Asserting that no sanyasi (seer) has been awarded Bharat Ratna since independence, Yog Guru Ramdev on Sunday demanded that seers in the country should also be conferred with the highest civilian honour for their contributions.

“I respect all the people who were given Bharat Ratna. Whoever contributes in the developmental works, they should be given Bharat Ratna. If it can be given to players and artistes then why not to a Sanyasi? Is the contribution of Maharishi Dayananda and Swami Vivekananda less than any politician or artiste? Mother Teresa can get it because she was a Christian but no seers because they are Hindus. Is being Hindu a crime in this country?”

Claiming that not even one seer has been awarded the Bharat Ratna since its beginning, he further said, “It is unfortunate that in the last 70 years, not even one sanyasi has been awarded Bharat Ratna, be it Maharishi Dayananda Saraswati or Swami Vivekananda, Shivakumara Swami Ji. All these saints who have contributed so much must also be conferred with the Bharat Ratna. Many seers have given education to crores of children. So, Hindu sanyasis who have contributed should also get the Bharat Ratna".

The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award accorded in India.

This year, former President Pranab Mukherjee, late legendary singer Bhupen Hazarika and late social activist Nanaji Deshmukh were the recipients of the coveted honour.

A number of politicians from Karnataka, including former chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister G Parameshwara, had also raised demand to confer Bharat Ratna for late Siddaganga Mutt seer Shivakumara Swami.&nbsp;

Asserting that no sanyasi (seer) has been awarded Bharat Ratna since independence, Yog Guru Ramdev on Sunday demanded that seers in the country should also be conferred with the highest civilian honour for their contributions.

Asserting that no sanyasi (seer) has been awarded Bharat Ratna since independence, Yog Guru Ramdev on Sunday demanded that seers in the country should also be conferred with the highest civilian honour for their contributions. “I respect all the people who were given Bharat Ratna. Whoever contributes in the developmental works, they should be given Bharat Ratna. If it can be given to players and artistes then why not to a Sanyasi? Is the contribution of Maharishi Dayananda and Swami Vivekananda less than any politician or artiste? Mother Teresa can get it because she was a Christian but no seers because they are Hindus. Is being Hindu a crime in this country?” Claiming that not even one seer has been awarded the Bharat Ratna since its beginning, he further said, “It is unfortunate that in the last 70 years, not even one sanyasi has been awarded Bharat Ratna, be it Maharishi Dayananda Saraswati or Swami Vivekananda, Shivakumara Swami Ji. All these saints who have contributed so much must also be conferred with the Bharat Ratna. Many seers have given education to crores of children. So, Hindu sanyasis who have contributed should also get the Bharat Ratna". The Bharat Ratna is the highest civilian award accorded in India. This year, former President Pranab Mukherjee, late legendary singer Bhupen Hazarika and late social activist Nanaji Deshmukh were the recipients of the coveted honour. A number of politicians from Karnataka, including former chief minister Siddaramaiah and deputy chief minister G Parameshwara, had also raised demand to confer Bharat Ratna for late Siddaganga Mutt seer Shivakumara Swami.

Unfortunate that no sanyasi awarded Bharat Ratna in 70 years: Ramdev

A Pakistani delegation, led by its Indus Water Commissioner Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah, is all set to arrive on Sunday for a 5-day visit to visit Chenab basin on the Indian side. The visit is Indus Water Treaty-mandated and will take place from January 27-February 1.

The Pakistani delegation will arrive on Sunday via Wagha border and will be received by officials of Central Water Commission and Punjab government. The delegation will be received by India's commissioner for Indus Water PK Saxena in Delhi later in the day. They will be in Jammu from 28th to 31st January.&nbsp;

The visit was to take place in October of 2018 but was postponed due to local elections in Jammu and Kashmir.

In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides.&nbsp;

Under Article VIII of the Indus Water Treaty, the Commissioners of both the countries are mandated to undertake a general tour of the rivers in order to ascertain facts connected to various developments and works on the rivers on both sides.&nbsp;

This visit has to happen every five years. So far, no tour could be held in the current five-year block which ends in March 2020.

The development comes when Pakistan has been stopping Indian cargo flights to Afghanistan. Earlier this week, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) targetted an Indian boat off the Gujarat coast leading to the death of an Indian fisherman. India strongly condemned the incident and raised the matter with Islamabad.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

A Pakistani delegation, led by its Indus Water Commissioner Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah, is all set to arrive on Sunday for a 5-day visit to visit Chenab basin on the Indian side.

A Pakistani delegation, led by its Indus Water Commissioner Syed Muhammad Mehar Ali Shah, is all set to arrive on Sunday for a 5-day visit to visit Chenab basin on the Indian side. The visit is Indus Water Treaty-mandated and will take place from January 27-February 1. The Pakistani delegation will arrive on Sunday via Wagha border and will be received by officials of Central Water Commission and Punjab government. The delegation will be received by India's commissioner for Indus Water PK Saxena in Delhi later in the day. They will be in Jammu from 28th to 31st January. The visit was to take place in October of 2018 but was postponed due to local elections in Jammu and Kashmir. In August 2018, during the 115th meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission in Lahore, India and Pakistan agreed to undertake the treaty-mandated tours of the Indus basin on both sides. Under Article VIII of the Indus Water Treaty, the Commissioners of both the countries are mandated to undertake a general tour of the rivers in order to ascertain facts connected to various developments and works on the rivers on both sides. This visit has to happen every five years. So far, no tour could be held in the current five-year block which ends in March 2020. The development comes when Pakistan has been stopping Indian cargo flights to Afghanistan. Earlier this week, Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) targetted an Indian boat off the Gujarat coast leading to the death of an Indian fisherman. India strongly condemned the incident and raised the matter with Islamabad.

Indus Water Treaty: Despite ongoing tussle, Pakistan delegation set to arrive in India on Sunday

India and South Africa have resolved to work together to address the issue of fugitive economic offenders through international organisations and institutions, said a joint statement released after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Cyril Ramaphosa held talks in Delhi on Friday.

Noting that terrorism is a serious threat to international peace, security and stability and that no country was immune to the danger that it represents, the two sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations regardless of its motivation, "whenever, wherever and by whosoever committed."

The two sides also noted the need for concerted action by the global community against terrorism through early agreement and adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, as well as the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in a balanced and integrated manner.

"They reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to address fugitive economic offenders, including through international organisations and institutions such as G20, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others," the statement said.

The two sides expressed satisfaction at the pace of cooperation in the defence sector encompassing a wide range of engagements including defence production, joint collaboration, manufacturing, research and development, training and joint exercises.

"The two sides also recognised the importance of increased bilateral naval cooperation and closer synergy within the context of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) which, by keeping the sea lanes secure against illegal actors, will ensure unhindered passage for trade and continued prosperity of the entire Indian Ocean Region," the statement said.&nbsp;

India and South Africa have resolved to work together to address the issue of fugitive economic offenders through international organisations and institutions, said a joint statement released after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Cyril Ramaphosa held talks in Delhi on Friday.

India and South Africa have resolved to work together to address the issue of fugitive economic offenders through international organisations and institutions, said a joint statement released after Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Cyril Ramaphosa held talks in Delhi on Friday. Noting that terrorism is a serious threat to international peace, security and stability and that no country was immune to the danger that it represents, the two sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations regardless of its motivation, "whenever, wherever and by whosoever committed." The two sides also noted the need for concerted action by the global community against terrorism through early agreement and adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, as well as the implementation of the United Nations Global Counter-Terrorism Strategy in a balanced and integrated manner. "They reiterated their commitment to working together on strengthening cooperation to address fugitive economic offenders, including through international organisations and institutions such as G20, Financial Action Task Force (FATF) and others," the statement said. The two sides expressed satisfaction at the pace of cooperation in the defence sector encompassing a wide range of engagements including defence production, joint collaboration, manufacturing, research and development, training and joint exercises. "The two sides also recognised the importance of increased bilateral naval cooperation and closer synergy within the context of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) which, by keeping the sea lanes secure against illegal actors, will ensure unhindered passage for trade and continued prosperity of the entire Indian Ocean Region," the statement said.

India, South Africa to address issue of economic offenders through international organisations

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides. &nbsp;

It's the 11th time when an African leader has been called at India's Republic Day since 1950. In 1971, India invited the then President of Tanzania Julius Nyerere as the chief guest. Nyerere became the first African leader to be at the Republic Day event.&nbsp;

In 2002, India invited an African leader for the Republic Day. In 2002, the then President of Mauritius, Cassam Uteem, was invited by India as the chief guest at the Republic Day event.&nbsp;

Speaking on Africa day on January 18 in Gandhinagar during Vibrant Gujarat event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said India has a partnership based on equality with the African continent, one that has a strong historical foundation.&nbsp;

"India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid. We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs."&nbsp;

In the last 4 years, there have been 29 high-level&nbsp;visits to Africa from India. As many as 35 African leaders visited India in the last 4 years. The 3rd India Africa summit in 2015 was one of the biggest diplomatic engagements under the Modi government. The event saw the participation of 41 heads of state and governments.

New Delhi has already announced to open 18 new embassies and high commissions in Africa. Only last year, India opened its new mission in Rwanda - the current chair for the African Union. When it comes to trade ties, India is the 3rd largest export destination to the continent and 5th largest investor.&nbsp;

Every year on the occasion of the Republic Day, the Indian government leaves no stone unturned to highlight its achievements. India invites countries to showcase the ties it enjoys with them.&nbsp;

Last year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN group for the Republic Day. During the first Republic Day under the Modi government, India invited the then US President Barack Obama, his French counterpart François Hollande. Then in 2017, UAE's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the chief guest.&nbsp;

The neighbourhood at Republic Day

India has been inviting its neighbouring countries for its Republic Day celebrations. Bhutanese kings have visited New Delhi as the chief guest at Republic Day parade in 1954, 1984, 2005 and 2013. Afghanistan's King Mohammed Zahir Shah was the chief guest in 1967. Nepal's King Tribhuvan was the guest of honour in 1951 while King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the guest at the Republic Day parade in 1999. Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was invited for the same in 1991. Sri Lanka was the guest in 1974 and 1988. &nbsp;

Interestingly, Pakistan has been to India's Republic Day twice. In 1955, Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad was the guest at the very first Republic Day parade at Rajpath. In 1965, Pakistan's Food and Agriculture Minister Rana Abdul Hamid was the guest at the Republic Day. Both countries went to war later that year. &nbsp;

Even China has been invited to the event. In 1958, Marshall Ye Jianying was the chief guest at Republic Day event. Bangladesh has never been represented on the occasion.&nbsp;

World Powers at Republic day&nbsp;

Russia has been invited only once in 2007 with Russian President Vladimir Putin representing the country. The Soviet Union was invited 3 times - 1957, 1960, 1968. The United Kingdom and France are at a tie with both the countries being invited 5 times.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's visit comes when New Delhi is trying to increase its engagement with the continent where China has already made rapid strides. It's the 11th time when an African leader has been called at India's Republic Day since 1950. In 1971, India invited the then President of Tanzania Julius Nyerere as the chief guest. Nyerere became the first African leader to be at the Republic Day event. In 2002, India invited an African leader for the Republic Day. In 2002, the then President of Mauritius, Cassam Uteem, was invited by India as the chief guest at the Republic Day event. Speaking on Africa day on January 18 in Gandhinagar during Vibrant Gujarat event, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said India has a partnership based on equality with the African continent, one that has a strong historical foundation. "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid. We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs." In the last 4 years, there have been 29 high-level visits to Africa from India. As many as 35 African leaders visited India in the last 4 years. The 3rd India Africa summit in 2015 was one of the biggest diplomatic engagements under the Modi government. The event saw the participation of 41 heads of state and governments. New Delhi has already announced to open 18 new embassies and high commissions in Africa. Only last year, India opened its new mission in Rwanda - the current chair for the African Union. When it comes to trade ties, India is the 3rd largest export destination to the continent and 5th largest investor. Every year on the occasion of the Republic Day, the Indian government leaves no stone unturned to highlight its achievements. India invites countries to showcase the ties it enjoys with them. Last year, India invited all 10 heads of the ASEAN group for the Republic Day. During the first Republic Day under the Modi government, India invited the then US President Barack Obama, his French counterpart François Hollande. Then in 2017, UAE's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was the chief guest. The neighbourhood at Republic Day India has been inviting its neighbouring countries for its Republic Day celebrations. Bhutanese kings have visited New Delhi as the chief guest at Republic Day parade in 1954, 1984, 2005 and 2013. Afghanistan's King Mohammed Zahir Shah was the chief guest in 1967. Nepal's King Tribhuvan was the guest of honour in 1951 while King Birendra Bir Bikram Shah Dev was the guest at the Republic Day parade in 1999. Maldivian President Maumoon Abdul Gayoom was invited for the same in 1991. Sri Lanka was the guest in 1974 and 1988. Interestingly, Pakistan has been to India's Republic Day twice. In 1955, Governor General Malik Ghulam Muhammad was the guest at the very first Republic Day parade at Rajpath. In 1965, Pakistan's Food and Agriculture Minister Rana Abdul Hamid was the guest at the Republic Day. Both countries went to war later that year. Even China has been invited to the event. In 1958, Marshall Ye Jianying was the chief guest at Republic Day event. Bangladesh has never been represented on the occasion. World Powers at Republic day Russia has been invited only once in 2007 with Russian President Vladimir Putin representing the country. The Soviet Union was invited 3 times - 1957, 1960, 1968. The United Kingdom and France are at a tie with both the countries being invited 5 times.

With South Africa's presence this Republic Day, India increases its engagement with the continent 

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Quoting Pakistan Prime minister Imran Khan, Mahmood said it is time to move away from the blame game and try to resolve long-standing bilateral issues.

"More and more engagement between both the countries is needed for better mutual understanding and finding common ground. In order to achieve that we need to talk," Mahmood told reporters on the sidelines of a programme here.

Dialogue is indispensable and no issue can be resolved without talking to each other, he said.

His comments come in the backdrop of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad strongly raising with Pakistan the alleged attempts to hack the social media account of one of its diplomats and incidents of close tailing of the Indian envoy and his deputy.

Referring to cancellation of the Indo-Pak foreign minister-level talks in New York last year, Mahmood said both the countries, however, managed to work together for the Kartarpur Corridor initiative.

"The two countries had agreed for foreign ministers' talks in New York. Unfortunately, we saw that it did not materialize, but then again the two countries were able to work together when the Kartarpur initiative was taken and now the two countries will be talking to develop the modalities as well, so we have some process getting underway," he said.

The Pakistan envoy said the relationship of India and Pakistan was complicated and it is a challenge for the two sides to find a way to move forward.

"Again the primary thing is the possibility of sustained engagement that leads to addressing of mutual concerns and finding a common ground to move forward," he said.

Mahmood said Khan had repeatedly stated that both the countries need to have an improved relationship.

"There was a telephonic conversation (of Imran Khan) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Then there was exchange of letters also in which both sides reiterated the desire for constructive engagement and he (Imran Khan) has said that it is important to move away from the blame game and try to resolve the issues that have been long standing," he said.&nbsp;

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations.

Pakistan High Commissioner to India Sohail Mahmood on Thursday advocated talks and sustained engagement between the two countries to find common ground for improvement of bilateral relations. Quoting Pakistan Prime minister Imran Khan, Mahmood said it is time to move away from the blame game and try to resolve long-standing bilateral issues. "More and more engagement between both the countries is needed for better mutual understanding and finding common ground. In order to achieve that we need to talk," Mahmood told reporters on the sidelines of a programme here. Dialogue is indispensable and no issue can be resolved without talking to each other, he said. His comments come in the backdrop of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad strongly raising with Pakistan the alleged attempts to hack the social media account of one of its diplomats and incidents of close tailing of the Indian envoy and his deputy. Referring to cancellation of the Indo-Pak foreign minister-level talks in New York last year, Mahmood said both the countries, however, managed to work together for the Kartarpur Corridor initiative. "The two countries had agreed for foreign ministers' talks in New York. Unfortunately, we saw that it did not materialize, but then again the two countries were able to work together when the Kartarpur initiative was taken and now the two countries will be talking to develop the modalities as well, so we have some process getting underway," he said. The Pakistan envoy said the relationship of India and Pakistan was complicated and it is a challenge for the two sides to find a way to move forward. "Again the primary thing is the possibility of sustained engagement that leads to addressing of mutual concerns and finding a common ground to move forward," he said. Mahmood said Khan had repeatedly stated that both the countries need to have an improved relationship. "There was a telephonic conversation (of Imran Khan) with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Then there was exchange of letters also in which both sides reiterated the desire for constructive engagement and he (Imran Khan) has said that it is important to move away from the blame game and try to resolve the issues that have been long standing," he said.

Pak envoy says 'dialogue is indispensable' to resolving tensions between India, Pakistan

India on Friday reacted to the recent developments in <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/venezuela-to-close-us-embassy-consulates-maduro-192578">Venezuela</a> and stated that it is "closely following the emerging situation" in the country.

The official spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, said, "We are of the view that it is for the people of Venezuela to find a political solution to resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and discussion without resorting to violence."

"We believe democracy, peace and security in Venezuela are of paramount importance for the progress and prosperity of the people of Venezuela," Kumar further added.&nbsp;

Venezuela is the 4th largest supplier of crude oil to India.

The MEA's reaction came after the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-seeks-to-cut-off-money-for-venezuelas-maduro-to-aid-opposition-192613">United States</a>, earlier this week, officially recognised <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-regional-powers-recognise-maduro-opponent-as-venezuela-leader-192345">Juan Guaidó as the interim President</a> of Venezuela and called Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's regime "illegitimate."

In a tweet, US President Donald Trump said, "The citizens of Venezuela have suffered for too long at the hands of the illegitimate Maduro regime. Today, I have officially recognized the President of the Venezuelan National Assembly, Juan Guaidó, as the Interim President of Venezuela."

Russia slammed "Washington’s unceremonious actions". The Russia foreign ministry in a statement said, " (it is) another demonstration of its total disregard for the norms and principles of international law and an attempt to pose as the self-imposed master of another nation’s future. The United States is clearly trying to apply a tried and tested regime change scenario in Venezuela."

China also reacted with Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying saying Beijing "supports the efforts made by the Venezuelan government to uphold national sovereignty, independence and stability" and it "always upholds the principle of non-interference in other counties' internal affairs and opposes foreign interference in Venezuela's affairs."&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India on Friday reacted to the recent developments in Venezuela and stated that it is "closely following the emerging situation" in the country. The official spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, said, "We are of the view that it is for the people of Venezuela to find a political solution to resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and discussion without resorting to violence.

India on Friday reacted to the recent developments in Venezuela and stated that it is "closely following the emerging situation" in the country. The official spokesman of the Ministry of External Affairs, Raveesh Kumar, said, "We are of the view that it is for the people of Venezuela to find a political solution to resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and discussion without resorting to violence." "We believe democracy, peace and security in Venezuela are of paramount importance for the progress and prosperity of the people of Venezuela," Kumar further added. Venezuela is the 4th largest supplier of crude oil to India. The MEA's reaction came after the United States, earlier this week, officially recognised Juan Guaidó as the interim President of Venezuela and called Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro's regime "illegitimate." In a tweet, US President Donald Trump said, "The citizens of Venezuela have suffered for too long at the hands of the illegitimate Maduro regime. Today, I have officially recognized the President of the Venezuelan National Assembly, Juan Guaidó, as the Interim President of Venezuela." Russia slammed "Washington’s unceremonious actions". The Russia foreign ministry in a statement said, " (it is) another demonstration of its total disregard for the norms and principles of international law and an attempt to pose as the self-imposed master of another nation’s future. The United States is clearly trying to apply a tried and tested regime change scenario in Venezuela." China also reacted with Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying saying Beijing "supports the efforts made by the Venezuelan government to uphold national sovereignty, independence and stability" and it "always upholds the principle of non-interference in other counties' internal affairs and opposes foreign interference in Venezuela's affairs."

India reacts to US-Venezuela spat, says differences must be resolved without resorting to violence

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said India is on the way to becoming the fifth largest economy in the world.

Speaking at the India-South Africa Business Summit here, he said India is the world's fastest-growing major economy and the government is committed to reforms that will further propel it.

At USD 2.6 trillion, the Indian economy is currently ranked sixth in the world behind the US, China, Japan, Germany and the UK.

Modi listed out government's initiatives including the push for boosting domestic manufacturing through Make in India and digitising the economy through Digital India.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said India is on the way to becoming the fifth largest economy in the world. Speaking at the India-South Africa Business Summit here, he said India is the world's fastest-growing major economy and the government is committed to reforms that will further propel it.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi Friday said India is on the way to becoming the fifth largest economy in the world. Speaking at the India-South Africa Business Summit here, he said India is the world's fastest-growing major economy and the government is committed to reforms that will further propel it. At USD 2.6 trillion, the Indian economy is currently ranked sixth in the world behind the US, China, Japan, Germany and the UK. Modi listed out government's initiatives including the push for boosting domestic manufacturing through Make in India and digitising the economy through Digital India.

India on way to becoming 5th largest economy in world: Modi

India and South Africa on Friday exchanged a<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-south-africas-presence-this-republic-day-india-increases-its-engagement-with-the-continent-192614"> three-year strategic programme </a>of cooperation that pledged to strengthen ties and work on United Nations reforms.&nbsp;

"Both are strategically located at Indian ocean and democracies. We are the inheritors of the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela and that is why we share the world view. We are also working together at United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said.&nbsp;

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed gratitude to India for its support to Pretoria in&nbsp;its bid for a non-permanent member of UNSC and said, "our tenure will focus on extending peace and security in the world and strengthen the multilateral system".

Bilateral trade between India and South Africa stood at $10.65 billion in 2018-19. Both Delhi and Pretoria are members of G20, IBSA, IORA &amp; BRICS.&nbsp;

Earlier, South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Speaking at Rashtrapati Bhawan he said, "It's a real joy and pleasure to be here in India. This is a historic visit for us as South Africans because we are not only here to consolidate relation between India and South Africa but also to remember the great leaders of our two countries."

Lauding Mahatma Gandhi and South African leader Nelson Mandela, he said&nbsp;"Gandhi and Mandela are the two outstanding leaders that have blazed the particular trail for respect for human rights, freedom and democracy. They have put a path that all of us are traversing and we are the inheritors of the great work they have performed and we are in there awe."

He added, "my coming here as President of South Africa is to celebrate with people of India and pleased PM Modi invited me.''

He also paid homage to father of nation Mahatma Gandhi and wrote at visitors'&nbsp;book, "In honour of a world that is peaceful offering prosperity to its people"

The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

On Saturday he will be the chief guest at Republic Day parade. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December&nbsp;2018. He will be the second&nbsp;African leader to be the chief guest at Republic day parade and comes at a time when India is increasing its engagement with Africa.

This is the 2nd time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day.

India and South Africa on Friday exchanged a three-year strategic programme of cooperation that pledged to strengthen ties and work on United Nations reforms. "Both are strategically located at Indian ocean and democracies.

India and South Africa on Friday exchanged a three-year strategic programme of cooperation that pledged to strengthen ties and work on United Nations reforms. "Both are strategically located at Indian ocean and democracies. We are the inheritors of the legacy of Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela and that is why we share the world view. We are also working together at United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reforms," Prime Minister Narendra Modi said. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa expressed gratitude to India for its support to Pretoria in its bid for a non-permanent member of UNSC and said, "our tenure will focus on extending peace and security in the world and strengthen the multilateral system". Bilateral trade between India and South Africa stood at $10.65 billion in 2018-19. Both Delhi and Pretoria are members of G20, IBSA, IORA & BRICS. Earlier, South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa was given a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan. Speaking at Rashtrapati Bhawan he said, "It's a real joy and pleasure to be here in India. This is a historic visit for us as South Africans because we are not only here to consolidate relation between India and South Africa but also to remember the great leaders of our two countries." Lauding Mahatma Gandhi and South African leader Nelson Mandela, he said "Gandhi and Mandela are the two outstanding leaders that have blazed the particular trail for respect for human rights, freedom and democracy. They have put a path that all of us are traversing and we are the inheritors of the great work they have performed and we are in there awe." He added, "my coming here as President of South Africa is to celebrate with people of India and pleased PM Modi invited me.'' He also paid homage to father of nation Mahatma Gandhi and wrote at visitors' book, "In honour of a world that is peaceful offering prosperity to its people" The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. On Saturday he will be the chief guest at Republic Day parade. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December 2018. He will be the second African leader to be the chief guest at Republic day parade and comes at a time when India is increasing its engagement with Africa. This is the 2nd time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day.

India, South Africa sign 3-year strategic programme, pledge to strengthen ties

The country on January 25 celebrated the ninth National Voters'&nbsp;Day&nbsp;at over six lakh locations.

The day which marks the establishment of the Election Commission in India is celebrated every year to encourage the new voters.

The theme of this year's celebration was “No Voter to be left behind".

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Watch LIVE as President Kovind addresses 9th <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalVotersDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalVotersDay</a> celebrations <a href="https://t.co/w6pwfGExRF">https://t.co/w6pwfGExRF</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1088698270812069888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The day has been observed as National Voters'&nbsp;Day since January 25, 2011.&nbsp;

PM Modi and other leaders extended greetings to the nation on the Ninth National Voters'&nbsp;Day.

"Greetings on #NationalVotersDay. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment towards further strengthening our democracy by unfailingly participating in democratic processes at the local, state and national levels. Your doing so will go a long way in building a New India, " PM &nbsp;Modi tweeted.

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Greetings on <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalVotersDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalVotersDay</a>. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment towards further strengthening our democracy by unfailingly participating in democratic processes at the local, state and national levels. Your doing so will go a long way in building a New India.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1088685606157266944?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On the occasion of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalVotersDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalVotersDay</a>, I urge all voters, especially the first time voters, to be a part of the transformation of India under the leadership of PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a>. Exercise the power of your vote. <a href="https://t.co/1HeP1HNWAA">pic.twitter.com/1HeP1HNWAA</a>
— Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) <a href="https://twitter.com/rsprasad/status/1088639767170949120?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NationalVotersDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NationalVotersDay</a>, my gratitude to scores of citizens who have ensured that our democracy thrives and is strengthened by each vote cast by them. <a href="https://t.co/PpuvlwwG8G">pic.twitter.com/PpuvlwwG8G</a>
— Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) <a href="https://twitter.com/smritiirani/status/1088652323495309312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The initiative was taken in 2011 by the then Government led by Manmohan Singh to encourage more voters to take part in the political process.

The government launched the initiative on the observations that new voters, who were attaining the age of 18 years, were showing less interest in getting enrolled in the electoral rolls.

The country on January 25 celebrated the ninth National Voters' Day at over six lakh locations. The day which marks the establishment of the Election Commission in India is celebrated every year to encourage the new voters.

The country on January 25 celebrated the ninth National Voters' Day at over six lakh locations. The day which marks the establishment of the Election Commission in India is celebrated every year to encourage the new voters. The theme of this year's celebration was “No Voter to be left behind". Watch LIVE as President Kovind addresses 9th #NationalVotersDay celebrations https://t.co/w6pwfGExRF — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) January 25, 2019 × The day has been observed as National Voters' Day since January 25, 2011. PM Modi and other leaders extended greetings to the nation on the Ninth National Voters' Day. "Greetings on #NationalVotersDay. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment towards further strengthening our democracy by unfailingly participating in democratic processes at the local, state and national levels. Your doing so will go a long way in building a New India, " PM Modi tweeted. Greetings on #NationalVotersDay. This is a day to reaffirm our commitment towards further strengthening our democracy by unfailingly participating in democratic processes at the local, state and national levels. Your doing so will go a long way in building a New India. — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) January 25, 2019 × On the occasion of #NationalVotersDay, I urge all voters, especially the first time voters, to be a part of the transformation of India under the leadership of PM @narendramodi. Exercise the power of your vote. pic.twitter.com/1HeP1HNWAA — Ravi Shankar Prasad (@rsprasad) January 25, 2019 × On #NationalVotersDay, my gratitude to scores of citizens who have ensured that our democracy thrives and is strengthened by each vote cast by them. pic.twitter.com/PpuvlwwG8G — Smriti Z Irani (@smritiirani) January 25, 2019 × The initiative was taken in 2011 by the then Government led by Manmohan Singh to encourage more voters to take part in the political process. The government launched the initiative on the observations that new voters, who were attaining the age of 18 years, were showing less interest in getting enrolled in the electoral rolls.

9th National Voters' Day: PM Modi, President Kovind extend wishes to the country

Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, army service corps, will become the first woman to lead an all-men army contingent in the history of India this Republic Day. She spoke to WION on a range of issues — from what she is "feeling" before the big day, to being a woman in the army, to glass ceilings and changes in Indian society.&nbsp;

WION: How do you feel about leading an all-male contingent? 
Lt Bhavana Kasturi: It is a matter of great pride and honour. This will remain a history of the army service corp that our contingent was part of Republic day 2019. Not just me, the 2 JCOs and 144 jawans in our contingent are also very privileged... We will be in the history books forever.

WION: Tell us about your experience as a woman in the military? 
BK: I think there is no gender bias in the organisation. An officer will remain an officer and responsibility and charter of service will remain the same. We are getting a great opportunity to portray the strength of the army on such a big platform.&nbsp;

WION: Has the glass ceiling broken.? 
BK: &nbsp;Absolutely. A lot of changes have come to Indian society. Not just in the army but in the civil world too, women and girls, are doing wonders. I must say, we will keep doing great.

WION: Your message to the women of this country? 
BK: I think. I am already a role model, for a lot of young girls especially. I think the only thing I want to say is chase your dream and don't give up in the middle

WION: And how is the josh here? 
BK: The josh is high.&nbsp;

Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, army service corps, will become the first woman to lead an all-men army contingent in the history of India this Republic Day.

Lt Bhavana Kasturi, contingent commander, army service corps, will become the first woman to lead an all-men army contingent in the history of India this Republic Day. She spoke to WION on a range of issues — from what she is "feeling" before the big day, to being a woman in the army, to glass ceilings and changes in Indian society. WION: How do you feel about leading an all-male contingent? Lt Bhavana Kasturi: It is a matter of great pride and honour. This will remain a history of the army service corp that our contingent was part of Republic day 2019. Not just me, the 2 JCOs and 144 jawans in our contingent are also very privileged... We will be in the history books forever. WION: Tell us about your experience as a woman in the military? BK: I think there is no gender bias in the organisation. An officer will remain an officer and responsibility and charter of service will remain the same. We are getting a great opportunity to portray the strength of the army on such a big platform. WION: Has the glass ceiling broken.? BK: Absolutely. A lot of changes have come to Indian society. Not just in the army but in the civil world too, women and girls, are doing wonders. I must say, we will keep doing great. WION: Your message to the women of this country? BK: I think. I am already a role model, for a lot of young girls especially. I think the only thing I want to say is chase your dream and don't give up in the middle WION: And how is the josh here? BK: The josh is high.

'No gender bias in army', says 1st woman who will lead all-male contingent at Republic Day parade

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment".&nbsp;

Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links."

Ramaphosa will also be the chief guest at India's Republic day on Saturday.&nbsp;

Calling his visit a homecoming moment, he said, "I will be going to India, and it is going to be a homecoming moment for us as we go to India because we want to strengthen the ties between South Africa and India. We want to promote trade and good relation between the two&nbsp;countries."

Drawing parallels between Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and South Africa's charismatic anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa said, "will to go there (India) and celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's life and Nelson Mandela's life. So that it helps us to consolidate our relations and it is the glue that binds the two countries together from the historical and political point of view."

This is the second time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December.

Ahead of the visit, TS Tirumurti, Secretary Economic relation in Ministry of External Affairs said, "This visit is significant both in the point of view of the strategic partnership with South Africa and in the overall context of our enhanced engagement with Africa."&nbsp;

The president will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine Ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation.&nbsp;

The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.&nbsp;

The South African President during the first day of his visit on 25th January will address the 1st IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A roadmap on strategic partnership is expected to be signed for the next 3 years between India and South Africa during the visit.&nbsp;

In his last Mann ki Baat on 30th December 2018, PM Modi said "its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019. "

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment". Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links.

South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will be on a two-day India visit from Friday, described his visit to India as "homecoming moment". Speaking exclusively to WION ahead of his India visit at Davos, Ramaphosa said, "ties between India and South Africa are very historical, political and most enhancing and empowering links." Ramaphosa will also be the chief guest at India's Republic day on Saturday. Calling his visit a homecoming moment, he said, "I will be going to India, and it is going to be a homecoming moment for us as we go to India because we want to strengthen the ties between South Africa and India. We want to promote trade and good relation between the two countries." Drawing parallels between Father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and South Africa's charismatic anti-apartheid leader Nelson Mandela, Ramaphosa said, "will to go there (India) and celebrate Mahatma Gandhi's life and Nelson Mandela's life. So that it helps us to consolidate our relations and it is the glue that binds the two countries together from the historical and political point of view." This is the second time a South African President will be the chief guest at Republic day. In 1995, the then President of South Africa Nelson Mandela was the chief guest at Republic day. PM Modi personally handed over the invite to President Cyril when he met him on the sidelines of G20 summit in Argentina in December. Ahead of the visit, TS Tirumurti, Secretary Economic relation in Ministry of External Affairs said, "This visit is significant both in the point of view of the strategic partnership with South Africa and in the overall context of our enhanced engagement with Africa." The president will be accompanied by the First Lady Dr Tshepo Motsepe, and a high-level delegation including nine Ministers, senior officials of his Government and a 50-member business delegation. The visit by the president comes in a year when India is celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The South African President during the first day of his visit on 25th January will address the 1st IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) Gandhi Mandela Memorial Freedom Lecture and the India-South Africa Business Forum in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. A roadmap on strategic partnership is expected to be signed for the next 3 years between India and South Africa during the visit. In his last Mann ki Baat on 30th December 2018, PM Modi said "its a matter of great pride that South African President Cyril Ramaphosa would be the chief guest at republic day 2019. "

'Homecoming moment,' says South Africa President Ramaphosa to WION ahead of 2-day India visit

Harinder Sidhu, Australia's High Commissioner to India , spoke to WION on a range of topics. Excerpts WION: Now you are representing the country of your destination or adoption, in the country of your origin.

Having a first tier relationship with India is important, says Harinder Sidhu

Afghanistan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, who formally entered the presidential race recently scheduled on July 20, said&nbsp;on Wednesday that Taliban is the main obstacle for peace in his country and accused it of refusing to come to the negotiating table.

In an exclusive interview to WION at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Abdullah said some parts of the country including rural districts were&nbsp;still under the control of the Taliban.

''People don’t want Talibanisation of the country. They want peace but the Taliban is the main obstacle and refuses to come to negotiating table,'' he said.

''We are in favour of talks without any conditions with Taliban if I come to power,'' he said.

Singling out the United States for praise, he said the US has helped Afghanistan and made sacrifices alongside ''our people''.

The US has influence over many countries around Afghanistan, it is different if they will use it, he said and added they can’t take US troops presence for granted.&nbsp;

Abdullah asserted that no country has monopoly over deciding the foreign relations of Afghanistan.

While welcoming '' Pakistan's constructive role in talks'', he said that he is for good relations with India.&nbsp;

''If Pakistan is playing a constructive role in talks we welcome it,'' he said and added that he wants to continue good relations with India with ''mutual respect''.

The presidential&nbsp;hopeful said&nbsp;that nobody can guarantee an incident-free election.

He also admitted that gap existed between people and the government in Afghanistan.

Afghanistan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, who formally entered the presidential race recently scheduled on July 20, said on Wednesday that Taliban is the main obstacle for peace in his country and accused it of refusing to come to the negotiating table.

Afghanistan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah, who formally entered the presidential race recently scheduled on July 20, said on Wednesday that Taliban is the main obstacle for peace in his country and accused it of refusing to come to the negotiating table. In an exclusive interview to WION at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Abdullah said some parts of the country including rural districts were still under the control of the Taliban. ''People don’t want Talibanisation of the country. They want peace but the Taliban is the main obstacle and refuses to come to negotiating table,'' he said. ''We are in favour of talks without any conditions with Taliban if I come to power,'' he said. Singling out the United States for praise, he said the US has helped Afghanistan and made sacrifices alongside ''our people''. The US has influence over many countries around Afghanistan, it is different if they will use it, he said and added they can’t take US troops presence for granted. Abdullah asserted that no country has monopoly over deciding the foreign relations of Afghanistan. While welcoming '' Pakistan's constructive role in talks'', he said that he is for good relations with India. ''If Pakistan is playing a constructive role in talks we welcome it,'' he said and added that he wants to continue good relations with India with ''mutual respect''. The presidential hopeful said that nobody can guarantee an incident-free election. He also admitted that gap existed between people and the government in Afghanistan.

I'm for talks with Taliban without any conditions, says Afghanistan Chief Executive Abdullah Abdullah at Davos

A good number of the 15 Indian seafarers who are on-board the <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/20-may-have-died-after-fire-engulfs-two-ships-near-crimea-indian-nationals-also-affected-192010">two ill-fated ships which caught fire off the Russian waters</a> Monday have survived the accident, officials at the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) here said Tuesday.

But the exact details, including the number of those who have made it, are not immediately available as information flow from the site is very limited, they explained.

The 15 sailors hail from different parts of the country but more details of them are awaited.

According to media reports, 14 sailors have died in the blaze on the two Tanzanian flagged vessels, but the nationalities of the victims are yet to be established.

A senior DGS official told PTI that dozens of vessels are looking for survivors in the vicinity of the accident site — the Kerch Strait separating the Crimea from Russia — and wreckage is very scattered.

"Some of our sailors have contacted their families back home about making it, while a few have been rescued after they jumped out of the blazing ships," the official said, declining to give an exact number.

The DGS has given a list containing all the details of the 15 Indian sailors who are on board these ships when they caught fire while transferring fuel Monday.

The DGS is in touch with both the foreign ministry in New Delhi, which is coordinating with the embassy in Moscow, while the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre is in touch with its Russian counterparts, the official said.

The two ships have Indian, Turkish and Libyan crew and caught fire in the Kerch Strait that separates the Crimea from Russia, killing at least 14 sailors Monday, according to international media reports.

Both the vessels are Tanzanian flagged, and one of is an LNG carrier, the other is an oil tanker.

One of the ships, the Candy, has a 17-member crew, including nine Turks and eight Indians, while the other, the Maestro, is powered by a 15-member crew, including seven each Indian and Turkish nationals and an intern from Libya, Russian news agency Tass quoted maritime authority as saying.

Fourteen people were killed in the accident, while 12 have been rescued, Sergei Aksyonov, an official of Crimean administration told reporters Tuesday adding while six are still missing.

The Kerch Strait is a key waterway that holds strategic importance for both Russia and Ukraine. It is an economic lifeline for Ukraine that allows ships leaving the port city of Mariupol to access the Black Sea.

It is also the closest access point for Russia to the Crimea, a peninsula Moscow annexed in 2014. A Russian-built bridge over the Kerch Strait was opened last May.

A good number of the 15 Indian seafarers who are on-board the two ill-fated ships which caught fire off the Russian waters Monday have survived the accident, officials at the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) here said Tuesday.

A good number of the 15 Indian seafarers who are on-board the two ill-fated ships which caught fire off the Russian waters Monday have survived the accident, officials at the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS) here said Tuesday. But the exact details, including the number of those who have made it, are not immediately available as information flow from the site is very limited, they explained. The 15 sailors hail from different parts of the country but more details of them are awaited. According to media reports, 14 sailors have died in the blaze on the two Tanzanian flagged vessels, but the nationalities of the victims are yet to be established. A senior DGS official told PTI that dozens of vessels are looking for survivors in the vicinity of the accident site — the Kerch Strait separating the Crimea from Russia — and wreckage is very scattered. "Some of our sailors have contacted their families back home about making it, while a few have been rescued after they jumped out of the blazing ships," the official said, declining to give an exact number. The DGS has given a list containing all the details of the 15 Indian sailors who are on board these ships when they caught fire while transferring fuel Monday. The DGS is in touch with both the foreign ministry in New Delhi, which is coordinating with the embassy in Moscow, while the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre is in touch with its Russian counterparts, the official said. The two ships have Indian, Turkish and Libyan crew and caught fire in the Kerch Strait that separates the Crimea from Russia, killing at least 14 sailors Monday, according to international media reports. Both the vessels are Tanzanian flagged, and one of is an LNG carrier, the other is an oil tanker. One of the ships, the Candy, has a 17-member crew, including nine Turks and eight Indians, while the other, the Maestro, is powered by a 15-member crew, including seven each Indian and Turkish nationals and an intern from Libya, Russian news agency Tass quoted maritime authority as saying. Fourteen people were killed in the accident, while 12 have been rescued, Sergei Aksyonov, an official of Crimean administration told reporters Tuesday adding while six are still missing. The Kerch Strait is a key waterway that holds strategic importance for both Russia and Ukraine. It is an economic lifeline for Ukraine that allows ships leaving the port city of Mariupol to access the Black Sea. It is also the closest access point for Russia to the Crimea, a peninsula Moscow annexed in 2014. A Russian-built bridge over the Kerch Strait was opened last May.

Crimea ship fire: Most Indian sailors safe, say Directorate General of Shipping officials

Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

"India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Singh, who attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019, said.

He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s initiatives in the field, including the Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, Namami Gange, Smart Cities, among others, have been pivotal in driving the change in the mindset and outlook of common people towards cleanliness and waste management.

During the session, General Singh also voiced hope that greater participation of the citizens of the country and members of the Diaspora will go a long way in achieving the Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of Clean India.

The third plenary session of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019 was held on January 22 in Varanasi, on the theme of Role of Indian Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Waste Management.

The session was chaired by Singh and was coordinated by Manoj K. Bharti, Additional Secretary, Economic Diplomacy and States, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Secretary, CPV and OIA, Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay gave the introductory remarks and introduced the seven members from the Indian Diaspora community, who are also renowned experts in the field of waste management.

The plenary discussion was organised as a follow up to the Pravasi Bharatiya Conference held in July 2018 on the same issue, as a part of the MEA’s initiative to organise smaller, issue-based conferences during the year.

The objective of the conference, as well as the plenary, was to solicit the Diaspora's participation in the area of affordable waste management in the country, particularly with reference to India’s flagship initiatives such as the Swacch Bharat Mission, National Mission for Clean Ganga, and the Smart Cities initiative.

Following this, Bharti made a short presentation, elaborating upon the recommendations made by the members of the Diaspora during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference held in July 2018, along with the several policy actions taken subsequently by the concerned Ministries of the Government of India. In the discussion that followed, further suggestions on the issue area were sought from the members of the Diaspora.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Minister of State for External Affairs V K Singh, on Tuesday, said that India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. "India has witnessed some remarkable successes in the field of waste management under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi," Singh, who attended the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019, said. He emphasised that the Prime Minister’s initiatives in the field, including the Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, Namami Gange, Smart Cities, among others, have been pivotal in driving the change in the mindset and outlook of common people towards cleanliness and waste management. During the session, General Singh also voiced hope that greater participation of the citizens of the country and members of the Diaspora will go a long way in achieving the Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of Clean India. The third plenary session of the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas Convention 2019 was held on January 22 in Varanasi, on the theme of Role of Indian Diaspora in Capacity Building for Affordable Waste Management. The session was chaired by Singh and was coordinated by Manoj K. Bharti, Additional Secretary, Economic Diplomacy and States, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Secretary, CPV and OIA, Dnyaneshwar M. Mulay gave the introductory remarks and introduced the seven members from the Indian Diaspora community, who are also renowned experts in the field of waste management. The plenary discussion was organised as a follow up to the Pravasi Bharatiya Conference held in July 2018 on the same issue, as a part of the MEA’s initiative to organise smaller, issue-based conferences during the year. The objective of the conference, as well as the plenary, was to solicit the Diaspora's participation in the area of affordable waste management in the country, particularly with reference to India’s flagship initiatives such as the Swacch Bharat Mission, National Mission for Clean Ganga, and the Smart Cities initiative. Following this, Bharti made a short presentation, elaborating upon the recommendations made by the members of the Diaspora during the Pravasi Bharatiya Divas conference held in July 2018, along with the several policy actions taken subsequently by the concerned Ministries of the Government of India. In the discussion that followed, further suggestions on the issue area were sought from the members of the Diaspora.

India witnessed successes in field of waste management under PM Modi's leadership: VK Singh

In what seems to be a blatant violation of civil aviation norms, Pakistan civil aviation authority has denied passage to SpiceJet cargo flights to Afghanistan thrice in last week of December and on January 11 and 14.&nbsp;

India raised the matter with Islamabad with Ministry of External Affairs sending a ''note verbale'' to Pakistan.&nbsp;

The development comes even as New Delhi has been trying to connect <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/rail-line-through-afghanistan-can-connect-uzbekistan-with-chabahar-uzbekistans-ambassador-192063">landlocked Afghanistan</a> with India and rest of the world.&nbsp;

Pakistan has been blocking the land route for trade between Afghanistan and India.&nbsp;

The India Afghanistan air corridor, launched in 2017, connects Afghanistan with Delhi and Mumbai. The <a href="http://www.wionews.com/opinions/chabahar-port-stepped-up-us-military-posture-in-gulf-threatens-indias-hopes-185245">Chabahar port </a>being built in Iran with India's help also provides Afghanistan goods gateway to the world.&nbsp;

Speaking at first-ever India Central Asia Afghanistan Dialogue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on 13th January, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "Joint efforts of India, Iran and Afghanistan have led to the development of the Chabahar Port in Iran as a viable and operational trade route to connect to Afghanistan and potentially to Central Asia. Chabahar provides a shining example of what strong partnership can achieve to overcome any obstacles."&nbsp;

India has already sent a very substantial quantity of wheat to Afghanistan using the Chabahar port.&nbsp;

India took over the operations of a part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran last month. On 24th December 2018, India, Iran and Afghanistan jointly inaugurated the office of the Indian SPV - India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ), at Chabahar. The physical take-over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and Office building was completed by 29th December 2018.

Commercial operations began at IPGCFZ with the arrival of a vessel. A Cyprus registered bulk carrier had arrived at Chabahar with 72458 MT of corn cargo. The vessel MV MACHERAS berthed at the terminal at 0130 hrs on 30th December 2018.&nbsp;

Central Asia countries have also lauded Chabahar. Uzbek ambassador to India Farhod Arziev has lauded the project saying a railway project in Afghanistan can connect Uzbekistan with Chabahar.

Iran is holding Chabahar Day International Conference on 26 February at the Chabahar port to give an overview of the port to the world. India is also planning to develop Chabahar-Zahedan railway link that will link Zaranj-Delaram road built by India in Afghanistan and bring Iran and Afghanistan closer.&nbsp;

India plays a significant role as a development partner with its assistance exceeding $3 billion.

New Delhi is Afghanistan's largest donor in the region.

In what seems to be a blatant violation of civil aviation norms, Pakistan civil aviation authority has denied passage to SpiceJet cargo flights to Afghanistan thrice in last week of December and on January 11 and 14.

In what seems to be a blatant violation of civil aviation norms, Pakistan civil aviation authority has denied passage to SpiceJet cargo flights to Afghanistan thrice in last week of December and on January 11 and 14. India raised the matter with Islamabad with Ministry of External Affairs sending a ''note verbale'' to Pakistan. The development comes even as New Delhi has been trying to connect landlocked Afghanistan with India and rest of the world. Pakistan has been blocking the land route for trade between Afghanistan and India. The India Afghanistan air corridor, launched in 2017, connects Afghanistan with Delhi and Mumbai. The Chabahar port being built in Iran with India's help also provides Afghanistan goods gateway to the world. Speaking at first-ever India Central Asia Afghanistan Dialogue in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on 13th January, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "Joint efforts of India, Iran and Afghanistan have led to the development of the Chabahar Port in Iran as a viable and operational trade route to connect to Afghanistan and potentially to Central Asia. Chabahar provides a shining example of what strong partnership can achieve to overcome any obstacles." India has already sent a very substantial quantity of wheat to Afghanistan using the Chabahar port. India took over the operations of a part of Shahid Beheshti Port, Chabahar in Iran last month. On 24th December 2018, India, Iran and Afghanistan jointly inaugurated the office of the Indian SPV - India Ports Global Chabahar Free Zone (IPGCFZ), at Chabahar. The physical take-over of the terminal area, cargo handling equipment and Office building was completed by 29th December 2018. Commercial operations began at IPGCFZ with the arrival of a vessel. A Cyprus registered bulk carrier had arrived at Chabahar with 72458 MT of corn cargo. The vessel MV MACHERAS berthed at the terminal at 0130 hrs on 30th December 2018. Central Asia countries have also lauded Chabahar. Uzbek ambassador to India Farhod Arziev has lauded the project saying a railway project in Afghanistan can connect Uzbekistan with Chabahar. Iran is holding Chabahar Day International Conference on 26 February at the Chabahar port to give an overview of the port to the world. India is also planning to develop Chabahar-Zahedan railway link that will link Zaranj-Delaram road built by India in Afghanistan and bring Iran and Afghanistan closer. India plays a significant role as a development partner with its assistance exceeding $3 billion. New Delhi is Afghanistan's largest donor in the region.

Pakistan denies passage of Indian freight flights to Afghanistan; India raises the issue with Islamabad

An Indian fishing boat was fired on and then rammed by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA ) on January 17 at 7 am near Mitha Port in Gujarat. Seven fishermen fell overboard, of whom six were rescued by the Indian coast guard.&nbsp;

The fishing boat sank about 64 nautical miles southwest of Mitha port.&nbsp;

The one fisherman missing is presumed dead.

India raised the matter with Islamabad on January 19 through a note verbale sent from the Ministry of External Affairs.

New Delhi said in the note verbale: "India condemned in the strongest term such deplorable and unprofessional act by PMSA of firing at a fishing vessel and later ramming and sinking it".

The note verbale added that "such acts are in contravention of all international laws, conventions and the established humanitarian norms and practices."

India also called on Pakistan to "investigate the heinous act and instruct" its forces to "desist from such acts immediately".

This is the first such incident to come to light in recent years. An Indian fisherman was killed In 2015 in Pakistani firing.&nbsp;

The issue of Indian fishermen has been one of the key matters India has been raising with Pakistan. According to India, Pakistan has in its custody 418 fishermen who are Indian or are believed to be Indian. Since 2014, India has got back 1,699 Indian fishermen and 57 Indian fishing boats from Pakistan.&nbsp;

Speaking in Parliament on the issue of Indian fishermen in Pakistani custody, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh had said, "Government regularly takes up the issue of early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen along with their boats with the Pakistan authorities."&nbsp;

&nbsp;

An Indian fishing boat was fired on and then rammed by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA ) on January 17 at 7 am near Mitha Port in Gujarat. Seven fishermen fell overboard, of whom six were rescued by the Indian coast guard.

An Indian fishing boat was fired on and then rammed by the Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA ) on January 17 at 7 am near Mitha Port in Gujarat. Seven fishermen fell overboard, of whom six were rescued by the Indian coast guard. The fishing boat sank about 64 nautical miles southwest of Mitha port. The one fisherman missing is presumed dead. India raised the matter with Islamabad on January 19 through a note verbale sent from the Ministry of External Affairs. New Delhi said in the note verbale: "India condemned in the strongest term such deplorable and unprofessional act by PMSA of firing at a fishing vessel and later ramming and sinking it". The note verbale added that "such acts are in contravention of all international laws, conventions and the established humanitarian norms and practices." India also called on Pakistan to "investigate the heinous act and instruct" its forces to "desist from such acts immediately". This is the first such incident to come to light in recent years. An Indian fisherman was killed In 2015 in Pakistani firing. The issue of Indian fishermen has been one of the key matters India has been raising with Pakistan. According to India, Pakistan has in its custody 418 fishermen who are Indian or are believed to be Indian. Since 2014, India has got back 1,699 Indian fishermen and 57 Indian fishing boats from Pakistan. Speaking in Parliament on the issue of Indian fishermen in Pakistani custody, Minister of State for External Affairs General VK Singh had said, "Government regularly takes up the issue of early release and repatriation of Indian fishermen along with their boats with the Pakistan authorities."

Pakistan fires on Indian fishing boat; 1 fisherman dead

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan.

Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people.

The calendar features paintings of school students from India and Pakistan on the theme of peace. Six paintings from each country were selected for being published in the form of calendar.

Sudheendra Kulkarni, a writer and former aide of the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, told the gathering that the young generation is the hope for both countries.

He recalled how the initiatives such as start of bus, train and trade services across borders brought happiness to people and hence more such steps should be taken.

Major General (retired) T K Kaul, the executive president of India Pakistan Soldiers Initiative for Peace, talked about how there are veterans in both countries who advocate peace.&nbsp;

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan. Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people.

A 'peace calender' was released in Delhi on Sunday to send out a message of peace amid strain in bilateral ties between India and Pakistan. Many people, including Army veterans, youths and school students, gathered in the national capital to release the 'peace calendar', an initiative of the 'Aaghaz-e-Dosti' organisation that works to foster people-to-people relations between India and Pakistan through its voluntary network of people. The calendar features paintings of school students from India and Pakistan on the theme of peace. Six paintings from each country were selected for being published in the form of calendar. Sudheendra Kulkarni, a writer and former aide of the late prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, told the gathering that the young generation is the hope for both countries. He recalled how the initiatives such as start of bus, train and trade services across borders brought happiness to people and hence more such steps should be taken. Major General (retired) T K Kaul, the executive president of India Pakistan Soldiers Initiative for Peace, talked about how there are veterans in both countries who advocate peace.

Indo-Pak peace calendar released

Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India.

While speaking at the inaugural event of a Center for European Studies at Symbiosis University in western India's Pune, Babiš said, "to make better relations, we need Czech companies to coming here (in India) and invest."

Babiš is on an official visit to India, wherein he and Modi earlier met on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019 event and have had talks on enhancing bilateral relations.

Babiš also remarked jokingly about the meeting, saying he asked the Indian Prime Minister on how did he manage a country of 1.3 billion people with a cabinet of nearly 70 ministers, while he has a hard time with his own smaller fraction.

Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India.

Prime Minister of Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš, on Sunday appreciated India's trade strategy and lauded Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign, adding that Czech companies should now consider investing in India. While speaking at the inaugural event of a Center for European Studies at Symbiosis University in western India's Pune, Babiš said, "to make better relations, we need Czech companies to coming here (in India) and invest." Babiš is on an official visit to India, wherein he and Modi earlier met on the sidelines of the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit 2019 event and have had talks on enhancing bilateral relations. Babiš also remarked jokingly about the meeting, saying he asked the Indian Prime Minister on how did he manage a country of 1.3 billion people with a cabinet of nearly 70 ministers, while he has a hard time with his own smaller fraction.

Czech PM wants home companies to invest in India

Union Commerce and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu Saturday said India has the potential to be a $5 trillion economy in the next 7-8 years.

Addressing a seminar on exports at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit here, Prabhu said his department had prepared a road map to make this possible by focusing on manufacturing, service sector and agriculture.

"India has a potential to be a $5 trillion economy in 7 to 8 years, and definitely a $10 trillion economy before 2035," Prabhu said.

"Manufacturing should lead to export. This will bring quality and competitiveness. Our cumulative export stands at around half a trillion dollars. The challenge is to double it" he said.

"Today, we have great opportunity to increase exports. There are disruptions taking place in the world and India should take advantage of it," he added.

Prabhu said India can increase exports to Africa and Latin American countries.

To boost air connectivity in the country, Prabhu said 100 new airports will come up in the near future with a cumulative investment of $65 billion.

Two MoUs were Saturday signed between the Gujarat government and Airports Authority of India for establishing greenfield airports at Dholera and Ankleshwar.

The MOUs were inked in the presence of Prabhu and Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani.

As per one MoU, Dholera airport will be established at a cost of Rs 1,500 crore.

The other MoU was for the development and operation of the airport and MRO at Ankleshwar.&nbsp;

Union Commerce and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu Saturday said India has the potential to be a $5 trillion economy in the next 7-8 years. Addressing a seminar on exports at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit here, Prabhu said his department had prepared a road map to make this possible by focusing on manufacturing, service sector and agriculture.

Union Commerce and Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu Saturday said India has the potential to be a $5 trillion economy in the next 7-8 years. Addressing a seminar on exports at Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit here, Prabhu said his department had prepared a road map to make this possible by focusing on manufacturing, service sector and agriculture. "India has a potential to be a $5 trillion economy in 7 to 8 years, and definitely a $10 trillion economy before 2035," Prabhu said. "Manufacturing should lead to export. This will bring quality and competitiveness. Our cumulative export stands at around half a trillion dollars. The challenge is to double it" he said. "Today, we have great opportunity to increase exports. There are disruptions taking place in the world and India should take advantage of it," he added. Prabhu said India can increase exports to Africa and Latin American countries. To boost air connectivity in the country, Prabhu said 100 new airports will come up in the near future with a cumulative investment of $65 billion. Two MoUs were Saturday signed between the Gujarat government and Airports Authority of India for establishing greenfield airports at Dholera and Ankleshwar. The MOUs were inked in the presence of Prabhu and Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani. As per one MoU, Dholera airport will be established at a cost of Rs 1,500 crore. The other MoU was for the development and operation of the airport and MRO at Ankleshwar.

India can be $5 trillion economy in 7-8 years: Suresh Prabhu

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance)&nbsp;by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India.

Modi said that the ''this 'gathbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share.''

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PM Modi in Silvassa: This 'ganthbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share. <a href="https://t.co/UbpNULGgHA">pic.twitter.com/UbpNULGgHA</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1086552329636196352?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 19, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Modi also took potshots at the TMC's opposition rally in Kolkata while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

''My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan,'' Modi said.

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PM Modi in Silvassa: My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan <a href="https://t.co/3WPyJtKRx5">pic.twitter.com/3WPyJtKRx5</a>
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Speaking about his 5-year term, he said, ''The previous government was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built.

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PM Narendra Modi in Silvassa: The previous govt was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. <a href="https://t.co/EDCfu3D2tX">pic.twitter.com/EDCfu3D2tX</a>
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"When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai'," he said.

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Modi also met his mother Hiraba in Raisan village before going to Ahmedabad airport.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday targeted the 'mahagathbandhan' (grand alliance) by opposition parties, calling it a combine of those he prevented from looting India. Modi said that the ''this 'gathbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share.'' PM Modi in Silvassa: This 'ganthbandhan' is not against Modi but against the people of India. Currently, they are not even properly together and already that have started bargaining for their share. pic.twitter.com/UbpNULGgHA — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Modi also took potshots at the TMC's opposition rally in Kolkata while addressing a public function at Silvassa, the capital of the Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli. ''My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan,'' Modi said. PM Modi in Silvassa: My actions against corruption have infuriated some people. It's but natural for them to get angry as I've prevented them from looting public money. Consequently, they have now formed an alliance called Mahagathbandhan pic.twitter.com/3WPyJtKRx5 — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Speaking about his 5-year term, he said, ''The previous government was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. PM Narendra Modi in Silvassa: The previous govt was only able to build 25 lakh houses in five years. However, in the last 5 years, around 1.25 crore houses have been built. pic.twitter.com/EDCfu3D2tX — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × "When those involved in suffocating democracy talk of saving it, then people will say 'wah kya baat hai'," he said. PM Modi in Silvassa: Jab loktantra ka gala ghotne wale loktantra ko bachane ki baat karte toh desh ke munh se nikalta hai 'wah kya baat'. pic.twitter.com/Ac7D0e3tkt — ANI (@ANI) January 19, 2019 × Modi also met his mother Hiraba in Raisan village before going to Ahmedabad airport.

'Mahagathbandhan' is not against me but people of India: PM Modi in Gujarat

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India Austin Fernando said Sri Lanka has a "relationship of relationships" with India while China is a "friend."&nbsp;

Fernando spoke to WION diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal on a host of issues such as debt crisis, India's help to the island nation, among others. This is his first interview to an Indian media channel after becoming Sri Lanka's envoy to India. Fernando was present at&nbsp;the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC) in New Delhi.

WION: Status of Sri Lanka-India ties?

Fernando: The relationship is at a very high level of cooperation, friendship. As I always say, we are not only neighbours and friends. We have a relation. Relationship of relationships.&nbsp;

WION: Any development expected in the repatriation of <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/need-serious-dialogue-for-repatriation-of-lankan-refugees-in-tamil-nadu-sri-lankan-envoy-191330">Sri Lankan Tamil Refugees living in India</a>? Will u be talking to people in Delhi or in Tamil Nadu?

Fernando: Yes, we will talk to people. I have been talking to Chandrahasan, he is one person who has been involved with these people for a long time... he has been working with them. Then I want to have a chat with him along with DHC Krishnamoorthy and others... like the UN. We will be talking to many people.&nbsp;

WION: How do you see India's support?&nbsp;New Delhi has launched an ambulance service, thoughts on that?&nbsp;

Fernando: An ambulance service is one of the very very successful things that is happening in Sri Lanka.&nbsp;

WION: Your ties with China?

Fernando: I think, China is also a friend. They have been helping us. We have been having a long-standing relationship with them. But as I have said earlier. You are our relation.

WION: Is debt issue a big concern for Sri Lanka?

Fernando: It's a problem of financial management. And now we trying to manage it in a different way. We are getting money. We are negotiating for $1 billion from the RBI. Then we are looking for Samurai loan from the Japanese, panda loan from China. Getting some from Germany. Banks are trying to get 200-300 million from borrowings. We have a crisis. It is a reserve problem.

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India Austin Fernando said Sri Lanka has a "relationship of relationships" with India while China is a "friend.

In an exclusive conversation with WION, Sri Lankan High Commissioner to India Austin Fernando said Sri Lanka has a "relationship of relationships" with India while China is a "friend." Fernando spoke to WION diplomatic correspondent Siddhant Sibbal on a host of issues such as debt crisis, India's help to the island nation, among others. This is his first interview to an Indian media channel after becoming Sri Lanka's envoy to India. Fernando was present at the Foreign Correspondents' Club of South Asia (FCC) in New Delhi. WION: Status of Sri Lanka-India ties? Fernando: The relationship is at a very high level of cooperation, friendship. As I always say, we are not only neighbours and friends. We have a relation. Relationship of relationships. WION: Any development expected in the repatriation of Sri Lankan Tamil Refugees living in India? Will u be talking to people in Delhi or in Tamil Nadu? Fernando: Yes, we will talk to people. I have been talking to Chandrahasan, he is one person who has been involved with these people for a long time... he has been working with them. Then I want to have a chat with him along with DHC Krishnamoorthy and others... like the UN. We will be talking to many people. WION: How do you see India's support? New Delhi has launched an ambulance service, thoughts on that? Fernando: An ambulance service is one of the very very successful things that is happening in Sri Lanka. WION: Your ties with China? Fernando: I think, China is also a friend. They have been helping us. We have been having a long-standing relationship with them. But as I have said earlier. You are our relation. WION: Is debt issue a big concern for Sri Lanka? Fernando: It's a problem of financial management. And now we trying to manage it in a different way. We are getting money. We are negotiating for $1 billion from the RBI. Then we are looking for Samurai loan from the Japanese, panda loan from China. Getting some from Germany. Banks are trying to get 200-300 million from borrowings. We have a crisis. It is a reserve problem.

Our debt crisis is problem of financial management, seeking help from RBI: Sri Lankan envoy to WION

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit."&nbsp;

While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs."

Swaraj further said India views its "substantive engagement" with the African countries through "the prism of our own experience."

"When we became independent, we found that external assistance came with conditionality, both overt and covert, with prescriptions that would have constricted our sovereignty and independence," Swaraj added.&nbsp;

China's debt practices have come under criticism around the world including in Africa. Bejing has been involved in large scale infrastructure in Africa, putting many countries in massive debt which they are unable to repay.&nbsp;

India is focusing on its historical ties with Africa to promote ties. Speaking at the event, the external affairs minister said, "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid."&nbsp;

India will be opening 18 new embassies and High Commissions in Africa in the next few years which will take the number of Indian missions in Africa to 47. Last year, India opened its mission in Rwanda.

The development comes days before India's Republic Day wherein South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been invited as the chief guest.&nbsp;

India is the fifth largest investor in Africa with cumulative investments of $54 billion. Indian Lines of Credit are being used to develop 189 projects in 42 African countries for nearly $ 11.4 billion. In 2015, the third India-Africa summit took place in New Delhi and was one of the biggest diplomatic events under the Modi government in the last four years.

&nbsp;

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit." While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs.

India has said that its partnership with Africa is based on the "principles of equality, mutual respect and mutual benefit." While speaking on the occasion of Africa Day at Vibrant Gujarat 2019 in Gandhinagar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "We take pride in our model of cooperation with Africa which is demand-driven, consultative, participative, involves local resources, builds capacity and is based on Africa’s own prioritisation of its needs." Swaraj further said India views its "substantive engagement" with the African countries through "the prism of our own experience." "When we became independent, we found that external assistance came with conditionality, both overt and covert, with prescriptions that would have constricted our sovereignty and independence," Swaraj added. China's debt practices have come under criticism around the world including in Africa. Bejing has been involved in large scale infrastructure in Africa, putting many countries in massive debt which they are unable to repay. India is focusing on its historical ties with Africa to promote ties. Speaking at the event, the external affairs minister said, "India has always shared a special bond with the people of Africa and supported their liberation from colonialism and from apartheid." India will be opening 18 new embassies and High Commissions in Africa in the next few years which will take the number of Indian missions in Africa to 47. Last year, India opened its mission in Rwanda. The development comes days before India's Republic Day wherein South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has been invited as the chief guest. India is the fifth largest investor in Africa with cumulative investments of $54 billion. Indian Lines of Credit are being used to develop 189 projects in 42 African countries for nearly $ 11.4 billion. In 2015, the third India-Africa summit took place in New Delhi and was one of the biggest diplomatic events under the Modi government in the last four years.

India plans to open 18 new missions in Africa: Sushma Swaraj

India on Friday slammed Pakistan for its comments that India has no role in Afghanistan. A statement issued by ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, "It is not for Pakistan to decide as to what role another country has in regional or global affairs. Pakistan also cannot decide on behalf of an independent and sovereign country Afghanistan and dictate them as to how to conduct their foreign policy."

New Delhi said Pakistan should "first and foremost introspect its own role" and "responsibility in the precarious situation in Afghanistan".

India asked Islamabad to put an end to "all kind of support to cross border terrorism under Pakistan's control" and "join international efforts to bring inclusive peace to Afghanistan"

In response to a question at weekly Pakistan foreign ministry briefing on Thursday, spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal said, "India has no role in Afghanistan."

The development comes even as US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad is in the region and visited India, Afghanistan, China and is currently in Pakistan. During Zalmay's visit to New Delhi, he met EAM Sushma Swaraj and Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. India briefed Zalmay about the destabilising role Pakistan is playing in the region.

External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj met Afghanistan's FM Salahuddin Rabbani on Sunday in Samarkand, Uzbekistan during the first India Central Asia dialogue. According to a release by Afghan foreign affairs, "Swaraj reaffirmed her country’s commitment to Afghanistan".

India has been a key development partner of Afghanistan since 2001 and has committed over 3 billion dollars to the country. The Afghan Parliament in Kabul and the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat was built with New Delhi's help. New Delhi is also connecting the landlocked country through the Chabahar port in Iram.&nbsp;

India on Friday slammed Pakistan for its comments that India has no role in Afghanistan. A statement issued by ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, "It is not for Pakistan to decide as to what role another country has in regional or global affairs.

India on Friday slammed Pakistan for its comments that India has no role in Afghanistan. A statement issued by ministry of external affairs (MEA) said, "It is not for Pakistan to decide as to what role another country has in regional or global affairs. Pakistan also cannot decide on behalf of an independent and sovereign country Afghanistan and dictate them as to how to conduct their foreign policy." New Delhi said Pakistan should "first and foremost introspect its own role" and "responsibility in the precarious situation in Afghanistan". India asked Islamabad to put an end to "all kind of support to cross border terrorism under Pakistan's control" and "join international efforts to bring inclusive peace to Afghanistan" In response to a question at weekly Pakistan foreign ministry briefing on Thursday, spokesman Dr Mohammad Faisal said, "India has no role in Afghanistan." The development comes even as US special representative for Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad is in the region and visited India, Afghanistan, China and is currently in Pakistan. During Zalmay's visit to New Delhi, he met EAM Sushma Swaraj and Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale. India briefed Zalmay about the destabilising role Pakistan is playing in the region. External affairs minister Sushma Swaraj met Afghanistan's FM Salahuddin Rabbani on Sunday in Samarkand, Uzbekistan during the first India Central Asia dialogue. According to a release by Afghan foreign affairs, "Swaraj reaffirmed her country’s commitment to Afghanistan". India has been a key development partner of Afghanistan since 2001 and has committed over 3 billion dollars to the country. The Afghan Parliament in Kabul and the India Afghanistan friendship dam in Herat was built with New Delhi's help. New Delhi is also connecting the landlocked country through the Chabahar port in Iram.

India slams Pakistan for saying New Delhi has no role in Afghanistan 

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under&nbsp;Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.”

On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling."

Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third&nbsp;high-level visit from the new Maldivian government.

During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/with-president-solihs-visit-maldives-resets-india-first-policy-india-reciprocates-with-14-bn-aid-package-184877">$1.4 billion to the island nation</a>.

Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First'&nbsp;policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give."

PM Modi had visited the&nbsp;Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018.

Maldivian defence minister Mariya Didi will be in India from January 23 to 30. This is her first visit after taking charge as country's defence minister under Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government in November of 2018. Speaking exclusively to WION from Male she said, "It is my first trip to India as the Maldivian Minister for Defence and I look forward to fruitful discussions with my Indian counterpart Hon Nirmala Sitharaman. As someone who believes in gender equality, I am excited. I understand this is the first time in the history of the region that there is going to be a meeting between two female defence ministers.” On security cooperation, she said, “From time immemorial we have traditionally enjoyed close ties with India. I believe it is in our respective self-interest to continue to do so. Our security co-operation helps to keep us safe and combats a variety of problems from fish poaching to piracy and smuggling." Her visit comes a month after Maldivian foreign minister Abdulla Shahid and President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih visited India, making her trip the third high-level visit from the new Maldivian government. During President Solih's India visit in December, India had announced financial assistance up to $1.4 billion to the island nation. Relations under former president Abdulla Yameen's administration and New Delhi had suffered, especially since Yameen junked 'Ïndia First' policy for a pro-Beijing policy. Yameen even wanted New Delhi to take back 2 helicopters it had gifted. Speaking to WION, immediately after taking charge, Mariya had said the helicopters will not be given back and "It’s not in our culture to ask neighbours to take back what they give." PM Modi had visited the Maldives in November 2018 to take part in the swearing-in ceremony of President Solih. During the bilateral meeting, both the leaders agreed on the "importance of maintaining peace and security in the Indian Ocean" and "being mindful of each other’s concerns and aspirations for the stability of the region."

India-Maldives security cooperation keeps us safe: Maldivian defence minister to WION

The ministry of external affairs on Wednesday summoned Pakistan High Commission official and lodged a strong protest to the death of an innocent civilian in unprovoked ceasefire violation (CFV) by Pakistan forces on 11 January 2019 in Sunderbani Sector.

The individual named Hemraj was shot by Pakistani forces from across the line of control (LoC) and later succumbed to wounds.

The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Our strong concerns were also shared at continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the Line of Control and the International Boundary."

It further added, "We also protested Pakistan’s continued support to cross border terrorist infiltration into India, including supporting cover fire provided by Pakistan forces."

On the same day itself, an Improvised Explosive Device explosion took place near LoC in Naushera Sector in which an Army Officer and a soldier died.

In 2018, 28 civilians died due to ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces, maximum in the last 4 years.

The ministry of external affairs on Wednesday summoned Pakistan High Commission official and lodged a strong protest to the death of an innocent civilian in unprovoked ceasefire violation (CFV) by Pakistan forces on 11 January 2019 in Sunderbani Sector.

The ministry of external affairs on Wednesday summoned Pakistan High Commission official and lodged a strong protest to the death of an innocent civilian in unprovoked ceasefire violation (CFV) by Pakistan forces on 11 January 2019 in Sunderbani Sector. The individual named Hemraj was shot by Pakistani forces from across the line of control (LoC) and later succumbed to wounds. The ministry of external affairs in a release said, "Our strong concerns were also shared at continued unprovoked firing and ceasefire violations across the Line of Control and the International Boundary." It further added, "We also protested Pakistan’s continued support to cross border terrorist infiltration into India, including supporting cover fire provided by Pakistan forces." On the same day itself, an Improvised Explosive Device explosion took place near LoC in Naushera Sector in which an Army Officer and a soldier died. In 2018, 28 civilians died due to ceasefire violations by Pakistani forces, maximum in the last 4 years.

India summons Pakistan High Commission official over killing of civilian

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side. A high-level meet between Indian and Pakistani officials is expected to take place very soon.&nbsp;

The meeting, which was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, was also attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, DG BSF RK Mishra, and officials from the Road and Transport Ministry. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes.&nbsp;

Land acquisition for the corridor on the Indian side was was a key focus area, as was the road network on the Indian side. Bisaria informed the attendees about the progress on the Pakistani side of the corridor which he visited a week ago.

The Home Ministry is the nodal ministry for coordinating with the authorities concerned, including local governments while the Road, Transport and Highways Ministry is the nodal ministry for the building and development of the corridor on the Indian side.

How pilgrims can get across to the Pakistani side with the help of simple procedures was the other key area. The Issues raised during the meeting included biometric records, the online registration of pilgrims, and timings. Sources said it was suggested that the corridor be open only for six hours during the day. It was indicated that as of now, no consensus has been reached with Islamabad on the number of pilgrims to be allowed across a day.&nbsp;

Indo-Pak officials' meet on the anvil 
According to sources in Pakistan, India is likely to propose a formal meeting on the Kartarpur corridor to Pakistan soon. The meeting is expected to take place between the third week of January and the first week of February. The sources said Pakistan will accept the proposal and invite for the meeting, as and when proposed.

Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, who visited Kartapar Sahib Gurudwara recently, had said "35% of work on the corridor on the Pakistani side has been completed." Qadri had added that work on the corridor on the Pakistani side will be completed before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary.

Punjab CM writes to Centre on Kartarpur corridor 
Meanwhile, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh has written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the Kartarpur corridor and requested him to waive the mandatory condition that devotees will need passports to cross over. This, he said in the letter, will enable "khulle darshan deedar” of the gurudwara where Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life. He suggested to the Centre that any valid government document such as an Aadhar card be used for identification at the border. The issue of passport-free access was reiterated by the Punjab chief secretary during the meet on the Kartarpur corridor at the home ministry.

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side.

A high-level meeting to discuss the modalities of the Kartarpur corridor took place in the Home Ministry on Tuesday with the key issues being land acquisition and pilgrims' access to the other side. A high-level meet between Indian and Pakistani officials is expected to take place very soon. The meeting, which was chaired by Union Home Secretary Rajiv Gauba, was also attended by the Punjab chief secretary, Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria, DG BSF RK Mishra, and officials from the Road and Transport Ministry. The meeting lasted approximately 45 minutes. Land acquisition for the corridor on the Indian side was was a key focus area, as was the road network on the Indian side. Bisaria informed the attendees about the progress on the Pakistani side of the corridor which he visited a week ago. The Home Ministry is the nodal ministry for coordinating with the authorities concerned, including local governments while the Road, Transport and Highways Ministry is the nodal ministry for the building and development of the corridor on the Indian side. How pilgrims can get across to the Pakistani side with the help of simple procedures was the other key area. The Issues raised during the meeting included biometric records, the online registration of pilgrims, and timings. Sources said it was suggested that the corridor be open only for six hours during the day. It was indicated that as of now, no consensus has been reached with Islamabad on the number of pilgrims to be allowed across a day. Indo-Pak officials' meet on the anvil According to sources in Pakistan, India is likely to propose a formal meeting on the Kartarpur corridor to Pakistan soon. The meeting is expected to take place between the third week of January and the first week of February. The sources said Pakistan will accept the proposal and invite for the meeting, as and when proposed. Pakistan's Federal Minister for Religious Affairs and Inter-faith Harmony Noor-ul-Haq Qadri, who visited Kartapar Sahib Gurudwara recently, had said "35% of work on the corridor on the Pakistani side has been completed." Qadri had added that work on the corridor on the Pakistani side will be completed before Guru Nanak's 550th birth anniversary. Punjab CM writes to Centre on Kartarpur corridor Meanwhile, Punjab CM Amarinder Singh has written to Home Minister Rajnath Singh on the Kartarpur corridor and requested him to waive the mandatory condition that devotees will need passports to cross over. This, he said in the letter, will enable "khulle darshan deedar” of the gurudwara where Guru Nanak spent the last 18 years of his life. He suggested to the Centre that any valid government document such as an Aadhar card be used for identification at the border. The issue of passport-free access was reiterated by the Punjab chief secretary during the meet on the Kartarpur corridor at the home ministry.

Kartarpur corridor: Indian, Pakistani officials to meet soon as Pak says 35% work on its side of border complete

India and five Central Asian countries along with Afghanistan on Sunday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in countering the menace which poses a threat to people across the world.

This was part of a joint statement issued at the end of the first ever meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue which also saw the participation of Afghanistan at the ministerial level in Samarkand.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with the foreign ministers of Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took part in the meeting.

"All sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in countering terrorism which posed a threat to the people and economies of the world," the statement said.

It referred to the ancient civilisational, cultural, trade, and people-to-people links between India and Central Asia and expressed commitment to dynamic and fruitful friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between India and the Central Asian countries at bilateral and multilateral formats.

"The countries reaffirmed their willingness for cooperation, mutual support, joint solution on relevant issues in order to ensure security, stability and sustainable development," the statement said.

The ministers welcomed the participation of Afghanistan in the India-Central Asia Dialogue as an important land link in the regional cooperation, the transit of goods and energy and expressed support and commitment of Central Asian countries and India to peace, security and stability of Afghanistan.

They also called for an inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process and reconciliation, and assistance in the economic reconstruction of Afghanistan through the implementation of joint infrastructure, transit and transport, energy projects including regional cooperation and investment projects, the statement said.

The ministers noted the importance of sustainable economic growth in Afghanistan by attracting Afghan women to participate in the public life of the country and welcomed the successful holding of forums and conferences on this issue in the countries of Central Asia.&nbsp;

They also noted the results of the seventh Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan (RECCA VII), held in Ashgabat in November 2017 and expressed willingness to cooperate in preparation for the RECCA VIII meet in Tashkent in the second half of 2019.

The participants welcomed the accession of India into the Ashgabat agreement on creating an international transport and transit corridor.&nbsp;

The ministers emphasised the importance of developing and implementing projects, that provide a concerted solution to the problems and issues of economic growth of the countries of Central Asia based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and respect for their interests.

The statement said the nations expressed their intention to strengthen cooperation in order to create real opportunities for expanding economic cooperation and ensuring favourable conditions for mutual free trade.&nbsp;

They discussed promising opportunities and areas of cooperation in promoting mutual trade, attracting investments, innovations and technologies in key spheres of industry, energy, information technologies, pharmaceuticals and agriculture, education and training.&nbsp;

They also highlighted the importance of concerted efforts to improve the investment climate and the market attractiveness of the region's economy, business opportunities of the Central Asian countries on the world stage.

The statement said special attention was paid to the need to expand and establish direct mutually beneficial economic and cultural ties between the regions and cities of India and the countries of Central Asia and expressed their intention to contribute to this direction.&nbsp;

India and five Central Asian countries along with Afghanistan on Sunday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in countering the menace which poses a threat to people across the world.

India and five Central Asian countries along with Afghanistan on Sunday condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in countering the menace which poses a threat to people across the world. This was part of a joint statement issued at the end of the first ever meeting of the India-Central Asia Dialogue which also saw the participation of Afghanistan at the ministerial level in Samarkand. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj along with the foreign ministers of Afghanistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan took part in the meeting. "All sides condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and agreed to cooperate in countering terrorism which posed a threat to the people and economies of the world," the statement said. It referred to the ancient civilisational, cultural, trade, and people-to-people links between India and Central Asia and expressed commitment to dynamic and fruitful friendly relations and mutually beneficial cooperation between India and the Central Asian countries at bilateral and multilateral formats. "The countries reaffirmed their willingness for cooperation, mutual support, joint solution on relevant issues in order to ensure security, stability and sustainable development," the statement said. The ministers welcomed the participation of Afghanistan in the India-Central Asia Dialogue as an important land link in the regional cooperation, the transit of goods and energy and expressed support and commitment of Central Asian countries and India to peace, security and stability of Afghanistan. They also called for an inclusive Afghan-led and Afghan-owned peace process and reconciliation, and assistance in the economic reconstruction of Afghanistan through the implementation of joint infrastructure, transit and transport, energy projects including regional cooperation and investment projects, the statement said. The ministers noted the importance of sustainable economic growth in Afghanistan by attracting Afghan women to participate in the public life of the country and welcomed the successful holding of forums and conferences on this issue in the countries of Central Asia. They also noted the results of the seventh Regional Economic Cooperation Conference on Afghanistan (RECCA VII), held in Ashgabat in November 2017 and expressed willingness to cooperate in preparation for the RECCA VIII meet in Tashkent in the second half of 2019. The participants welcomed the accession of India into the Ashgabat agreement on creating an international transport and transit corridor. The ministers emphasised the importance of developing and implementing projects, that provide a concerted solution to the problems and issues of economic growth of the countries of Central Asia based on the principles of equality, mutual benefit and respect for their interests. The statement said the nations expressed their intention to strengthen cooperation in order to create real opportunities for expanding economic cooperation and ensuring favourable conditions for mutual free trade. They discussed promising opportunities and areas of cooperation in promoting mutual trade, attracting investments, innovations and technologies in key spheres of industry, energy, information technologies, pharmaceuticals and agriculture, education and training. They also highlighted the importance of concerted efforts to improve the investment climate and the market attractiveness of the region's economy, business opportunities of the Central Asian countries on the world stage. The statement said special attention was paid to the need to expand and establish direct mutually beneficial economic and cultural ties between the regions and cities of India and the countries of Central Asia and expressed their intention to contribute to this direction.

India, Afghanistan, Central Asian nations agree to cooperate in countering terror

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Afghanistan's foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Sunday on the sidelines of first India-Central Asia Dialogue.

This is the first meeting between both the ministers this year. Afghanistan was also invited to the dialogue. According to a release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan, "Swaraj reaffirmed her country’s commitment toward&nbsp;Afghanistan."&nbsp;

During the meet "both sides exchanged views on the dynamics of the peace talks, the Afghan-leadership and ownership element of the peace process and regional cooperation."

The meeting comes in the backdrop of the Afghan National Security Advisory (NSA) Hamdullah Mohib and US Special Representative of Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's New Delhi visit.

Mohib met his Indian counterpart NSA Ajit Doval and appreciated the assistance provided by India for the economic development and the reconstruction of Afghanistan.

Zalmay, during his maiden visit to&nbsp;India, met Swaraj and foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale. During the meetings, the Indian side briefed Zalmay about Pakistan's destabilizing role and "made it very clear that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan should be Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar noted.

A number of developments have taken place with respect to the Afghan&nbsp;peace process. US media suggest that Washington is keen to withdraw a certain number of its troops&nbsp;from the country. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's neighbours, along with Moscow and Washington but barring India, have also been engaging with the&nbsp;Taliban. India has a policy of not engaging with the Taliban but did participate at a non-official level at Moscow talks on Afghanistan last year in which the group was also present. &nbsp;&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Afghanistan's foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Sunday on the sidelines of first India-Central Asia Dialogue.

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Afghanistan's foreign minister Salahuddin Rabbani met in Samarkand, Uzbekistan on Sunday on the sidelines of first India-Central Asia Dialogue. This is the first meeting between both the ministers this year. Afghanistan was also invited to the dialogue. According to a release by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Afghanistan, "Swaraj reaffirmed her country’s commitment toward Afghanistan." During the meet "both sides exchanged views on the dynamics of the peace talks, the Afghan-leadership and ownership element of the peace process and regional cooperation." The meeting comes in the backdrop of the Afghan National Security Advisory (NSA) Hamdullah Mohib and US Special Representative of Afghanistan Zalmay Khalilzad's New Delhi visit. Mohib met his Indian counterpart NSA Ajit Doval and appreciated the assistance provided by India for the economic development and the reconstruction of Afghanistan. Zalmay, during his maiden visit to India, met Swaraj and foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale. During the meetings, the Indian side briefed Zalmay about Pakistan's destabilizing role and "made it very clear that peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan should be Afghan-owned, Afghan-led and Afghan-controlled," MEA spokesperson Raveesh Kumar noted. A number of developments have taken place with respect to the Afghan peace process. US media suggest that Washington is keen to withdraw a certain number of its troops from the country. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's neighbours, along with Moscow and Washington but barring India, have also been engaging with the Taliban. India has a policy of not engaging with the Taliban but did participate at a non-official level at Moscow talks on Afghanistan last year in which the group was also present.

India-Central Asia Dialogue: Indian, Afghan foreign ministers meet in Uzbekistan

Amid reports of United States beginning to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-led-coalition-withdrawing-equipment-from-syria-189689">pullout&nbsp;from Syria</a>, the focus now shifts to Afghanistan. Reports suggest that the US president will do the same in Afghanistan -- withdraw troops from America's longest war.&nbsp;

Just like Syria, while US lawmakers and policymakers remain divided over the pullout move with respect to Afghanistan, the man who shaped the post-Taliban Afghanistan believes this would be a good decision.

In an exclusive interview with WION, Hamid Karzai, Afghanistan's former president talked about his views on Trump's policy on Afghanistan, China's growing presence around the region and India's role as one of Afghanistan's strategic allies.&nbsp;

Karzai said that America will never leave Afghanistan owing to its strategic placement on the world map.&nbsp;

Watch the full interview here:

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"We have a very strategic location, we have all the other superpowers in our neighbourhood -- Russia is there, China is there, India is there and we have regional powers surrounding us as well, therefore our location is surely to interest the United States. Truly, that is one of the reasons why the US is there. The US will stay in Afghanistan and would like to stay in Afghanistan," former Afghan president said.&nbsp;

He agreed that the Americans have turned his country into a war lab. As per a UNICEF report, the violence in Afghanistan maimed or killed some 5,000 children within the first three quarters of 2018. Many have been wounded, thousands lost their lives.

"This is one of the worst things they could have done to Afghanistan and they did it; that is the reason why they lost the support of the Afghan people. This is something that I have condemned very strongly and I would do it again and again. I would raise my condemnation against that atrocity again," Karzai told WION.&nbsp;

Karzai identified India as a key ally and stated that it can play a greater role in Afghanistan.&nbsp;India's work has been consistent in Afghanistan. Over the years, India has built more than four thousand kilometres of roads, dams and hydropower plants. But Karzai thinks that India has the ability to do more.&nbsp;

"India has the ability, the stature and the presence in Afghanistan, in the minds and the hearts of the people, to be able to do things independently. India is the most strategic of Afghanistan's allies in terms of the bilateral relations between the two countries, in terms of the help that India has given to Afghanistan. India has and will continue to play a role in Afghanistan," ex-Afghan president said.&nbsp;

Beijing wants to extend the China-Pakistan Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. Karzai says Kabul welcomes provided it brings a 'win-win' situation to both China and Afghanistan.&nbsp;

"We all have political ambitions, Afghanistan has political ambitions, India has. Economic power brings you the power to reach political ambitions. It is legitimate, there is nothing wrong in that as long as you do it not at the cost of others; as long as you do it in a win-win&nbsp;situation," he noted.&nbsp;

Karzai further added that he doesn't think US president Donald Trump intended to <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/trump-mocks-indian-pm-for-library-in-afghanistan-187955">mock India on the library incident</a>.&nbsp;

"I don't think his intention was to mock India. I think it did not occur to him at that time that it was not a library but a parliament house. People make mistakes and say things," he said.&nbsp;

Amid reports of United States beginning to pullout from Syria, the focus now shifts to Afghanistan. Reports suggest that the US president will do the same in Afghanistan -- withdraw troops from America's longest war.

Amid reports of United States beginning to pullout from Syria, the focus now shifts to Afghanistan. Reports suggest that the US president will do the same in Afghanistan -- withdraw troops from America's longest war. Just like Syria, while US lawmakers and policymakers remain divided over the pullout move with respect to Afghanistan, the man who shaped the post-Taliban Afghanistan believes this would be a good decision. In an exclusive interview with WION, Hamid Karzai, Afghanistan's former president talked about his views on Trump's policy on Afghanistan, China's growing presence around the region and India's role as one of Afghanistan's strategic allies. Karzai said that America will never leave Afghanistan owing to its strategic placement on the world map. Watch the full interview here: × "We have a very strategic location, we have all the other superpowers in our neighbourhood -- Russia is there, China is there, India is there and we have regional powers surrounding us as well, therefore our location is surely to interest the United States. Truly, that is one of the reasons why the US is there. The US will stay in Afghanistan and would like to stay in Afghanistan," former Afghan president said. He agreed that the Americans have turned his country into a war lab. As per a UNICEF report, the violence in Afghanistan maimed or killed some 5,000 children within the first three quarters of 2018. Many have been wounded, thousands lost their lives. "This is one of the worst things they could have done to Afghanistan and they did it; that is the reason why they lost the support of the Afghan people. This is something that I have condemned very strongly and I would do it again and again. I would raise my condemnation against that atrocity again," Karzai told WION. Karzai identified India as a key ally and stated that it can play a greater role in Afghanistan. India's work has been consistent in Afghanistan. Over the years, India has built more than four thousand kilometres of roads, dams and hydropower plants. But Karzai thinks that India has the ability to do more. "India has the ability, the stature and the presence in Afghanistan, in the minds and the hearts of the people, to be able to do things independently. India is the most strategic of Afghanistan's allies in terms of the bilateral relations between the two countries, in terms of the help that India has given to Afghanistan. India has and will continue to play a role in Afghanistan," ex-Afghan president said. Beijing wants to extend the China-Pakistan Corridor (CPEC) to Afghanistan. Karzai says Kabul welcomes provided it brings a 'win-win' situation to both China and Afghanistan. "We all have political ambitions, Afghanistan has political ambitions, India has. Economic power brings you the power to reach political ambitions. It is legitimate, there is nothing wrong in that as long as you do it not at the cost of others; as long as you do it in a win-win situation," he noted. Karzai further added that he doesn't think US president Donald Trump intended to mock India on the library incident. "I don't think his intention was to mock India. I think it did not occur to him at that time that it was not a library but a parliament house. People make mistakes and say things," he said.

Former Afghan President Hamid Karzai tells WION why he thinks US would like to stay in Afghanistan

The United States is not looking to grant more waivers for Iranian oil imports after the reimposition of US sanctions, the US special representative for Iran said on Saturday, underlining Washington's push to choke off Tehran's income.

"We are not looking to grant any waivers or exemptions to the import of Iranian crude," Brian Hook told a industry conference in the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi.

Washington granted waivers to eight major buyers of Iranian oil — <a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-keep-buying-iranian-oil-despite-us-sanctions-sources-169718">including India</a>, China, Japan and South Korea — after restoring energy sanctions in November.

Hook declined to say what the administration in Washington would do when those waivers end in May.

"Iran is now increasingly feeling the economic isolation that our sanctions are imposing ... We do want to deny the regime revenues," Hook said.

"Eighty percent of Iran's revenues come from oil exports and this is (the) number one state sponsor of terrorism ... We want to deny this regime the money it needs," he added.

Tensions between Iran and the United States have increased since May, when U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers, saying the accord was flawed in Tehran's favour, and reintroduced sanctions on Iran that had been lifted under the pact.

"We want a new and better deal (with Iran) but in that process we are denying the Iranian regime billions and billions of dollars and they are facing a liquidity crisis," Hook said.

The Islamic Republic, he added, would not return to the negotiating table without pressure.

Tehran has refused to renegotiate its nuclear accord and says its ballistic missile programme - another source of concern for Washington and its regional allies such as Israel and Saudi Arabia - is solely defensive and untouchable.

Hook said Washington was pleased with China cutting its oil imports from Iran, and that he expected much deeper reductions in Iranian oil exports. "We are just getting started," he said.

Iran's crude exports will be severely curtailed for a third month in January as it struggles to find new buyers amid the sanctions, according to tanker data and industry sources.

Separately, Omani Oil Minister Mohammed bin Hamad al-Rumhi told the conference that Washington had not asked the Gulf Arab state to stop a gas pipeline project with Iran and that talks were continuing.

He said some partners for the project had pulled out because of the risk of punishment by Washington for dealing with Iran but that some other Asian firms were willing to take part.

The United States is not looking to grant more waivers for Iranian oil imports after the reimposition of US sanctions, the US special representative for Iran said on Saturday, underlining Washington's push to choke off Tehran's income.

The United States is not looking to grant more waivers for Iranian oil imports after the reimposition of US sanctions, the US special representative for Iran said on Saturday, underlining Washington's push to choke off Tehran's income. "We are not looking to grant any waivers or exemptions to the import of Iranian crude," Brian Hook told a industry conference in the United Arab Emirates capital Abu Dhabi. Washington granted waivers to eight major buyers of Iranian oil — including India, China, Japan and South Korea — after restoring energy sanctions in November. Hook declined to say what the administration in Washington would do when those waivers end in May. "Iran is now increasingly feeling the economic isolation that our sanctions are imposing ... We do want to deny the regime revenues," Hook said. "Eighty percent of Iran's revenues come from oil exports and this is (the) number one state sponsor of terrorism ... We want to deny this regime the money it needs," he added. Tensions between Iran and the United States have increased since May, when U.S. President Donald Trump abandoned a 2015 nuclear deal between Tehran and major powers, saying the accord was flawed in Tehran's favour, and reintroduced sanctions on Iran that had been lifted under the pact. "We want a new and better deal (with Iran) but in that process we are denying the Iranian regime billions and billions of dollars and they are facing a liquidity crisis," Hook said. The Islamic Republic, he added, would not return to the negotiating table without pressure. Tehran has refused to renegotiate its nuclear accord and says its ballistic missile programme - another source of concern for Washington and its regional allies such as Israel and Saudi Arabia - is solely defensive and untouchable. Hook said Washington was pleased with China cutting its oil imports from Iran, and that he expected much deeper reductions in Iranian oil exports. "We are just getting started," he said. Iran's crude exports will be severely curtailed for a third month in January as it struggles to find new buyers amid the sanctions, according to tanker data and industry sources. Separately, Omani Oil Minister Mohammed bin Hamad al-Rumhi told the conference that Washington had not asked the Gulf Arab state to stop a gas pipeline project with Iran and that talks were continuing. He said some partners for the project had pulled out because of the risk of punishment by Washington for dealing with Iran but that some other Asian firms were willing to take part.

India is major buyer of Iran oil, US says it may not waive sanctions after May 

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