Foreign Secretary <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/harsh-vardhan-shringla-takes-charge-as-new-foreign-secretary-277315">Harsh Vardhan Shringla</a> on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said.

"Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador @drahmedalbanna of #UAE. FS expressed happiness at the strong and growing bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed next steps to consolidate our ties and seek partnership in new areas," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

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Foreign Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/HarshShringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarshShringla</a> met Ambassador of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. <a href="https://twitter.com/FranceinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FranceinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/harshvshringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harshvshringla</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ncZcFUW6D">pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1237248619503185921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Watch: Exclusive conversation with UAE Ambassador Dr Ahmed Al Banna

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Qatar has temporarily banned the entry of people arriving from 15 countries, including India, Pakistan, and China.

In an advisory, Qatar's government communications office also denied "all individuals intending to enter from these countries, including visas upon arrival, those with a residence or work permit, and temporary visitors."

UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday said an Indian national is among 15 new cases of the deadly coronavirus in the Middle East country.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met UAE Ambassador to India Ahmed Al Banna and discussed future steps on consolidating bilateral comprehensive strategic partnership in new areas between the two countries, an official said. "Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador @drahmedalbanna of #UAE. FS expressed happiness at the strong and growing bilateral Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and discussed next steps to consolidate our ties and seek partnership in new areas," Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador of #France Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. @FranceinIndia @harshvshringla pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 10, 2020 × Watch: Exclusive conversation with UAE Ambassador Dr Ahmed Al Banna Qatar has temporarily banned the entry of people arriving from 15 countries, including India, Pakistan, and China. In an advisory, Qatar's government communications office also denied "all individuals intending to enter from these countries, including visas upon arrival, those with a residence or work permit, and temporary visitors." UAE's Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) on Friday said an Indian national is among 15 new cases of the deadly coronavirus in the Middle East country.

Foreign Secretary meets UAE ambassador, discusses new avenues for strategic partnership

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met French Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain and discussed future steps in Indo-French partnership and new areas for both countries to work together in.

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Foreign Secretary <a href="https://twitter.com/HarshShringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HarshShringla</a> met Ambassador of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/France?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#France</a> Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. <a href="https://twitter.com/FranceinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FranceinIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/harshvshringla?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@harshvshringla</a> <a href="https://t.co/8ncZcFUW6D">pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D</a>
— Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia/status/1237248619503185921?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 10, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador of France Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-meets-uae-ambassador-discusses-new-avenues-for-strategic-partnership-285396">Foreign Secretary meets UAE ambassador, discusses new avenues for strategic partnership</a>

India and France have been strategic partners since 1998. India and France first signed "strategic partnership" during French President Jacques Chirac's visit to India in 1998.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/foreign-secy-briefs-media-india-us-held-talks-in-five-major-categories-282707">Foreign Secy briefs Media: India-US held talks in Five Major Categories</a>

Both countries have a common approach towards civilisational exceptionalism and have found their places strongly in the multipolar world after the end of the Cold War.India and France also share a healthy partnership in the defence sector, making France one of India`s important strategic partners. (ANI)

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met French Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain and discussed future steps in Indo-French partnership and new areas for both countries to work together in.

Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Tuesday met French Ambassador Emmanuel Lenain and discussed future steps in Indo-French partnership and new areas for both countries to work together in. Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador of #France Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields. @FranceinIndia @harshvshringla pic.twitter.com/8ncZcFUW6D — Raveesh Kumar (@MEAIndia) March 10, 2020 × "Foreign Secretary @HarshShringla met Ambassador of France Emmanuel Lenain and discussed the enduring India-France strategic partnership and our exchanges in diverse fields," Ministry of External Affairs Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted. Also read: Foreign Secretary meets UAE ambassador, discusses new avenues for strategic partnership India and France have been strategic partners since 1998. India and France first signed "strategic partnership" during French President Jacques Chirac's visit to India in 1998. Also read: Foreign Secy briefs Media: India-US held talks in Five Major Categories Both countries have a common approach towards civilisational exceptionalism and have found their places strongly in the multipolar world after the end of the Cold War.India and France also share a healthy partnership in the defence sector, making France one of India`s important strategic partners. (ANI)

Foreign Secretary Shringla meets French Ambassador, discusses Indo-French partnership

Clearing the air on Assam's National Register of Citizens, India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday said that it will not impact Bangladesh. Speaking at an event in Dhaka, Shringla said, "Let me clearly state here what our leadership has repeatedly confirmed at the highest level to the Government of Bangladesh: this is a process that is entirely internal to India.

Clearing the air on Assam's National Register of Citizens, India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Monday said that it will not impact Bangladesh. Speaking at an event in Dhaka, Shringla said, "Let me clearly state here what our leadership has repeatedly confirmed at the highest level to the Government of Bangladesh: this is a process that is entirely internal to India." ''It will have no implications for the government and people of Bangladesh. You have our assurance on that count," he added. He said the process of updating the National Register of Citizens in Assam has taken place "entirely at the direction and under the supervision" of the Supreme Court of India. The NRC in Assam has been discussed at the leadership level between PM Modi and Bangladeshi PM Shiekh Hasina. Shringla's comment comes days before PM Modi's Bangladesh visit. On military ties, he said New Delhi was willing to share with Dhaka the military hardware being manufactured in India. He also offered training of Bangladeshi personnel at Indian institutes. Shringla said, "we are ready to open military training institutes at all levels -- from officer cadet training to specialized higher command training -- to Bangladesh." On the Rohingya issue, he said ''India is deeply appreciative of the spirit of humanism that motivated Bangladesh to offer shelter to nearly one million displaced people". Hoping for a solution to the crisis, Shringla said, "As the only country that is an actual neighbour of both Bangladesh and Myanmar, we are committed to offering the fullest support for any mutually-acceptable solution that will enable the earliest possible return of displaced persons to their homes in Rakhine State and a life of dignity." During his Dhaka visit, Foreign Secretary met Bangladeshi FM AK Abdul Momen and Bangladeshi foreign secretary Masud Bin Mamun.

Assam's NRC will not impact Bangladesh, says India's foreign secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla

India and the US held talks in five major categories - security, defence, energy, technology and people to people contact, with President Donald Trump. Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Tuesday.

Foreign Secy briefs Media: India-US held talks in Five Major Categories

Seasoned diplomat Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who last served as India’s envoy to the US, took charge as new foreign secretary on Wednesday for a fixed two-year term, succeeding Vijay Gokhale.&nbsp;

His assuming charge of the high-profile post comes at a time when India is facing a plethora of foreign policy challenges including ramping up of diplomatic outreach in the wake of criticism by some countries and global institutions of the new citizenship law.

India is also facing an increasingly assertive Trump administration and China’s attempt to expand its military and economic influence in the region.&nbsp;

Speaking to reporters ahead of taking the charge, Shringla, a 1984-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), said he is very clear about the fact that foreign service is a public service and its every effort should be dedicated to contributing towards the nation in the form of its security and prosperity through external engagements.

Seasoned diplomat Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who last served as India’s envoy to the US, took charge as new foreign secretary on Wednesday for a fixed two-year term, succeeding Vijay Gokhale.

Seasoned diplomat Harsh Vardhan Shringla, who last served as India’s envoy to the US, took charge as new foreign secretary on Wednesday for a fixed two-year term, succeeding Vijay Gokhale. His assuming charge of the high-profile post comes at a time when India is facing a plethora of foreign policy challenges including ramping up of diplomatic outreach in the wake of criticism by some countries and global institutions of the new citizenship law. India is also facing an increasingly assertive Trump administration and China’s attempt to expand its military and economic influence in the region. Speaking to reporters ahead of taking the charge, Shringla, a 1984-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), said he is very clear about the fact that foreign service is a public service and its every effort should be dedicated to contributing towards the nation in the form of its security and prosperity through external engagements.

Harsh Vardhan Shringla takes charge as new foreign secretary

Senior diplomat and India’s Ambassador in the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla has been appointed as the new foreign secretary, a Personnel Ministry order said.

The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the appointment, it said.

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Breaking: Indian envoy to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla appointed as the next foreign Secretary <a href="https://t.co/Mb9YXM6S3Z">pic.twitter.com/Mb9YXM6S3Z</a>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1209122892455170048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 23, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Shringla will serve on the post for two years effective from January 29, 2020.

A 1984 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Shringla has served the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on a variety of positions in his career spanning 35 years.

Before taking over the highest post in MEA, Shringla has been the High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh and Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand.&nbsp;

Additionally, he has served UNESCO and the United Nations.&nbsp;

A graduate of the St Stephen's College, he is well versed in many languages including French, Vietnamese, Nepalese, and English.

Present foreign secretary Vijay Keshav Gokhale will step down next week after completing two years in office.

Senior diplomat and India’s Ambassador in the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla has been appointed as the new foreign secretary, a Personnel Ministry order said. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the appointment, it said.

Senior diplomat and India’s Ambassador in the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla has been appointed as the new foreign secretary, a Personnel Ministry order said. The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet approved the appointment, it said. Breaking: Indian envoy to US Harsh Vardhan Shringla appointed as the next foreign Secretary pic.twitter.com/Mb9YXM6S3Z — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) December 23, 2019 × Shringla will serve on the post for two years effective from January 29, 2020. A 1984 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer Shringla has served the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on a variety of positions in his career spanning 35 years. Before taking over the highest post in MEA, Shringla has been the High Commissioner of India to Bangladesh and Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of Thailand. Additionally, he has served UNESCO and the United Nations. A graduate of the St Stephen's College, he is well versed in many languages including French, Vietnamese, Nepalese, and English. Present foreign secretary Vijay Keshav Gokhale will step down next week after completing two years in office.

Harsh Vardhan Shringla, Indian envoy to US, appointed new foreign secretary of India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the "special gesture" of United States President Donald Trump to participate in one of the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on 22nd of September.&nbsp;

PM Modi will address the event, Howdy Modi, which will see the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-modi-addressing-howdy-modi-event-reflects-personal-chemistry-between-two-indian-us-envoy-249891">participation of 50,000 people</a>, mostly Indian Americans.

In a tweet, PM said&nbsp;the participation "highlights the strength of the relationship and recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy."

The event will take place in NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on September 22 8.30 pm.

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A special gesture by <a href="https://twitter.com/POTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@POTUS</a>, signifying the special friendship between India and USA! 
 
Delighted that President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> will join the community programme in Houston on the 22nd. 
 
Looking forward to joining the Indian origin community in welcoming him at the programme.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1173449532769632261?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Earlier, the White House confirmed Donald Trump's participation saying it underscores the important partnerships between the United States and India.

In a statement, White House said, "In Houston, President Trump will participate in an event with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The event, “Howdy, Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures,” is expected to draw tens of thousands of people."

Explaining, "It will be a great opportunity to emphasize&nbsp;the strong ties between the people of the United States and India, to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the world’s oldest and largest democracies, and to discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship."

The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum.

Calling the development "unconventional and unique", Indian Ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, "It reflects not only closeness and comfort levels in the relationship but also personal chemistry and friendship between PM Modi &amp; President Trump."

India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA. 
&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the "special gesture" of United States President Donald Trump to participate in one of the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on 22nd of September.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has welcomed the "special gesture" of United States President Donald Trump to participate in one of the largest Indian diaspora event in Houston, Texas on 22nd of September. PM Modi will address the event, Howdy Modi, which will see the participation of 50,000 people, mostly Indian Americans. In a tweet, PM said the participation "highlights the strength of the relationship and recognition of the contribution of the Indian community to American society and economy." The event will take place in NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas on September 22 8.30 pm. A special gesture by @POTUS, signifying the special friendship between India and USA! Delighted that President @realDonaldTrump will join the community programme in Houston on the 22nd. Looking forward to joining the Indian origin community in welcoming him at the programme. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 16, 2019 × Earlier, the White House confirmed Donald Trump's participation saying it underscores the important partnerships between the United States and India. In a statement, White House said, "In Houston, President Trump will participate in an event with Prime Minister Narendra Modi of India. The event, “Howdy, Modi! Shared Dreams, Bright Futures,” is expected to draw tens of thousands of people." Explaining, "It will be a great opportunity to emphasize the strong ties between the people of the United States and India, to reaffirm the strategic partnership between the world’s oldest and largest democracies, and to discuss ways to deepen their energy and trade relationship." The event, bigger than the Madison Square Garden diaspora event in New York in 2014, is being hosted by Texas India Forum. Calling the development "unconventional and unique", Indian Ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla said, "It reflects not only closeness and comfort levels in the relationship but also personal chemistry and friendship between PM Modi & President Trump." India Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in US between September 21 and 27 during which he will also address the United Nations General Assembly, meet US CEOs and hold several bilaterals with many world leaders. This is the second Modi will be addressing the UNGA.

PM Modi hails Trump's 'special gesture' towards Houston diaspora event 'Howdy Modi'

Indian Ambassador to the United States Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday said that two leaders (Narendra Modi and Donald Trump) addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic and unprecedented.

Indian Ambassador to the United States Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday said that two leaders (Narendra Modi and Donald Trump) addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic and unprecedented. ''It reflects not only closeness and comfort levels in the relationship but also the personal chemistry and friendship between PM Modi and President Trump,'' Shringla added. Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be in Houston, Texas on September 22 to address the Indian diaspora in the region. Indian Ambassador to US,Harsh Vardhan Shringla to ANI: Two leaders addressing the ‘Howdy Modi’ event is historic&unprecedented. It reflects not only closeness&comfort levels in the relationship but also the personal chemistry&friendship between PM Modi and President Trump. https://t.co/csNHbNPz3L pic.twitter.com/uhyTyJfPoB — ANI (@ANI) September 16, 2019 × According to reports, as many as 60 US lawmakers will be present at the mega event including Tulsi Gabbard. ‘Howdy Modi’ preludes the United Nations General Assembly in New York in which both Modi and Trump will take part. According to Texas India Forum, more than 50,000 people have already registered for the event which now stands sold-out.

Trump, Modi addressing ‘Howdy Modi’ event reflects personal chemistry between two: Indian envoy to US

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions.

India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-warns-of-painful-consequences-if-us-escalates-tensions-220517">Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran</a> and ended all exemptions to sanctions, Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla said.

"That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Shringla told reporters during a briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election victory.

Shringla said that energy-hungry India has also ended all imports from Venezuela because it considered itself a partner of the United States -- but said the shift had caused pain at home, with Iran formerly supplying 10 per cent of India's oil needs.

Calling Iran "an extended neighbour" of India with longstanding cultural links, Shringla declined to say if New Delhi shared President Donald Trump's concerns about Tehran.

"This is an issue that has to be dealt with, really, between the United States and Iran. We are only, in many senses, looking at it as a third party," Shringla said.

But he added: "We would not like to see a move towards any escalation in any way in that area, for the simple reason that we depend very heavily on stability in that part of the world."

Trump last year pulled out of a multinational pact under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear work in return for promises of sanctions relief.

The Trump administration has instead ramped up economic pressure on Iran and recently deployed military assets including an aircraft carrier strike group to the area.

The United States as of May 2 ended exemptions it had given to eight governments from its unilateral order to stop buying Iranian oil.

Turkey, which enjoyed a waiver and vocally disagreed with the US policy, has also stopped importing oil from Iran, a Turkish official said Wednesday.

State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus welcomed the news from Turkey.

"We want the whole world to comply with these sanctions, and we're grateful for our partners and allies that are respecting them," she told reporters.

The Indian ambassador, however, voiced confidence that US sanctions would not affect its partnership in developing Iran's Chabahar port.&nbsp;

India wants to use the port to ship supplies into Afghanistan in a detour from its arch-rival Pakistan, which historically backed the Taliban.&nbsp;

"I think it is in the interest of both our countries and all others concerned to ensure that that lifeline continues for the people of Afghanistan," Shringla said.

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions.

India has ended all imports of oil from Iran, its ambassador in Washington said Thursday, becoming the latest country to grudgingly comply with threatened US sanctions. India had already sharply decreased its imports from Iran and bought one million tonnes (tons) of crude in April, the last month before Washington stepped up its pressure campaign against Tehran and ended all exemptions to sanctions, Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla said. "That's it. After that we haven't imported any," Shringla told reporters during a briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's election victory. Shringla said that energy-hungry India has also ended all imports from Venezuela because it considered itself a partner of the United States -- but said the shift had caused pain at home, with Iran formerly supplying 10 per cent of India's oil needs. Calling Iran "an extended neighbour" of India with longstanding cultural links, Shringla declined to say if New Delhi shared President Donald Trump's concerns about Tehran. "This is an issue that has to be dealt with, really, between the United States and Iran. We are only, in many senses, looking at it as a third party," Shringla said. But he added: "We would not like to see a move towards any escalation in any way in that area, for the simple reason that we depend very heavily on stability in that part of the world." Trump last year pulled out of a multinational pact under which Iran drastically scaled back its nuclear work in return for promises of sanctions relief. The Trump administration has instead ramped up economic pressure on Iran and recently deployed military assets including an aircraft carrier strike group to the area. The United States as of May 2 ended exemptions it had given to eight governments from its unilateral order to stop buying Iranian oil. Turkey, which enjoyed a waiver and vocally disagreed with the US policy, has also stopped importing oil from Iran, a Turkish official said Wednesday. State Department spokeswoman Morgan Ortagus welcomed the news from Turkey. "We want the whole world to comply with these sanctions, and we're grateful for our partners and allies that are respecting them," she told reporters. The Indian ambassador, however, voiced confidence that US sanctions would not affect its partnership in developing Iran's Chabahar port. India wants to use the port to ship supplies into Afghanistan in a detour from its arch-rival Pakistan, which historically backed the Taliban. "I think it is in the interest of both our countries and all others concerned to ensure that that lifeline continues for the people of Afghanistan," Shringla said.

Amid Washington-Tehran tension, India ends Iranian oil imports: Envoy

India's Ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said that India will not keep quiet to any act of terrorism and giving "appropriate response" to all terrorism incidents is the new normal for the country.

In a first-of-its-kind interaction with Indian students from the various universities from the Greater Washington area, Shringla said that Pakistan needs to meet its international obligations to crackdown on terrorist networks and safe havens within its territory.

Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a suicide attack by Pakistan-based JeM in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country.

Following the attack, India bombed and destroyed JeM's biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC) early Tuesday, killing a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. 
Shringla updated the Indian students about the latest development back home and why India choose to act this way, after the Pulwama terrorist attack.&nbsp;

He said that Pakistan did not act against terrorist organisations or its leaders despite India giving actionable intelligence against the 26/11, Pathankot and Uri attacks.

"This time, India opted for pre-emptive attack, mainly because terrorists were planning to launch another terrorist attack inside India, he said referring to the daring air strike by Indian Air Force deep inside Pakistan.&nbsp; 
"By doing so, India ensured that it was a non-military, and in remote area with no civilian casualties," he said.

Shringla said that India has been successful in articulating its case with the international community including the US.&nbsp;

"The international community is with India," he said.

Appreciating the strong support coming from the United States, in particular from the White House, the State Department and the Congress, Shringla said this incident has brought the two countries together for counter-terrorism cooperation.&nbsp;

India's Ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said that India will not keep quiet to any act of terrorism and giving "appropriate response" to all terrorism incidents is the new normal for the country.

India's Ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said that India will not keep quiet to any act of terrorism and giving "appropriate response" to all terrorism incidents is the new normal for the country. In a first-of-its-kind interaction with Indian students from the various universities from the Greater Washington area, Shringla said that Pakistan needs to meet its international obligations to crackdown on terrorist networks and safe havens within its territory. Forty CRPF personnel were killed in a suicide attack by Pakistan-based JeM in Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama district on February 14, sparking outrage in the country. Following the attack, India bombed and destroyed JeM's biggest training camp in Balakot in Pakistan's restive Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, about 80-km from the Line of Control (LoC) early Tuesday, killing a "very large number" of terrorists, trainers and senior commanders. Shringla updated the Indian students about the latest development back home and why India choose to act this way, after the Pulwama terrorist attack. He said that Pakistan did not act against terrorist organisations or its leaders despite India giving actionable intelligence against the 26/11, Pathankot and Uri attacks. "This time, India opted for pre-emptive attack, mainly because terrorists were planning to launch another terrorist attack inside India, he said referring to the daring air strike by Indian Air Force deep inside Pakistan. "By doing so, India ensured that it was a non-military, and in remote area with no civilian casualties," he said. Shringla said that India has been successful in articulating its case with the international community including the US. "The international community is with India," he said. Appreciating the strong support coming from the United States, in particular from the White House, the State Department and the Congress, Shringla said this incident has brought the two countries together for counter-terrorism cooperation.

India will not keep quiet to any act of terrorism, says Ambassador to US

Indian Ambassador to the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday confirmed that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will have access to all students detained in 'Pay-and-stay' visa scam by Monday.

"Weight of the government of India is behind the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/detention-of-indian-students-mea-sends-demarche-to-us-embassy-194574">detained students</a> in the country,'' he said.

"We are obviously concerned and distressed that so many Indian students have been implicated in this issue regarding the University of Farmington in Farmington Hills, Michigan. We have been very quick off the block in trying to ensure that the interests of our students are protected." Shringla reportedly told ANI.

"We have either met or are scheduled to meet shortly a majority of students under detention. We have had our people go to each and every centre across the country to access our citizens and to ensure the students are okay. By Monday we will have access to almost all our students," he added.

Shringla said that the hotlines set up for the students have so far received over 100 calls.

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Indian Ambassador to the US, HV Shringla:We've either met or are scheduled to meet shortly majority of students under detention.We've had our ppl go to each&amp;every centre across country to access our citizens&amp;to ensure students are okay. By Monday,we'll have access to our students <a href="https://t.co/5o98cMdETO">https://t.co/5o98cMdETO</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1091920761424510976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2019</a></blockquote>
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India issued a demarche to the US Embassy in New Delhi on Saturday&nbsp;over the detention of the students and expressed concern over their well-being.

In a nationwide crackdown on Wednesday, US authorities arrested scores of Indian students, mainly from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, who were illegally staying in the country.

The students had allegedly enrolled in a fraudulent university in order to take advantage of the US government`s pay-to-stay scheme.

Indian Ambassador to the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday confirmed that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will have access to all students detained in 'Pay-and-stay' visa scam by Monday.

Indian Ambassador to the US Harsh Vardhan Shringla on Sunday confirmed that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) will have access to all students detained in 'Pay-and-stay' visa scam by Monday. "Weight of the government of India is behind the detained students in the country,'' he said. "We are obviously concerned and distressed that so many Indian students have been implicated in this issue regarding the University of Farmington in Farmington Hills, Michigan. We have been very quick off the block in trying to ensure that the interests of our students are protected." Shringla reportedly told ANI. "We have either met or are scheduled to meet shortly a majority of students under detention. We have had our people go to each and every centre across the country to access our citizens and to ensure the students are okay. By Monday we will have access to almost all our students," he added. Shringla said that the hotlines set up for the students have so far received over 100 calls. Indian Ambassador to the US, HV Shringla:We've either met or are scheduled to meet shortly majority of students under detention.We've had our ppl go to each&every centre across country to access our citizens&to ensure students are okay. By Monday,we'll have access to our students https://t.co/5o98cMdETO — ANI (@ANI) February 3, 2019 × India issued a demarche to the US Embassy in New Delhi on Saturday over the detention of the students and expressed concern over their well-being. In a nationwide crackdown on Wednesday, US authorities arrested scores of Indian students, mainly from Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, who were illegally staying in the country. The students had allegedly enrolled in a fraudulent university in order to take advantage of the US government`s pay-to-stay scheme.

'Pay-and-stay' visa scam: Will have access to all students by Monday, says Indian Ambassador to US

The new Indian high commissioner to the United States, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, has presented his credentials to US President Donald Trump in a ceremony at the White House. Shringla conveyed warm greetings from President Kovind and Prime Minister Modi to Trump and First Lady Melania.&nbsp;

"US President fondly recalled his friendship with Prime Minister Modi and his recent telephone conversation with the Prime Minister. He highlighted <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/opinion-explaining-trumps-blow-hot-blow-cold-india-policy-165229">the broad range of strategic interests and fundamental democratic values shared between our two countries</a>," a statement from the Indian high commission in the US said.&nbsp;

"The United States is the partner of choice in India’s remarkable journey of transformation. Our investment relationship has become increasingly reciprocal, with growing American investments in India being matched by rapid growth in Indian investments in the United States. These have helped fulfil our common objective of creating more jobs, promoting prosperity and economic growth in our respective countries," Shringla said in his written remarks to Trump.&nbsp;

Shringla said India has been a "positive and stabilising partner of the United States in South Asia and Indo Pacific region" and our approach and action in the region have largely complemented each other’s. On Afghanistan he said: "India has scaled up its economic development assistance to Afghanistan", adding, "India will always strive to remain the net security provider and the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region, working in concert with our most important partners including the United States."

India and the US held their inaugural 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September 2018 and Indian PM Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had a trilateral JAI (Japan, America, India) meeting in December 2018 on the sidelines of G20 Summit.

Shringla, who was before this India's high commissioner to Bangladesh, said "India and the United States are the world’s largest and the oldest democracies". He added that "our relationship has been nurtured by shared belief in democratic values, individual freedom and rule of law, and increasingly, by strong convergences of interest on key regional and global issues — making ours a truly global partnership."

 
Pakistani ambassador also presents credientials to Trump

Pakistan’s new ambassador to the United States of America, Dr Asad Majeed Khan, also presented his credentials to Donald Trump.&nbsp;

According to a release by the Pakistani embassy in the United States, "Ambassador Khan conveyed the greetings of Pakistan’s leadership to President Trump who reciprocated with similar positive sentiments for Prime Minister Imran Khan." The release added that "President Trump has said that he wants to explore opportunities for the two countries to work closely together and to renew their partnership."

Later, in a message to the Pakistani American community, Asad said, "Our diaspora in the United States is a valuable asset that can play a vital role in realising Prime Minister Imran Khan's vision of building a stronger and better Pakistan"

The US-Pakistan relationship has seen a downward trend in the recent past due to what America says is Islamabad's continued support to terrorism which has created instability in the region.

The new Indian high commissioner to the United States, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, has presented his credentials to US President Donald Trump in a ceremony at the White House.

The new Indian high commissioner to the United States, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, has presented his credentials to US President Donald Trump in a ceremony at the White House. Shringla conveyed warm greetings from President Kovind and Prime Minister Modi to Trump and First Lady Melania. "US President fondly recalled his friendship with Prime Minister Modi and his recent telephone conversation with the Prime Minister. He highlighted the broad range of strategic interests and fundamental democratic values shared between our two countries," a statement from the Indian high commission in the US said. "The United States is the partner of choice in India’s remarkable journey of transformation. Our investment relationship has become increasingly reciprocal, with growing American investments in India being matched by rapid growth in Indian investments in the United States. These have helped fulfil our common objective of creating more jobs, promoting prosperity and economic growth in our respective countries," Shringla said in his written remarks to Trump. Shringla said India has been a "positive and stabilising partner of the United States in South Asia and Indo Pacific region" and our approach and action in the region have largely complemented each other’s. On Afghanistan he said: "India has scaled up its economic development assistance to Afghanistan", adding, "India will always strive to remain the net security provider and the first responder in the Indian Ocean Region, working in concert with our most important partners including the United States." India and the US held their inaugural 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue in September 2018 and Indian PM Narendra Modi, US President Donald Trump and Japanese PM Shinzo Abe had a trilateral JAI (Japan, America, India) meeting in December 2018 on the sidelines of G20 Summit. Shringla, who was before this India's high commissioner to Bangladesh, said "India and the United States are the world’s largest and the oldest democracies". He added that "our relationship has been nurtured by shared belief in democratic values, individual freedom and rule of law, and increasingly, by strong convergences of interest on key regional and global issues — making ours a truly global partnership." Pakistani ambassador also presents credientials to Trump Pakistan’s new ambassador to the United States of America, Dr Asad Majeed Khan, also presented his credentials to Donald Trump. According to a release by the Pakistani embassy in the United States, "Ambassador Khan conveyed the greetings of Pakistan’s leadership to President Trump who reciprocated with similar positive sentiments for Prime Minister Imran Khan." The release added that "President Trump has said that he wants to explore opportunities for the two countries to work closely together and to renew their partnership." Later, in a message to the Pakistani American community, Asad said, "Our diaspora in the United States is a valuable asset that can play a vital role in realising Prime Minister Imran Khan's vision of building a stronger and better Pakistan" The US-Pakistan relationship has seen a downward trend in the recent past due to what America says is Islamabad's continued support to terrorism which has created instability in the region.

India, US share 'strategic interests', 'fundamental democratic values': Trump to Indian high commissioner

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