In the highest-level meeting between the two largest economies in weeks, Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang met with US Ambassador Nicholas Burns, sending a message that Beijing may soon permit more senior-level discussions after turning down pleas from the Biden administration.

China's foreign minister meets US envoy to China for first time

The visiting Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang warned Pakistan to put aside political disagreements in order to open the door for economic growth while expressing alarm about the South Asian nation's rising instability.

For the fourth Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue, which was conducted in Islamabad on Saturday, China's Foreign Minister, Qin Gang made his first trip to the nation since being appointed as Beijing's top ambassador.

"We sincerely hope the political forces in Pakistan will build consensus, uphold stability and more effectively address domestic and external challenges so it can focus on growing the economy," Qin said at a press briefing alongside Pakistani FM, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

This came after the closed-door strategic talks held between the two.&nbsp;

Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is in Pakistan for a two-day visit. Earlier, he met Pakistan President Arif Alvi and vowed to strengthen strategic ties between the two nations, including in the fields of connectivity, information technology, and agriculture.

They also pledged to accelerate China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) construction by working together. Alvi stated that the long-standing friendship is the foundation of their cordial ties. Qin attended the SCO Foreign Ministers meeting in Goa on May 4 and 5 in Panaji, Goa where his Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was also present.

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In addition to being the Foreign Minister, Qin is also the state Councillor of China. It is a higher rank associated with the Communist Party of China.

According to Alvi, the Pakistani side is extremely grateful to China for helping Pakistan battle COVID-19, carry out post-disaster rehabilitation, and evacuate Pakistanis living abroad from Sudan, which has been severely affected by violence.

The president emphasised that Pakistan fully upholds the one-China policy and supports China on matters pertaining to its vital interests, such as those pertaining to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

He said that Pakistan is prepared to collaborate with China for peace and rebuilding in Afghanistan and that it will make every effort to secure the safety of Chinese troops and institutions in Pakistan. This comes as many Chinese nationals have come under attack on Pakistani soil.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/onus-on-india-to-restart-peace-talks-pak-fm-bilawal-bhutto-589483">Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari</a>

Qin, for his part, asserted that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperating partners, stressing that&nbsp;governments in the two nations have made strengthening and expanding the bilateral unshakable friendship a top priority.

The Chinese side also supported Pakistan in preserving its sovereignty&nbsp;and territorial integrity.

Qin said&nbsp;China is willing to work with Pakistan to implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in a variety of fields, jointly fend off external risks and challenges, and steadily advance the China-Pakistan community with a shared future.

Watch | Srinagar gears up to host g20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2

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During his Pakistan visit, Qin Gang is due to take part in China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' meeting. The trilateral is being held less than a month after the 'Neighbouring Countries of Afghanistan Plus Afghanistan' Foreign Ministers meeting of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran in Samarkand, in which Qin presided.

Pakistan's new Army Chief Asim Munir earlier visited China during which he held a series of meetings with top Chinese Generals and top diplomat Wang Yi who is the Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee.

During Gen. Munir's visit, China's new Premier Li Qiang also held his first phone call with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised continued financial help for Pakistan which is facing a serious political and economic crisis.

In Pakistan, Qin will "meet with the leader of Pakistan and co-chair the fourth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari."

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The visiting Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang warned Pakistan to put aside political disagreements in order to open the door for economic growth while expressing alarm about the South Asian nation's rising instability.

The visiting Chinese foreign minister Qin Gang warned Pakistan to put aside political disagreements in order to open the door for economic growth while expressing alarm about the South Asian nation's rising instability. For the fourth Pakistan-China Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue, which was conducted in Islamabad on Saturday, China's Foreign Minister, Qin Gang made his first trip to the nation since being appointed as Beijing's top ambassador. "We sincerely hope the political forces in Pakistan will build consensus, uphold stability and more effectively address domestic and external challenges so it can focus on growing the economy," Qin said at a press briefing alongside Pakistani FM, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari. This came after the closed-door strategic talks held between the two. Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang is in Pakistan for a two-day visit. Earlier, he met Pakistan President Arif Alvi and vowed to strengthen strategic ties between the two nations, including in the fields of connectivity, information technology, and agriculture. They also pledged to accelerate China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) construction by working together. Alvi stated that the long-standing friendship is the foundation of their cordial ties. Qin attended the SCO Foreign Ministers meeting in Goa on May 4 and 5 in Panaji, Goa where his Pakistan counterpart Bilawal Bhutto Zardari was also present. WATCH | Dramatic visuals as truck driver rescued in Kenya after sudden floods In addition to being the Foreign Minister, Qin is also the state Councillor of China. It is a higher rank associated with the Communist Party of China. According to Alvi, the Pakistani side is extremely grateful to China for helping Pakistan battle COVID-19, carry out post-disaster rehabilitation, and evacuate Pakistanis living abroad from Sudan, which has been severely affected by violence. The president emphasised that Pakistan fully upholds the one-China policy and supports China on matters pertaining to its vital interests, such as those pertaining to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity. He said that Pakistan is prepared to collaborate with China for peace and rebuilding in Afghanistan and that it will make every effort to secure the safety of Chinese troops and institutions in Pakistan. This comes as many Chinese nationals have come under attack on Pakistani soil. Also Read | Onus on India to restart peace talks: Pak FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari Qin, for his part, asserted that China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperating partners, stressing that governments in the two nations have made strengthening and expanding the bilateral unshakable friendship a top priority. The Chinese side also supported Pakistan in preserving its sovereignty and territorial integrity. Qin said China is willing to work with Pakistan to implement the Global Development Initiative, Global Security Initiative, and Global Civilization Initiative, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation in a variety of fields, jointly fend off external risks and challenges, and steadily advance the China-Pakistan community with a shared future. Watch | Srinagar gears up to host g20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2 × During his Pakistan visit, Qin Gang is due to take part in China-Afghanistan-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' meeting. The trilateral is being held less than a month after the 'Neighbouring Countries of Afghanistan Plus Afghanistan' Foreign Ministers meeting of China, Russia, Pakistan and Iran in Samarkand, in which Qin presided. Pakistan's new Army Chief Asim Munir earlier visited China during which he held a series of meetings with top Chinese Generals and top diplomat Wang Yi who is the Director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the CPC Central Committee. During Gen. Munir's visit, China's new Premier Li Qiang also held his first phone call with Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and promised continued financial help for Pakistan which is facing a serious political and economic crisis. In Pakistan, Qin will "meet with the leader of Pakistan and co-chair the fourth round of China-Pakistan Foreign Ministers' Strategic Dialogue with Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari."

Pakistan must overcome political instability: Chinese FM Qin Gang

Raking up India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that it is New Delhi's call to restart peace talks.&nbsp; 
 
Addressing a press conference in Islamabad after his return from Goa where he attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting, Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan was clear that India should create a conducive environment for talks by restoring the pre-August 5, 2019 status of Kashmir.

The Pakistani minister said revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir still remains an unresolved issue&nbsp;between the two nations.

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Pakistan claims tensions have been simmering since New Delhi abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5, 2019 and had downgraded diplomatic ties in a reaction to India's decision. On the other hand, India told the international community that the decision to repeal Article 370 is an internal matter of the country.&nbsp;

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It also urged Pakistan to cease spreading false information against India and to accept the truth. India has expressed its wish for&nbsp;neighbourly ties with Islamabad but only in an atmosphere that is devoid of terrorism.

India held a foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on 5 May in Goa which saw the participation of the Pakistani minister as well.

The meeting laid out the groundwork for the upcoming SCO Summit in July in New Delhi. During a press briefing after the SCO summit, India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar made comments over Bhutto Zardari's mention of India's constitutional changes to reverse the semi-autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir with abrogation of Article 370.

Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2

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Jaishankar said, "I would like to use the phrase “Wake up and smell the coffee”, similarly 370 is history sooner people realise it's better."

Jaishankar, during the meeting, called out Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism, "The victims of terrorism do not sit down with perpetrators of terrorism to talk about terrorism."

"On terrorism, Pakistan's credibility is depleting faster than their forex reserves," Jaishankar said. "There is only one issue to discuss on Kashmir which is when will Pakistan give back Pakistan Occupied Kashmir," he added. 
 
Bilawal Zardari returned from India on a special Pakistan Air Force plane and landed in Karachi where he was received by Sindh chief minister, Murad Ali Shah, and other cabinet members.

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Raking up India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that it is New Delhi's call to restart peace talks.

Raking up India’s decision to abrogate Article 370 revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan's foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that it is New Delhi's call to restart peace talks. Addressing a press conference in Islamabad after his return from Goa where he attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers (CFM) meeting, Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan was clear that India should create a conducive environment for talks by restoring the pre-August 5, 2019 status of Kashmir. The Pakistani minister said revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir still remains an unresolved issue between the two nations. Also Read | Prosecutors grant immunity to at least eight 'fake electors' in Georgia Trump probe Pakistan claims tensions have been simmering since New Delhi abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution on August 5, 2019 and had downgraded diplomatic ties in a reaction to India's decision. On the other hand, India told the international community that the decision to repeal Article 370 is an internal matter of the country. Also Read | Neo-Nazi symbols, fight in schoolyard: What we know about Serbia’s second mass shooting It also urged Pakistan to cease spreading false information against India and to accept the truth. India has expressed its wish for neighbourly ties with Islamabad but only in an atmosphere that is devoid of terrorism. India held a foreign ministers' meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) on 5 May in Goa which saw the participation of the Pakistani minister as well. The meeting laid out the groundwork for the upcoming SCO Summit in July in New Delhi. During a press briefing after the SCO summit, India's External Affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar made comments over Bhutto Zardari's mention of India's constitutional changes to reverse the semi-autonomous status of Jammu and Kashmir with abrogation of Article 370. Watch | Srinagar gears up to host G20 summit | Inside South Asia: part 2 × Jaishankar said, "I would like to use the phrase “Wake up and smell the coffee”, similarly 370 is history sooner people realise it's better." Jaishankar, during the meeting, called out Pakistan's state-sponsored terrorism, "The victims of terrorism do not sit down with perpetrators of terrorism to talk about terrorism." "On terrorism, Pakistan's credibility is depleting faster than their forex reserves," Jaishankar said. "There is only one issue to discuss on Kashmir which is when will Pakistan give back Pakistan Occupied Kashmir," he added. Bilawal Zardari returned from India on a special Pakistan Air Force plane and landed in Karachi where he was received by Sindh chief minister, Murad Ali Shah, and other cabinet members. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Onus to restart peace talks on India, says Pakistan FM Bilawal Bhutto Zardari

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world". The visiting minister met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Friday to discuss the strengthening of ties between the two countries.

The meeting comes as both countries celebrate 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Republic of Korea, and the two ministers discussed plans for future cooperation in a range of areas.

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Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, South Korean Foreign minister said, "Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community". The minister also spoke about India's G20 Presidency, soft power and his Hindi speaking skills.

Here's the complete interview:

WION: You are on an India visit, you just paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, your comments.

Park Jin: Yes. I cherish the noble spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha, which advocates democracy and human rights. I think that's the core values that we share with India. India as Korea's Special strategic partner. And together with India, Korea will pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world. I had the honor to visit the cemetery 27 years ago, when I was serving as a presidential press secretary. At the time, I was very much impressed by Mahatma Gandhi's words, the seven sins such as politics without principle, commerce without morality, science without humanity. These are the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, that modern society should always remind ourselves of. So today, I'm very happy to come back to Mahatma Gandhi cemetery and remind his noble philosophy.

WION: You met the Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, what was the conversation like, you also spoke in Hindi which has been the talk of the town.

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Park Jin: Well, I took a quick course in Hindi. Hindi is a very different language. But I can feel the national character of India through my learning of Hindi language. I think that Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community. So yesterday, Foreign Minister Jaishankar, who is my good friend, and I had a very substantive and future oriented discussion about our bilateral partnership to commemorate the 50 years of our diplomatic relationship. Now we have to prepare for another 50 years, Korea, India partnership so in that sense, my meeting with Dr. Jaishankar was very helpful and very meaningful.

WION: How do you see India's G 20 presidency, your part of the G 20. Grouping, India is the president of the G 20 grouping?

Park Jin: G20 has a very heavy responsibility and roles to play, especially towards the countries in the Global South. So we discussed that together yesterday. And in September, when the G 20 summit meeting takes place in India, then I think that we will have to present a new vision for global society, because we are faced with many common challenges. Such as the COVID 19 pandemic, global crisis, and value chain disruptions and global technological competition. So these are the problems that no one country can solve. And, in that sense, Korea and India have to work together to deal with the common challenges that the whole of humanity is facing.

Watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt &amp; road initiative

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WION: So my last question to you is soft power, South Korea's Soft power is well known K pop but India's focus also has been on its soft power. Your embassy here was in the news for the Natu Natu song. What's your view about a soft power and of course Natu Natu..

Park Jin: I love Indian Bollywood movies. I've seen many movies myself, and Rise, Row and Revolt with Natu Natu dancing and singing, it is a fantastic culture of India. Many Koreans appreciate this wonderful culture of your country. And also I know many young Indians are interested in Korean K Pop, K music, K drama, K movie and K food. So we need to exchange our cultural assets between our two countries, so that we can move forward to the future. So Korea and India have great potential to develop together.

WION: Few words in Hindi...

Park Jin: I have to remember Namaste. Namaste, ap logon se mil kar acha laga, mera name Park Jin hai, mai Korea ka foreign minister hun. (Hi, great to meet you, my name is Park Jin and I am the foreign minister of South Korea).

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South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world".

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin said that his country and India will "pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world". The visiting minister met with Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Friday to discuss the strengthening of ties between the two countries. The meeting comes as both countries celebrate 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Republic of Korea, and the two ministers discussed plans for future cooperation in a range of areas. Also Read | Police issue 'ALL CLEAR' after reports of active shooter at University of Oklahoma, calls off alert Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, South Korean Foreign minister said, "Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community". The minister also spoke about India's G20 Presidency, soft power and his Hindi speaking skills. Here's the complete interview: WION: You are on an India visit, you just paid homage to Mahatma Gandhi, your comments. Park Jin: Yes. I cherish the noble spirit of Mahatma Gandhi's Satyagraha, which advocates democracy and human rights. I think that's the core values that we share with India. India as Korea's Special strategic partner. And together with India, Korea will pursue contributive diplomacy, to contribute to freedom, peace and prosperity of the world. I had the honor to visit the cemetery 27 years ago, when I was serving as a presidential press secretary. At the time, I was very much impressed by Mahatma Gandhi's words, the seven sins such as politics without principle, commerce without morality, science without humanity. These are the teachings and philosophy of Mahatma Gandhi, that modern society should always remind ourselves of. So today, I'm very happy to come back to Mahatma Gandhi cemetery and remind his noble philosophy. WION: You met the Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar, what was the conversation like, you also spoke in Hindi which has been the talk of the town. Also Read | North Korea claims to have tested another nuclear-capable underwater drone Park Jin: Well, I took a quick course in Hindi. Hindi is a very different language. But I can feel the national character of India through my learning of Hindi language. I think that Korea and India are natural partners. India is the largest democracy in the world and also moving very fast on economic development and also scientific and technological innovation. So, Korea and India are mutually helping each other to contribute to the international community. So yesterday, Foreign Minister Jaishankar, who is my good friend, and I had a very substantive and future oriented discussion about our bilateral partnership to commemorate the 50 years of our diplomatic relationship. Now we have to prepare for another 50 years, Korea, India partnership so in that sense, my meeting with Dr. Jaishankar was very helpful and very meaningful. WION: How do you see India's G 20 presidency, your part of the G 20. Grouping, India is the president of the G 20 grouping? Park Jin: G20 has a very heavy responsibility and roles to play, especially towards the countries in the Global South. So we discussed that together yesterday. And in September, when the G 20 summit meeting takes place in India, then I think that we will have to present a new vision for global society, because we are faced with many common challenges. Such as the COVID 19 pandemic, global crisis, and value chain disruptions and global technological competition. So these are the problems that no one country can solve. And, in that sense, Korea and India have to work together to deal with the common challenges that the whole of humanity is facing. Watch | Losing Momentum: China’s belt & road initiative × WION: So my last question to you is soft power, South Korea's Soft power is well known K pop but India's focus also has been on its soft power. Your embassy here was in the news for the Natu Natu song. What's your view about a soft power and of course Natu Natu.. Park Jin: I love Indian Bollywood movies. I've seen many movies myself, and Rise, Row and Revolt with Natu Natu dancing and singing, it is a fantastic culture of India. Many Koreans appreciate this wonderful culture of your country. And also I know many young Indians are interested in Korean K Pop, K music, K drama, K movie and K food. So we need to exchange our cultural assets between our two countries, so that we can move forward to the future. So Korea and India have great potential to develop together. WION: Few words in Hindi... Park Jin: I have to remember Namaste. Namaste, ap logon se mil kar acha laga, mera name Park Jin hai, mai Korea ka foreign minister hun. (Hi, great to meet you, my name is Park Jin and I am the foreign minister of South Korea). WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India, Korea natural partners, held substantive talks with Jaishankar: South Korean FM Park Jin to WION

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.

Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties.

"The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766">Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</a>

The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad.&nbsp;The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation&nbsp;by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas. 
 
In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran.

In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”.

The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya.

In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy.

WATCH | In China, Saudi &amp; Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details

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Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.”

As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China.

The foreign ministers of Iran and Saudi Arabia on Thursday met in Beijing where they pledged to work together for establishing "security and stability" in the turbulent Middle East following a surprise deal, brokered by China. Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian and his Saudi counterpart Prince Faisal bin Farhan held talks after which they released a joint statement in which both countries promised to continue working together for improving their ties. "The two sides emphasised the importance of following up on the implementation of the Beijing Agreement and its activation in a way that expands mutual trust and the fields of cooperation and helps create security, stability and prosperity in the region," the statement read. ALSO READ | Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West The two ministers agreed to reopen their diplomatic missions and proceed with taking the necessary measures to open embassies in Riyadh and Tehran, and their general consulates in Jeddah and Mashhad. The leaders also decided to continue co-ordination between the technical teams on both sides to discuss ways to enhance co-operation by including the resumption of flights, mutual visits by official delegations and private sector, and facilitating the granting of visas to citizens, including Umrah visas. In March, Tehran and Riyadh had announced an agreement, brokered by Beijing, to restore their relations which had remained severed for seven years, when Saudi diplomatic missions were attacked by protesters in Iran. In a statement, Iran's foreign ministry said that the two sides “negotiated and exchanged opinions with the emphasis on the official resumption of bilateral relations and the executive steps towards the reopening of the embassies and consulates of the two countries”. The footage of leaders shaking hands and chatting with smiling faces in front of Saudi and Iranian flags was aired by the Saudi state TV channel Al Ekhbariya. In state broadcaster CCTV's readout, Beijing hailed "the first official meeting between the foreign ministers of the two countries in more than seven years" and "active mediation" of China in the diplomacy. WATCH | In China, Saudi & Iran foreign ministers discuss reopening embassies and consulates | Details Meanwhile, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, in a press briefing, said, "China will work with Middle Eastern countries to implement global security initiatives, global development initiatives and global civilisation initiatives to promote security, stability, development, prosperity, tolerance and harmony.” As per last month's agreement, the two countries will reopen their missions and embassies within two months and implement economic co-operation and security deals which have signed more than 20 years ago. (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

Iran, Saudi Arabia agree to resume flights, bilateral visits; work for ‘security, stability’ in Middle East

India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July.

India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit. It got the chairmanship of the grouping at the Samarkand SCO summit in September last year.&nbsp;This is the first time that India is hosting&nbsp;the summit since becoming a member of the grouping in 2017.&nbsp;

Lekhi told Lok Sabha on Friday, "India will also host the SCO Heads of State Summit in July 2023 and will fulfil the role of an active and constructive member of the organisation."

Ahead of the summit, India will be hosting several ministerial meetings of the grouping, including the defence ministers' meeting that will take place in the capital New Delhi from April 27 to April 29, and the foreign ministers meeting in Goa from May 4 to May 5.

India has sent out invites for the meetings of defence ministers and foreign ministers to the members of the grouping, including China and Pakistan.

Talking about the foreign ministers' meeting, Lekhi said, "Most foreign ministers of member states of SCO have confirmed their participation. Confirmation from foreign ministers of China and Pakistan is awaited."

Apart from that, India will also be holding the National Security Advisers' meeting on March 29 in Delhi.

The SCO, founded over 20 years ago, comprises eight member countries, including Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The SCO is a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. It covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP. 
 
&nbsp;

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India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July. India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit.

India's junior foreign minister Meenakshi Lekhi told the parliament that the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit will take place in July. India is the chair of the grouping and will be hosting the summit. It got the chairmanship of the grouping at the Samarkand SCO summit in September last year. This is the first time that India is hosting the summit since becoming a member of the grouping in 2017. Lekhi told Lok Sabha on Friday, "India will also host the SCO Heads of State Summit in July 2023 and will fulfil the role of an active and constructive member of the organisation." Ahead of the summit, India will be hosting several ministerial meetings of the grouping, including the defence ministers' meeting that will take place in the capital New Delhi from April 27 to April 29, and the foreign ministers meeting in Goa from May 4 to May 5. India has sent out invites for the meetings of defence ministers and foreign ministers to the members of the grouping, including China and Pakistan. Talking about the foreign ministers' meeting, Lekhi said, "Most foreign ministers of member states of SCO have confirmed their participation. Confirmation from foreign ministers of China and Pakistan is awaited." Apart from that, India will also be holding the National Security Advisers' meeting on March 29 in Delhi. The SCO, founded over 20 years ago, comprises eight member countries, including Russia, India, China, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The SCO is a crucial regional organisation that aims to promote economic, political, and military cooperation among its members. It covers over 60 per cent of the Eurasian landmass, 40 per cent of the world population, and 30 per cent of the global GDP. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit to take place in July: Minister Meenakshi Lekhi

Maldives' Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid spoke to WION's Diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal on a range of issues. When asked how he sees India's G20 presidency with reference to giving a voice to the Global South, Shahid said that he is glad that Prime Minister Narendra Modi had kept it inclusive and is gunning to champion every nation's cause. He said that he expects India to take up every nation's cause in the south, especially as the world emerges from the pandemic.

Maldives Foreign Minister Abdulla Shahid speaks to WION on India's G20 Presidency

As tensions between Russia and Ukraine continue to escalate, South African Foreign Minister Naledi Pandor has called for peaceful negotiations to resolve the conflict. Drawing upon South Africa's own history of overcoming apartheid through negotiation, Pandor emphasized the importance of diplomacy and the role of the United Nations in promoting peace.

South Africa's Foreign Minister speaks to WION on India ties, Russia Ukraine conflict

Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry spoke to WION about the economic situation in the country and he said that he's hopeful of securing IMF's bailout this month. This came after assurances from India and China. Watch the video to know more.

Sri Lanka's FM Ali Sabry thanks India, says 'It understood Lanka's debt & gave financial'

Alan Ganoo, the foreign minister of Mauritius, expressed gratitude for India's invitation to participate in the G20 proceedings and saw it as proof of the "special relationship" between the two countries.

He said that it was a unique opportunity for Mauritius to make its voice heard as a small island developing state and to raise issues related to economic development, climate change, and global threats. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mauritius' foreign minister said, "Be the presidency of the G20, the chairmanship of the G20 and be it in terms of leadership of the countries of the South, I think India is due to the respect that it commands and the unanimity that it attracts."

Ganoo also expressed concern about the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Mauritius, including rising costs of imports and adverse effects on the cost of living, despite the subsidies offered by the Mauritian government. He hoped that India's leadership would help resolve the conflict, which was dominating discussions at the G20 Foreign Ministers and Finance Ministers meeting. While there was no unanimity on the issue, Ganoo hoped that India's "good offices" would help find a diplomatic way to resolve the conflict.

Here is the complete interview:&nbsp;

WION: With me is the foreign minister of Mauritius, a country with which India has a strong relationship. So welcome to WION, my first question to you is, how do you see the relationship between the two countries between India and Mauritius?&nbsp;

Alan Ganoo: I must tell you that the historic ties that bind us are based on bonds of friendship and mutual respect. We have in fact, a privileged relationship with India, brotherly ties and this is manifested at different levels. For example, we are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations with India. India has been supporting us since our independence and even before an India has been present in terms of help and support on different levels, education, &nbsp;capacity building, climate change, housing, just name it recently the flagship project of the light rail has been a project which has been so popular that it has transformed in fact the urban areas of Mauritius and has been a catalyst for growth and economic development. This is why Mauritius is so grateful to India to the Republic of India and also to Prime Minister Modi who has definitely accelerated the pace of support and help to our country.&nbsp;

 
WION: India is the chair of the G20 and has invited your country to participate in the group's proceedings. How do you see yourself being invited to the G20 proceedings?&nbsp;

Alan Ganoo: This is another proof; this is another testimony of the special relationship that exists between our two countries. On this score so we are very grateful to the Indian Prime Minister for having made this gesture to us by inviting us, a small island developing state to the table. So it has been a unique opportunity for us to be here. That's why as foreign minister, representing Mauritius, participated in the works of the deliberations. I intervened twice, in fact, and it was an opportunity for us to make the voice of a small island developing state and for us to flag the different issues with regard to develop economic development, climate change, the threats that the country, all the countries of the world have to face today. And I must tell you, that it was a very successful G 20 meeting, and we are happy that we have been invited to this meeting.

WION: When it comes to India being the voice of the Global South, what can you say? India hosted the voice of the global South summit in the month of January. So what's your view about India taking that mantle of leadership?

Alan Ganoo: Be the Presidency of the G20, the chairmanship of the G20 and be it in terms of leadership of the countries of the South, I think India is due to the respect that it commands and the unanimity that it attracts, I think it has been very positive. It's a good thing that India is taking over the leadership and with regard to the G20, I must tell you that it is an organization which usually works on the basis of consensus. But now with India as the Chair, I think the G20 will be strengthened because it will mean more consensus and more unanimity. I think the G20 countries will continue to see the issue that unites them, in spite of the issues that divide them, of course, there is division and there will be division. What is more important is the issues on which the G20 countries agree, which will enable them to forge ahead.

WION: So Russia Ukraine conflict, how has it impacted your country, we saw the shadow of the conflict at the G20 Foreign Ministers and the finance ministers meet as well.

Alan Ganoo: It is inevitable that most countries of the world, not to say all countries of the world have been impacted by this conflict in Europe and a small country like Mauritius has not been spared. As you know we are a small island in the Indian Ocean. We are far from Europe, from Asia. And with the rising cost of freight, with the soaring prices of petroleum products. We import 75% of our food requirements and inevitably, this has had a very adverse effect on the cost of living in Mauritius. In spite of the fact that I must tell you that our prime minister, under his leadership, a lot of subsidies have been offered to basic commodities, on cooking gas subsidy and transport, because we have a very strong welfare state. &nbsp;You know, education is free in Mauritius, health services are free,&nbsp; and transport is free for students and old age people. All Mauritians are eligible for an old age pension at the age of 60. But in spite of that, because of all the adverse impact on the war of the country, and also, we were going through a paucity of in a recovery era, as you know, how are we going out of the post-COVID pandemic that we suffered the full blast of the war in Europe. So in spite of all the subsidies given to the population, we must recognize that the cost of living has gone up to the detriment of the population. So, unfortunately, the war is still on. And what we wish is that the different leaders concerned, go back to the table, and we find a diplomatic way to resolve that conflict.&nbsp;

WION: And how do you see India's role when it comes to resolving the conflict at the foreign ministers meeting that issue was dominating, so much over that there was a divide, but the Indian Prime Minister has several times said that this is not an era of war.

Alan Ganoo: I think there couldn't have been a more appropriate time for India to take over the leadership of the G20. Because inspired by the Gandhian philosophy, I think India commands much respect from the developing countries of the south and even vis-a-vis the Western bloc. So, India, in fact, the ideal Chair of the G20 and as you know, Mr Blinken was here, Foreign Minister of Russia was here. Unfortunately, there couldn't be any unanimity or consensus. On this question of the conflict in Ukraine. As you know, the references to the war in the document, of course, there was no agreement. Save for this issue there was an agreement on all the other issues for example, on climate change, and development cooperation, cyber criminality and food security, energy security, &nbsp;G20 agreed on all the documents on all these issues, but unfortunately, I don't think anybody expected an agreement, a unanimity on the issue with regard to the conflict in Ukraine. But let us hope, as I just told you, that with the help of India, with the good offices of India, we will see the light in the future with regard to that conflict, because there is an urgency. The world is being impacted by this conflict. The poor countries will become poorer if this war continues, as you know, millions and millions of people in Africa will go back to poverty. There is a threat of famine in poor countries, so we are living in difficult times and the wish of everybody is that India uses all the diplomacy that it can muster in order to help to find a peaceful solution to this country.&nbsp;

WION: So my last question is on the Chagos islands issue, what's your view? How do you see India's role when it comes to this issue, which is very close to your government and your people's heart?&nbsp;

Alan Ganoo: Yeah, of course, we have to be grateful to India for having supported us all throughout this issue. And we are grateful to other countries in the world. The majority of countries in the world voted for us. In the resolution before the United Nations as you know it was a massive victory for Mauritius. The United Nations General Assembly and also the case before the International Court of Justice, the ruling also were in our favour. Now the time is for us to recuperate the islands from the British administration. Here again, it is only diplomacy that can work. As you know negotiations are taking place between the two parties. Now, the UK government has agreed to start negotiations and let us hope we will have a successful conclusion. And on that score also, we are relying on friendly countries to help us to retrieve our four islands because the ICJ has clearly decreed that Mauritius has sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. Now it's a question of Mauritius recuperating the part of its territory which was separated which was excised from the Mauritius territory, some 50 years ago.

WION: So on a very lighter note, Holi is coming, it connects the 2 countries. &nbsp;So what's the plan like, Holi Hai..

Alan Ganoo: You know, all Hindu festivals are celebrated in Mauritius, the Diwali, Holi and also religious festivals like Mahashivratri, Durga Puja and just name it. Mauritius is a multi-ethnic country also. We live in peace in harmony, and the other festivals of the other communities are also celebrated sometimes on a national level. And it's a public holiday, for example, for Christmas or Easter. We are a shining example of national unity in spite of the fact that we are a diverse population in fact, Unity in Diversity is our motto. &nbsp;On Holi festival, everywhere in Mauritius, you will see the different colours and people will enjoy and will celebrate it, as they usually do. Probably during the COVID years, it was not the same. But now that the covid is behind us, all the festivals are being celebrated in a very dignified and very flamboyant manner. And for example, MahaShivratri, which was celebrated a few weeks ago. People will go to the sacred lake, Ganga Talao.

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Alan Ganoo, the foreign minister of Mauritius, expressed gratitude for India's invitation to participate in the G20 proceedings and saw it as proof of the "special relationship" between the two countries.

Alan Ganoo, the foreign minister of Mauritius, expressed gratitude for India's invitation to participate in the G20 proceedings and saw it as proof of the "special relationship" between the two countries. He said that it was a unique opportunity for Mauritius to make its voice heard as a small island developing state and to raise issues related to economic development, climate change, and global threats. Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Mauritius' foreign minister said, "Be the presidency of the G20, the chairmanship of the G20 and be it in terms of leadership of the countries of the South, I think India is due to the respect that it commands and the unanimity that it attracts." Ganoo also expressed concern about the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on Mauritius, including rising costs of imports and adverse effects on the cost of living, despite the subsidies offered by the Mauritian government. He hoped that India's leadership would help resolve the conflict, which was dominating discussions at the G20 Foreign Ministers and Finance Ministers meeting. While there was no unanimity on the issue, Ganoo hoped that India's "good offices" would help find a diplomatic way to resolve the conflict. Here is the complete interview: WION: With me is the foreign minister of Mauritius, a country with which India has a strong relationship. So welcome to WION, my first question to you is, how do you see the relationship between the two countries between India and Mauritius? Alan Ganoo: I must tell you that the historic ties that bind us are based on bonds of friendship and mutual respect. We have in fact, a privileged relationship with India, brotherly ties and this is manifested at different levels. For example, we are celebrating 75 years of diplomatic relations with India. India has been supporting us since our independence and even before an India has been present in terms of help and support on different levels, education, capacity building, climate change, housing, just name it recently the flagship project of the light rail has been a project which has been so popular that it has transformed in fact the urban areas of Mauritius and has been a catalyst for growth and economic development. This is why Mauritius is so grateful to India to the Republic of India and also to Prime Minister Modi who has definitely accelerated the pace of support and help to our country. WION: India is the chair of the G20 and has invited your country to participate in the group's proceedings. How do you see yourself being invited to the G20 proceedings? Alan Ganoo: This is another proof; this is another testimony of the special relationship that exists between our two countries. On this score so we are very grateful to the Indian Prime Minister for having made this gesture to us by inviting us, a small island developing state to the table. So it has been a unique opportunity for us to be here. That's why as foreign minister, representing Mauritius, participated in the works of the deliberations. I intervened twice, in fact, and it was an opportunity for us to make the voice of a small island developing state and for us to flag the different issues with regard to develop economic development, climate change, the threats that the country, all the countries of the world have to face today. And I must tell you, that it was a very successful G 20 meeting, and we are happy that we have been invited to this meeting. WION: When it comes to India being the voice of the Global South, what can you say? India hosted the voice of the global South summit in the month of January. So what's your view about India taking that mantle of leadership? Alan Ganoo: Be the Presidency of the G20, the chairmanship of the G20 and be it in terms of leadership of the countries of the South, I think India is due to the respect that it commands and the unanimity that it attracts, I think it has been very positive. It's a good thing that India is taking over the leadership and with regard to the G20, I must tell you that it is an organization which usually works on the basis of consensus. But now with India as the Chair, I think the G20 will be strengthened because it will mean more consensus and more unanimity. I think the G20 countries will continue to see the issue that unites them, in spite of the issues that divide them, of course, there is division and there will be division. What is more important is the issues on which the G20 countries agree, which will enable them to forge ahead. WION: So Russia Ukraine conflict, how has it impacted your country, we saw the shadow of the conflict at the G20 Foreign Ministers and the finance ministers meet as well. Alan Ganoo: It is inevitable that most countries of the world, not to say all countries of the world have been impacted by this conflict in Europe and a small country like Mauritius has not been spared. As you know we are a small island in the Indian Ocean. We are far from Europe, from Asia. And with the rising cost of freight, with the soaring prices of petroleum products. We import 75% of our food requirements and inevitably, this has had a very adverse effect on the cost of living in Mauritius. In spite of the fact that I must tell you that our prime minister, under his leadership, a lot of subsidies have been offered to basic commodities, on cooking gas subsidy and transport, because we have a very strong welfare state. You know, education is free in Mauritius, health services are free, and transport is free for students and old age people. All Mauritians are eligible for an old age pension at the age of 60. But in spite of that, because of all the adverse impact on the war of the country, and also, we were going through a paucity of in a recovery era, as you know, how are we going out of the post-COVID pandemic that we suffered the full blast of the war in Europe. So in spite of all the subsidies given to the population, we must recognize that the cost of living has gone up to the detriment of the population. So, unfortunately, the war is still on. And what we wish is that the different leaders concerned, go back to the table, and we find a diplomatic way to resolve that conflict. WION: And how do you see India's role when it comes to resolving the conflict at the foreign ministers meeting that issue was dominating, so much over that there was a divide, but the Indian Prime Minister has several times said that this is not an era of war. Alan Ganoo: I think there couldn't have been a more appropriate time for India to take over the leadership of the G20. Because inspired by the Gandhian philosophy, I think India commands much respect from the developing countries of the south and even vis-a-vis the Western bloc. So, India, in fact, the ideal Chair of the G20 and as you know, Mr Blinken was here, Foreign Minister of Russia was here. Unfortunately, there couldn't be any unanimity or consensus. On this question of the conflict in Ukraine. As you know, the references to the war in the document, of course, there was no agreement. Save for this issue there was an agreement on all the other issues for example, on climate change, and development cooperation, cyber criminality and food security, energy security, G20 agreed on all the documents on all these issues, but unfortunately, I don't think anybody expected an agreement, a unanimity on the issue with regard to the conflict in Ukraine. But let us hope, as I just told you, that with the help of India, with the good offices of India, we will see the light in the future with regard to that conflict, because there is an urgency. The world is being impacted by this conflict. The poor countries will become poorer if this war continues, as you know, millions and millions of people in Africa will go back to poverty. There is a threat of famine in poor countries, so we are living in difficult times and the wish of everybody is that India uses all the diplomacy that it can muster in order to help to find a peaceful solution to this country. WION: So my last question is on the Chagos islands issue, what's your view? How do you see India's role when it comes to this issue, which is very close to your government and your people's heart? Alan Ganoo: Yeah, of course, we have to be grateful to India for having supported us all throughout this issue. And we are grateful to other countries in the world. The majority of countries in the world voted for us. In the resolution before the United Nations as you know it was a massive victory for Mauritius. The United Nations General Assembly and also the case before the International Court of Justice, the ruling also were in our favour. Now the time is for us to recuperate the islands from the British administration. Here again, it is only diplomacy that can work. As you know negotiations are taking place between the two parties. Now, the UK government has agreed to start negotiations and let us hope we will have a successful conclusion. And on that score also, we are relying on friendly countries to help us to retrieve our four islands because the ICJ has clearly decreed that Mauritius has sovereignty over the Chagos Archipelago. Now it's a question of Mauritius recuperating the part of its territory which was separated which was excised from the Mauritius territory, some 50 years ago. WION: So on a very lighter note, Holi is coming, it connects the 2 countries. So what's the plan like, Holi Hai.. Alan Ganoo: You know, all Hindu festivals are celebrated in Mauritius, the Diwali, Holi and also religious festivals like Mahashivratri, Durga Puja and just name it. Mauritius is a multi-ethnic country also. We live in peace in harmony, and the other festivals of the other communities are also celebrated sometimes on a national level. And it's a public holiday, for example, for Christmas or Easter. We are a shining example of national unity in spite of the fact that we are a diverse population in fact, Unity in Diversity is our motto. On Holi festival, everywhere in Mauritius, you will see the different colours and people will enjoy and will celebrate it, as they usually do. Probably during the COVID years, it was not the same. But now that the covid is behind us, all the festivals are being celebrated in a very dignified and very flamboyant manner. And for example, MahaShivratri, which was celebrated a few weeks ago. People will go to the sacred lake, Ganga Talao. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mauritian Foreign Minister Alan Ganoo praises India's leadership at G20, highlights impact of Ukraine conflict

Slovenia Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon has termed India as European Union's "very important strategic partner". Speaking to our diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Slovenia Foreign Minister said, "India plays a very important role to keep the world peace and stability" as she extended support to the Indo Pacific vision." She also spoke about an aggressive China, Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Slovenia Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon speaks to WION on India being an important strategic partner

'We are very proud of India', says Bangladesh Foreign minister. The Principal Diplomatic Correspondent of WION spoke with Bangladesh Foreign Minister Abul Kalam Abdul Momem, who is in India for the G20 foreign ministers meet.

Bangladesh FM Momen appreciates India, says 'India is taking the leadership of South'

Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský emphasized the need for cooperation between democracies in the Indo-Pacific to address the challenges posed by China's increasing economic and military power.

In an interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lipavský said, "I think the biggest challenge in the Pacific is China and its economic superpower. It's becoming a military superpower and we need to be ready to be looking for ways how to have to approach it. I think India understands this very, very well. I think Europe understand this quite well'.'

On Chinese aggressive actions on India's northern borders, he said, "we need to be respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries' internationally recognized borders", explaining, "So if China commits such acts, I will condemn such acts from China so I don't want to make a general statement. But specifically, this is quite clear". China has been, since 2020, involved in aggressive actions at India's Ladakh &amp; Arunachal Pradesh.

He called for open and frank discussions between the EU and India to achieve a mutually beneficial relationship through a Free Trade Agreement. In his interview, he also spoke about Russia Ukraine conflict, the G20 Presidency of India among other things.&nbsp;

Here's the complete interview:&nbsp;&nbsp;

WION: What is the key focus of your India visit?

Jan Lipavský: Thank you very much for having me here. And my purpose for this visit to India, it's to show that the Czech Republic is ready to cooperate, and we have a lot to offer. We have a great university, we have great companies. We want to be building a mutually interesting relationship in terms of research of innovation. We have a very strong automotive industry speaking about Skoda or Tata trucks, and we want to be here, and we want to be part of this thriving economy.

WION:&nbsp;I believe one of the key focus areas is also on connectivity, a direct flight perhaps?

Jan Lipavský: Definitely, I'm meeting two representatives of two airline companies, Indigo, one of them for example, and we want to show them that Prague is ready for a direct flight. We have a very good airfield; Prague is a very beautiful city actually. So before, before COVID there were 100,000 Indians travelling to Prague every year, after COVID, we are half the number at 500,000. So working on having these numbers up. And you know, India is a very interesting country for all tourists and without direct flight, it's much harder to reach.

 
WION: Anything on Defence cooperation?

Jan Lipavský: I think it's a big-big opportunity. The Russian war against Ukraine shows that the Russian military is not a reliable partner. We have a very good defence industry, and we are ready to show it to India. Some projects are already happening, and we want to be able to increase that kind of cooperation.

WION: So making India defence here in India are you planning that? As well as to manufacture here in India?

Jan Lipavský: It is one of the conditions which Indian sides put on the table all the time, and I think it's an understandable condition, understanding the necessity for India to be able to be independent. But of course, we have these technologies. We have these unique types of trucks. We have very different kinds of technologies and military. So it's up to specific companies to offer good deals, but politically we are ready to be working on it.

 
WION: So you mentioned Russia, the Ukraine conflict that has been dominating every capital. How do you see India's role as the chair of the G20, in terms of resolving this ongoing conflict in Europe?

Jan Lipavský: G20 presidency is a huge opportunity for India. I'm very grateful for the way how you approach that and the leadership in G20 is very important. And India shows that it is capable of that and it's very logical. You have to understand that Russia's war against Ukraine endangers the security of Central Europe and the whole of Europe as such, and we were Russian puppet for 40 years and we don't want to never ever repeat that, we don't want to be again Russia puppet and Ukraine is now fighting not to be Russian puppet not to be colonized by Russia because Russia is the last colonial empire in the world. They haven't got rid of that 19th-century mentality. I think we need a fair broker. I think we need a broker who will be able to strive for deals that will nurture international relations and rules-based international relations. And you know, Russia is committed to driving aggression in the charter of the UN and it is written that aggression war is not allowed. This is one of the results of the Second World War. So, for India, maybe to be working on pushing the charter of the UN ahead, I think that that would be the role I will see even in a G-20 presidency.

WION: We saw at the G20 finance ministers meeting there was no joint statement because of the West versus Russia plus China conversation which was going on. Do you think that these groupings should also focus on other things as well because it looks like this grouping is now being dominated by only one specific subject?

Jan Lipavský: For us, it is the most important issue we are dealing with. I think it is understandable. I know that it's hard for us. I mean, this is tricky, I suppose part of G 20. So many other countries from Europe are. It's to have a serious debate on other issues. Once you feel really endangered by Russian imperialism.

WION: You mentioned the fair broker, do you see New Delhi as the fair broker in this ongoing conflict?

Jan Lipavský: I was more speaking about the possible role of that. Of course, last week, there was a vote in the United Nations General Assembly in India that did not vote in favour of the resolution condemning the Russian war against Ukraine. But I see that this is an opportunity to have a dialogue on that. And you know, when you asked me when I would see the role of India at G20, I came up with the idea that standing by the charter of the UN is something which we need to be working on.

WION: Are you in Favor of Ukraine becoming part of NATO once the conflict is over?

Jan Lipavský: I am in Favor of Ukraine to integrate into the existing European structure speaking about the EU and about NATO. But we understand, everyone understands that this can happen after Ukraine solves its current war with Russia and we are ready to help Ukraine to solve it.

WION: But are you hopeful that this conflict can be resolved because as of now, it doesn't look like there is any peace formula that is being taken by either side? In fact, the two sides are not even talking. So, are you hopeful that this conflict will come to an end?

Jan Lipavský: There is a 10-point plan of Mr. Zelensky. We are supporting it very much. You know, Ukraine is fighting for freedom, and Ukraine is fighting for the territorial integrity of Ukraine in its internationally recognized borders. Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty. They have a full right to fight for it and defend themselves. Ukraine is not waging war against Russia. Russia is waging war against Ukraine. I know it's from distance, it seems there's some kind of European conflict, but there are a lot of principles in it. And for my country, for Europe, it is about our security too, because if Russia is allowed to expand, then they will attack Baltic countries. Then we'll attack Poland, maybe Czechia.

WION: So you see a repeat of perhaps a world war two scenario?

Jan Lipavský: There are a lot of parallels. Of course, no two same things in history ever, but there are a lot of parallels. And I think we shouldn't allow Russia to become a snowballing Empire again.

WION: So you mentioned that Ukraine should become part of NATO...

Jan Lipavský: One day I see it as a possibility

WION: But you look at the Russian claims or what the Russian narrative has been that it's the fact that NATO was expanding its that is why it took that action, the conflict started. What do you have to say about that?

Jan Lipavský: We are hearing that case. NATO was enlarged because those countries wanted to join NATO. My Country joined NATO in 1997. Because we wanted to join NATO, not because someone in Washington would say Okay, your country you have to be part of NATO. It's a voluntary decision. And I'm proud that my country is a member of the most powerful military organization in the world. And my country is now the safest by fact that we are a member of NATO. So I very well understand that the Ukrainians want to be a part of NATO than Moscow's Empire.

WION: So now coming back to again the big focus of your visit before your visit started there was a release by your ministry which said that the focus will also be on the Indo-Pacific vision as well. So if you can elaborate as to what View Your country has, regarding this specific vision, the Indo-Pacific vision and how your country can help in this vision?

Jan Lipavský: I think everyone understands that the focus is Indo-Pacific right now. It's growing economies, growing populations growing trade. We need to understand what is going on in the Pacific. We need to have good policies. And you know, my government stated quite clearly that we want to cooperate with democracies in the Pacific region, India is the biggest democracy in the world. So, therefore, here I am presenting my country representing the businesses, we want to interconnect research and innovation as basically the key to prosperity. So, we want to create a lot of, lot of good things on the field. And we are ready to cooperate.

WION: When it comes to the Indo-Pacific there are similar worries and challenges that exist in Europe, India has been facing the challenge when it comes to its northern borders. There are other countries as well. What do you have to say about these challenges when it comes to issues arising from countries being aggressive in the region?

Jan Lipavský: I think the biggest challenge in the Pacific is China and its economic superpower. It's becoming a military superpower and we need to be ready to be looking for ways how to have to approach it. I think India understands this very, very well. I think Europe understand this quite well. And definitely, do the US understand is very well and we need to be able to cooperate on that and you know talk to Chinese in a way that we avert possible future conflicts which may arise.

 
WION: Chinese aggressive actions, the worry regarding it, have you discussed it with your partners and allies in Europe and in the Indo-Pacific?

Jan Lipavský: Yes, we have a clear strategic strategy in the EU, and we have a clear strategy in NATO, which describes China as a set of challenges and opportunities, and we need to be ready for challenges and of course developing those opportunities because it's not black and white. And I'm why should we use the word, China? I think it's obvious the size of the country and the influence of the country is obvious. My govt wants cooperation with democracies of the Indo-Pacific, and we mean it. Democracies are able to cooperate, with India, &nbsp;the biggest democracy in the region and many other democracies here, so we have a lot of partners to be working with.

WION: And what do you have to say about Chinese aggressive actions with India in the northern borders?

Jan Lipavský: I think countries should respect territorial integrity and sovereignty, like Ukraine. So definitely, I would condemn an aggressive action of such kind, and everything should be done to avoid any kind of military escalation and loss of life.

WION: So coming to the trade part, there has been a conversation for EU India Free Trade Agreement. It has been taking time, but what's your view? How can your country help to make sure that this trade pact can be signed as soon as possible?

Jan Lipavský: We need very intensive dialogue &amp; I am a proponent of a very intensive dialogue between the EU and India. It's not an easy discussion. It's a tough discussion. But to have an open and frank discussion is always absolutely okay. So, let's have the discussions. Let's be looking for ways where we will find a mutually beneficial relationship where we can open up markets and at the end of the day, both sides will prosper.

WION: So if I can come back to my previous question, you said I condemn any action that does not respect the sovereignty. Are you saying you condemn China when it comes to it is not respecting the sovereignty of India?

Jan Lipavský: I'm speaking that in the international scene, we need to be respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries' internationally recognized borders. So if China commits such acts, I will condemn such acts from China, so I don't want to make a general statement. But specifically, this is quite clear.

WION: So now coming to multilateral groupings, how they're working UN has been found missing at a time when the conflict was raging in Europe. What's your view on reforms of the Security Council especially India has bit because India is very keen to be a member of the UN Security Council, but there are countries in the council which are not very keen to see an expansion of the grouping.

Jan Lipavský: This is a long-term debate. I don't see any solution to that. UN needs to reform but historically, it's not easy to reform. I think it's the power and international position of India, It's absolutely clear, there is no debate about that. And I would like to hear more Indian voices in the UN, even though the permanent membership of the UN Security Council. I would welcome that very much.

WION: What Kind of engagement are you looking for between India and Central Europe?

Jan Lipavský: I think it's important that when India delegations travel to Central Europe, you can advance meetings with all of the states, it is very logical so for example, this S3 Slavkov format, is a very good format-- Czechia, Austria, Slovakia, let's have the discussions and of course, the business in Europe is interconnected. So once you make business in Czechia, you can easily go to Slovakia, and Austria because we have this European Common Market. So it makes sense to have these bundles. We are very much open to that. I would like to have strong cooperation on research and innovation between Czechia &amp; India it makes sense to me we have a good university. We have a good startup. Some companies are already doing business here. I mentioned for example, Skoda. I know that many of them and it's always good, then when politicians meet and say, Yes, this is okay. We want this and we want more of that.

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Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský emphasized the need for cooperation between democracies in the Indo-Pacific to address the challenges posed by China's increasing economic and military power.

Czech Republic's Foreign Minister Jan Lipavský emphasized the need for cooperation between democracies in the Indo-Pacific to address the challenges posed by China's increasing economic and military power. In an interview with WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Lipavský said, "I think the biggest challenge in the Pacific is China and its economic superpower. It's becoming a military superpower and we need to be ready to be looking for ways how to have to approach it. I think India understands this very, very well. I think Europe understand this quite well'.' On Chinese aggressive actions on India's northern borders, he said, "we need to be respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries' internationally recognized borders", explaining, "So if China commits such acts, I will condemn such acts from China so I don't want to make a general statement. But specifically, this is quite clear". China has been, since 2020, involved in aggressive actions at India's Ladakh & Arunachal Pradesh. He called for open and frank discussions between the EU and India to achieve a mutually beneficial relationship through a Free Trade Agreement. In his interview, he also spoke about Russia Ukraine conflict, the G20 Presidency of India among other things. Here's the complete interview: WION: What is the key focus of your India visit? Jan Lipavský: Thank you very much for having me here. And my purpose for this visit to India, it's to show that the Czech Republic is ready to cooperate, and we have a lot to offer. We have a great university, we have great companies. We want to be building a mutually interesting relationship in terms of research of innovation. We have a very strong automotive industry speaking about Skoda or Tata trucks, and we want to be here, and we want to be part of this thriving economy. WION: I believe one of the key focus areas is also on connectivity, a direct flight perhaps? Jan Lipavský: Definitely, I'm meeting two representatives of two airline companies, Indigo, one of them for example, and we want to show them that Prague is ready for a direct flight. We have a very good airfield; Prague is a very beautiful city actually. So before, before COVID there were 100,000 Indians travelling to Prague every year, after COVID, we are half the number at 500,000. So working on having these numbers up. And you know, India is a very interesting country for all tourists and without direct flight, it's much harder to reach. WION: Anything on Defence cooperation? Jan Lipavský: I think it's a big-big opportunity. The Russian war against Ukraine shows that the Russian military is not a reliable partner. We have a very good defence industry, and we are ready to show it to India. Some projects are already happening, and we want to be able to increase that kind of cooperation. WION: So making India defence here in India are you planning that? As well as to manufacture here in India? Jan Lipavský: It is one of the conditions which Indian sides put on the table all the time, and I think it's an understandable condition, understanding the necessity for India to be able to be independent. But of course, we have these technologies. We have these unique types of trucks. We have very different kinds of technologies and military. So it's up to specific companies to offer good deals, but politically we are ready to be working on it. WION: So you mentioned Russia, the Ukraine conflict that has been dominating every capital. How do you see India's role as the chair of the G20, in terms of resolving this ongoing conflict in Europe? Jan Lipavský: G20 presidency is a huge opportunity for India. I'm very grateful for the way how you approach that and the leadership in G20 is very important. And India shows that it is capable of that and it's very logical. You have to understand that Russia's war against Ukraine endangers the security of Central Europe and the whole of Europe as such, and we were Russian puppet for 40 years and we don't want to never ever repeat that, we don't want to be again Russia puppet and Ukraine is now fighting not to be Russian puppet not to be colonized by Russia because Russia is the last colonial empire in the world. They haven't got rid of that 19th-century mentality. I think we need a fair broker. I think we need a broker who will be able to strive for deals that will nurture international relations and rules-based international relations. And you know, Russia is committed to driving aggression in the charter of the UN and it is written that aggression war is not allowed. This is one of the results of the Second World War. So, for India, maybe to be working on pushing the charter of the UN ahead, I think that that would be the role I will see even in a G-20 presidency. WION: We saw at the G20 finance ministers meeting there was no joint statement because of the West versus Russia plus China conversation which was going on. Do you think that these groupings should also focus on other things as well because it looks like this grouping is now being dominated by only one specific subject? Jan Lipavský: For us, it is the most important issue we are dealing with. I think it is understandable. I know that it's hard for us. I mean, this is tricky, I suppose part of G 20. So many other countries from Europe are. It's to have a serious debate on other issues. Once you feel really endangered by Russian imperialism. WION: You mentioned the fair broker, do you see New Delhi as the fair broker in this ongoing conflict? Jan Lipavský: I was more speaking about the possible role of that. Of course, last week, there was a vote in the United Nations General Assembly in India that did not vote in favour of the resolution condemning the Russian war against Ukraine. But I see that this is an opportunity to have a dialogue on that. And you know, when you asked me when I would see the role of India at G20, I came up with the idea that standing by the charter of the UN is something which we need to be working on. WION: Are you in Favor of Ukraine becoming part of NATO once the conflict is over? Jan Lipavský: I am in Favor of Ukraine to integrate into the existing European structure speaking about the EU and about NATO. But we understand, everyone understands that this can happen after Ukraine solves its current war with Russia and we are ready to help Ukraine to solve it. WION: But are you hopeful that this conflict can be resolved because as of now, it doesn't look like there is any peace formula that is being taken by either side? In fact, the two sides are not even talking. So, are you hopeful that this conflict will come to an end? Jan Lipavský: There is a 10-point plan of Mr. Zelensky. We are supporting it very much. You know, Ukraine is fighting for freedom, and Ukraine is fighting for the territorial integrity of Ukraine in its internationally recognized borders. Ukraine is fighting for its sovereignty. They have a full right to fight for it and defend themselves. Ukraine is not waging war against Russia. Russia is waging war against Ukraine. I know it's from distance, it seems there's some kind of European conflict, but there are a lot of principles in it. And for my country, for Europe, it is about our security too, because if Russia is allowed to expand, then they will attack Baltic countries. Then we'll attack Poland, maybe Czechia. WION: So you see a repeat of perhaps a world war two scenario? Jan Lipavský: There are a lot of parallels. Of course, no two same things in history ever, but there are a lot of parallels. And I think we shouldn't allow Russia to become a snowballing Empire again. WION: So you mentioned that Ukraine should become part of NATO... Jan Lipavský: One day I see it as a possibility WION: But you look at the Russian claims or what the Russian narrative has been that it's the fact that NATO was expanding its that is why it took that action, the conflict started. What do you have to say about that? Jan Lipavský: We are hearing that case. NATO was enlarged because those countries wanted to join NATO. My Country joined NATO in 1997. Because we wanted to join NATO, not because someone in Washington would say Okay, your country you have to be part of NATO. It's a voluntary decision. And I'm proud that my country is a member of the most powerful military organization in the world. And my country is now the safest by fact that we are a member of NATO. So I very well understand that the Ukrainians want to be a part of NATO than Moscow's Empire. WION: So now coming back to again the big focus of your visit before your visit started there was a release by your ministry which said that the focus will also be on the Indo-Pacific vision as well. So if you can elaborate as to what View Your country has, regarding this specific vision, the Indo-Pacific vision and how your country can help in this vision? Jan Lipavský: I think everyone understands that the focus is Indo-Pacific right now. It's growing economies, growing populations growing trade. We need to understand what is going on in the Pacific. We need to have good policies. And you know, my government stated quite clearly that we want to cooperate with democracies in the Pacific region, India is the biggest democracy in the world. So, therefore, here I am presenting my country representing the businesses, we want to interconnect research and innovation as basically the key to prosperity. So, we want to create a lot of, lot of good things on the field. And we are ready to cooperate. WION: When it comes to the Indo-Pacific there are similar worries and challenges that exist in Europe, India has been facing the challenge when it comes to its northern borders. There are other countries as well. What do you have to say about these challenges when it comes to issues arising from countries being aggressive in the region? Jan Lipavský: I think the biggest challenge in the Pacific is China and its economic superpower. It's becoming a military superpower and we need to be ready to be looking for ways how to have to approach it. I think India understands this very, very well. I think Europe understand this quite well. And definitely, do the US understand is very well and we need to be able to cooperate on that and you know talk to Chinese in a way that we avert possible future conflicts which may arise. WION: Chinese aggressive actions, the worry regarding it, have you discussed it with your partners and allies in Europe and in the Indo-Pacific? Jan Lipavský: Yes, we have a clear strategic strategy in the EU, and we have a clear strategy in NATO, which describes China as a set of challenges and opportunities, and we need to be ready for challenges and of course developing those opportunities because it's not black and white. And I'm why should we use the word, China? I think it's obvious the size of the country and the influence of the country is obvious. My govt wants cooperation with democracies of the Indo-Pacific, and we mean it. Democracies are able to cooperate, with India, the biggest democracy in the region and many other democracies here, so we have a lot of partners to be working with. WION: And what do you have to say about Chinese aggressive actions with India in the northern borders? Jan Lipavský: I think countries should respect territorial integrity and sovereignty, like Ukraine. So definitely, I would condemn an aggressive action of such kind, and everything should be done to avoid any kind of military escalation and loss of life. WION: So coming to the trade part, there has been a conversation for EU India Free Trade Agreement. It has been taking time, but what's your view? How can your country help to make sure that this trade pact can be signed as soon as possible? Jan Lipavský: We need very intensive dialogue & I am a proponent of a very intensive dialogue between the EU and India. It's not an easy discussion. It's a tough discussion. But to have an open and frank discussion is always absolutely okay. So, let's have the discussions. Let's be looking for ways where we will find a mutually beneficial relationship where we can open up markets and at the end of the day, both sides will prosper. WION: So if I can come back to my previous question, you said I condemn any action that does not respect the sovereignty. Are you saying you condemn China when it comes to it is not respecting the sovereignty of India? Jan Lipavský: I'm speaking that in the international scene, we need to be respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries' internationally recognized borders. So if China commits such acts, I will condemn such acts from China, so I don't want to make a general statement. But specifically, this is quite clear. WION: So now coming to multilateral groupings, how they're working UN has been found missing at a time when the conflict was raging in Europe. What's your view on reforms of the Security Council especially India has bit because India is very keen to be a member of the UN Security Council, but there are countries in the council which are not very keen to see an expansion of the grouping. Jan Lipavský: This is a long-term debate. I don't see any solution to that. UN needs to reform but historically, it's not easy to reform. I think it's the power and international position of India, It's absolutely clear, there is no debate about that. And I would like to hear more Indian voices in the UN, even though the permanent membership of the UN Security Council. I would welcome that very much. WION: What Kind of engagement are you looking for between India and Central Europe? Jan Lipavský: I think it's important that when India delegations travel to Central Europe, you can advance meetings with all of the states, it is very logical so for example, this S3 Slavkov format, is a very good format-- Czechia, Austria, Slovakia, let's have the discussions and of course, the business in Europe is interconnected. So once you make business in Czechia, you can easily go to Slovakia, and Austria because we have this European Common Market. So it makes sense to have these bundles. We are very much open to that. I would like to have strong cooperation on research and innovation between Czechia & India it makes sense to me we have a good university. We have a good startup. Some companies are already doing business here. I mentioned for example, Skoda. I know that many of them and it's always good, then when politicians meet and say, Yes, this is okay. We want this and we want more of that. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Czech Foreign Minister Jan Lipavsky condemns China's aggressive actions on India's northern borders

Egypt's foreign minister met Syrian President Bashar al-Assad and Turkish Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Monday in the first visits to Syria and Turkey by a top Egyptian diplomat in a decade.

Egypt Foreign Minister visits Damascus

In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed&nbsp;Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied made a spectacular attempt to seize power in July 2021.

Tunisia has since then been plagued by growing political tensions.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latvia-fire-erupts-at-us-drone-factory-that-built-drones-for-ukraine-military-nato-allies-559752">Latvia: Fire erupts at US drone factory that built drones for Ukraine military, NATO allies</a>

The president announced on its official website that Nabil Ammar, Tunisia's ambassador to the European Union, will take over as foreign minister.&nbsp;The trade, agriculture, and education ministries were previously replaced by Saied this year. However, Jerandi remained the country's foreign minister since September 2020.&nbsp;

Saied forced through a new constitution in a referendum in July 2022 that defanged the parliament and imposed a hyper-presidential administration. He then ousted the government, froze the legislature, and acquired expansive executive powers.

In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/in-pics-first-images-of-chinese-balloon-debris-pulled-from-atlantic-released-by-us-navy-559775">FIRST IMAGES of Chinese balloon debris pulled from Atlantic released by US Navy</a>

There have been many teacher and transportation worker strikes in Tunisia recently, and there have also been shortages of basic necessities like milk, reported AFP.&nbsp;

After opposition groups called for a boycott, just 11.4% of Tunisians participated in the second round of voting in January for the now-powerless legislature. Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy.

The civil resistance in Arab Spring is still vivid in peoples'&nbsp;minds. A young Tunisian man Mohamed Bouazizi who sold veggies off of a barrow on December 17, 2010, lit himself on fire as a form of protest against police abuse. On January 4, 2011, Mohamed Bouazizi passed away, but not before his viral gesture sparked demonstrations against the high cost of living and the nation's autocratic president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

Watch | Gravitas | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-putins-girlfriend-russian-media-a-weapon-of-war-559764">Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war</a>

Tunisian Revolution, was a protracted 28-day civil resistance movement. It culminated in a series of protests on the streets of Tunisia, which resulted in Zine El Abidine Ben Ali's overthrow in January 2011. Ultimately, it brought to a complete democratisation of the nation as well as free and democratic elections.

Since that 2011 revolution, which was sparked by persistent economic problems, none of the governments that took office have been able to make significant progress in resolving these issues. The&nbsp;ensuing protracted economic crisis finally led to a crisis in democracy and drastically reduced the confidence and support of the Tunisian people for the nation's young and vulnerable democratic institutions and procedures.

This further comes in the backdrop of Tunisia's protracted discussions with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout worth about $2 billion.

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In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason.

In what can be termed as an increasingly authoritative shift, Tunisia President Kais Saied on Tuesday dismissed Othman Jerandi as the foreign minister of the country without citing any reason. This latest firing makes the top diplomat the fourth minister to leave his position since Saied made a spectacular attempt to seize power in July 2021. Tunisia has since then been plagued by growing political tensions. Also Read | Latvia: Fire erupts at US drone factory that built drones for Ukraine military, NATO allies The president announced on its official website that Nabil Ammar, Tunisia's ambassador to the European Union, will take over as foreign minister. The trade, agriculture, and education ministries were previously replaced by Saied this year. However, Jerandi remained the country's foreign minister since September 2020. Saied forced through a new constitution in a referendum in July 2022 that defanged the parliament and imposed a hyper-presidential administration. He then ousted the government, froze the legislature, and acquired expansive executive powers. In Pics | FIRST IMAGES of Chinese balloon debris pulled from Atlantic released by US Navy There have been many teacher and transportation worker strikes in Tunisia recently, and there have also been shortages of basic necessities like milk, reported AFP. After opposition groups called for a boycott, just 11.4% of Tunisians participated in the second round of voting in January for the now-powerless legislature. Saied is under increasing criticism from the populace, who accuses him of initiating a "coup" in the country that saw the first Arab Spring uprisings in favour of democracy. The civil resistance in Arab Spring is still vivid in peoples' minds. A young Tunisian man Mohamed Bouazizi who sold veggies off of a barrow on December 17, 2010, lit himself on fire as a form of protest against police abuse. On January 4, 2011, Mohamed Bouazizi passed away, but not before his viral gesture sparked demonstrations against the high cost of living and the nation's autocratic president Zine El Abidine Ben Ali. Watch | Gravitas | Putin's Girlfriend: Russian media a weapon of war Tunisian Revolution, was a protracted 28-day civil resistance movement. It culminated in a series of protests on the streets of Tunisia, which resulted in Zine El Abidine Ben Ali's overthrow in January 2011. Ultimately, it brought to a complete democratisation of the nation as well as free and democratic elections. Since that 2011 revolution, which was sparked by persistent economic problems, none of the governments that took office have been able to make significant progress in resolving these issues. The ensuing protracted economic crisis finally led to a crisis in democracy and drastically reduced the confidence and support of the Tunisian people for the nation's young and vulnerable democratic institutions and procedures. This further comes in the backdrop of Tunisia's protracted discussions with the International Monetary Fund for a bailout worth about $2 billion. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Tunisia president sacks foreign minister amid political slugfest, economic turmoil

New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta is embarking on a bilateral visit to India to deepen ties between the two countries. Ahead of the visit, she referred to India as "a core and influential partner in the Indo-Pacific" region, which encompasses the countries of the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean.

She pointed,"We have welcomed their participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. This framework offers a key vehicle for engaging with India as part of a broader regional agenda." The framework aims to promote economic integration and collaboration among the nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/canada-new-zealands-foreign-ministers-to-travel-to-delhi-in-february-557592">Canada, New Zealand's foreign ministers to travel to Delhi in February</a>

The foreign minister will hold meetings in New Delhi with top Indian government officials, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda.&nbsp;

She will also travel to Mumbai to promote New Zealand's interests in education, trade, and tourism and discuss co-operation on climate change and regional security.

Mahuta emphasised the "energetic and vibrant relationship" between New Zealand and India, with over 240,000 people of Indian descent residing in New Zealand.&nbsp;

One of the key focus areas during the visit will be visa issues faced by Indian students, an issue that was previously raised by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar during his visit to New Zealand last year.

WATCH | Why is it becoming difficult to live in Australia &amp; New Zealand?

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The foreign minister expressed her hope to build on the momentum of Jaishankar's visit and to discuss New Zealand's progress in joining the International Solar Alliance to promote solar energy co-operation and climate action globally.

Mahuta's visit is expected to play a significant role in furthering the relationship between New Zealand and India and will conclude on Sunday, when she returns to New Zealand.

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>.

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New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta is embarking on a bilateral visit to India to deepen ties between the two countries. Ahead of the visit, she referred to India as "a core and influential partner in the Indo-Pacific" region, which encompasses the countries of the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean.

New Zealand Foreign Minister Nanaia Mahuta is embarking on a bilateral visit to India to deepen ties between the two countries. Ahead of the visit, she referred to India as "a core and influential partner in the Indo-Pacific" region, which encompasses the countries of the Indian Ocean and Pacific Ocean. She pointed,"We have welcomed their participation in the Indo-Pacific Economic Framework. This framework offers a key vehicle for engaging with India as part of a broader regional agenda." The framework aims to promote economic integration and collaboration among the nations in the Indo-Pacific region. ALSO READ | Canada, New Zealand's foreign ministers to travel to Delhi in February The foreign minister will hold meetings in New Delhi with top Indian government officials, including Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda. She will also travel to Mumbai to promote New Zealand's interests in education, trade, and tourism and discuss co-operation on climate change and regional security. Mahuta emphasised the "energetic and vibrant relationship" between New Zealand and India, with over 240,000 people of Indian descent residing in New Zealand. One of the key focus areas during the visit will be visa issues faced by Indian students, an issue that was previously raised by External Affairs Minister Jaishankar during his visit to New Zealand last year. WATCH | Why is it becoming difficult to live in Australia & New Zealand? The foreign minister expressed her hope to build on the momentum of Jaishankar's visit and to discuss New Zealand's progress in joining the International Solar Alliance to promote solar energy co-operation and climate action globally. Mahuta's visit is expected to play a significant role in furthering the relationship between New Zealand and India and will conclude on Sunday, when she returns to New Zealand. 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

'India a core partner in the Indo-Pacific', says New Zealand FM Mahuta ahead of India visit

Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto of Pakistan has arrived in the Russian capital on his maiden visit, in another bid to boost bilateral ties between the two sides.

Pakistan: Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari arrives in Moscow

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed &nbsp;Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan.

Who is Sara Al Sayed?&nbsp;

The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-confronts-china-with-evidence-of-state-owned-companies-aiding-russia-in-ukraine-war-555363">US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war</a>

While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-jeff-bezos-selling-washington-post-to-buy-nfl-team-555329">Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team?</a>

Sara Al Sayed education&nbsp;

Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years.

She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions.

WATCH |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-africa-defends-planned-military-drills-with-russia-and-china-555357">South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China</a>

Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News.&nbsp;

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Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap.

Human rights activists have often flagged discrimination that women in Saudi Arabia face. The country has witnessed many human rights campaigns voicing their support for women's societal roles and bridging the gender gap. Amid this fight for women's empowerment, a piece of good news is coming out of Saudi Arabia as the country appointed Sara Al-Sayed as the deputy minister for public diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Saudi Arabia on Sunday. The announcement of the appointment came after a decision by Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan. Who is Sara Al Sayed? The newly appointed Sara Al Sayed held the position of assistant deputy minister for international collaboration at the Saudi Ministry of Health. Two years ago, she took the post of director-general of international collaboration. Her 20-year career is painted rainbow with a range of experience in diverse fields such as managerial banking, an international collaboration for companies and government organizations in the US and Saudi Arabia and military contracting. Also Read | US confronts China with evidence of state-owned companies aiding Russia in Ukraine war While in the Ministry of Health in April 2017, Al-Sayed managed collaborations such as G20 and the World Health Organization. Al-Sayed also worked to manage international media outreach and facilitated the availability of health data that highlighted the Kingdom’s achievements in healthcare globally. She also served as a regional director for Houston Methodist Global. Her work there comprised of delivering consultancy services in healthcare sectors for crucial institutions within Saudi Arabia, as per Arab News. Al-Sayed work experience in the health sector is quite extensive. She also managed international collaboration with King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz University Hospital within the Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University campus in Riyadh. Also Read | Is Jeff Bezos selling Washington Post to buy NFL team? Sara Al Sayed education Al-Sayed spent 15 years of her educational and career life in Washington. During this tenure, she assumed the position of contracting officer at the Armed Forces Office of the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia for three years. She also holds banking experience as served in various managerial positions within the banking industry in the US for over 12 years. With extensive experience in personal banking, portfolio management, audit, insurance, business and commercial banking, mortgage banking, and risk management, the newly appointed diplomat was also selected to lead acquisitions and mergers of various institutions. WATCH | South Africa defends planned military drills with Russia and China Al-Sayed completed her bachelor’s in science from George Mason University in Washington. She is also an undergraduate in physical therapy at King Saud University in Riyadh, as per Arab News. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Who is Sara Al Sayed, Saudi Arabia's new deputy foreign minister for public diplomacy?

India's Foreign Minister S.Jaishankar has responded firmly at what he termed Europe's hypocrisy when it comes to Russia. Speaking to Austria's national broadcaster on the Russia-Ukraine war, Jaishankar slammed Europe for criticizing India's arms and energy imports from Russia.

India's Foreign Minister slams Europe's 'double standards' on Russian oil

In an effort to smooth over their tense relations, Beijing and Washington have nominated Qin Gang, China's ambassador to the United States and a dependable assistant to President Xi Jinping, as their new foreign minister. Wang Yi, who served as foreign minister for the previous ten years, is replaced by Qin, 56.

China: Qin Gang becomes nation's youngest Foreign Minister

Chinese President Xi Jinping's trusted aide Qin Gang has been appointed as the new foreign minister, reported state radio on Friday.&nbsp;56-year-old Qin, who is currently China's ambassador to the United States, will take the place of Wang Yi, who has been the country's foreign minister in the past decade.

Wang Yi, aged 69, got promoted in the Chinese Communist Party's politburo in October and will be playing a bigger role in the country's foreign policy.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beijing-slams-covid-curbs-on-chinese-travellers-as-discriminatory-547901">Beijing slams Covid curbs on Chinese travellers as 'discriminatory'</a>

Qin, who has been a rising star in China's foreign ministry, has held various positions in the past which include the position of the spokesperson of the ministry and positions in the Chinese embassy in Britain.

He served as chief protocol officer Xi between 2014 and 2018.

After his appointment as the foreign minister, Qin will come back to Beijing from Washington after serving as China's 11th ambassador to the United States for 17 months.

This week, an essay was published in the National Interest, an American bi-monthly magazine, in which Qin talked about the position of China on foreign policy and said that the relations between the US and China were not a zero-sum game.

WATCH| Gravitas: China sends infected flights to Milan, half of the passengers test positive

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Qin's appointment comes in the wake of countries imposing mandatory testing for people coming from China. Reacting to the imposition of test requirements in various countries, Chinese state media had earlier said that such steps were "discriminatory".&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Chinese President Xi Jinping's trusted aide Qin Gang has been appointed as the new foreign minister, reported state radio on Friday. 56-year-old Qin, who is currently China's ambassador to the United States, will take the place of Wang Yi, who has been the country's foreign minister in the past decade.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's trusted aide Qin Gang has been appointed as the new foreign minister, reported state radio on Friday. 56-year-old Qin, who is currently China's ambassador to the United States, will take the place of Wang Yi, who has been the country's foreign minister in the past decade. Wang Yi, aged 69, got promoted in the Chinese Communist Party's politburo in October and will be playing a bigger role in the country's foreign policy. ALSO READ| Beijing slams Covid curbs on Chinese travellers as 'discriminatory' Qin, who has been a rising star in China's foreign ministry, has held various positions in the past which include the position of the spokesperson of the ministry and positions in the Chinese embassy in Britain. He served as chief protocol officer Xi between 2014 and 2018. After his appointment as the foreign minister, Qin will come back to Beijing from Washington after serving as China's 11th ambassador to the United States for 17 months. This week, an essay was published in the National Interest, an American bi-monthly magazine, in which Qin talked about the position of China on foreign policy and said that the relations between the US and China were not a zero-sum game. WATCH| Gravitas: China sends infected flights to Milan, half of the passengers test positive Qin's appointment comes in the wake of countries imposing mandatory testing for people coming from China. Reacting to the imposition of test requirements in various countries, Chinese state media had earlier said that such steps were "discriminatory". (With inputs from agencies)

Xi Jinping appoints his trusted aide Qin Gang as China's new foreign minister

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity. This is the first ever visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Cyprus in more than a decade, the last being of Pranab Mukherjee in May 2007.

The visit comes in a year when India, Cyprus mark 60 years of diplomatic ties and will see discussions on "economic cooperation of the two countries, EU-India relations.." and "Turkey's provocative actions against Cyprus" according to a release by Cyprus foreign ministry. Historically, Turkiye and Cyprus relationship remains strained over Ankara's backing of Northern Cyprus as a separate state and other historical issues. Last year, India was quick to support Cyprus after Turkiye was seen violating UNSC resolutions by opening the ghost town of Varosha.

Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. &nbsp;The invasion led to the division of the country into two-- Republic of Cyprus and the northern--Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) recognized only by Ankara

Both the foreign ministers will hold talks on Thursday and sign Memorandum of Understanding on defense and military cooperation and a pact to include Cyprus into the India Headquartered International Solar Alliance. They will also sign a Declaration of Intent to start negotiations on a pact on immigration and mobility. Pact on mobility allows easier movement of people and India has signed many such pact including with Germany earlier this month.

This will be the 3rd meeting between Minister Jaishankar and his counterpart minister Ioannis. Both earlier met on the sidelines of CHOGM 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda in June this year and at the sidelines of 77th UNGA in New York in September. Connectivity will be another key focus even as Cyprus readout pointed that "prospect of India's participation in a regional mechanism with countries of the region" will be discussed. Remember, Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf.

The two Ministers will address the Cyprus-India business forum that will take place in Limassol. EAM's other engagements include an interaction with the Indian Diaspora and call on with President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou.&nbsp;Cyprus supports India on crucial issues including India’s bid for UNSC, the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, the NSG and the IAEA. The Mediterranean country backed India after Pokhran-II tests in 1998, removal of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

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India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be on a three-day visit to Cyprus from Thursday, during which he will hold talks with his Cypriot counterpart Ioannis Kasoulides as both sides firm up ties on a range of issues from trade to connectivity. This is the first ever visit by an Indian external affairs minister to Cyprus in more than a decade, the last being of Pranab Mukherjee in May 2007. The visit comes in a year when India, Cyprus mark 60 years of diplomatic ties and will see discussions on "economic cooperation of the two countries, EU-India relations.." and "Turkey's provocative actions against Cyprus" according to a release by Cyprus foreign ministry. Historically, Turkiye and Cyprus relationship remains strained over Ankara's backing of Northern Cyprus as a separate state and other historical issues. Last year, India was quick to support Cyprus after Turkiye was seen violating UNSC resolutions by opening the ghost town of Varosha. Varosha was once a popular resort town but was abandoned after the 1974 invasion of the Mediterranean island by Turkey. The invasion led to the division of the country into two-- Republic of Cyprus and the northern--Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (TRNC) recognized only by Ankara Both the foreign ministers will hold talks on Thursday and sign Memorandum of Understanding on defense and military cooperation and a pact to include Cyprus into the India Headquartered International Solar Alliance. They will also sign a Declaration of Intent to start negotiations on a pact on immigration and mobility. Pact on mobility allows easier movement of people and India has signed many such pact including with Germany earlier this month. This will be the 3rd meeting between Minister Jaishankar and his counterpart minister Ioannis. Both earlier met on the sidelines of CHOGM 2022 in Kigali, Rwanda in June this year and at the sidelines of 77th UNGA in New York in September. Connectivity will be another key focus even as Cyprus readout pointed that "prospect of India's participation in a regional mechanism with countries of the region" will be discussed. Remember, Plans afoot for connectivity from Mediterranean to India via Gulf. The two Ministers will address the Cyprus-India business forum that will take place in Limassol. EAM's other engagements include an interaction with the Indian Diaspora and call on with President of the House of Representatives, Annita Demetriou. Cyprus supports India on crucial issues including India’s bid for UNSC, the India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement, the NSG and the IAEA. The Mediterranean country backed India after Pokhran-II tests in 1998, removal of special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Türkiye, ISA & military MoU on agenda during India, Cyprus Foreign Minister talks

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong who will soon embark on a trip to China, on Tuesday said that she will push China to lift trade sanctions and seek consular access to two Australians detained by Beijing.

Australian Foreign Minister's first visit to China in four years

Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday.

The nation recently witnessed widespread protests because of a shortage of fuel and food&nbsp; and high inflation as it battled its worst economic crisis in more than seven decades. The protests resulted in the ouster of Sri Lanka’s then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July.

Additional funds are important for the Sri Lankan government which is burdened with a public external debt amounting to $40.6 billion, 22% of which it owes to Chinese creditors. An agreement was reached between Sri Lanka and the IMF in September for a loan of $2.9 billion, which may get approval for disbursal next year.

ALSO READ|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/sri-lankas-2023-budget-gets-parliamentary-nod-amidst-unprecedented-economic-crisis-541497">Sri Lanka’s 2023 budget gets parliamentary nod amidst unprecedented economic crisis</a>

"Apart from what we get from the IMF, we are looking at all others, the multilaterals put together another $4-$5 billion," said the foreign minister in an interview.

"The president is interested in restructuring some of the (state) institutions, so through that if we can raise $2-$3 billion, then what happens is that our treasury and reserves become strengthened,” he added. The minister stated that Sri Lanka was looking forward to getting approval from the IMF board for the loan in December; however, it has been likely postponed to January.

The government is working towards finalising financing assurances from nations like India, China and Japan, along with private creditors. The foreign minister said that the government is yet to receive "letters of assurance” for restructuring of debt from India as well as China, which is its largest bilateral creditor.

The minister added that the restructuring efforts have been supported by the two nations and that the required data and documents have been shared by Sri Lanka.

WATCH|&nbsp;Exclusive: Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry speaks to WION

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"We are very, very clear, both to the IMF and to our multilateral partners and to our bilateral friends that patience is running out and it is urgent for the sake of Sri Lankans and the good health of the world economy," said Sabry.

He stated that there has been improvement in the economy of Sri Lanka overall due to regular imports of essentials like food and fuel. The country’s inflation had increased above 70% earlier this year, however, it eased to 61% by November end and it is expected that the economy will contract by about 8.7% by the year's end.

"Some stability is taking place. Then the growth can return. So that should start in the next quarter of next year with the IMF loan coming in, other multilateral agencies coming in. But the growth to take place, it is going to be 2024 if everything goes according to plan,” said Sabry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday.

Sri Lanka is hoping to get $5 billion from multilateral agencies as loans next year along with an IMF deal, as the government is working towards raising around $3 billion through restructuring of state assets, Sri Lanka’s Foreign Minister Ali Sabry told Reuters on Wednesday. The nation recently witnessed widespread protests because of a shortage of fuel and food and high inflation as it battled its worst economic crisis in more than seven decades. The protests resulted in the ouster of Sri Lanka’s then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa in July. Additional funds are important for the Sri Lankan government which is burdened with a public external debt amounting to $40.6 billion, 22% of which it owes to Chinese creditors. An agreement was reached between Sri Lanka and the IMF in September for a loan of $2.9 billion, which may get approval for disbursal next year. ALSO READ| Sri Lanka’s 2023 budget gets parliamentary nod amidst unprecedented economic crisis "Apart from what we get from the IMF, we are looking at all others, the multilaterals put together another $4-$5 billion," said the foreign minister in an interview. "The president is interested in restructuring some of the (state) institutions, so through that if we can raise $2-$3 billion, then what happens is that our treasury and reserves become strengthened,” he added. The minister stated that Sri Lanka was looking forward to getting approval from the IMF board for the loan in December; however, it has been likely postponed to January. The government is working towards finalising financing assurances from nations like India, China and Japan, along with private creditors. The foreign minister said that the government is yet to receive "letters of assurance” for restructuring of debt from India as well as China, which is its largest bilateral creditor. The minister added that the restructuring efforts have been supported by the two nations and that the required data and documents have been shared by Sri Lanka. WATCH| Exclusive: Sri Lanka's Foreign Minister Ali Sabry speaks to WION "We are very, very clear, both to the IMF and to our multilateral partners and to our bilateral friends that patience is running out and it is urgent for the sake of Sri Lankans and the good health of the world economy," said Sabry. He stated that there has been improvement in the economy of Sri Lanka overall due to regular imports of essentials like food and fuel. The country’s inflation had increased above 70% earlier this year, however, it eased to 61% by November end and it is expected that the economy will contract by about 8.7% by the year's end. "Some stability is taking place. Then the growth can return. So that should start in the next quarter of next year with the IMF loan coming in, other multilateral agencies coming in. But the growth to take place, it is going to be 2024 if everything goes according to plan,” said Sabry. (With inputs from agencies)

‘Growth can return’, says Sri Lankan FM, as govt aims to raise $8 billion in loans

In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office.

Together with the Liberals, a fourth party, his Moderates are members of Frederiksen's new coalition administration.

The last effort, in 1978–1979, lasted only 14 months, making the alliance between the right-wing Liberals and the left-wing Social Democrats rare in Denmark.

In the end, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen, the head of the liberal party, decided to form a government with Frederiksen "in Denmark's best interest" after running an anti-Frederiksen campaign in an effort to secure a right-wing majority.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/zombie-flies-discovered-by-scientists-in-denmark-350075">'Zombie flies' discovered by scientists in Denmark</a>

He is appointed defence minister and deputy prime minister.

The second term of Frederiksen as prime minister appears to be significantly different from her first, which spanned from 2019 to 2022. During that time, she presided over a minority Social Democratic government that was dependent on the backing of her longtime left-wing friends.

Even though the left-wing bloc won the election in November with an overwhelming majority, Frederiksen decided to establish a left-right coalition.

She said that the conflict in Ukraine and the economic situation in the world today justified the action, but persuading the Liberals to join forces with her is also certain to cause a rift on the right wing.

Although it had been receptive to the idea, Frederiksen was unable to persuade the center-left Social Liberal party to join the administration. 11 Social Democrats, eight&nbsp;Liberals, and five Moderates make up the new government, which is composed of 15 males and eight&nbsp;women. Nicolai Wammen, a Social Democrat, will continue to be in charge of the finance ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

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In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday.

In the new left-right administration formed by Social Democrat Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen following a general election last month, Lars Lokke Rasmussen, a former prime minister of Denmark, was chosen foreign minister on Thursday. After leaving the right-wing Liberal party to create his own center-right party, the Moderates, Rasmussen, who was prime minister from 2009 to 2011 and again from 2015 to 2019, took office. Together with the Liberals, a fourth party, his Moderates are members of Frederiksen's new coalition administration. The last effort, in 1978–1979, lasted only 14 months, making the alliance between the right-wing Liberals and the left-wing Social Democrats rare in Denmark. In the end, Jakob Ellemann-Jensen, the head of the liberal party, decided to form a government with Frederiksen "in Denmark's best interest" after running an anti-Frederiksen campaign in an effort to secure a right-wing majority. Also read | 'Zombie flies' discovered by scientists in Denmark He is appointed defence minister and deputy prime minister. The second term of Frederiksen as prime minister appears to be significantly different from her first, which spanned from 2019 to 2022. During that time, she presided over a minority Social Democratic government that was dependent on the backing of her longtime left-wing friends. Even though the left-wing bloc won the election in November with an overwhelming majority, Frederiksen decided to establish a left-right coalition. She said that the conflict in Ukraine and the economic situation in the world today justified the action, but persuading the Liberals to join forces with her is also certain to cause a rift on the right wing. Although it had been receptive to the idea, Frederiksen was unable to persuade the center-left Social Liberal party to join the administration. 11 Social Democrats, eight Liberals, and five Moderates make up the new government, which is composed of 15 males and eight women. Nicolai Wammen, a Social Democrat, will continue to be in charge of the finance ministry. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Denmark's former PM Rasmussen appointed as new foreign minister

European Parliament's Vice-President Eva Kaili has been arrested on charges of corruption and money-laundering. Kaili is accused of accepting money and gifts from Qatar in exchange of influencing European policy in Doha's favour. @MollyGambhir tells you.

European Parliament corruption: Vice President Eva Kaili arrested for accepting money from Qatar

Belarus' Foreign Minister Vladimir Makai has died at the age of 64. The demise was announced by the State News Agency. Makai had held his post since 2012 and no cause of his death has been given.

Belarus: Foreign Minister Vladimir Makai passes away, cause of death remains unclear

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two&nbsp;days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kani said, "We are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regarding the supply of energy sources, contribute to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it."

He emphasised the usage of national currencies, the Rupee-Rial, for trade between the two&nbsp;countries. He also spoke on the protests in his country pointing to Iran being a "free society" that is suffering because of western sanctions. He said, "Today, the Iranian economy, and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal."

He spoke on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the Turkish strikes in Northern Syria among other issues.

WION: There are protests in Iran, if you can talk about that, how has the situation been

Bagheri Kani: The developments you are mentioning are a natural phenomenon in the countries that are governed by the principles of democracy. Based on our religious beliefs and the principles of our constitution, it is the right of the people to criticise, raise objections&nbsp;and religious mandates to object. People should not be indifferent towards the developments in the society. So, I would stress that criticism is a natural phenomenon in a vibrant society like Iran. I would like to stress that women play a very pivotal and critical role in Iranian society. They have played an important role in different spheres of Iran's society, from scientific, social, economic, and political domains. We need to pay attention to different and special attention to what some western regimes are imposing in relation to developments in Iran. They consider themselves the defenders of human rights but during the past year they have been engaged in the biggest violation of human rights against the people of Iran, they have followed the policy of maximum pressure that was initiated by a madman, Trump. The European regimes have been implementers of those policies, following the massive sanctions against the Iranian people. They have created a lot of damage. Today the Iranian economy and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal. Because of these sanctions we have seen that many people in Iran who are suffering from hemophilia, thalassemia, the children, innocent children have not been able to access the necessary pharmaceuticals&nbsp;and many of them have fallen prey to these sanctions. These sanctions are denying the basic human rights of the Iranian people which should be noted. So, you heard the name of Mahsa Amini and reflected in your reports but there are others who have fallen prey because necessary pharmaceuticals were denied to them, they were suffering from thalassemia, and they died. Many Iranian children have fallen prey to the consequences of sanctions followed by western regimes. The main reason the names are not heard in your media is that western media are intermediaries between us and independent nations and countries like India. So independent media, like media in India, should get news directly so that they can access real developments, and real stories of our country.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/lt-gen-asim-munir-named-pakistans-new-army-chief-536997">Lt Gen Asim Munir named Pakistan’s new army chief &nbsp;</a>

WION: We have seen people being killed, your soccer team did not sing the Iran national anthem, what would you say to that?

Bagheri Kani:&nbsp;The national anthem, which is customary, sometimes the soccer team members&nbsp;whisper, I don't think that is a sign of showing anything. This is customary, some whisper, and some don't whisper. This is one of the deceptions on part of western media, they are having own view of things.

WION: Protesters, women protesters don't want to wear the headscarf, what would you say about that, and does it go against your culture?

Bagheri Kani: Iran is a free society and people enjoy the freedom of expression. The viewpoints, women, men, and different age groups within the framework of Iranian laws, and constitution, are free to express views and perspectives based on rules and regulations.

WION: How do you see India's stance on the issue?

Bagheri Kani: The Indian government has its own independent perspective regarding the developments in Iran and other countries. That is natural for the India&nbsp;to adopt a position that is not in line with the interest of western regimes. In other areas, we have seen India adopting independent perspectives that are in line with the interest of the nation. For example, look at the position adopted by India&nbsp;in relation to sanctions on Russia that is not following the step of the western regime and that is emanating from a position that is rooted in the interest of the Indian nation and serving the interest of Indian nation, that is showing the smartness on the part of your government.

WION: How do you see India-Iran relations and any plans to resume oil trade, oil from Iran to India

Bagheri Kani:&nbsp;In regards to Iran, we see no impediment regarding exporting Iranian energy sources to India and we are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regard to the supply of energy sources, contributing to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it.

WION: Are you looking at trading in local currencies, Rupee-Rial

Bagheri Kani: See, one of the important infrastructures that need to be strengthened in line with multilateralism in the world is to strengthen the financial and banking mechanism that is not based on the western banking mechanism. Transactions like in rupee, the rial. We are supporting the activation of financial and banking mechanisms, naturally to revive this mechanism, one that paves the way is the supply of energy sources from Iran to India.

WION: Any update on the JCPOA? You held talks with EAM on that. Has Iran increased its enrichment of uranium and use of advanced centrifuges at two nuclear sites?

Bagheri Kani: You pointed to talks with EAM Jaishankar on that, in that conversation we reviewed the latest development in our nuclear negotiations between Iran and other parties but regarding the enrichment activities that we are doing are in line with Iranian rights, also in line with international principles enshrined in NPT, based on the IAEA charter, and also safeguards agreements as regards to agreements and pacts. Regarding Iran's nuclear activities, we are following activities based on national interest, and the framework of international documents raised. All our activities are following international regulations and laws and are in line with the rights of the Iranian nation.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-clamps-lockdown-in-zhengzhou-following-violent-protests-at-iphone-factory-536945">China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring</a>

WION: Your stand on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and how you see India's stance. Will it change global geopolitics?

Bagheri Kani: Iran has declared that it is against the war, and it is not throwing its weight behind any party. We are supporting political solution that is based on reasonable initiatives. What I would like to stress, the war in Ukraine is a conspiracy done by the US to undermine Russia and by extension Europe. You must pay attention to the policy and attitude of Trump in relation to Europe. Trump endeavored to undermine Europe. Trump's way was a hard attitude, but Biden is soft, but they are following the same objective. So I would like to stress how independent powers like India and Iran should follow, their frameworks are the same, especially under SCO to strengthen the international system that is based on justice, also in the interest of independent powers and against unilateralism. Not allow unilateralism to be strengthened because of the consequences of the conflict that is being waged in that part of the world. But I believe the final consequence of the war is the weakening of the US itself. Independent countries are the final winners of this conflict. So continued interaction between independent powers like Iran&nbsp;and India is necessary and a must.

WION: There have been strikes by Turkey in Northern Syria, your reactions to it..

Bagheri Kani: We have serious and effective cooperation and interaction with the legitimate government in Syria in the same way India&nbsp;has the same type of interaction with the legitimate government of Syria.

Sidhant Sibal: But how do you see the Turkish strikes

Bagheri Kani: We do not approve of any kind of intervention in the internal affairs of Syria, and we are engaged with other countries in the region under various formats like the Astana format. We are supporting the territorial integrity, interest of the Syrian people, and national interest based on international regulation.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr.

Iran Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani has said that his country is willing to export oil to India and sees "no impediment" in that. The minister is in Delhi for two days and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Wednesday. Speaking to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Kani said, "We are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regarding the supply of energy sources, contribute to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it." He emphasised the usage of national currencies, the Rupee-Rial, for trade between the two countries. He also spoke on the protests in his country pointing to Iran being a "free society" that is suffering because of western sanctions. He said, "Today, the Iranian economy, and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal." He spoke on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict, and the Turkish strikes in Northern Syria among other issues. WION: There are protests in Iran, if you can talk about that, how has the situation been Bagheri Kani: The developments you are mentioning are a natural phenomenon in the countries that are governed by the principles of democracy. Based on our religious beliefs and the principles of our constitution, it is the right of the people to criticise, raise objections and religious mandates to object. People should not be indifferent towards the developments in the society. So, I would stress that criticism is a natural phenomenon in a vibrant society like Iran. I would like to stress that women play a very pivotal and critical role in Iranian society. They have played an important role in different spheres of Iran's society, from scientific, social, economic, and political domains. We need to pay attention to different and special attention to what some western regimes are imposing in relation to developments in Iran. They consider themselves the defenders of human rights but during the past year they have been engaged in the biggest violation of human rights against the people of Iran, they have followed the policy of maximum pressure that was initiated by a madman, Trump. The European regimes have been implementers of those policies, following the massive sanctions against the Iranian people. They have created a lot of damage. Today the Iranian economy and infrastructure are impacted. These sanctions are illegal. Because of these sanctions we have seen that many people in Iran who are suffering from hemophilia, thalassemia, the children, innocent children have not been able to access the necessary pharmaceuticals and many of them have fallen prey to these sanctions. These sanctions are denying the basic human rights of the Iranian people which should be noted. So, you heard the name of Mahsa Amini and reflected in your reports but there are others who have fallen prey because necessary pharmaceuticals were denied to them, they were suffering from thalassemia, and they died. Many Iranian children have fallen prey to the consequences of sanctions followed by western regimes. The main reason the names are not heard in your media is that western media are intermediaries between us and independent nations and countries like India. So independent media, like media in India, should get news directly so that they can access real developments, and real stories of our country. Also read | Lt Gen Asim Munir named Pakistan’s new army chief WION: We have seen people being killed, your soccer team did not sing the Iran national anthem, what would you say to that? Bagheri Kani: The national anthem, which is customary, sometimes the soccer team members whisper, I don't think that is a sign of showing anything. This is customary, some whisper, and some don't whisper. This is one of the deceptions on part of western media, they are having own view of things. WION: Protesters, women protesters don't want to wear the headscarf, what would you say about that, and does it go against your culture? Bagheri Kani: Iran is a free society and people enjoy the freedom of expression. The viewpoints, women, men, and different age groups within the framework of Iranian laws, and constitution, are free to express views and perspectives based on rules and regulations. WION: How do you see India's stance on the issue? Bagheri Kani: The Indian government has its own independent perspective regarding the developments in Iran and other countries. That is natural for the India to adopt a position that is not in line with the interest of western regimes. In other areas, we have seen India adopting independent perspectives that are in line with the interest of the nation. For example, look at the position adopted by India in relation to sanctions on Russia that is not following the step of the western regime and that is emanating from a position that is rooted in the interest of the Indian nation and serving the interest of Indian nation, that is showing the smartness on the part of your government. WION: How do you see India-Iran relations and any plans to resume oil trade, oil from Iran to India Bagheri Kani: In regards to Iran, we see no impediment regarding exporting Iranian energy sources to India and we are ready to revive the same transactions that we have regard to the supply of energy sources, contributing to the energy security of India, to have an effective role in it. WION: Are you looking at trading in local currencies, Rupee-Rial Bagheri Kani: See, one of the important infrastructures that need to be strengthened in line with multilateralism in the world is to strengthen the financial and banking mechanism that is not based on the western banking mechanism. Transactions like in rupee, the rial. We are supporting the activation of financial and banking mechanisms, naturally to revive this mechanism, one that paves the way is the supply of energy sources from Iran to India. WION: Any update on the JCPOA? You held talks with EAM on that. Has Iran increased its enrichment of uranium and use of advanced centrifuges at two nuclear sites? Bagheri Kani: You pointed to talks with EAM Jaishankar on that, in that conversation we reviewed the latest development in our nuclear negotiations between Iran and other parties but regarding the enrichment activities that we are doing are in line with Iranian rights, also in line with international principles enshrined in NPT, based on the IAEA charter, and also safeguards agreements as regards to agreements and pacts. Regarding Iran's nuclear activities, we are following activities based on national interest, and the framework of international documents raised. All our activities are following international regulations and laws and are in line with the rights of the Iranian nation. Also read | China locks down Zhengzhou after iPhone plant protest, Foxconn apologises over hiring WION: Your stand on the Russia-Ukraine conflict and how you see India's stance. Will it change global geopolitics? Bagheri Kani: Iran has declared that it is against the war, and it is not throwing its weight behind any party. We are supporting political solution that is based on reasonable initiatives. What I would like to stress, the war in Ukraine is a conspiracy done by the US to undermine Russia and by extension Europe. You must pay attention to the policy and attitude of Trump in relation to Europe. Trump endeavored to undermine Europe. Trump's way was a hard attitude, but Biden is soft, but they are following the same objective. So I would like to stress how independent powers like India and Iran should follow, their frameworks are the same, especially under SCO to strengthen the international system that is based on justice, also in the interest of independent powers and against unilateralism. Not allow unilateralism to be strengthened because of the consequences of the conflict that is being waged in that part of the world. But I believe the final consequence of the war is the weakening of the US itself. Independent countries are the final winners of this conflict. So continued interaction between independent powers like Iran and India is necessary and a must. WION: There have been strikes by Turkey in Northern Syria, your reactions to it.. Bagheri Kani: We have serious and effective cooperation and interaction with the legitimate government in Syria in the same way India has the same type of interaction with the legitimate government of Syria. Sidhant Sibal: But how do you see the Turkish strikes Bagheri Kani: We do not approve of any kind of intervention in the internal affairs of Syria, and we are engaged with other countries in the region under various formats like the Astana format. We are supporting the territorial integrity, interest of the Syrian people, and national interest based on international regulation.

Ready to revive oil exports to India, says Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Bagheri Kani

Following a deadly clash between Armenia and Azerbaijan, the Foreign Ministers of the two countries held talks in Geneva on a future possible peace agreement.

Armenia and Azerbaijan hold peace talks after deadly border clashes

Iran will respond to the European Union's "final" draft text to save a 2015 nuclear deal by midnight on Monday, its foreign minister said, calling on the United States to show flexibility to resolve three remaining issues.

After 16 months of fitful, indirect U.S.-Iranian talks, with the EU shuttling between the parties, a senior EU official said on Aug. 8 it had laid down a "final" offer and expected a response within a "very, very few weeks."

While Washington has said it is ready to quickly seal a deal to restore the 2015 accord on the basis of the EU proposals, Iranian negotiators said Tehran's "additional views and considerations" to the EU text would be conveyed later.

"Our answer will be given to the EU tonight at 12 midnight...There are three issues that if resolved, we can reach an agreement in the coming days," Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said, suggesting Tehran's response would not be a final acceptance or rejection of the EU proposal.

"We have told them that our red lines should be respected...We have shown enough flexibility...We do not want to reach a deal that after 40 days, two months or three months fails to be materialised on the ground."

Diplomats and officials told Reuters that whether or not Tehran and Washington accept the EU's "final" offer, neither is likely to declare the pact dead because keeping it alive serves both sides' interests.

Amirabdollahian said that "the coming days are very important" to see whether the United States will show flexibility over the remaining three issues.

"It would not be end of the world if they fail to show flexibility...Then we will need more efforts and talks...to resolve the remaining issues," he said.

The stakes are high, since failure in the nuclear negotiations would carry the risk of a fresh regional war with

Israel threatening military action against Iran if diplomacy fails to prevent Tehran develop a nuclear weapons capability.

Tehran, which has long denied having such ambition, has warned of a "crushing" response to any Israeli attack.

"Like Washington, we have our own plan B if the talks fail," Amirabdollahian said.

In 2018, then-President Donald Trump reneged on the deal reached before he took office, calling it too soft on Iran, and reimposed harsh U.S. sanctions, spurring the Islamic Republic to begin breaching its limits on uranium enrichment.

The 2015 agreement appeared on the verge of revival in March after 11 months of indirect talks between Tehran and U.S. President Joe Biden's administration in Vienna.

But talks broke down over obstacles including Tehran's demand that Washington provide guarantees that no U.S. president would abandon the deal as Trump did.

Biden cannot promise this because the nuclear deal is a non-binding political understanding, not a legally binding treaty.

"They need to adopt a realistic approach about guarantees. Regarding the two other remaining issues, they have shown some relative flexibility verbally, but it needs to be mentioned in the text," Amirabdollahian said. 
&nbsp;

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Iran will respond to the European Union's "final" draft text to save a 2015 nuclear deal by midnight on Monday, its foreign minister said, calling on the United States to show flexibility to resolve three remaining issues.

Iran will respond to the European Union's "final" draft text to save a 2015 nuclear deal by midnight on Monday, its foreign minister said, calling on the United States to show flexibility to resolve three remaining issues. After 16 months of fitful, indirect U.S.-Iranian talks, with the EU shuttling between the parties, a senior EU official said on Aug. 8 it had laid down a "final" offer and expected a response within a "very, very few weeks." While Washington has said it is ready to quickly seal a deal to restore the 2015 accord on the basis of the EU proposals, Iranian negotiators said Tehran's "additional views and considerations" to the EU text would be conveyed later. "Our answer will be given to the EU tonight at 12 midnight...There are three issues that if resolved, we can reach an agreement in the coming days," Foreign Minister Hossein Amirabdollahian said, suggesting Tehran's response would not be a final acceptance or rejection of the EU proposal. "We have told them that our red lines should be respected...We have shown enough flexibility...We do not want to reach a deal that after 40 days, two months or three months fails to be materialised on the ground." Diplomats and officials told Reuters that whether or not Tehran and Washington accept the EU's "final" offer, neither is likely to declare the pact dead because keeping it alive serves both sides' interests. Amirabdollahian said that "the coming days are very important" to see whether the United States will show flexibility over the remaining three issues. "It would not be end of the world if they fail to show flexibility...Then we will need more efforts and talks...to resolve the remaining issues," he said. The stakes are high, since failure in the nuclear negotiations would carry the risk of a fresh regional war with Israel threatening military action against Iran if diplomacy fails to prevent Tehran develop a nuclear weapons capability. Tehran, which has long denied having such ambition, has warned of a "crushing" response to any Israeli attack. "Like Washington, we have our own plan B if the talks fail," Amirabdollahian said. In 2018, then-President Donald Trump reneged on the deal reached before he took office, calling it too soft on Iran, and reimposed harsh U.S. sanctions, spurring the Islamic Republic to begin breaching its limits on uranium enrichment. The 2015 agreement appeared on the verge of revival in March after 11 months of indirect talks between Tehran and U.S. President Joe Biden's administration in Vienna. But talks broke down over obstacles including Tehran's demand that Washington provide guarantees that no U.S. president would abandon the deal as Trump did. Biden cannot promise this because the nuclear deal is a non-binding political understanding, not a legally binding treaty. "They need to adopt a realistic approach about guarantees. Regarding the two other remaining issues, they have shown some relative flexibility verbally, but it needs to be mentioned in the text," Amirabdollahian said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Foreign minister: Iran will respond to EU's nuclear text by midnight Monday

Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias has called for strengthening ties with India as the world faces a "maelstrom of international developments". In his address at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), he said, "we are trying to develop our relations with countries which, as I say, lie beyond the horizon: emerging powers that have similar or compatible positions with us", explaining, "I am referring to India, which is poised to become the world's most populous country next year".

Earlier this year, FM Nikos visited India and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, a visit that came after India's foreign Miniter's visit to his country last year. During talks in Delhi, they discussed many issues including the situation in the eastern Mediterranean where Turkish actions have been violating the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, UNCLOS.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sri-lankan-crisis-economy-lessons-india-can-learn-498205">Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn</a>

During the visit, the Greek Foreign Minister handed over the Instrument of Ratification of Greece as a signatory to the Framework Agreement on International Solar Alliance. Trade between the 2 countries has crossed US$ 1 billion despite the challenges posed by the covid pandemic.

The Greek FM also hoped to develop ties with Japan, and Vietnam which share "positions similar to ours on the Law of the Sea", Australia and Indonesia. On the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the foreign minister said that it has "changed the world" and is a violation of "principles of International Law". He said that the invasion has led to food and energy crises and they can have "devastating consequences for societies all over the world, resulting in social upheavals and migratory flows", adding, "We all, probably, watched the latest events in Sri Lanka on our television screens."

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Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias has called for strengthening ties with India as the world faces a "maelstrom of international developments". In his address at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), he said, "we are trying to develop our relations with countries which, as I say, lie beyond the horizon: emerging powers that have similar or compatible positions with us", explaining, "I am referring to India, which is poised to become the world's most populous country next year".

Greece's foreign minister Nikos Dendias has called for strengthening ties with India as the world faces a "maelstrom of international developments". In his address at the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens (NKUA), he said, "we are trying to develop our relations with countries which, as I say, lie beyond the horizon: emerging powers that have similar or compatible positions with us", explaining, "I am referring to India, which is poised to become the world's most populous country next year". Earlier this year, FM Nikos visited India and held talks with External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, a visit that came after India's foreign Miniter's visit to his country last year. During talks in Delhi, they discussed many issues including the situation in the eastern Mediterranean where Turkish actions have been violating the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, UNCLOS. Also Read: Sri Lankan crisis: Economy lessons India can learn During the visit, the Greek Foreign Minister handed over the Instrument of Ratification of Greece as a signatory to the Framework Agreement on International Solar Alliance. Trade between the 2 countries has crossed US$ 1 billion despite the challenges posed by the covid pandemic. The Greek FM also hoped to develop ties with Japan, and Vietnam which share "positions similar to ours on the Law of the Sea", Australia and Indonesia. On the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the foreign minister said that it has "changed the world" and is a violation of "principles of International Law". He said that the invasion has led to food and energy crises and they can have "devastating consequences for societies all over the world, resulting in social upheavals and migratory flows", adding, "We all, probably, watched the latest events in Sri Lanka on our television screens."

Greece Foreign Minister calls for strengthening ties with India

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