General of Military Operations of both sides was a positive development, reported&nbsp;Dawn.&nbsp;

The Foreign Minister also referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's messages on Pakistan's national day and a goodwill message to Prime Minister Imran Khan who also responded positively to&nbsp;it.&nbsp;

Earlier both the countries announced a ceasefire at the LoC which was followed by Indus water talks, sporting visas&nbsp;etc.&nbsp;The&nbsp;Prime Ministers of both nations pushed for regional rapprochement and exchanged salutary&nbsp;messages.&nbsp;

Despite this, Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan decided not to meet and exchange greetings at a Dushanbe conference held&nbsp;earlier.&nbsp;Moreover, recently Pakistan Cabinet decided not to import sugar and cotton from India which would affect the ties between both&nbsp;countries.&nbsp;

Any improvement in the ties will depend upon the restoration of High Commissioners in each other's capitals, commitments from Pakistan with respect to cross-border terrorism, resuming LoC trade.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi on Sunday said that Pakistan would be happy to talk out differences and resolve outstanding issues through dialogue if India was willing to revisit the unilateral decisions it took on August 5, 2019, regarding the status of Jammu and Kashmir. Citing Anadolu Agency of Turkey, Dawn reported, "If India is willing to revisit some of the decisions that it took on August 5, 2019, Pakistan will be more than happy to engage, sit and talk and resolve all outstanding issues," said Qureshi during his two-day visit to Turkey. On August 5, 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a bold move to scrap the special status granted to Jammu and Kashmir by modifying Article 370 of the Constitution. Same day, the Rajya Sabha also passed the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Bill, that bifurcated the state into two Union Territories-Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir. He said that Pakistan had outstanding issues with India including Kashmir, Siachen, Sir Creek, water and other minor issues and the only sensible way forward was the dialogue, reported Dawn. "We cannot afford to go to war, you know, it will be mutually suicidal. And no sensible person will advocate a policy of that nature. So, we need to sit and we need to talk," he remarked. He said that one recent development of recommitment to ceasefire was during the conversation between Directors General of Military Operations of both sides was a positive development, reported Dawn. The Foreign Minister also referred to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's messages on Pakistan's national day and a goodwill message to Prime Minister Imran Khan who also responded positively to it. Earlier both the countries announced a ceasefire at the LoC which was followed by Indus water talks, sporting visas etc. The Prime Ministers of both nations pushed for regional rapprochement and exchanged salutary messages. Despite this, Foreign Ministers of India and Pakistan decided not to meet and exchange greetings at a Dushanbe conference held earlier. Moreover, recently Pakistan Cabinet decided not to import sugar and cotton from India which would affect the ties between both countries. Any improvement in the ties will depend upon the restoration of High Commissioners in each other's capitals, commitments from Pakistan with respect to cross-border terrorism, resuming LoC trade. (With inputs from agencies)

Pak FM Qureshi says willing to talk if India revisits its J&K decisions 

Slovenia's Foreign Minister Anže Logar has batted for strong ties with India while calling for European Union to increase engagement with countries in the Indo-Pacific.

Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Logar said, "India is a very interesting and welcome partner for cooperation...see many common positions that we can take together". On the Indo-Pacific vision, the foreign minister said, "We think the EU has to be very actively engaged in discussion with Indo-Pacific countries."&nbsp;

His comments are important since Slovenia will be presiding over the Council of the European Union from July for six months. The Indian PM is expected to travel to Portugal next month for the India EU summit. The summit happens under the Portuguese presidency. Asked about India EU Free Trade agreement, FM Logar pointed out that, his country "would like to bring this issue back high on the agenda of the European Union".&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Slovenia ties?&nbsp;

Anže Logar: For Slovenia, India is a very interesting and welcome partner for cooperation. India is the 3rd most important market in this region if we count it as bilateral trade. And I see many common positions, that we can take together, especially, with the new developments of digitalisation, artificial intelligence. Looking forward to enhanced cooperation.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Next month Indian PM is expected to travel to Portugal for the India EU summit. What will be the key focus. Also, on India EU FTA, while Indian political leadership is keen on it, but it looks some reluctance from European bureaucrats.&nbsp;

Anže Logar: In a way, India is becoming more and more important and even your foreign policy is growing its importance and interest in this global currents of political engagement and economical engagement. In that sense, European Union and India are sharing their values, values built on rule of law and coming from the same democratic hemisphere of the world. In that sense, one should only complement enhanced cooperation and I see initiatives from the Portuguese presidency, very good in a way to improve our bilateral exchange, be it from the economic point of view, be it from a political point of view. Due to the Slovenian geo strategical position, we have port koper, we can be a very good gate for Indian enterprises, in order to access the European hinterland. In that terms, Slovenia is very interested in enhancing cooperation at the EU level.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: And about the India EU FTA.&nbsp;

Anže Logar: We would like to bring this issue back high on the agenda of the European Union. We saw free trade agreement between several countries in the Indo-Pacific region, in which India did not participate in the initiative. It is very important we proceed towards this initiative between India and the European Union. I see this, as one of the main topics on the agenda.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Slovenia has great tourism potential, especially for Indian tourists.&nbsp;

Anže Logar: Slovenia can offer, on a very small piece of land everything, what to expect, perfect landscapes. This voice of beauty of Slovenia spread around quickly. In that sense, I would suggest, like better, on the highest possible engagement between our tourist agencies as well as to enhance our cooperation. Direct air flight would definitely enhance the availability of the Slovenian tourist market to Indian tourists. &nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: What kind of cooperation India and Slovenia have against Covid pandemic?&nbsp;

Anže Logar: We can exchange information as the EU countries exchange it on a daily basis. And if there are some good consequences on countering pandemic, there are best practices in every country around the globe, if we can exchange this, we can tackle the crisis. This is a good way on how to proceed on a mix of measures that can lower volume of the spread of the crisis. Now, we are heading to the 2nd phase, which is the vaccination period, in that sense, it is a global problem. Until we globally vaccinate the population, we will still have problems with covid. So, we have to cooperate in that sense. India, has vast production capacities for vaccines, and the EU is trying to build up the capacities in producing our own, so we have vast space for cooperation. We are all on the same boat, so we have to go in same direction.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Slovenia will be presiding over the Council of the European Union from July for six months. Key focus areas.&nbsp;

Anže Logar: We hope, we will be the first presidency in a row that will hold meetings in person. In-person rather than via audio and video because it gives pristine relation with interlocutors and it is much easier to agree on certain important details in person than via virtual connections. We hope we will be able to perform it in a full-fledged presidency. If we consider one globally important issue, it is to improve and enhance cooperation with our ally, the US. The last summit was 2017 and since then no discussion at the highest level. FTA between EU and US was stopped, and we have to kick that. The same is with India, we want to synchronise our views on bilateral exchange. Slovenia as a country of central Europe, we want to focus on countries of central Europe and western Balkans. There will be two main issues, one is resilient Europe on the health sector and we want to give strategic debate on managing the health crisis and aim to have good crisis management and second is cybersecurity. Data is next oil and EU needs to be prepared on safeguarding the digital life of European Union.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: Chinese rise, how do you see that...&nbsp;

Anže Logar: China is a seasoned power, it is rising as well, India is rising as well. Big markets are increasing influence in the world and we need to take this into consideration. If look into the Slovenian side, we have imbalanced bilateral ties with China. We import much more than export, and from my perspective, in not so distant future, we want to balance this. Between the partners, we should have more or less the same exchanges. Slovenia can offer high edge technologies, we are taking an active part in seeing the possibility to enhance our bilateral ties. If we look at the EU perspective, the last days of the German presidency, the end of 2020, we had an institutional agreement on investment with China.&nbsp;

&nbsp;&nbsp;

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the Indo-Pacific vision?&nbsp;

Anže Logar: Lot of focus on Indo-Pacific, as well your FM Jaishankar in his book the Indian way, stressed on rediscovering Indo-Pacific and the importance of it. We know the first visit of the US Secretary of state was to Indo-Pacific. This is proof of the importance of the region. As the incoming presidency, we think the EU has to be very actively engaged in discussion with Indo-Pacific countries. &nbsp;

Slovenia's Foreign Minister Anže Logar has batted for strong ties with India while calling for European Union to increase engagement with countries in the Indo-Pacific.

Slovenia's Foreign Minister Anže Logar has batted for strong ties with India while calling for European Union to increase engagement with countries in the Indo-Pacific. Speaking exclusively to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Logar said, "India is a very interesting and welcome partner for cooperation...see many common positions that we can take together". On the Indo-Pacific vision, the foreign minister said, "We think the EU has to be very actively engaged in discussion with Indo-Pacific countries." His comments are important since Slovenia will be presiding over the Council of the European Union from July for six months. The Indian PM is expected to travel to Portugal next month for the India EU summit. The summit happens under the Portuguese presidency. Asked about India EU Free Trade agreement, FM Logar pointed out that, his country "would like to bring this issue back high on the agenda of the European Union". Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India-Slovenia ties? Anže Logar: For Slovenia, India is a very interesting and welcome partner for cooperation. India is the 3rd most important market in this region if we count it as bilateral trade. And I see many common positions, that we can take together, especially, with the new developments of digitalisation, artificial intelligence. Looking forward to enhanced cooperation. Sidhant Sibal: Next month Indian PM is expected to travel to Portugal for the India EU summit. What will be the key focus. Also, on India EU FTA, while Indian political leadership is keen on it, but it looks some reluctance from European bureaucrats. Anže Logar: In a way, India is becoming more and more important and even your foreign policy is growing its importance and interest in this global currents of political engagement and economical engagement. In that sense, European Union and India are sharing their values, values built on rule of law and coming from the same democratic hemisphere of the world. In that sense, one should only complement enhanced cooperation and I see initiatives from the Portuguese presidency, very good in a way to improve our bilateral exchange, be it from the economic point of view, be it from a political point of view. Due to the Slovenian geo strategical position, we have port koper, we can be a very good gate for Indian enterprises, in order to access the European hinterland. In that terms, Slovenia is very interested in enhancing cooperation at the EU level. Sidhant Sibal: And about the India EU FTA. Anže Logar: We would like to bring this issue back high on the agenda of the European Union. We saw free trade agreement between several countries in the Indo-Pacific region, in which India did not participate in the initiative. It is very important we proceed towards this initiative between India and the European Union. I see this, as one of the main topics on the agenda. Sidhant Sibal: Slovenia has great tourism potential, especially for Indian tourists. Anže Logar: Slovenia can offer, on a very small piece of land everything, what to expect, perfect landscapes. This voice of beauty of Slovenia spread around quickly. In that sense, I would suggest, like better, on the highest possible engagement between our tourist agencies as well as to enhance our cooperation. Direct air flight would definitely enhance the availability of the Slovenian tourist market to Indian tourists. Sidhant Sibal: What kind of cooperation India and Slovenia have against Covid pandemic? Anže Logar: We can exchange information as the EU countries exchange it on a daily basis. And if there are some good consequences on countering pandemic, there are best practices in every country around the globe, if we can exchange this, we can tackle the crisis. This is a good way on how to proceed on a mix of measures that can lower volume of the spread of the crisis. Now, we are heading to the 2nd phase, which is the vaccination period, in that sense, it is a global problem. Until we globally vaccinate the population, we will still have problems with covid. So, we have to cooperate in that sense. India, has vast production capacities for vaccines, and the EU is trying to build up the capacities in producing our own, so we have vast space for cooperation. We are all on the same boat, so we have to go in same direction. Sidhant Sibal: Slovenia will be presiding over the Council of the European Union from July for six months. Key focus areas. Anže Logar: We hope, we will be the first presidency in a row that will hold meetings in person. In-person rather than via audio and video because it gives pristine relation with interlocutors and it is much easier to agree on certain important details in person than via virtual connections. We hope we will be able to perform it in a full-fledged presidency. If we consider one globally important issue, it is to improve and enhance cooperation with our ally, the US. The last summit was 2017 and since then no discussion at the highest level. FTA between EU and US was stopped, and we have to kick that. The same is with India, we want to synchronise our views on bilateral exchange. Slovenia as a country of central Europe, we want to focus on countries of central Europe and western Balkans. There will be two main issues, one is resilient Europe on the health sector and we want to give strategic debate on managing the health crisis and aim to have good crisis management and second is cybersecurity. Data is next oil and EU needs to be prepared on safeguarding the digital life of European Union. Sidhant Sibal: Chinese rise, how do you see that... Anže Logar: China is a seasoned power, it is rising as well, India is rising as well. Big markets are increasing influence in the world and we need to take this into consideration. If look into the Slovenian side, we have imbalanced bilateral ties with China. We import much more than export, and from my perspective, in not so distant future, we want to balance this. Between the partners, we should have more or less the same exchanges. Slovenia can offer high edge technologies, we are taking an active part in seeing the possibility to enhance our bilateral ties. If we look at the EU perspective, the last days of the German presidency, the end of 2020, we had an institutional agreement on investment with China. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see the Indo-Pacific vision? Anže Logar: Lot of focus on Indo-Pacific, as well your FM Jaishankar in his book the Indian way, stressed on rediscovering Indo-Pacific and the importance of it. We know the first visit of the US Secretary of state was to Indo-Pacific. This is proof of the importance of the region. As the incoming presidency, we think the EU has to be very actively engaged in discussion with Indo-Pacific countries.

Slovenia FM bats for stronger ties with India, engagement on Indo-Pacific 

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