India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years. The fourth National Security Advisor-level trilateral talks were hosted by Sri Lanka. Indian NSA Ajit Doval represented India and held discussions with ri Lankan Defence Secretary Major Gen (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne and Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi.

According to a joint statement issued by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Defence, the three countries -- recognising the significance of the forum for promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region on common issues pertaining to maritime security -- took stock of the current maritime security environment in the region.

They discussed mutual cooperation in the areas of Maritime Domain Awareness, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Joint Exercises, Capacity Building, Maritime Security and Threats, Marine Pollution, and Maritime Underwater Heritage, it said.

They agreed to further strengthen cooperation in dealing with these challenges, to ensure peace and security in the region for common benefit, the joint statement said.

The three countries also exchanged views on common security threats and agreed to broad base cooperation by expanding the scope to improve intelligence sharing and include issues like terrorism, radicalisation, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, cyber security and effect of climate change on maritime environment, it said.

Northern Indian Ocean is traditionally seen as a part of influence sphere of Indian Navy. But China has increased its presence in these waters in recent years.

China views the Maldives and Sri Lanka as key to its Maritime Silk Road project in the Indian Ocean. It has already acquired the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka on long lease and established a military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa.

India, Sri Lanka and Maldives agreed to meet regularly to share, discuss and ensure timely implementation of decisions taken at the meeting. They also decided to hold Deputy NSA level working group meetings biannually for cooperation at operational level, according to the statement.

Mauritius and Seychelles were represented virtually at senior officials' level, it said, adding that in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dialogue was conducted adhering to strict health guidelines using the 'Air Bubble' concept for the visiting delegations.

Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives launched the Trilateral NSA level Meeting on Maritime Security Cooperation in 2011 and three meetings have been held so far.

The past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region. These were supplemented by Deputy NSA level meetings for sustained engagements and implementation of the discussions at the NSA level meetings, the statement said.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena addressed the meeting as the chief guest. Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage also attended the event, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry tweeted.

Doval, who arrived in Colombo on Friday for the dialogue, on Friday met Didi and held a cordial and detailed discussion on deepening bilateral partnership with the key island nation in the Indian Ocean.

Doval also met Gunaratne on Friday and they agreed on several steps to further strengthen the "valuable" cooperation between the two countries which also contributes to peace and security in the region.

"NSA Ajit Doval met Major Gen(Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, Defence Secretary of SriLanka &amp; discussed matters pertaining to the growing defence and security partnership between the two countries," the Indian High Commission in Colombo said in a tweet.

The high-level trilateral meeting is designed to initiate collective action on maritime security including maritime domain awareness, legal regimes, train in search and rescue, maritime pollution response, information sharing, curbing piracy drugs arms and contraband trafficking in the Indian Ocean region.

On Thursday, the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi said the NSA-level trilateral meeting had served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries.

"The meeting will provide an opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region," the MEA said in a statement.

This is Doval's second official visit to Sri Lanka this year. In January, he visited the island nation and discussed a range of bilateral issues, including strengthening cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing and maritime security with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. 
&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years.

India-Sri Lanka and the Maldives on Saturday agreed to further strengthen maritime co-operation in a high-level trilateral dialogue held after a gap of six years. The fourth National Security Advisor-level trilateral talks were hosted by Sri Lanka. Indian NSA Ajit Doval represented India and held discussions with ri Lankan Defence Secretary Major Gen (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne and Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Didi. According to a joint statement issued by Sri Lanka's Ministry of Defence, the three countries -- recognising the significance of the forum for promoting meaningful cooperation in the Indian Ocean Region on common issues pertaining to maritime security -- took stock of the current maritime security environment in the region. They discussed mutual cooperation in the areas of Maritime Domain Awareness, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, Joint Exercises, Capacity Building, Maritime Security and Threats, Marine Pollution, and Maritime Underwater Heritage, it said. They agreed to further strengthen cooperation in dealing with these challenges, to ensure peace and security in the region for common benefit, the joint statement said. The three countries also exchanged views on common security threats and agreed to broad base cooperation by expanding the scope to improve intelligence sharing and include issues like terrorism, radicalisation, extremism, drugs, arms and human trafficking, money laundering, cyber security and effect of climate change on maritime environment, it said. Northern Indian Ocean is traditionally seen as a part of influence sphere of Indian Navy. But China has increased its presence in these waters in recent years. China views the Maldives and Sri Lanka as key to its Maritime Silk Road project in the Indian Ocean. It has already acquired the Hambantota port in Sri Lanka on long lease and established a military base in Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. India, Sri Lanka and Maldives agreed to meet regularly to share, discuss and ensure timely implementation of decisions taken at the meeting. They also decided to hold Deputy NSA level working group meetings biannually for cooperation at operational level, according to the statement. Mauritius and Seychelles were represented virtually at senior officials' level, it said, adding that in view of the COVID-19 pandemic, the dialogue was conducted adhering to strict health guidelines using the 'Air Bubble' concept for the visiting delegations. Sri Lanka, India and the Maldives launched the Trilateral NSA level Meeting on Maritime Security Cooperation in 2011 and three meetings have been held so far. The past deliberations and outcomes have helped the three countries in improving close coordination in maritime security of the region. These were supplemented by Deputy NSA level meetings for sustained engagements and implementation of the discussions at the NSA level meetings, the statement said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena addressed the meeting as the chief guest. Foreign Secretary Admiral Prof. Jayanath Colombage also attended the event, the Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry tweeted. Doval, who arrived in Colombo on Friday for the dialogue, on Friday met Didi and held a cordial and detailed discussion on deepening bilateral partnership with the key island nation in the Indian Ocean. Doval also met Gunaratne on Friday and they agreed on several steps to further strengthen the "valuable" cooperation between the two countries which also contributes to peace and security in the region. "NSA Ajit Doval met Major Gen(Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne, Defence Secretary of SriLanka & discussed matters pertaining to the growing defence and security partnership between the two countries," the Indian High Commission in Colombo said in a tweet. The high-level trilateral meeting is designed to initiate collective action on maritime security including maritime domain awareness, legal regimes, train in search and rescue, maritime pollution response, information sharing, curbing piracy drugs arms and contraband trafficking in the Indian Ocean region. On Thursday, the External Affairs Ministry in New Delhi said the NSA-level trilateral meeting had served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries. "The meeting will provide an opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region," the MEA said in a statement. This is Doval's second official visit to Sri Lanka this year. In January, he visited the island nation and discussed a range of bilateral issues, including strengthening cooperation in defence, intelligence sharing and maritime security with President Gotabaya Rajapaksa. (With PTI inputs)

India-Sri Lanka-Maldives agree to bolster maritime co-operation

A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said.

Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-concludes-zydus-biotech-park-visit-next-stop-bharat-biotech-facility-in-hyderabad-346030" hreflang="en">PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad</a>

India is represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who arrived here yesterday. While Maldives foreign minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne represented their countries during the talks.

"The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event," the high commission tweeted.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DCRGunawardena?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DCRGunawardena</a> was the chief guest at the event. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/lka?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#lka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MEAIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MEAIndia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/MFA_SriLanka?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MFA_SriLanka</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/HCIMaldives?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HCIMaldives</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SLinIndia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SLinIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/fOXYGXNufC">pic.twitter.com/fOXYGXNufC</a>
— India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) <a href="https://twitter.com/IndiainSL/status/1332546114759737344?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd).

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the NSA-level trilateral meeting has served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-assures-vietnam-of-help-in-modernising-its-armed-forces-346016" hreflang="en">India assures Vietnam of help in modernising its armed forces</a>

The mechanism is being revived after six years as earlier meetings were held in 2011 in the Maldives, in 2013 in Sri Lanka, and in 2014 in India.

A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event.

A trilateral meeting on maritime security cooperation between India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives began on Saturday, the Indian High Commission said. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena was the chief guest at the event. Also read| PM Modi concludes Zydus Biotech Park visit, next stop Bharat Biotech facility in Hyderabad India is represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, who arrived here yesterday. While Maldives foreign minister Mariya Didi and Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd.) Kamal Gunaratne represented their countries during the talks. "The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event," the high commission tweeted. The tri-lateral meeting among India, Sri Lanka and Maldives on maritime and security cooperation gets underway. Minister @DCRGunawardena was the chief guest at the event. #lka @MEAIndia @MFA_SriLanka @HCIMaldives @SLinIndia pic.twitter.com/fOXYGXNufC — India in Sri Lanka (@IndiainSL) November 28, 2020 × This will be the first NSA level meeting on Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation. Besides Doval, Sri Lankan Defence Secretary Major General (Retd). The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said that the NSA-level trilateral meeting has served as an effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries. Also read| India assures Vietnam of help in modernising its armed forces The mechanism is being revived after six years as earlier meetings were held in 2011 in the Maldives, in 2013 in Sri Lanka, and in 2014 in India.

India, Maldives, Sri Lanka trilateral meet on maritime security begins

With 41,322 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the tally of active cases in India rose to 4,54,940 on Saturday, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. There are now a total of 93,51,110 total positive cases in the country, including 87,59,969 recoveries. There were 485 deaths in the last 24 hours pushing the death toll to 1,36,200.

According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, with 11,57,605 samples tested in the last 24 hours, the total number of samples tested reached 13,82,20,354.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/police-protesting-farmers-face-off-at-new-delhi-border-346034" hreflang="en">Police, protesting farmers face-off at New Delhi border</a>

Maharashtra continued to be the worst affected state in the country with 6,185 new COVID-19 cases, 4,089 recoveries, and 85 deaths on Friday. The total number of cases in the state now stands at 18,08,550, including 87,969 active cases and 46,898 deaths.

The situation improved slightly in Delhi, which reported 5,482 new Covid-19 cases and 5,937 recoveries on Friday, taking the total number of positive cases to 5,56,744, including 38,181 active cases and 5,09,654 recoveries and 8,909 deaths.

Kerala reported about 3,966 new Covid-19 cases and 4,544 recoveries, tasking the total active cases to 63,885.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-holds-key-to-global-fight-against-coronavirus-pandemic-345961" hreflang="en">India holds key to global fight against coronavirus pandemic</a>

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a three-city trip to Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune today to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process.

He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad and the Serum Institute of India in Pune (Maharashtra), the Prime Minister`s Office said.

"As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the PMO said.

With 41,322 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the tally of active cases in India rose to 4,54,940 on Saturday, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said.

With 41,322 new Covid-19 cases in the last 24 hours, the tally of active cases in India rose to 4,54,940 on Saturday, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said. There are now a total of 93,51,110 total positive cases in the country, including 87,59,969 recoveries. There were 485 deaths in the last 24 hours pushing the death toll to 1,36,200. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research, with 11,57,605 samples tested in the last 24 hours, the total number of samples tested reached 13,82,20,354. Also read| Police, protesting farmers face-off at New Delhi border Maharashtra continued to be the worst affected state in the country with 6,185 new COVID-19 cases, 4,089 recoveries, and 85 deaths on Friday. The total number of cases in the state now stands at 18,08,550, including 87,969 active cases and 46,898 deaths. The situation improved slightly in Delhi, which reported 5,482 new Covid-19 cases and 5,937 recoveries on Friday, taking the total number of positive cases to 5,56,744, including 38,181 active cases and 5,09,654 recoveries and 8,909 deaths. Kerala reported about 3,966 new Covid-19 cases and 4,544 recoveries, tasking the total active cases to 63,885. Also read| India holds key to global fight against coronavirus pandemic Meanwhile, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a three-city trip to Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Pune today to personally review the vaccine development and manufacturing process. He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad, Bharat Biotech in Hyderabad and the Serum Institute of India in Pune (Maharashtra), the Prime Minister`s Office said. "As India enters a decisive phase of the fight against COVID-19, PM Narendra Modi`s visit to these facilities and discussions with the scientists will help him get a first-hand perspective of the preparations, challenges and roadmap in India`s endeavour to vaccinate its citizens," the PMO said.

COVID-19: 41,322 new cases reported in India, tally crosses 93.51 lakh

India is all set to beef up its "eye in the Indian Ocean" with the up-gradation of the Information Management and Analysis Centre or IMAC. The center, soon to become National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) will see all major agencies --civilians as well as defense being on board.

India is all set to beef up its "eye in the Indian Ocean" with the up-gradation of the Information Management and Analysis Centre or IMAC. The center, soon to become National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) will see all major agencies --civilians as well as defense being on board. IMAC, based out of Delhi's suburb Gurugram, gets real-time data on movement in the Indian ocean region being fed information from several places--from coastal radar to white shipping agreement India has several countries to coastal surveillance systems and several other ways. It is interesting to know, IMAC was set up in the aftermath of 26/11 as deterrence of any future act of terror through the maritime route. It has been around 6 years since it has been functioning. Under the NMDA, the fisheries department to local policing authorities will get information on development or movements across the coast. This will make sure that any risk, especially transnational can be prevented. The idea was to upgrade it was proposed by the Indian Navy, with the CCS of Cabinet Committee on Security expected to take a call soon. Meanwhile, IMAC which also gives information to IFC-IOR or Information fusion Centre--Indian Ocean Region will see new foreign liaison officers taking up the post, taking the number to around 10-12 . The arrival was delayed due to the COVID pandemic. At present, France, Japan, and the USA have full-time liaison officers at the IFC-IOR, that shares a campus with IMAC. The body was inaugurated in 2018, with a focus on India and like-minded countries sharing real-time developments in the maritime domain. It has been also recognized by UN's International Maritime Organization. In fact, it has 21 countries as partners, the majority from the Indian Ocean region, and is working with 22 multi-national agencies. In 2019, it conducted a coastal security workshop for BIMSTEC countries. During the MT New Diamond fire incident off the coast of Sri Lanka, IFC-IOR played a key role in the early mobilization of resources that resulting in a quick reaction.

Set up after 26/11, India to upgrade its 'eye in Indian Ocean' top maritime body

After a bitter border row that lasted for months. India and Nepal are working to get ties back on track. A flurry of high-level visits are set to take place in the coming months. Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla is already in Kathmandu at the invitation of the Nepal government.

He landed at Tribhuvan International Airport on Thursday morning, and was received by his Nepalese counterpart Bharat Raj Paudyal. Shringla is expected to be there for 2 days.

This is his first visit to the Himalayan Republic after becoming the foreign secretary. He will be visiting sites of developmental projects being carried out by India in the backdrop of the 2015 earthquake that rocked Nepal.

He is also expected to deliver a lecture at the Asian Institute of Diplomacy &amp; International Affairs in Kathmandu.

When asked about the importance of his visit the foreign secretary had this to say.

"We've a very strong relationship with nepal. Our endeavour will be to see how we can take the relationship forward. I would like to thank Government of Nepal, the foreign secretary for the warm hospitality extended to us. We have few very good meetings ahead of us, lets see how that goes"

India has had special military ties with Nepal for decades. Currently, there are 32,000 Nepalese Gurkha soldiers serving in the Indian Army.

In return New Delhi has been working to modernise Nepal Army by supplying equipment and providing training to soldiers.

In recent months the ties have been strained due to a boundary dispute. It began with Nepal asserting its claim over the Kalapani region in the Pithorgarh district.

Tensions escalated further when Nepal published a new map &amp; a new national insignia. The Indian side suggested that Kathmandu did so under pressure from China.

A bitter war of words ensued bilateral ties were at their worst until a few months back.

Now New Delhi &amp; Kathmandu have pressed the reset button. The visit by the Indian foreign secretary may go a long way in mending bilateral relations.

Meanwhile, India is also reaching out to its other neighbours in South Asia.

The Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is expected to travel to Colombo. On November 27th.

Once there he will be holding trilateral discussions with the Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed didi and the Lankan Defence Secretary Kamal Gunaratne.

Reports say, the talks will largely revolve around reviving trilateral maritime security dialogue.

The last such dialogue was held in New Delhi in 2014. It was suspended after India's relations with the Maldives got strained under the previous Abdulla Yameen regime.

This time, Seychelles, Mauritius and Bangladesh are expected to be present as observers during The dialogue.

From West Asia to South Asia, India is reaching out to its extended and immediate neighbours. The back-to-back visits could set the ball rolling for greater co-operation in the coming months.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

After a bitter border row that lasted for months. India and Nepal are working to get ties back on track. A flurry of high-level visits are set to take place in the coming months.

After a bitter border row that lasted for months. India and Nepal are working to get ties back on track. A flurry of high-level visits are set to take place in the coming months. Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla is already in Kathmandu at the invitation of the Nepal government. He landed at Tribhuvan International Airport on Thursday morning, and was received by his Nepalese counterpart Bharat Raj Paudyal. Shringla is expected to be there for 2 days. This is his first visit to the Himalayan Republic after becoming the foreign secretary. He will be visiting sites of developmental projects being carried out by India in the backdrop of the 2015 earthquake that rocked Nepal. He is also expected to deliver a lecture at the Asian Institute of Diplomacy & International Affairs in Kathmandu. When asked about the importance of his visit the foreign secretary had this to say. "We've a very strong relationship with nepal. Our endeavour will be to see how we can take the relationship forward. I would like to thank Government of Nepal, the foreign secretary for the warm hospitality extended to us. We have few very good meetings ahead of us, lets see how that goes" India has had special military ties with Nepal for decades. Currently, there are 32,000 Nepalese Gurkha soldiers serving in the Indian Army. In return New Delhi has been working to modernise Nepal Army by supplying equipment and providing training to soldiers. In recent months the ties have been strained due to a boundary dispute. It began with Nepal asserting its claim over the Kalapani region in the Pithorgarh district. Tensions escalated further when Nepal published a new map & a new national insignia. The Indian side suggested that Kathmandu did so under pressure from China. A bitter war of words ensued bilateral ties were at their worst until a few months back. Now New Delhi & Kathmandu have pressed the reset button. The visit by the Indian foreign secretary may go a long way in mending bilateral relations. Meanwhile, India is also reaching out to its other neighbours in South Asia. The Indian National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is expected to travel to Colombo. On November 27th. Once there he will be holding trilateral discussions with the Maldivian Defence Minister Mariya Ahmed didi and the Lankan Defence Secretary Kamal Gunaratne. Reports say, the talks will largely revolve around reviving trilateral maritime security dialogue. The last such dialogue was held in New Delhi in 2014. It was suspended after India's relations with the Maldives got strained under the previous Abdulla Yameen regime. This time, Seychelles, Mauritius and Bangladesh are expected to be present as observers during The dialogue. From West Asia to South Asia, India is reaching out to its extended and immediate neighbours. The back-to-back visits could set the ball rolling for greater co-operation in the coming months.

India reaches out to neighbours from West to South Asia

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important. More than 100 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine will be made in India. Russia's direct investment fund made the announcement today.

Developers of the Russian vaccine have tied up with an Indian drugmaker &nbsp;hetero to make the jab

The Sputnik V is just one of the many vaccines that will be produced in India. The vaccine is undergoing trials in India already. It was tested on 100 people in the first phase. The vaccine is now in its final phase of the trial in which it will be tested on thousands of people.

Data from this trial will be shared with the Indian regulators. If the vaccine works and is safe India will approve Sputnik V.

That would also mean, green lighting the large scale manufacturing in India.

It's not just the Russians who are betting on India's capabilities.

The makers of the Oxford vaccine have a similar arrangement with the Serum Institute of India, the largest vaccine maker in the world.

If the jab gets the go-ahead. SII Wants to churn out 10 million doses every month.

It has an agreement to manufacture one billion doses of the Oxford vaccine.

Reportedly SII plans to reserve half of the stock for India.

The other half will be supplied to low-income nations through GAVI, a global vaccine alliance.

On Saturday, November 28 India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit three cities for a vaccine tour. He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad.

The company is making its own vaccine and expects to introduce it in March next year.

Then, prime minister Modi will be in Hyderabad to visit the facilities of Bharat Biotech, which is making Covaxin.

The prime minister's last stop will be the Pune-based Serum Institute of India.

India makes 60 percent of the world's vaccines. It is home to six major manufacturers. 30 vaccine candidates are being developed in India alone. Five are in clinical trials. India has around 27 thousand cold chain stores. From there vaccines can be supplied to eight million locations.

Of course, India needs more and better facilities to develop, store and distribute the vaccines. But these numbers should tell you why India has a headstart

When it comes to the vaccines, it's the same headstart that the world's leading vaccine makers are hoping to leverage to end this pandemic. 
&nbsp;

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important.

Mission to innoculate every human on this planet cannot be complete without India, the world's second-most populous nation. But this is not the only reason why India is important. More than 100 million doses of Sputnik V vaccine will be made in India. Russia's direct investment fund made the announcement today. Developers of the Russian vaccine have tied up with an Indian drugmaker hetero to make the jab The Sputnik V is just one of the many vaccines that will be produced in India. The vaccine is undergoing trials in India already. It was tested on 100 people in the first phase. The vaccine is now in its final phase of the trial in which it will be tested on thousands of people. Data from this trial will be shared with the Indian regulators. If the vaccine works and is safe India will approve Sputnik V. That would also mean, green lighting the large scale manufacturing in India. It's not just the Russians who are betting on India's capabilities. The makers of the Oxford vaccine have a similar arrangement with the Serum Institute of India, the largest vaccine maker in the world. If the jab gets the go-ahead. SII Wants to churn out 10 million doses every month. It has an agreement to manufacture one billion doses of the Oxford vaccine. Reportedly SII plans to reserve half of the stock for India. The other half will be supplied to low-income nations through GAVI, a global vaccine alliance. On Saturday, November 28 India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit three cities for a vaccine tour. He will visit the Zydus Biotech Park in Ahmedabad. The company is making its own vaccine and expects to introduce it in March next year. Then, prime minister Modi will be in Hyderabad to visit the facilities of Bharat Biotech, which is making Covaxin. The prime minister's last stop will be the Pune-based Serum Institute of India. India makes 60 percent of the world's vaccines. It is home to six major manufacturers. 30 vaccine candidates are being developed in India alone. Five are in clinical trials. India has around 27 thousand cold chain stores. From there vaccines can be supplied to eight million locations. Of course, India needs more and better facilities to develop, store and distribute the vaccines. But these numbers should tell you why India has a headstart When it comes to the vaccines, it's the same headstart that the world's leading vaccine makers are hoping to leverage to end this pandemic.

India holds key to global fight against coronavirus pandemic

As part of increased defense cooperation, India &amp; Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday.

A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.".

Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations"

India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides.

The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions.

As part of increased defense cooperation, India & Vietnam have agreed on joint training of pilots by the respective Air Forces and training of forces to be deployed in UN Peacekeeping missions. This was one of the key outcomes of the virtual meet between India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich that took place on Friday. A readout of the meet from Indian defense ministry said both ministers,"discussed various ongoing projects and the future trajectory of bilateral Defense engagements...(and) expressed satisfaction that despite the COVID-19 situation Defense exchanges between both Armed Forces have maintained positive momentum.". Both countries are also looking at collaborating in a number of domains of defense cooperation like shipbuilding, surface and subsurface capacities like submarines at sea. New Delhi has already extended defence Lines of Credit worth USD 600 million to strengthen Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. The release explained out,"Ministers discussed collaboration in Defence Industry capability building, training and cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations" India assured Vietnam, a key partner in Indo-Pacific that it remains committed to the modernization of the Vietnamese Armed Forces during. Both sides also signed the agreement on Hydrographic cooperation that will enable the sharing of Hydrographic data and assist in the production of navigational charts by both sides. The Vietnamese defence minister invited the Indian defence minister for ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and also the meeting being hosted by Vietnam on 10 Dec through virtual mode.

India, Vietnam to jointly train pilots, collaborate in shipbuilding

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.&nbsp;

In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/nsa-ajit-doval-arrives-in-sri-lanka-to-attend-trilateral-maritime-dialogue-345789">NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue</a>

In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is&nbsp;Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing.

Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone.

Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges.

India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Vietnamese defence minister General Ngo Xuan Lich held a virtual meet on Friday, with focus on strengthening of ties and increase bilateral exchanges. In terms of defence, both sides have increased partnership significantly. India trains a number of Vietnamese defence personnel under the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) which has 70 slots for the country. Also read| NSA Ajit Doval arrives in Sri Lanka to attend trilateral maritime dialogue In October 2019, the 12th annual security dialogue at defence secretary-level took place in Ho Chin Minh city. India has deputed mobile training teams to 11 countries, among them one is Vietnam. Defence industrial cooperation has been a new focus area of cooperation, with New Delhi extending defence Lines of Credit worth US$ 600 million to strengthening Vietnam’s domestic defence manufacturing. Both, India and Vietnam, have been dealing with an aggressive China — India at the Line of Actual Control in Eastern Ladakh while Vietnam in the South China Sea — with Chinese vessels breaching into the country's exclusive economic zone. Amidst the aggressive behaviour, both are working together, especially on the Indo Pacific concept. ASEAN countries, including Vietnam, have come up with their own outlook on the Indo-Pacific, which is broadly similar to India’s Indo-Pacific Vision.

Indian and Vietnamese defence ministers hold talks

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this. This is for two reasons,

<ul>
	<li>India has a large population. Putting an end to the pandemic here will be a big victory in the fight against the Wuhan virus. And vaccines are being seen as the ultimate weapon to defeat this pandemic.</li>
	<li>India is one of the biggest exporters of vaccines. And the early batches will have limited supplies. India has the responsibility of making sure that a shot reaches every Indian...</li>
</ul>

So, the world has an eye on what India's strategy could look like.

We have an early idea of India's playbook.

India could vaccinate at least 250 to 300 million citizens by july 2021. This could include about 30 million healthcare and frontline workers.

For this, India could end up procuring 500 to 600 million vaccine doses. This is a massive undertaking. One that would require coordination at the level of the central government, the states and the districts.

The most important question is, who will get these vaccines?

This could be a list of priorities.

<ul>
	<li>Healthcare workers would come first.</li>
	<li>Then citizens above 65 years of age.</li>
	<li>Then people within the age bracket of 50 to 65.</li>
	<li>Followed by those who are below 50 years of age and suffering from ailments</li>
</ul>

Reportedly, members of the police, paramilitary and those working in sanitisation could also get a shot on priority.

If you are below 50 years and are healthy you'll be last in line to get a shot. The vaccines will be given out only after regulatory approvals.

First, the manufacturers will have to move for permissions. They are likely to be allowed to supply the vaccines under emergency use authorisation. The vaccines will go to the health care workers first.

At least initially these vaccines may not be available commercially. You may not be able to go to a pharmacy and buy this shot. This means if you are healthy you will have to wait a little while longer.

India may not opt for the Pfizer vaccine.

Reportedly, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has said it doesn't make sense for India to consider it yet. The vaccine hasn't been even given a license yet even by US Government.

Pfizer is an American company. It has moved for emergency authorization in the US. Its vaccine is one of the frontrunners in the rollout. The company plans to distribute the vaccine by Mid-December worldwide.

But there is a problem. This vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70-degree temperatures. Basically, in an ultra low-temperature freezer. Despite the hurdles Pfizer remains confident.

"If times go as as they should, we believe that by mid-december, at the end of december, the vaccine may be authorised for use and that way it can begin to be used in the united states, but we are also doing the same submission in other agency regulators around the world, in Australia, in Japan, in the united kingdom, in the European economic community, with which we are convinced that before the end of the year the vaccine will be used not only in the united states but in various parts of the world," said Alejandro Cane, Pfizer's head of vaccines, medical and scientific affairs for Latin America and Canada.

So, it seems like Pfizer will send its first vaccine consignments to the developed world.

Which vaccine will India end up getting then?

&nbsp;Reportedly, India has placed advanced orders for two vaccines. The Astrazeneca-Oxford shot and Sputnik V.

The Oxford vaccine will be supplied via the Serum Institute of India. The company says it has already produced 40 million doses and by January they could have up to 100 million doses.

The Serum Institute says it plans to sell each shot to the Indian Government for three dollars or 250 Indian Rupees.

This oxford vaccine can be up to 90 percent effective.

What about Sputnik V shot?

On Tuesday, its makers said this vaccine is 95 percent effective and they will sell it at 10 dollars per shot.&nbsp;

This is a two-shot vaccine. So that means 20 dollars for two shots.

In India, makers of the Sputnik V have tied up with Dr Reddy's. A trial is underway in India.&nbsp;

Earlier this month Russian President Vladimir Putin said that India and China may produce the Sputnik V for the world.

There is another option....Covaxin, made by Bharat Biotech.

Reportedly, Covaxin could be at least 60 percent effective. And it could be rolled out by mid-2021. The vaccine is in its last phase of trials.

So there are multiple options for India to choose from. All that we have to do now is wait for these shots to clear the safety tests.

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this.

As the world inches closer to a vaccine that works, India is shaping its own strategy for a rollout to decide how will the vaccine be distributed. Because the world has its eyes on how India handles this. This is for two reasons, India has a large population. Putting an end to the pandemic here will be a big victory in the fight against the Wuhan virus. And vaccines are being seen as the ultimate weapon to defeat this pandemic. India is one of the biggest exporters of vaccines. And the early batches will have limited supplies. India has the responsibility of making sure that a shot reaches every Indian... So, the world has an eye on what India's strategy could look like. We have an early idea of India's playbook. India could vaccinate at least 250 to 300 million citizens by july 2021. This could include about 30 million healthcare and frontline workers. For this, India could end up procuring 500 to 600 million vaccine doses. This is a massive undertaking. One that would require coordination at the level of the central government, the states and the districts. The most important question is, who will get these vaccines? This could be a list of priorities. Healthcare workers would come first. Then citizens above 65 years of age. Then people within the age bracket of 50 to 65. Followed by those who are below 50 years of age and suffering from ailments Reportedly, members of the police, paramilitary and those working in sanitisation could also get a shot on priority. If you are below 50 years and are healthy you'll be last in line to get a shot. The vaccines will be given out only after regulatory approvals. First, the manufacturers will have to move for permissions. They are likely to be allowed to supply the vaccines under emergency use authorisation. The vaccines will go to the health care workers first. At least initially these vaccines may not be available commercially. You may not be able to go to a pharmacy and buy this shot. This means if you are healthy you will have to wait a little while longer. India may not opt for the Pfizer vaccine. Reportedly, Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has said it doesn't make sense for India to consider it yet. The vaccine hasn't been even given a license yet even by US Government. Pfizer is an American company. It has moved for emergency authorization in the US. Its vaccine is one of the frontrunners in the rollout. The company plans to distribute the vaccine by Mid-December worldwide. But there is a problem. This vaccine needs to be stored at minus 70-degree temperatures. Basically, in an ultra low-temperature freezer. Despite the hurdles Pfizer remains confident. "If times go as as they should, we believe that by mid-december, at the end of december, the vaccine may be authorised for use and that way it can begin to be used in the united states, but we are also doing the same submission in other agency regulators around the world, in Australia, in Japan, in the united kingdom, in the European economic community, with which we are convinced that before the end of the year the vaccine will be used not only in the united states but in various parts of the world," said Alejandro Cane, Pfizer's head of vaccines, medical and scientific affairs for Latin America and Canada. So, it seems like Pfizer will send its first vaccine consignments to the developed world. Which vaccine will India end up getting then? Reportedly, India has placed advanced orders for two vaccines. The Astrazeneca-Oxford shot and Sputnik V. The Oxford vaccine will be supplied via the Serum Institute of India. The company says it has already produced 40 million doses and by January they could have up to 100 million doses. The Serum Institute says it plans to sell each shot to the Indian Government for three dollars or 250 Indian Rupees. This oxford vaccine can be up to 90 percent effective. What about Sputnik V shot? On Tuesday, its makers said this vaccine is 95 percent effective and they will sell it at 10 dollars per shot. This is a two-shot vaccine. So that means 20 dollars for two shots. In India, makers of the Sputnik V have tied up with Dr Reddy's. A trial is underway in India. Earlier this month Russian President Vladimir Putin said that India and China may produce the Sputnik V for the world. There is another option....Covaxin, made by Bharat Biotech. Reportedly, Covaxin could be at least 60 percent effective. And it could be rolled out by mid-2021. The vaccine is in its last phase of trials. So there are multiple options for India to choose from. All that we have to do now is wait for these shots to clear the safety tests.

India shapes strategy for coronavirus vaccine rollout

On Wednesday, Indian External Affairs Minister was in West Asia. He was meeting top leaders of the gulf world. Pakistan on the other hand was getting snubbed overtime. 
&nbsp; 
UAE has stopped issuing visa to Pakistanis because of security reasons, say reports. The gulf is gradually pulling away from Pakistan and coming closer to India.

Pakistan has done enough, and more to disappoint its Arab allies.

But there are likely more reasons behind Arab World shunning Pakistan

Firstly, there is Pakistan's obsession with Kashmir. This obsession has been there since 1947. Pakistan has fought wars, framed its foreign policies around Kashmir, exported terror to Kashmir, moved world bodies over Kashmir. And after India abolished the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan threatened the OIC Chair, Saudi Arabia just because it refused to hold a special session over Kashmir.

But Pakistan's threats to Riyadh were duly registered and that is one of the reasons why gulf countries sidelined Pakistan.

The gulf has grown to realise that anchoring ties on religion alone will not give it long term allies.

There are other aspects that the Arab world needs to acknowledge when picking sides between India and Pakistan.

The gulf has grown to realise that it needs to have India by its side as it heads into the future, opens up its economy and normalises ties with countries like Israel.

Saudi Arabia's bilateral trade with India amounts to USD 33.07 billion.

With Pakistan the number in 2017-18 was USD 1.8 billion.

The India-UAE bilateral trade stands at USD 60 billion. While Pakistan's trade volume with UAE stands at 8 billion dollars.

India is a vital economic partner of the gulf, With annual trade amounting to nearly 100 billion dollars. India also comes with far too many avenues of cooperation, From technology to oil.

India also offers investment opportunities, something that a bleeding economy like Pakistan does not.

West Asia is investing in India, and Indian companies have partnerships with their gulf counterparts.

At least 8 million Indians work in the region. Over 2.2 million of them work in the UAE alone.

So India has a multi-faceted relationship with the gulf countries. But Pakistan has questionable reputation. It is the world's biggest terror exporter. It is home to terror groups like Jamat ud-Dawah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, the Hizbul Mujahideen.

Pakistan is a safe haven for terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed. It is under the spotlight of the global anti-terror financing watchdog, the FATF.

As if this wasn't enough. Pakistan is also a sinking economy. With Pakistan, the Arab world has a lender-lendee equation. With India, the gulf has a partner.

A country of 1.4 billion that is pitted to become a 5 trillion dollar economy.

India spells opportunity. Pakistan is more of a liability.

Also, India has had historical ties with the Arab world and they have been defined by trust. Indian Rupee was even a legal tender in UAE long before Dirham.

Moreover, if Pakistan's ties with the gulf are defined on religious lines, it is India that has the world's second-largest Muslim population. In 2019, a record 2 lakh Indian pilgrims went to the Hajj.

So if it comes to the question of siding with either India or Pakistan, the Arab world has made its choice, it has reset its priorities. It has picked an ally that is reliable.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

On Wednesday, Indian External Affairs Minister was in West Asia. He was meeting top leaders of the gulf world. Pakistan on the other hand was getting snubbed overtime.

On Wednesday, Indian External Affairs Minister was in West Asia. He was meeting top leaders of the gulf world. Pakistan on the other hand was getting snubbed overtime. UAE has stopped issuing visa to Pakistanis because of security reasons, say reports. The gulf is gradually pulling away from Pakistan and coming closer to India. Pakistan has done enough, and more to disappoint its Arab allies. But there are likely more reasons behind Arab World shunning Pakistan Firstly, there is Pakistan's obsession with Kashmir. This obsession has been there since 1947. Pakistan has fought wars, framed its foreign policies around Kashmir, exported terror to Kashmir, moved world bodies over Kashmir. And after India abolished the special status of Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan threatened the OIC Chair, Saudi Arabia just because it refused to hold a special session over Kashmir. But Pakistan's threats to Riyadh were duly registered and that is one of the reasons why gulf countries sidelined Pakistan. The gulf has grown to realise that anchoring ties on religion alone will not give it long term allies. There are other aspects that the Arab world needs to acknowledge when picking sides between India and Pakistan. The gulf has grown to realise that it needs to have India by its side as it heads into the future, opens up its economy and normalises ties with countries like Israel. Saudi Arabia's bilateral trade with India amounts to USD 33.07 billion. With Pakistan the number in 2017-18 was USD 1.8 billion. The India-UAE bilateral trade stands at USD 60 billion. While Pakistan's trade volume with UAE stands at 8 billion dollars. India is a vital economic partner of the gulf, With annual trade amounting to nearly 100 billion dollars. India also comes with far too many avenues of cooperation, From technology to oil. India also offers investment opportunities, something that a bleeding economy like Pakistan does not. West Asia is investing in India, and Indian companies have partnerships with their gulf counterparts. At least 8 million Indians work in the region. Over 2.2 million of them work in the UAE alone. So India has a multi-faceted relationship with the gulf countries. But Pakistan has questionable reputation. It is the world's biggest terror exporter. It is home to terror groups like Jamat ud-Dawah, Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed, the Hizbul Mujahideen. Pakistan is a safe haven for terrorists like Masood Azhar and Hafiz Saeed. It is under the spotlight of the global anti-terror financing watchdog, the FATF. As if this wasn't enough. Pakistan is also a sinking economy. With Pakistan, the Arab world has a lender-lendee equation. With India, the gulf has a partner. A country of 1.4 billion that is pitted to become a 5 trillion dollar economy. India spells opportunity. Pakistan is more of a liability. Also, India has had historical ties with the Arab world and they have been defined by trust. Indian Rupee was even a legal tender in UAE long before Dirham. Moreover, if Pakistan's ties with the gulf are defined on religious lines, it is India that has the world's second-largest Muslim population. In 2019, a record 2 lakh Indian pilgrims went to the Hajj. So if it comes to the question of siding with either India or Pakistan, the Arab world has made its choice, it has reset its priorities. It has picked an ally that is reliable.

Arab world witnesses a reset, moves closer to India

After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region. The meet will take place in Colombo on November 27 and 28th, with India being represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the first foreign visit of the NSA amidst the COVID-19 pandemic.

Sri Lanka is being represented by its Defense Secretary Major General Kamal Gunaratne. Maldives Defense Minister Mariya Didi will be representing her country.&nbsp;

This is the 4th time such a meeting is taking place. The first India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral took place in 2011 in the Maldives. Second meeting took place in Sri Lanka in 2013 while the third took place in India in 2014.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-can-never-forget-2611-mumbai-attacks-pm-modi-345539">India can never forget 26/11 Mumbai attacks: PM Modi</a> 
 
The Ministry of External Affairs while making the announcement called it an "effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries" and said it will provide an "opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region."

Bangladesh, Mauritius, and Seychelles are observer members of the trilateral meet and are expected to participate. Maldives foreign ministry said it will see discussion on "most pressing issues surrounding maritime security in the Indian Ocean region".

The meet happens even as the Indian ocean has seen an increased presence of Chinese vessels, a worrisome factor for several countries in the region. Chinese vessels have been found indulging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) activities in addition to being a security issue.&nbsp;

The Indian Ocean region sees 80 per cent of world trade and a substantial oil trade taking place via its waters. It has 4 choke points, the most important being the strait of Malacca, which if disrupted can led to global trade being disrupted.

After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region.

After a gap of 6 years, India, Maldives, and Sri Lanka trilateral meet will take place with a focus on maritime security co-operation in the Indian Ocean region. The meet will take place in Colombo on November 27 and 28th, with India being represented by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This is the first foreign visit of the NSA amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. Sri Lanka is being represented by its Defense Secretary Major General Kamal Gunaratne. Maldives Defense Minister Mariya Didi will be representing her country. This is the 4th time such a meeting is taking place. The first India-Maldives-Sri Lanka trilateral took place in 2011 in the Maldives. Second meeting took place in Sri Lanka in 2013 while the third took place in India in 2014. Also Read | India can never forget 26/11 Mumbai attacks: PM Modi The Ministry of External Affairs while making the announcement called it an "effective platform for cooperation among Indian Ocean countries" and said it will provide an "opportunity for discussion on issues pertaining to cooperation in maritime security in the Indian Ocean region." Bangladesh, Mauritius, and Seychelles are observer members of the trilateral meet and are expected to participate. Maldives foreign ministry said it will see discussion on "most pressing issues surrounding maritime security in the Indian Ocean region". The meet happens even as the Indian ocean has seen an increased presence of Chinese vessels, a worrisome factor for several countries in the region. Chinese vessels have been found indulging in Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) activities in addition to being a security issue. The Indian Ocean region sees 80 per cent of world trade and a substantial oil trade taking place via its waters. It has 4 choke points, the most important being the strait of Malacca, which if disrupted can led to global trade being disrupted.

India-Maldives-Sri Lanka to meet on Indian Ocean security after 6 years

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year.&nbsp;

He will be in Nepal from November 26 to 27 and this will be his first such visit to the country after taking charge as the Foreign Secretary.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nepal-seeks-early-availability-of-covid-19-vaccines-344665" hreflang="en">Nepal seeks early availability of Covid-19 vaccines</a>

The ministry of external affairs, in a release announcing the visit said, "The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and the priority India attaches to its relations with Nepal. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterpart and other Nepalese dignitaries to discuss the wide ranging bilateral cooperation between the two countries."

Kathmandu-Delhi ties hit a low earlier this year after Nepal's KP Sharma Oli government had issued a new map of the country staking a claim on Indian territories. The new Nepal map showed India territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi who called it "unjustified cartographic assertion".

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-sources-chinese-envoy-nepal-pm-oli-meet-went-on-for-2hrs-344147/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

During his visit, Shringla will also hand over COVID-19 related support to the Government of Nepal. This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal, following the visit of the RAW chief and Indian Army chief.

Shringla has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Maldives in the region amidst the coronavirus pandemic, besides his Europe visit during which he visited France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year.

India has officially announced the visit of foreign secretary Harsh Shringla to Nepal — a visit that comes in the backdrop of tensions between the two countries earlier this year. He will be in Nepal from November 26 to 27 and this will be his first such visit to the country after taking charge as the Foreign Secretary. Also read| Nepal seeks early availability of Covid-19 vaccines The ministry of external affairs, in a release announcing the visit said, "The visit is in keeping with the tradition of regular high-level exchanges between the two countries and the priority India attaches to its relations with Nepal. During the visit, Foreign Secretary will meet his counterpart and other Nepalese dignitaries to discuss the wide ranging bilateral cooperation between the two countries." Kathmandu-Delhi ties hit a low earlier this year after Nepal's KP Sharma Oli government had issued a new map of the country staking a claim on Indian territories. The new Nepal map showed India territories of Lipulekh, Kalapani and Limpiyadhura drawing a sharp reaction from New Delhi who called it "unjustified cartographic assertion". × During his visit, Shringla will also hand over COVID-19 related support to the Government of Nepal. This is the third high-level visit from India to Nepal, following the visit of the RAW chief and Indian Army chief. Shringla has been to Bangladesh, Myanmar, the Maldives in the region amidst the coronavirus pandemic, besides his Europe visit during which he visited France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.

Indian foreign secretary on Nepal visit from November 26 to 27

After a few weeks of announcing a new feature of 'disappearing messages', <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/whatsapp">WhatsApp </a>has finally rolled out the feature for its Indian users.

The messaging app will now allow users to switch on and off the feature of having the unread chats disappear after a time limit of seven days. The users were informed about this feature at the beginning of this month.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-introduces-disappearing-messages-to-rollout-in-november-340801" hreflang="en">WhatsApp introduces disappearing messages; to rollout in November</a>

This&nbsp;feature, many believe, has been replicated on the model of Snapchat. The feature will be available on&nbsp;Android, iOS, and Linux-based KaiOS gadgets, alongside WhatsApp Web and Work area stages. As per this feature, all unread messages will start disappearing after seven days, but the users will have the option of switching off this feature from the settings for every individual chat.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-starts-payments-service-in-india-341022">WhatsApp starts payments service in India</a>

However, unlike the messaging service Telegram, WhatsApp will not be providing flexible timings to the users for these features. The feature can either be turned on or off, but the time period of seven days cannot be changed.

"We're beginning with 7 days since we think it offers significant serenity that discussions aren't perpetual while staying commonsense so you remember what you were visiting about. The shopping rundown or store address you got a couple of days back will be there while you need it, and afterward vanish after you don't," the organisation said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/complete-silence-whatsapp-adds-always-feature-to-mute-chats-forever-337377" hreflang="en">Complete silence: WhatsApp adds 'Always' feature to mute chats forever</a>

<h2>How to enable the option</h2>

To enable the feature of 'disappearing messages' in WhatsApp, users can follow the following steps:

<ul>
	<li>Open a particular chat and go in the information section.&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Upon opening the information section of the person, you will see the option of 'Disappearing messages' between the options of 'starred messaged' and 'encryption'.</li>
</ul>

<img alt="WhatsApp India disappearing chats/messages feature" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="37249cc7-ced8-4c4b-b8ff-3577b97cb0b7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%202.jpeg" />

<ul>
	<li>Click on the widget on the right-hand side of the option and a new window will pop up explaining the concept of the feature of 'Disappearing messages'. This will let you know that the messages will disappear if they are sent to a chat that has the feature of 'disappearing messages' on. However, media and messages will not disappear from outside the chat or device they are saved on, and screenshots and forwarding messages is still allowed — enabling users to save the messages.</li>
</ul>

<img alt="WhatsApp India disappearing chats/messages feature" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="917396c7-48cd-45c6-9d99-deeee420a382" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp.jpeg" />

<ul>
	<li>After clicking on 'Continue', you can choose whether or not you want 'disappearing messages' feature to be turned on for that particular chat and then click on the back arrow to save.</li>
</ul>

<img alt="WhatsApp India disappearing chats/messages feature" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="1153b7ce-029f-4793-ad42-73abd7d40e8c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/WhatsApp%201.jpeg" />

This will save your revised settings of the new feature, giving you freedom to turn on/off the feature of disappearing messages anytime.

The subtleties of the new element, notwithstanding, were revealed earlier this week through a FAQ page made by WhatsApp was taken note of.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/whatsapp-to-get-new-exciting-features-like-video-calling-on-whatsapp-web-heres-what-to-expect-336664">More new features are expected to be rolled out soon.</a>

After a few weeks of announcing a new feature of 'disappearing messages', WhatsApp has finally rolled out the feature for its Indian users. The messaging app will now allow users to switch on and off the feature of having the unread chats disappear after a time limit of seven days.

After a few weeks of announcing a new feature of 'disappearing messages', WhatsApp has finally rolled out the feature for its Indian users. The messaging app will now allow users to switch on and off the feature of having the unread chats disappear after a time limit of seven days. The users were informed about this feature at the beginning of this month. Also read| WhatsApp introduces disappearing messages; to rollout in November This feature, many believe, has been replicated on the model of Snapchat. The feature will be available on Android, iOS, and Linux-based KaiOS gadgets, alongside WhatsApp Web and Work area stages. As per this feature, all unread messages will start disappearing after seven days, but the users will have the option of switching off this feature from the settings for every individual chat. Also read| WhatsApp starts payments service in India However, unlike the messaging service Telegram, WhatsApp will not be providing flexible timings to the users for these features. The feature can either be turned on or off, but the time period of seven days cannot be changed. "We're beginning with 7 days since we think it offers significant serenity that discussions aren't perpetual while staying commonsense so you remember what you were visiting about. The shopping rundown or store address you got a couple of days back will be there while you need it, and afterward vanish after you don't," the organisation said. Also read| Complete silence: WhatsApp adds 'Always' feature to mute chats forever How to enable the option To enable the feature of 'disappearing messages' in WhatsApp, users can follow the following steps: Open a particular chat and go in the information section. Upon opening the information section of the person, you will see the option of 'Disappearing messages' between the options of 'starred messaged' and 'encryption'. Click on the widget on the right-hand side of the option and a new window will pop up explaining the concept of the feature of 'Disappearing messages'. This will let you know that the messages will disappear if they are sent to a chat that has the feature of 'disappearing messages' on. However, media and messages will not disappear from outside the chat or device they are saved on, and screenshots and forwarding messages is still allowed — enabling users to save the messages. After clicking on 'Continue', you can choose whether or not you want 'disappearing messages' feature to be turned on for that particular chat and then click on the back arrow to save. This will save your revised settings of the new feature, giving you freedom to turn on/off the feature of disappearing messages anytime. The subtleties of the new element, notwithstanding, were revealed earlier this week through a FAQ page made by WhatsApp was taken note of. More new features are expected to be rolled out soon.

WhatsApp's feature of 'disappearing messages' launched in India

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806.

With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said. As many as 85,21,617 persons have recovered so far from the disease.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-grants-emergency-use-authorisation-to-regeneron-covid-19-antibodies-344588" hreflang="en">US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies</a>

In all 501 more fatalities in the last 24 hours took its death toll to 1,33,227.

The last time the daily new cases crossed the 50,000-mark was November 7.

While India`s recovery rate is 1.46 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.46 per cent, the data said.

Maharashtra remains the worst-hit state with 80,878 active cases and 46,573 deaths so far. The recoveries in the state total 16,47,004.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-12-million-covid-19-cases-as-many-americans-defy-thanksgiving-travel-guidance-344596" hreflang="en">US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance</a>

Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka also reported high number of cases, while states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal witnessed a surge in infection too.

According Indian Council of Medical Research data, 10,75,326 more samples were tested on Saturday. So far, 13,17,33,134 samples have been tested across the country.

For the second day in a row, recovered patients outnumbered new infections by 1,084 in Delhi, yet the number of fatalities remained a cause of worry.

The national capital reported 5,879 new infections and 6,963 more recoveries in the last 24 hours. However, Delhi`s fatalities totalled 111, Delhi government data showed.

Across the world, 5,80,95,887 persons were infected across 191 nations, of which the maximum numbers were in the US. The global coronavirus death toll totalled 13,79,839, with maximum reported in the US (2,55,830).

TUS remains the worst-hit country with 1,20,88,409 corona cases, followed by India, Brazil, France and Russia.

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806. With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said.

India reported less than 50,000 new single-day coronavirus cases for the 15th consecutive day on Sunday as its total tally reached 90,95,806. With 45,209 new cases and 43,493 more patients discharged in last 24 hours, the country`s active cases totalled 4,40,962, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data said. As many as 85,21,617 persons have recovered so far from the disease. Also read| US grants emergency use authorisation to Regeneron Covid-19 antibodies In all 501 more fatalities in the last 24 hours took its death toll to 1,33,227. The last time the daily new cases crossed the 50,000-mark was November 7. While India`s recovery rate is 1.46 per cent, the fatality rate is 1.46 per cent, the data said. Maharashtra remains the worst-hit state with 80,878 active cases and 46,573 deaths so far. The recoveries in the state total 16,47,004. Also read| US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka also reported high number of cases, while states like Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal witnessed a surge in infection too. According Indian Council of Medical Research data, 10,75,326 more samples were tested on Saturday. So far, 13,17,33,134 samples have been tested across the country. For the second day in a row, recovered patients outnumbered new infections by 1,084 in Delhi, yet the number of fatalities remained a cause of worry. The national capital reported 5,879 new infections and 6,963 more recoveries in the last 24 hours. However, Delhi`s fatalities totalled 111, Delhi government data showed. Across the world, 5,80,95,887 persons were infected across 191 nations, of which the maximum numbers were in the US. The global coronavirus death toll totalled 13,79,839, with maximum reported in the US (2,55,830). TUS remains the worst-hit country with 1,20,88,409 corona cases, followed by India, Brazil, France and Russia.

India reports less than 50,000 new corona cases for 15 straight days

After rolling out a disappearing tweet feature called "Fleets" globally last week, Twitter is now working to fix a bug which makes these tweets visible even after 24 hours. 
 
The details of the bug were posted by a Twitter user who uses the handle @donk_enby in a series of tweets on Saturday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tried-and-tested-twitter-launches-fleets-globally-after-successful-testing-in-india-343840" hreflang="en">Tried and tested: Twitter launches 'Fleets' globally after successful testing in India</a> 
 
The bug allowed a person to access and download a user`s Fleets and the person whose Fleets were accessed would not even know of it. 
 
The user would not get any notification that his/her Fleets had been read. 
 
This effectively means that the bug allowed Fleets to be archived even after they were supposed to expire.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-is-exploring-a-dislike-or-downvote-button-343900" hreflang="en">Twitter is 'exploring' a dislike or downvote button</a> 
 
Twitter rolled out the Fleets feature for all users worldwide after testing in Brazil, Italy, India, and South Korea. 
 
Meant for sharing momentary thoughts, Fleets are supposed to only stick around for 24 hours. 
 
A Twitter spokesperson told TechCrunch that a fix for the bug which made Fleets to be seen even after they expired was on the way. 
 
"We`re aware of a bug accessible through a technical workaround where some Fleets media URLs may be accessible even after 24 hours. We are working on a fix that should be rolled out shortly," the spokesperson was quoted as saying.

After rolling out a disappearing tweet feature called "Fleets" globally last week, Twitter is now working to fix a bug which makes these tweets visible even after 24 hours.

After rolling out a disappearing tweet feature called "Fleets" globally last week, Twitter is now working to fix a bug which makes these tweets visible even after 24 hours. The details of the bug were posted by a Twitter user who uses the handle @donk_enby in a series of tweets on Saturday. Also read| Tried and tested: Twitter launches 'Fleets' globally after successful testing in India The bug allowed a person to access and download a user`s Fleets and the person whose Fleets were accessed would not even know of it. The user would not get any notification that his/her Fleets had been read. This effectively means that the bug allowed Fleets to be archived even after they were supposed to expire. Also read| Twitter is 'exploring' a dislike or downvote button Twitter rolled out the Fleets feature for all users worldwide after testing in Brazil, Italy, India, and South Korea. Meant for sharing momentary thoughts, Fleets are supposed to only stick around for 24 hours. A Twitter spokesperson told TechCrunch that a fix for the bug which made Fleets to be seen even after they expired was on the way. "We`re aware of a bug accessible through a technical workaround where some Fleets media URLs may be accessible even after 24 hours. We are working on a fix that should be rolled out shortly," the spokesperson was quoted as saying.

Bug makes Twitter 'fleets' visible even after 'disappearing'

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism.&nbsp;

The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/terrorists-had-planned-attack-on-2611-anniversary-pm-modi-holds-review-meet-344309">Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet</a>

The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION.&nbsp;

He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism.

Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/nagrota-encounter-pm-modis-rare-tweet-on-anti-terror-operation-344453/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir.

ndia has summoned Pakistan's top diplomat in Delhi to strongly protest against the Nagrota terror and Islamabad's involvement in cross border terrorism. The Pakistani CDA-charges de affairs was handed a protest note in which New Delhi conveyed its "strong concern" on the terror attack planned by Jaish e Mohammed in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir. Also read| Terrorists had planned attack on 26/11 anniversary: PM Modi holds review meet The protest note asked Pakistan to "stop supporting terrorists and terror groups operating from their territory and dismantle the terrorism infrastructure", top sources told WION. He was also told that India is "firm and resolute" in taking all necessary measures to safeguard its national security in the fight against terrorism. Earlier this week, a major terror attack was thwarted with the killing of 4 Jaish terrorists. The terrorists were neutralised at a toll plaza on Jammu--Srinagar national highway in Nagrota area of Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. × Pakistan's involvement in the incident has emerged, especially in the supply of phones. The phones recovered from the slained terrorists have been manufactured by a Pakistani company. On Thursday Indian Prime Minister held a review meeting attended by Home minister Amit Shah, NSA Ajit Doval, foreign secretary Harsh Shringla. The terrorists were planning a major attack ahead of the 26/11 attack anniversary.

Nagrota incident: India summons Pak's top diplomat; lodges 'strong concerns'

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy.

"As a strong proponent of a peaceful and rules-based international legal order, it is no surprise that India supports the PCA and its mandate to resolve international disputes. The upholding of international law is central to our diplomacy and in fact our world view," He said.

The comments come even as India's neighbor China has stood out in disregarding international law, including rejecting, PCA's own verdict. China had rejected verdict of a tribunal set up under the PCA in the Philippines vs China case of 2016.&nbsp;

The tribunal rejected China's claim to the South China Sea based on the so-called "nine-dash line". The arbitral tribunal has been constituted under Annex. VII to the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 at PCA.

India on the other hand has availed the services of the Hague-based court and resolved international disputes with other countries. Well known examples include, Kishenganga Arbitration with Pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty, the Maritime Boundary delimitation with Bangladesh, and the Italian Marines Case.

"Institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration have assisted us....and have played a pivotal role in ensuring that peace among nations is maintained, through a civilized and principled settlement of disputes," said the Foreign Secretary.

"Since its establishment, the PCA has handled many politically significant and interesting cases. It has become a premier institution and first choice for the resolution of international disputes involving States, State entities, Inter-Governmental Organizations as well as private entities," he added.

Permanent Court of Arbitration was established in 1899, and India became its member in 1950. In 1998, India and PCA entered into Host Country Agreement, under which PCA-administered proceedings could be conducted in India. New Delhi under its new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) has the Secretary-General of the PCA as the appointing authority, for arbitrations under the treaty.

Present during the meet which Foreign Secretary addressed were Chief Justice of India SA Bobde, Justice Indu Malhotra, Secretary-General of Permanent Court of Arbitration Hugo Siblesz, Chairperson of the PCA-India Conference Committee Fali Nariman, India's envoy to Netherlands Venu Rajamony, and Justice Dalveer Bhandari of International Court of Justice. Justice Bhandari is the only Indian member of the International Court of Justice.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy.

India's Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla speaking at the 3rd Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) -India Conference said that upholding international law was central to Indian diplomacy. "As a strong proponent of a peaceful and rules-based international legal order, it is no surprise that India supports the PCA and its mandate to resolve international disputes. The upholding of international law is central to our diplomacy and in fact our world view," He said. The comments come even as India's neighbor China has stood out in disregarding international law, including rejecting, PCA's own verdict. China had rejected verdict of a tribunal set up under the PCA in the Philippines vs China case of 2016. The tribunal rejected China's claim to the South China Sea based on the so-called "nine-dash line". The arbitral tribunal has been constituted under Annex. VII to the United Nations Convention on Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 at PCA. India on the other hand has availed the services of the Hague-based court and resolved international disputes with other countries. Well known examples include, Kishenganga Arbitration with Pakistan under the Indus Water Treaty, the Maritime Boundary delimitation with Bangladesh, and the Italian Marines Case. "Institutions such as the Permanent Court of Arbitration have assisted us....and have played a pivotal role in ensuring that peace among nations is maintained, through a civilized and principled settlement of disputes," said the Foreign Secretary. "Since its establishment, the PCA has handled many politically significant and interesting cases. It has become a premier institution and first choice for the resolution of international disputes involving States, State entities, Inter-Governmental Organizations as well as private entities," he added. Permanent Court of Arbitration was established in 1899, and India became its member in 1950. In 1998, India and PCA entered into Host Country Agreement, under which PCA-administered proceedings could be conducted in India. New Delhi under its new Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT) has the Secretary-General of the PCA as the appointing authority, for arbitrations under the treaty. Present during the meet which Foreign Secretary addressed were Chief Justice of India SA Bobde, Justice Indu Malhotra, Secretary-General of Permanent Court of Arbitration Hugo Siblesz, Chairperson of the PCA-India Conference Committee Fali Nariman, India's envoy to Netherlands Venu Rajamony, and Justice Dalveer Bhandari of International Court of Justice. Justice Bhandari is the only Indian member of the International Court of Justice.

Upholding international law central to Indian diplomacy: Foreign Secretary Harsh Shringla

PUBG Mobile India launch can be one of the most awaited gaming events in the country in recent times. After PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) was banned in India earlier this year, the fans are eagerly waiting for the Indianised version of the game. South Korean company Krafton Inc, the parent company of PUBG has severed ties with Chinese firm Tencent Games for India. The teasers of PUBG Mobile India have been out already but now there are reports that say that a trailer will be out soon. PUBG Mobile India pre-registration is already underway.

As per report by InsideSport, PUBG Mobile India trailer may drop soon. Is it going to be released today? That is something to think about.

As per reports, pre-registration for PUBG Mobile India is already going on for select Android and iOS users on Tap Tap game sharing community. The listing says that the game will be available in English as well as in Hindi.

However, there is still confusion as to whether this the official way of registering for the new game. There has not been any formal announcement from PUBG about pre-registration.

PUBG to hire people in India

PUBG reportedly is in the process of setting up an Indian subsidiary for its presence in India. It will hire 100 people from gaming, business and game development background.

PUBG Mobile India is being designed with Indian sensibilities and preferences in mind. Krafton Inc has tied up with Microsoft Azure to address the issues of data security of Indian users. PUBG has not announced launch date in India officially.

PUBG Mobile India launch can be one of the most awaited gaming events in the country in recent times. After PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) was banned in India earlier this year, the fans are eagerly waiting for the Indianised version of the game.

PUBG Mobile India launch can be one of the most awaited gaming events in the country in recent times. After PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG) was banned in India earlier this year, the fans are eagerly waiting for the Indianised version of the game. South Korean company Krafton Inc, the parent company of PUBG has severed ties with Chinese firm Tencent Games for India. The teasers of PUBG Mobile India have been out already but now there are reports that say that a trailer will be out soon. PUBG Mobile India pre-registration is already underway. As per report by InsideSport, PUBG Mobile India trailer may drop soon. Is it going to be released today? That is something to think about. As per reports, pre-registration for PUBG Mobile India is already going on for select Android and iOS users on Tap Tap game sharing community. The listing says that the game will be available in English as well as in Hindi. However, there is still confusion as to whether this the official way of registering for the new game. There has not been any formal announcement from PUBG about pre-registration. PUBG to hire people in India PUBG reportedly is in the process of setting up an Indian subsidiary for its presence in India. It will hire 100 people from gaming, business and game development background. PUBG Mobile India is being designed with Indian sensibilities and preferences in mind. Krafton Inc has tied up with Microsoft Azure to address the issues of data security of Indian users. PUBG has not announced launch date in India officially.

PUBG Mobile India launch day nears, trailer ready, but how to pre-register?

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan.&nbsp;

India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable."

The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals.&nbsp;

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/al-qaeda-chief-ayman-al-zawahiri-may-have-died-in-afghanistan-report-344314">Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report</a>

Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan."

To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis.&nbsp;

On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society."

He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded."&nbsp;

This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue.&nbsp;

India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building.

As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan."

New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop".

In a strongly-worded statement, India has slammed Pakistan at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for destabilizing Afghanistan, saying, "terror flow across Durand line should stop". Durand Line is the border between Afghanistan and Pakistan. India's envoy to United Nations, TS Tirumurti speaking at Arria Formula Meeting of United Nations Security Council said, "There needs to be zero tolerance of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations....It is important to ensure that no one provides sanctuary to terrorists who threaten Afghanistan or any other country in the region. Those who do so must be held accountable." The number of terror attacks in Afghanistan has had links in Pakistan, and the long, porous border has helped the easy movement of terrorists. Report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team under the Al-Qaeda/Da’esh Sanctions Committee of UN has pointed out the presence of foreign fighters in Afghanistan, many of which include Pakistani nationals. Also Read | Al-Qaeda chief Ayman al-Zawahiri may have died in Afghanistan: Report Tirumurti also pointed out, how Pakistan has not allowed "full transit rights to Afghanistan", hindering trade and connectivity between India and Afghanistan. He explained, how it is being used by "States to extract a political price from Afghanistan" and "the international community should discourage medieval mentalities and work towards removal of artificial transit barriers imposed on Afghanistan." To increase connectivity, India has started an air corridor with Afghanistan and also via Chabahar port in Iran. In fact, amidst the COVID pandemic, New Delhi sent 75000 MT of wheat to the country to deal with the crisis. On the Afghan peace process, the envoy reiterated India's stance that the process must be "Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled" and "solutions must come from the Afghans themselves, in line with the wishes and aspirations of the all sections of Afghan society." He also said, "gains of the last two decades" especially rights of women and minorities should be "strongly protected" and "safeguarded." This year saw the US-Taliban pact and the start of the intra-Afghan ties between the Afghan govt and Taliban, but the violence level remains high in the country. America plans to substantially reduce troops level in Afghanistan by January, even hostilities on the ground continue. India has played an important role in the development of Afghanistan since the fall of the Taliban in 2001. It has helped build mega infrastructure projects like Afghanistan-India Friendship Dam in Herat, the Afghan National Parliament building in Kabul, and the electricity supply grid between Kabul and northern Afghanistan and capacity building. As the envoy had put, "India and Afghanistan are contiguous neighbors. We are connected together by centuries of historical, people-to-people, and cultural relations. India has stood resolutely behind the Government and people of Afghanistan and has supported the development of Afghanistan." New Delhi has also been involved in over 400 high impact community development projects spread across 34 provinces of Afghanistan.

India slams Pakistan at UNSC for destabilising Afghanistan; says 'terror flow across Durand Line should stop'

India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine as countries around the world sought to conquer the pandemic and rescue their economies. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/these-three-indian-companies-are-ready-to-produce-covid-19-vaccine-342884">Also read: These three Indian companies are ready to produce Covid-19 vaccine</a> 
 
Companies like Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech are at the forefront of research on covid vaccines and are likely to be among the leading manufacturers as and when their commercial application is permitted. 
 
Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/confident-that-covid-19-vaccine-will-be-ready-in-3-4-months-indias-health-minister-344051">Confident that Covid-19 vaccine will be ready in 3-4 months: India's health minister</a>

Serum Institute of India's CEO Adar Poonawalla on Thursday said the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine should be available for healthcare workers and elderly people by around February 2021 and by April for the general public and will be priced at a maximum of ₹ 1,000 for two necessary doses for the public, depending on the final trial results and regulatory approvals.

Probably by 2024, every Indian will get vaccinated, he said at a media event.

"It will probably take two or three years for every Indian to get inoculated, not just because of the supply constraints but because you need the budget, the vaccine, logistics, infrastructure and then, people should be willing to take the vaccine. So these are the factors that lead up to being able to vaccinate 80-90 per cent of the population.

"It will be 2024 for everybody, if willing to take a two-dose vaccine, to be vaccinated," Mr Poonawalla said.

Asked at what price the public will get it, he said it will be around USD 5-6 per dose with an MRP of around ₹ 1,000 for the two necessary doses.

"The government of India will be getting it at a far cheaper price at around USD 3-4, because it will be buying in a large volume and get access to the price that is similar to what COVAX has got. We are still pricing it far cheaper and more affordable than other vaccines we have in the market today," Mr Poonawalla said.

Asked about the efficacy of the vaccine, he said the Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine is so far proving to work very well even in elderly people, which was a concern earlier.

"It has induced a good T-cell response, which is an indicator for your long-term immunity and antibody response but then again, time will only tell if these vaccines are going to protect you in the long term. Nobody can answer that for any of the vaccines today," Mr Poonawalla said.

Responding to a question on the safety aspect, he said there has been no major complaints, reactions or adverse events, adding, "We would need to wait and see. The efficacy and immunogenicity results from the Indian trials will come out in about a month-and-a-half."

(With inputs from agencies)

India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine as countries around the world sought to conquer the pandemic and rescue their economies. Also read: These three Indian companies are ready to produce Covid-19 vaccine Companies like Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech are at the forefront of research on covid vaccines and are likely to be among the leading manufacturers as and when their commercial application is permitted.

India is racing ahead with work on its coronavirus vaccine as countries around the world sought to conquer the pandemic and rescue their economies. Also read: These three Indian companies are ready to produce Covid-19 vaccine Companies like Zydus Cadila, Serum Institute and Bharat Biotech are at the forefront of research on covid vaccines and are likely to be among the leading manufacturers as and when their commercial application is permitted. Also read | Confident that Covid-19 vaccine will be ready in 3-4 months: India's health minister Serum Institute of India's CEO Adar Poonawalla on Thursday said the Oxford COVID-19 vaccine should be available for healthcare workers and elderly people by around February 2021 and by April for the general public and will be priced at a maximum of ₹ 1,000 for two necessary doses for the public, depending on the final trial results and regulatory approvals. Probably by 2024, every Indian will get vaccinated, he said at a media event. "It will probably take two or three years for every Indian to get inoculated, not just because of the supply constraints but because you need the budget, the vaccine, logistics, infrastructure and then, people should be willing to take the vaccine. So these are the factors that lead up to being able to vaccinate 80-90 per cent of the population. "It will be 2024 for everybody, if willing to take a two-dose vaccine, to be vaccinated," Mr Poonawalla said. Asked at what price the public will get it, he said it will be around USD 5-6 per dose with an MRP of around ₹ 1,000 for the two necessary doses. "The government of India will be getting it at a far cheaper price at around USD 3-4, because it will be buying in a large volume and get access to the price that is similar to what COVAX has got. We are still pricing it far cheaper and more affordable than other vaccines we have in the market today," Mr Poonawalla said. Asked about the efficacy of the vaccine, he said the Oxford-Astrazeneca vaccine is so far proving to work very well even in elderly people, which was a concern earlier. "It has induced a good T-cell response, which is an indicator for your long-term immunity and antibody response but then again, time will only tell if these vaccines are going to protect you in the long term. Nobody can answer that for any of the vaccines today," Mr Poonawalla said. Responding to a question on the safety aspect, he said there has been no major complaints, reactions or adverse events, adding, "We would need to wait and see. The efficacy and immunogenicity results from the Indian trials will come out in about a month-and-a-half." (With inputs from agencies)

Oxford COVID-19 vaccine to be available for Indians by April 2021: Serum Institute Chief 

A global study conducted by Google has found that the use of filters to enhance selfies is widespread in India and the United States.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alexandria-ocasio-cortezs-proposal-on-coronavirus-triggers-twitter-spat-with-nikki-haley-344327" hreflang="en">Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's proposal on coronavirus triggers Twitter spat with Nikki Haley</a>

According to the study, Indian respondents, unlike Germany, expressed low levels of concern about the impact of filters on their children’s wellbeing. The study also noted that the filter used for beautification purposes is highly normalised and socially accepted in South Korea.&nbsp;

"More than 70 per cent of the photos taken on an Android device use the front-facing camera, Indians are active selfie takers and sharers, and they consider filters a useful tool in enhancing their appearance and presenting their best self," it said.

"Indian women, in particular, are enthusiastic about their ability to beautify their images, and they make use of a variety of filtering apps and editing tools to achieve a desired look." The most popular filter apps are PicsArt and Makeup Plus; Snapchat is used by younger users (age 29 and under), it said. &nbsp;

"The selfie-taking and sharing is such a big part of Indian women’s lives that it affects their behaviour and even household economics: several women reported that they never wear the same dress again if they had taken a selfie in it," it said.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/now-putin-coughs-repeatedly-during-televised-covid-19-conference-344334" hreflang="en">Now, Putin coughs repeatedly during televised COVID-19 conference</a>

"As a young women reported, ‘I told my mom, I’ll never wear this dress again because I posted a selfie in it. She said, ‘do you think money comes from the trees?’" the study said.

The study also said that the quality of the phone camera is very important to Indian users, Men and women in India reacted positively to having automatic beautification function on their phone's cameras.

A global study conducted by Google has found that the use of filters to enhance selfies is widespread in India and the United States. Also read: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's proposal on coronavirus triggers Twitter spat with Nikki Haley According to the study, Indian respondents, unlike Germany, expressed low levels of concern about the impact of filters on their children’s wellbeing.

A global study conducted by Google has found that the use of filters to enhance selfies is widespread in India and the United States. Also read: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez's proposal on coronavirus triggers Twitter spat with Nikki Haley According to the study, Indian respondents, unlike Germany, expressed low levels of concern about the impact of filters on their children’s wellbeing. The study also noted that the filter used for beautification purposes is highly normalised and socially accepted in South Korea. "More than 70 per cent of the photos taken on an Android device use the front-facing camera, Indians are active selfie takers and sharers, and they consider filters a useful tool in enhancing their appearance and presenting their best self," it said. "Indian women, in particular, are enthusiastic about their ability to beautify their images, and they make use of a variety of filtering apps and editing tools to achieve a desired look." The most popular filter apps are PicsArt and Makeup Plus; Snapchat is used by younger users (age 29 and under), it said. "The selfie-taking and sharing is such a big part of Indian women’s lives that it affects their behaviour and even household economics: several women reported that they never wear the same dress again if they had taken a selfie in it," it said. Also read: Now, Putin coughs repeatedly during televised COVID-19 conference "As a young women reported, ‘I told my mom, I’ll never wear this dress again because I posted a selfie in it. She said, ‘do you think money comes from the trees?’" the study said. The study also said that the quality of the phone camera is very important to Indian users, Men and women in India reacted positively to having automatic beautification function on their phone's cameras.

Use of filters to enhance selfies is widespread in India: Google Report

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday.

"Bhadauria flew the twin-seater LCH for the first time, taking off at 11:45am from our airport in the city`s eastern suburb, with our deputy chief test pilot Wing Commander (Retd) S.P. John," a Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) official told IANS here.

The Air Chief was airborne for an hour during his maiden flight sortie as a co-pilot, dressed in an olive green suit.

"It was a very good sortie. I was able to look at the important flying characteristics and status of sensors installed," said Bhadauria in a statement later.

Noting that the LCH was a potent platform due to excellent design and development efforts and well-supported flight test team, the Air Chief said the IAF was looking forward to its induction soon.

"I am sure HAL will give required focus on its production at a fast pace," Bhadauria said.

HAL Chairman R. Madhavan thanked the Air Chief and said the aerospace major would gear up to roll out the LCH for meeting the IAF needs.

Designed and developed by the city-based state-run defence behemoth (HAL), LCH is the world`s multi-role lightest attack helicopter, with a highest flight ceiling.

"The LCH has been certified by the relevant agency for induction into the IAF and the Indian Army soon," said the official.

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal for the initial batch of 15 LCHs.

The IAF issued the Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 limited series production of the helicopter, including 5 for the Army in 2017.

Drawing from the company`s multi-role Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its weaponised version Rudra, LCH`s first prototype was test flown in March 2010.

Bhadauria, who took over as the Indian Air Force (IAF) in September 2019, also flew the HAL-made Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas on May 27, 2020 when it was inducted into the IAF`s 18 Squadron (Flying Bullets) at the Sulur air base near Coimbatore in the neigbhouring Tamil Nadu state.

The Air Chief was in the city to unveil the 59th annual conference of the Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine near the HAL airport.

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday.

Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria flew the home-grown Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) over this aerospace city, an official said on Friday. "Bhadauria flew the twin-seater LCH for the first time, taking off at 11:45am from our airport in the city`s eastern suburb, with our deputy chief test pilot Wing Commander (Retd) S.P. John," a Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) official told IANS here. The Air Chief was airborne for an hour during his maiden flight sortie as a co-pilot, dressed in an olive green suit. "It was a very good sortie. I was able to look at the important flying characteristics and status of sensors installed," said Bhadauria in a statement later. Noting that the LCH was a potent platform due to excellent design and development efforts and well-supported flight test team, the Air Chief said the IAF was looking forward to its induction soon. "I am sure HAL will give required focus on its production at a fast pace," Bhadauria said. HAL Chairman R. Madhavan thanked the Air Chief and said the aerospace major would gear up to roll out the LCH for meeting the IAF needs. Designed and developed by the city-based state-run defence behemoth (HAL), LCH is the world`s multi-role lightest attack helicopter, with a highest flight ceiling. "The LCH has been certified by the relevant agency for induction into the IAF and the Indian Army soon," said the official. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) had approved the proposal for the initial batch of 15 LCHs. The IAF issued the Request for Proposal (RFP) for 15 limited series production of the helicopter, including 5 for the Army in 2017. Drawing from the company`s multi-role Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH) Dhruv and its weaponised version Rudra, LCH`s first prototype was test flown in March 2010. Bhadauria, who took over as the Indian Air Force (IAF) in September 2019, also flew the HAL-made Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas on May 27, 2020 when it was inducted into the IAF`s 18 Squadron (Flying Bullets) at the Sulur air base near Coimbatore in the neigbhouring Tamil Nadu state. The Air Chief was in the city to unveil the 59th annual conference of the Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine near the HAL airport.

IAF chief Bhadauria flies Light Combat Helicopter over Bengaluru

Saudi Arabia is acting on Indian concerns over a new currency note that incorrectly showed India's external territorial boundaries as Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir&nbsp;and Ladakh were shown as a separate entity and while Aksai Chin as part of China.

"Saudi Arabia is taking action," sources confirming the development to WION.

The action includes no circulation of the note and withdrawing it soon as well. The 20 Riyal note was issued by Saudi Arabia, to mark its role of&nbsp;host of the G20 grouping this year.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-asks-riyadh-to-take-corrective-steps-on-currency-showing-jammu-and-kashmir-separate-338862">India asks Riyadh to take 'corrective steps' on currency showing Jammu and Kashmir separate</a>

India had asked Saudi Arabia to take "corrective steps" on the new currency note.

A few weeks ago, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava, in&nbsp;his weekly virtually presser, in response to a question said, "We have conveyed our serious concern to Saudi Arabia for this gross misrepresentation of India's external territorial boundaries on an official and legal banknote of Saudi Arabia" and have "asked the Saudi side for taking urgent corrective steps in this regard."

"I would like to further reiterate that entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India," he added.

India conveyed its strong concern via Saudi Ambassador in New Delhi as well as at Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia's Monetary Authority had issued the new note on October 24.

Saudi Arabia is acting on Indian concerns over a new currency note that incorrectly showed India's external territorial boundaries as Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were shown as a separate entity and while Aksai Chin as part of China.

Saudi Arabia is acting on Indian concerns over a new currency note that incorrectly showed India's external territorial boundaries as Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were shown as a separate entity and while Aksai Chin as part of China. "Saudi Arabia is taking action," sources confirming the development to WION. The action includes no circulation of the note and withdrawing it soon as well. The 20 Riyal note was issued by Saudi Arabia, to mark its role of host of the G20 grouping this year. Also read| India asks Riyadh to take 'corrective steps' on currency showing Jammu and Kashmir separate India had asked Saudi Arabia to take "corrective steps" on the new currency note. A few weeks ago, the ministry of external affairs spokesperson Anurag Shrivastava, in his weekly virtually presser, in response to a question said, "We have conveyed our serious concern to Saudi Arabia for this gross misrepresentation of India's external territorial boundaries on an official and legal banknote of Saudi Arabia" and have "asked the Saudi side for taking urgent corrective steps in this regard." "I would like to further reiterate that entire Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh are integral parts of India," he added. India conveyed its strong concern via Saudi Ambassador in New Delhi as well as at Saudi Arabia's foreign ministry in Riyadh. Saudi Arabia's Monetary Authority had issued the new note on October 24.

Saudi Arabia acts on Indian concerns on bank note showing J&K separate

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity."

His comments come days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President-elect Joe Biden spoke with each other. The focus of their discussion was on Indo-Pacific, Covid pandemic, Climate Change among other things.

"As two mature, pluralistic and vibrant democracies with shared values, India and the US are natural partners of choice in forging a stable, peaceful and prosperous 21st century," Shringla pointed out,

"The India-US partnership is anchored in mutual trust and friendship, a shared commitment to democracy, converging strategic interests and the robust engagement of our citizens. I have personally witnessed the growing convergence in the strategic perspectives of India and the US over recent years," he said.

Foreign Secretary also spoke on commercial ties saying New Delhi believed that the US was a "natural partner for India" for its quest for building a resilient economy. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In October, 2+2 Dialogue took place between India and the US. Both sides have also been engaging in the Quad format and Malabar exercises. Foreign Ministers of the Quad countries (India, Australia, Japan and the US) had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this year. New Delhi has also invited Australia for Malabar naval exercises that are underway now in the Indian Ocean.

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity.

Highlighting the "strong bipartisan support" in the US "to strengthen its strategic partnership with India", India's foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla said on Thursday that India was looking to work with the new US Administration to "further strengthening and consolidating this multifaceted relationship for our mutual benefit and economic prosperity." His comments come days after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President-elect Joe Biden spoke with each other. The focus of their discussion was on Indo-Pacific, Covid pandemic, Climate Change among other things. "As two mature, pluralistic and vibrant democracies with shared values, India and the US are natural partners of choice in forging a stable, peaceful and prosperous 21st century," Shringla pointed out, "The India-US partnership is anchored in mutual trust and friendship, a shared commitment to democracy, converging strategic interests and the robust engagement of our citizens. I have personally witnessed the growing convergence in the strategic perspectives of India and the US over recent years," he said. Foreign Secretary also spoke on commercial ties saying New Delhi believed that the US was a "natural partner for India" for its quest for building a resilient economy. In October, 2+2 Dialogue took place between India and the US. Both sides have also been engaging in the Quad format and Malabar exercises. Foreign Ministers of the Quad countries (India, Australia, Japan and the US) had an in-person meeting in Tokyo earlier this year. New Delhi has also invited Australia for Malabar naval exercises that are underway now in the Indian Ocean.

Looking forward to work with new US administration: Foreign Secretary Shringla

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November&nbsp;23 and&nbsp;24

The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations. The event will see the participation of representatives from 70 countries, international organizations, and comes at a time when America substantially plans to reduce its troops in the country.&nbsp;

This year saw a Taliban-US govt pact in February, followed by the start of intra-Afghan talks but has not resulted in peace in the country. The violence level in the country remains high.

India meanwhile has increased its outreach with all stakeholders in Afghanistan. In September, EAM had represented India virtually at the start of intra-Afghan talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government.&nbsp;

It was followed by 3 high profile visits to New Delhi, first by Senior Afghan leader Abdul Rashid Dostum, followed by the Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and then by former Governor of Balkh Atta Muhammad Noor.

New Delhi has been a close partner of Afghan govt and has been helping in capacity building and infrastructure development in the country. Amid&nbsp;the Covid pandemic, it sent 75000 MT of Wheat to the country via Chabahar port in Iran.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November 23 and 24 The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations.

India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will represent India at the international conference on humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan in Geneva. He will join the meet virtually that will take place on November 23 and 24 The conference is being co-hosted by the Afghan government, the Government of Finland, and the United Nations. The event will see the participation of representatives from 70 countries, international organizations, and comes at a time when America substantially plans to reduce its troops in the country. This year saw a Taliban-US govt pact in February, followed by the start of intra-Afghan talks but has not resulted in peace in the country. The violence level in the country remains high. India meanwhile has increased its outreach with all stakeholders in Afghanistan. In September, EAM had represented India virtually at the start of intra-Afghan talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. It was followed by 3 high profile visits to New Delhi, first by Senior Afghan leader Abdul Rashid Dostum, followed by the Chairman of the High Council for National Reconciliation of Afghanistan, Dr Abdullah Abdullah, and then by former Governor of Balkh Atta Muhammad Noor. New Delhi has been a close partner of Afghan govt and has been helping in capacity building and infrastructure development in the country. Amid the Covid pandemic, it sent 75000 MT of Wheat to the country via Chabahar port in Iran.

Foreign minister S Jaishankar to represent India at Afghan conference in Geneva

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties.

"There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette.

Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange.

Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India.

In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic.

"When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said.

He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI).

Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments.

India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel.

ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel.&nbsp;

(With PTI inputs)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi pitched for strengthening co-operation between India and Luxembourg in range of areas like financial and digital technologies. As he addressed the first summit between the two countries in two decades, PM Modi said that there was huge potential to further ramp up economic engagement. The summit was held through video conferencing. During his address, PM Modi also talked about common values like democracy, rule of law and freedom which have strengthened the bilateral ties. "There is a huge potential to expand economic engagement between the two countries. We have good cooperation in areas like steel, financial technology, digital domain, but there is a massive possibility of taking it forward," Modi said at the meeting with his Luxembourg counterpart Xavier Bette. Luxembourg is one of the most important financial centers globally. Several Indian companies have raised capital by issuing Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs) at the Luxembourg Stock Exchange. Several Luxembourg-based investment funds hold substantial banking and asset management market share in portfolio investments in India. In his remarks, Modi also talked about possible cooperation between the two countries in dealing with the economic and health challenges posed by the coronavirus pandemic. "When the world is fighting the economic and health challenges of the COVID19 pandemic, the partnership between India and Luxemburg can be beneficial for the two countries as well as both the regions," Modi said. He also welcomed Luxembourg's announcement to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The ISA, initiated by India, is an alliance of over 120 countries which is focused on working for efficient consumption of solar energy to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. Modi also invited Luxembourg to join the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). Luxembourg is a key country in the European Union (EU), and is also the third largest source of FPI in India after US and Mauritius accounting for approximately 8.5 per cent of these investments. India and Luxembourg have a longstanding cooperation in the steel sector. Luxembourgish company Paul Wurth has been in India for the last two decades and played an important role in upgrading the steel sector in India in collaboration with SAIL, TISCO and Jindal Steel. ArcelorMittal, the world's largest steel-producing company, is based out of Luxembourg and recently entered into a joint-venture in India, partnering with Nippon Steel. (With PTI inputs)

India-Luxembourg summit: PM Modi pitches for strengthening relations

The social media platform Twitter is now launching the new feature of 'Fleets' worldwide, after successfully testing it in India, Brazil,&nbsp;Italy, and South Korea.

Twitter decided to launch the new feature in other countries after it was observed that the users were getting more comfortable with the platform with the help of Fleets. Joshua Harris, Twitter's Director of Design, said, "We've seen Fleets helped people feel more comfortable sharing personal and casual thoughts, opinions, and feelings."&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/twitter-names-famous-hacker-mudge-as-its-head-of-security-343709" hreflang="en">Twitter names famous hacker 'Mudge' as its head of security</a>

The feature was launched in India in June 2020 and has seen an increase in the number of people engaging with the platform&nbsp;anecdotally. However, the utilisation of the feature itself has gone down&nbsp;in the interim. A reason behind this can be the lack of safety measures in the 'Fleet line'. The people who watch somebody's fleet through the fleet line can take a screenshot without the author being notified, and the author also does not have any way to find out who all have seen his/her fleet. Twitter is now working on getting these safety measures included in upcoming updates.

Meanwhile, the social media platform is also hoping to add&nbsp;stickers, more creator tools, and live broadcasting in the near future.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-is-testing-foldable-iphone-prototype-for-september-2022-release-343695" hreflang="en">Apple is testing foldable iPhone prototype for September 2022 release</a>

Harris also revealed that the company will shortly be launching a voice chatroom called Audio Spaces. This chatroom will be launched with the aim of creating a safer and more comfortable space for intimate conversations between the users, said&nbsp;Maya Patterson, a Product Designer at Twitter.

"Voice tweets allow people to share their thoughts, but we imagined a live audio space to communicate with one other person or small groups," Patterson said. "A space that feels very safe and intimate. We've used the metaphor of a well-hosted dinner party. You don't need to know everyone at the party to have a good time, but everyone should feel comfortable to sit at the table."

"Safety is critical and we need to get that right in order for people to leverage live audio spaces, so we're going to launch this first experiment to a very small group of people, who are disproportionately impacted by harm on the platform — women and people from marginalised communities — and the team is interested and the company is interested in hearing first from this group of people on their feedback on audio spaces," she said.

The social media platform Twitter is now launching the new feature of 'Fleets' worldwide, after successfully testing it in India, Brazil, Italy, and South Korea.

The social media platform Twitter is now launching the new feature of 'Fleets' worldwide, after successfully testing it in India, Brazil, Italy, and South Korea. Twitter decided to launch the new feature in other countries after it was observed that the users were getting more comfortable with the platform with the help of Fleets. Joshua Harris, Twitter's Director of Design, said, "We've seen Fleets helped people feel more comfortable sharing personal and casual thoughts, opinions, and feelings." Also read| Twitter names famous hacker 'Mudge' as its head of security The feature was launched in India in June 2020 and has seen an increase in the number of people engaging with the platform anecdotally. However, the utilisation of the feature itself has gone down in the interim. A reason behind this can be the lack of safety measures in the 'Fleet line'. The people who watch somebody's fleet through the fleet line can take a screenshot without the author being notified, and the author also does not have any way to find out who all have seen his/her fleet. Twitter is now working on getting these safety measures included in upcoming updates. Meanwhile, the social media platform is also hoping to add stickers, more creator tools, and live broadcasting in the near future. Also read| Apple is testing foldable iPhone prototype for September 2022 release Harris also revealed that the company will shortly be launching a voice chatroom called Audio Spaces. This chatroom will be launched with the aim of creating a safer and more comfortable space for intimate conversations between the users, said Maya Patterson, a Product Designer at Twitter. "Voice tweets allow people to share their thoughts, but we imagined a live audio space to communicate with one other person or small groups," Patterson said. "A space that feels very safe and intimate. We've used the metaphor of a well-hosted dinner party. You don't need to know everyone at the party to have a good time, but everyone should feel comfortable to sit at the table." "Safety is critical and we need to get that right in order for people to leverage live audio spaces, so we're going to launch this first experiment to a very small group of people, who are disproportionately impacted by harm on the platform — women and people from marginalised communities — and the team is interested and the company is interested in hearing first from this group of people on their feedback on audio spaces," she said.

Tried and tested: Twitter launches 'Fleets' globally after successful testing in India

Foreign brokerage Goldman Sachs on Tuesday upgraded its India GDP forecast to a contraction of 10.3 per cent in FY21, as against its earlier estimate of a negative growth of 14.8 per cent.

The US-based firm said developments on the vaccine front — where two candidates have posted satisfactory progress — will be very helpful in the recovery.

The Reserve Bank expects India's GDP to contract by 9.5 per cent on real basis in the ongoing fiscal because of the impact suffered by the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coronavirus-mutations-appearing-in-siberia-russian-scientists-343820">Coronavirus mutations appearing in Siberia: Russian scientists</a>

The GDP will stage an impressive recovery in FY22, with a growth of 13 per cent on the low base and benefits of the vaccine, Goldman Sachs said in a report.

"There is still a high degree of uncertainty around the outlook - and growth could significantly overshoot or undershoot these forecasts - depending on the course taken by the virus and vaccine-related developments in the coming year," it said.

It expects a normalisation in the containment policies and mobility restrictions only in mid-2022, once a vaccine is deployed.

A meaningful rebound in economic activity will happen from 2021 itself, it said, adding that consumer-facing services sectors will stage a faster recovery.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chemicals-found-in-daily-use-products-could-decrease-covid-19-vaccines-effectiveness-reports-343850" hreflang="en">Chemicals found in daily-use products could decrease COVID-19 vaccine's effectiveness: Reports</a>

However, the pace of the rebound will be restrained by some "economic scarring", and a number of factors like a weak labour market, the hit to private sector incomes and balance sheets, tighter credit supply conditions and a limited impetus from fiscal policy, it said.

Headline inflation is likely to decline towards the mid-point of the RBI''s target band of 2-6 per cent by mid-2021 as food prices fall on easing supply restrictions, a benign monsoon and favourable base effects, it said.

Core inflation could also moderate given low manufacturing capacity utilisation and appreciation in the rupee.

This will result in the RB's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cutting rates by 0.35 per cent next year, it said, adding that the panel with three new members has a dovish tilt.

The brokerage further said it will be overweight on Indian equities on the macro recovery and relatively higher sensitivity of Indian stocks to positive vaccine outcomes and added that appreciation pressures on the rupee will persist.

Foreign brokerage Goldman Sachs on Tuesday upgraded its India GDP forecast to a contraction of 10.3 per cent in FY21, as against its earlier estimate of a negative growth of 14.

Foreign brokerage Goldman Sachs on Tuesday upgraded its India GDP forecast to a contraction of 10.3 per cent in FY21, as against its earlier estimate of a negative growth of 14.8 per cent. The US-based firm said developments on the vaccine front — where two candidates have posted satisfactory progress — will be very helpful in the recovery. The Reserve Bank expects India's GDP to contract by 9.5 per cent on real basis in the ongoing fiscal because of the impact suffered by the economy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Also read| Coronavirus mutations appearing in Siberia: Russian scientists The GDP will stage an impressive recovery in FY22, with a growth of 13 per cent on the low base and benefits of the vaccine, Goldman Sachs said in a report. "There is still a high degree of uncertainty around the outlook - and growth could significantly overshoot or undershoot these forecasts - depending on the course taken by the virus and vaccine-related developments in the coming year," it said. It expects a normalisation in the containment policies and mobility restrictions only in mid-2022, once a vaccine is deployed. A meaningful rebound in economic activity will happen from 2021 itself, it said, adding that consumer-facing services sectors will stage a faster recovery. Also read| Chemicals found in daily-use products could decrease COVID-19 vaccine's effectiveness: Reports However, the pace of the rebound will be restrained by some "economic scarring", and a number of factors like a weak labour market, the hit to private sector incomes and balance sheets, tighter credit supply conditions and a limited impetus from fiscal policy, it said. Headline inflation is likely to decline towards the mid-point of the RBI''s target band of 2-6 per cent by mid-2021 as food prices fall on easing supply restrictions, a benign monsoon and favourable base effects, it said. Core inflation could also moderate given low manufacturing capacity utilisation and appreciation in the rupee. This will result in the RB's Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) cutting rates by 0.35 per cent next year, it said, adding that the panel with three new members has a dovish tilt. The brokerage further said it will be overweight on Indian equities on the macro recovery and relatively higher sensitivity of Indian stocks to positive vaccine outcomes and added that appreciation pressures on the rupee will persist.

Goldman Sachs ups India's eco forecast on vaccine progress, now expects 10.8 pc contraction in FY21

India has reiterated it won't join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade pact. Top sources, confirming to WION, New Delhi's continuous stance on the issue over several reasons. India was one of the original 16 participating countries of the RCEP but had withdrawn last year over several reasons, of which was Chinese goods flooding the Indian market.&nbsp;

Over the weekend, 15 countries of the region--China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and all ten members of the ASEAN pact signed the mega Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership RCEP trade pact.&nbsp;

Earlier last week, asked if India will join RECP, Secretary East in Ministry of External Affairs Riva Ganguly Das said, “Our position is well known, as far as India is concerned, we did not join RCEP as it does not address the outstanding issues and concerns of India, however, we remain committed to deepening our trade relations with ASEAN".

While they signed the pact on Saturday, member countries of the economic pact announced that India can participate in the group's activities as an observer member and left a window open for India to join it on a future date.&nbsp;

The joint statement after the signing of the mega pact had a special Ministers’ Declaration on India's participation in the pact. It said, 'Any time prior to its accession to the Agreement, India may participate in RCEP meetings as an observer" and in "economic cooperation activities undertaken by the RCEP Signatory States" under the RCEP Agreement, "on terms and conditions to be jointly decided upon by the RCEP Signatory States."

The summary of the agreement leaves a special exception for India to join the pact later. Chapter 20 of the pact says, "This Agreement is open for accession by India, as an original negotiating State, from the date of its entry into force". The pact is the biggest economic pact which accounts for 30% of global GDP and 30% of the global population.

India has reiterated it won't join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade pact. Top sources, confirming to WION, New Delhi's continuous stance on the issue over several reasons.

India has reiterated it won't join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) trade pact. Top sources, confirming to WION, New Delhi's continuous stance on the issue over several reasons. India was one of the original 16 participating countries of the RCEP but had withdrawn last year over several reasons, of which was Chinese goods flooding the Indian market. Over the weekend, 15 countries of the region--China, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand and all ten members of the ASEAN pact signed the mega Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership RCEP trade pact. Earlier last week, asked if India will join RECP, Secretary East in Ministry of External Affairs Riva Ganguly Das said, “Our position is well known, as far as India is concerned, we did not join RCEP as it does not address the outstanding issues and concerns of India, however, we remain committed to deepening our trade relations with ASEAN". While they signed the pact on Saturday, member countries of the economic pact announced that India can participate in the group's activities as an observer member and left a window open for India to join it on a future date. The joint statement after the signing of the mega pact had a special Ministers’ Declaration on India's participation in the pact. It said, 'Any time prior to its accession to the Agreement, India may participate in RCEP meetings as an observer" and in "economic cooperation activities undertaken by the RCEP Signatory States" under the RCEP Agreement, "on terms and conditions to be jointly decided upon by the RCEP Signatory States." The summary of the agreement leaves a special exception for India to join the pact later. Chapter 20 of the pact says, "This Agreement is open for accession by India, as an original negotiating State, from the date of its entry into force". The pact is the biggest economic pact which accounts for 30% of global GDP and 30% of the global population.

Won't join RCEP, India reiterates 

In an oblique message to China, India on Saturday expressed concern over "actions and incidents" that "erode" trust in the South China Sea and underlined the importance of adhering to international law, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In an address at the 15th East Asia Summit (EAS), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also talked about the Indo-Pacific and noted the growing interest in the region as an integrated and organic maritime space with 10-nation ASEAN at its centre.

The external affairs minister, referring to the recent announcement of policies by several countries for the Indo-Pacific region, said that harmonising various perspectives would never be a challenge if there is the commitment to international cooperation.

The summit, held in the virtual format, was chaired by Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc in his capacity as chair of the ASEAN and all the EAS member nations attended it. India is generally represented at the summit by the prime minister.

In his address, Jaishankar also underlined the need for greater international cooperation in the post-COVID world to tackle the challenges cutting across national boundaries such as terrorism, climate change and pandemics, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said.

The East Asia Summit is a premier forum in the Asia-Pacific region dealing with issues relating to security and defence. Since its inception in 2005, it has been playing a significant role in the strategic, geopolitical and economic evolution of East Asia.

Apart from the 10 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Russia.

The MEA said Jaishankar re-affirmed the importance of the EAS as the leaders-led forum to exchange views on strategic issues and spoke of the "importance of adhering to international law, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, and promoting a rules-based global order".

His comments on the need for respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty came in the midst of the bitter border row between India and China in eastern Ladakh and Beijing's increasing expansionist behaviour in South China Sea and Indo-Pacific.

"On the South China Sea, the external affairs minister expressed concern about actions and incidents that erode trust in the region," the Ministry of External Affairs said.

China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons. However, several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, Philippines and Brunei, have counterclaims.

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, China has significantly ramped up military offensives in the South China Sea in the last few months, triggering global concerns.

India has been pitching for promoting a rules-based order in the region including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea).

"He stated that the Code of Conduct negotiations should not be prejudicial to legitimate interests of third parties and should be fully consistent with UNCLOS," the MEA said in a statement.

On the Indo-Pacific, it said: "The external affairs minister noted the growing interest in the Indo-Pacific as an integrated and organic maritime space, with ASEAN at its centre. He appreciated the synergy between the ASEAN Outlook and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative."

He said India was equally positive about the Indo-Pacific policies announced recently by other nations.

At the East Asia Summit in Bangkok last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed setting up of the Indo-Pacific Ocean's Initiative (IPOI) to conserve and sustainably use the maritime domain and to make meaningful efforts to create a safe and secure maritime domain.

The concept is gaining traction with Japan already agreeing to be the lead partner in the connectivity pillar of the IPOI.

Referring to the COVID-19, Jaishankar briefed the EAS leaders about India's response to the pandemic and highlighted India's efforts to support the international community. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to helping make the COVID-19 vaccine accessible and affordable to all nations.

The MEA said the leaders underlined the importance of cooperation in ensuring safe, effective and affordable access to COVID-19 vaccines.

"They called for greater cooperation in keeping the global supply chains open for an expeditious and sustainable economic recovery. Regional and international issues such as the South China Sea, the situation in the Korean peninsula and Rakhine state were also discussed," it said.

The summit issued a declaration and also adopted four statements on marine sustainability; epidemics prevention and response; women, peace and security; and steady growth of the regional economy, the MEA said.

In an oblique message to China, India on Saturday expressed concern over "actions and incidents" that "erode" trust in the South China Sea and underlined the importance of adhering to international law, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty.

In an oblique message to China, India on Saturday expressed concern over "actions and incidents" that "erode" trust in the South China Sea and underlined the importance of adhering to international law, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty. In an address at the 15th East Asia Summit (EAS), External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar also talked about the Indo-Pacific and noted the growing interest in the region as an integrated and organic maritime space with 10-nation ASEAN at its centre. The external affairs minister, referring to the recent announcement of policies by several countries for the Indo-Pacific region, said that harmonising various perspectives would never be a challenge if there is the commitment to international cooperation. The summit, held in the virtual format, was chaired by Prime Minister of Vietnam Nguyen Xuan Phuc in his capacity as chair of the ASEAN and all the EAS member nations attended it. India is generally represented at the summit by the prime minister. In his address, Jaishankar also underlined the need for greater international cooperation in the post-COVID world to tackle the challenges cutting across national boundaries such as terrorism, climate change and pandemics, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said. The East Asia Summit is a premier forum in the Asia-Pacific region dealing with issues relating to security and defence. Since its inception in 2005, it has been playing a significant role in the strategic, geopolitical and economic evolution of East Asia. Apart from the 10 ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) member states, East Asia Summit includes India, China, Japan, Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, United States and Russia. The MEA said Jaishankar re-affirmed the importance of the EAS as the leaders-led forum to exchange views on strategic issues and spoke of the "importance of adhering to international law, respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty, and promoting a rules-based global order". His comments on the need for respecting territorial integrity and sovereignty came in the midst of the bitter border row between India and China in eastern Ladakh and Beijing's increasing expansionist behaviour in South China Sea and Indo-Pacific. "On the South China Sea, the external affairs minister expressed concern about actions and incidents that erode trust in the region," the Ministry of External Affairs said. China claims sovereignty over all of the South China Sea, a huge source of hydrocarbons. However, several ASEAN member countries, including Vietnam, Philippines and Brunei, have counterclaims. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, China has significantly ramped up military offensives in the South China Sea in the last few months, triggering global concerns. India has been pitching for promoting a rules-based order in the region including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS (United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea). "He stated that the Code of Conduct negotiations should not be prejudicial to legitimate interests of third parties and should be fully consistent with UNCLOS," the MEA said in a statement. On the Indo-Pacific, it said: "The external affairs minister noted the growing interest in the Indo-Pacific as an integrated and organic maritime space, with ASEAN at its centre. He appreciated the synergy between the ASEAN Outlook and India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative." He said India was equally positive about the Indo-Pacific policies announced recently by other nations. At the East Asia Summit in Bangkok last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed setting up of the Indo-Pacific Ocean's Initiative (IPOI) to conserve and sustainably use the maritime domain and to make meaningful efforts to create a safe and secure maritime domain. The concept is gaining traction with Japan already agreeing to be the lead partner in the connectivity pillar of the IPOI. Referring to the COVID-19, Jaishankar briefed the EAS leaders about India's response to the pandemic and highlighted India's efforts to support the international community. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's commitment to helping make the COVID-19 vaccine accessible and affordable to all nations. The MEA said the leaders underlined the importance of cooperation in ensuring safe, effective and affordable access to COVID-19 vaccines. "They called for greater cooperation in keeping the global supply chains open for an expeditious and sustainable economic recovery. Regional and international issues such as the South China Sea, the situation in the Korean peninsula and Rakhine state were also discussed," it said. The summit issued a declaration and also adopted four statements on marine sustainability; epidemics prevention and response; women, peace and security; and steady growth of the regional economy, the MEA said.

India expresses concern over actions that erode trust in the South China Sea

After Pfizer's claim that the COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90% effective based on initial trial results, a few volunteers said that they suffered side effects comparable to a flu jab, with one comparing them to "a severe hangover".

Around 43,500 people in six countries have taken part in the phase three trial run by the pharmaceutical giant and its partner BioNTech.

One of the volunteers of the trial, Texas lobbyist Glenn Deshields compared side effects of the shot as being similar to "a severe hangover" whereas another one, 45-year old Carrie said that she went through fever, body aches and headache after the second shot.&nbsp;

Carrie also said that signing up for the trial was a “civic duty” and said Monday’s positive news left her feeling “very proud”.She said that 'There are so many people who have had it and suffered.'She had received her first shot back in September and her second last month.

Pfizer and German partner BioNTech said they had found no serious safety concerns yet and expected to seek U.S. emergency use authorization this month, raising the chance of a regulatory decision as soon as December.

If granted, the companies estimate they can roll out up to 50 million doses this year, enough to protect 25 million people, and then produce up to 1.3 billion doses in 2021.

The Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, which relies on synthetic genes that can be generated and manufactured in weeks and produced at scale more rapidly than conventional vaccines. The technology is designed to trigger an immune response without using pathogens, such as actual virus particles.

(With inputs from agencies)

After Pfizer's claim that the COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90% effective based on initial trial results, a few volunteers said that they suffered side effects comparable to a flu jab, with one comparing them to "a severe hangover".

After Pfizer's claim that the COVID-19 vaccine is more than 90% effective based on initial trial results, a few volunteers said that they suffered side effects comparable to a flu jab, with one comparing them to "a severe hangover". Around 43,500 people in six countries have taken part in the phase three trial run by the pharmaceutical giant and its partner BioNTech. One of the volunteers of the trial, Texas lobbyist Glenn Deshields compared side effects of the shot as being similar to "a severe hangover" whereas another one, 45-year old Carrie said that she went through fever, body aches and headache after the second shot. Carrie also said that signing up for the trial was a “civic duty” and said Monday’s positive news left her feeling “very proud”.She said that 'There are so many people who have had it and suffered.'She had received her first shot back in September and her second last month. Pfizer and German partner BioNTech said they had found no serious safety concerns yet and expected to seek U.S. emergency use authorization this month, raising the chance of a regulatory decision as soon as December. If granted, the companies estimate they can roll out up to 50 million doses this year, enough to protect 25 million people, and then produce up to 1.3 billion doses in 2021. The Pfizer and BioNTech vaccine uses messenger RNA (mRNA) technology, which relies on synthetic genes that can be generated and manufactured in weeks and produced at scale more rapidly than conventional vaccines. The technology is designed to trigger an immune response without using pathogens, such as actual virus particles. (With inputs from agencies)

Volunteers face 'severe hangover', headache and pain after getting Pfizer vaccine shot

india-0

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

india 0