A 33-year-old Indian man on Thursday pleaded guilty to the charges of participating in a computer protection services scam that defrauded Americans, many of them senior citizens, by telling them that malware had been detected on their computers.

Himanshu Asri, who is from New Delhi, admitted to before a federal judge in Providence that he defrauded people by telling victims that malware had been detected on their computers and, based on that falsehood, induced the victims to direct money to him and his coconspirators as payment for purported computer protection services that were not needed or ever provided.

The conspirators, in fact, did not detect malware on victims' computers and accepted payment without providing any protection services, federal prosecutors said.

In his guilty plea, Asri admitted that he had 325 callers routed to call centres in India where call centre operators falsely reasserted to victims that malware had been detected on their computers, and offered the victims purported computer protection services in exchange for payment.

The purpose of the false assertions was to induce people into routing money to the fraudsters.

Between January 2015 and January 2020, Asri and others working together collected, in total, approximately USD940,995 from victims through their fraud, and attempted to collect between USD 5 million and USD 3 million.

The actual loss was less than the intended loss because some of those who were targeted by Asri and his coconspirators did not send any funds to the fraudsters, said the Department of Justice.

Asri, is the fourth India-based telemarketing fraudster to be convicted in federal court in Rhode Island in the past three months. He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 18, 2021.

Wire fraud conspiracy is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of USD 250,000.&nbsp;

A 33-year-old Indian man on Thursday pleaded guilty to the charges of participating in a computer protection services scam that defrauded Americans, many of them senior citizens, by telling them that malware had been detected on their computers.

A 33-year-old Indian man on Thursday pleaded guilty to the charges of participating in a computer protection services scam that defrauded Americans, many of them senior citizens, by telling them that malware had been detected on their computers. Himanshu Asri, who is from New Delhi, admitted to before a federal judge in Providence that he defrauded people by telling victims that malware had been detected on their computers and, based on that falsehood, induced the victims to direct money to him and his coconspirators as payment for purported computer protection services that were not needed or ever provided. The conspirators, in fact, did not detect malware on victims' computers and accepted payment without providing any protection services, federal prosecutors said. In his guilty plea, Asri admitted that he had 325 callers routed to call centres in India where call centre operators falsely reasserted to victims that malware had been detected on their computers, and offered the victims purported computer protection services in exchange for payment. The purpose of the false assertions was to induce people into routing money to the fraudsters. Between January 2015 and January 2020, Asri and others working together collected, in total, approximately USD940,995 from victims through their fraud, and attempted to collect between USD 5 million and USD 3 million. The actual loss was less than the intended loss because some of those who were targeted by Asri and his coconspirators did not send any funds to the fraudsters, said the Department of Justice. Asri, is the fourth India-based telemarketing fraudster to be convicted in federal court in Rhode Island in the past three months. He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 18, 2021. Wire fraud conspiracy is punishable by statutory penalties of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of USD 250,000.

Indian national pleads guilty to role in malware protection scam in US

Current US rules limit any one country to 7 percent of all employment-based green cards. Indians make up more than 6 lakh of those whose paperwork is approved but are waiting.

U.S. Senate passes bill to clear country's cap on green cards, 7 lakh Indians may benefit

India and the US face a common challenge in the form of an "increasingly assertive" China and New Delhi has to be a key partner in engaging with Beijing from a position of strength, believes long-time national security and foreign policy expert Antony Blinken, who could be President-elect Joe Biden's probable pick for the post of the Secretary of State. &nbsp;

Blinken made these comments during a community outreach programme with the Indian-Americans organised by the Biden campaign on the occasion of India's Independence Day on August 15. &nbsp;

He alleged that US President Donald Trump has helped China advance key strategic goals by weakening American alliances, leaving a vacuum in the world for China to fill, and abandoning American values and giving Beijing a green light to trample on democracy in Hong Kong. &nbsp;

"We have a common challenge which is to deal with an increasingly assertive China across the board, including its aggression toward India at the Line of Actual Control, but also using its economic might to coerce others and … to its advantage, ignoring international rules to advance its own interests, asserting unfounded maritime and territorial claims that threaten a freedom of navigation in some of the most important seas in the world," Blinken told the Indian-Americans during the virtual panel discussion on "US-India Relations and Indian Americans in Joe Biden Administration." &nbsp;

India and China are engaged in a bitter stand-off on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh since May. &nbsp;

Blinken, who then was the top foreign policy advisor to former vice president Biden, had also referred to the Chinese actions in Hong Kong as repression of the rights of its own people and democracy in the former British colony. &nbsp;

"We have to sort of take a step back and start by putting ourselves in a position of strength from which to engage China so that the relationship moves forward more on our terms, not theirs," Blinken had said. &nbsp;"India has to be a key partner in that effort," Blinken then said. &nbsp;

If Blinken is tapped by President-elect Biden and confirmed by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he would replace Mike Pompeo as the next Secretary of State.

"Unfortunately, right now by virtually every key metric. China's strategic position is stronger and ours is weaker as a result of President Trump's failed leadership," he said. &nbsp;More importantly, he alleged that Trump had undermined US democracy. &nbsp;

"In many ways, as we think about dealing with the challenges that China poses, it's almost less about their strength and more about some of our self-inflicted weaknesses," he said. &nbsp;

"Put another way, this is really about us in the first instance, the competitiveness of our own economy and workers.

"The strength of our own democracy and political system, the vibrancy of our own alliances and partnerships. And of course, the assertion of our own values, all of which President Trump has done so much to undermine," Blinken said. &nbsp;

Relations between Washington and Beijing have spiralled downward since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. The two countries have also sparred over trade issues, a new national security law in Hong Kong, restrictions on American journalists, treatment of Uyghurs Muslims and security measures in Tibet. &nbsp;

Responding to a question from Richard Verma, the former US Ambassador to India, who was moderating the panel discussion, Blinken said that Biden as President would be investing "in ourselves renewing our democracy, working with our close partners like India, asserting our values, and so engaging China from a position of strength." &nbsp;

"During the Obama-Biden administration, we worked very hard to establish India as a key contributing member of the Indo-Pacific strategy. And that includes India's role in working with like minded partners to strengthen and uphold a rules-based order in the Indo Pacific, in which no country, including China can threaten its neighbours with impunity," Blinken said. &nbsp;

"That role needs to extend even beyond the region as vast as it is to the world at large. In a Biden administration we would be an advocate for India to play a leading role in international institutions and that includes helping India get a seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council," he said. &nbsp;

"We would work together to strengthen India's defence, and also add its capabilities as a counterterrorism partner," he added. &nbsp;

A Biden administration will also have no tolerance for terrorism in South Asia, he said in response to another question. &nbsp;

"On the question of terrorism, specifically, we have no tolerance for terrorism, in South Asia or anywhere else: cross border or otherwise," he said.

Asserting that Biden is a champion of the US-India relations, Blinken had said that the former vice president had a vision for the US-India relations. &nbsp;

Referring to a 2006 statement by Biden that by 2020, US and India should be closest friends, Blinken said that that has not happened yet, but Biden will make it a reality. &nbsp;

Former Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal was the other panelist at the event in August.

India and the US face a common challenge in the form of an "increasingly assertive" China and New Delhi has to be a key partner in engaging with Beijing from a position of strength, believes long-time national security and foreign policy expert Antony Blinken, who could be President-elect Joe Biden's probable pick for the post of the Secretary of State.

India and the US face a common challenge in the form of an "increasingly assertive" China and New Delhi has to be a key partner in engaging with Beijing from a position of strength, believes long-time national security and foreign policy expert Antony Blinken, who could be President-elect Joe Biden's probable pick for the post of the Secretary of State. Blinken made these comments during a community outreach programme with the Indian-Americans organised by the Biden campaign on the occasion of India's Independence Day on August 15. He alleged that US President Donald Trump has helped China advance key strategic goals by weakening American alliances, leaving a vacuum in the world for China to fill, and abandoning American values and giving Beijing a green light to trample on democracy in Hong Kong. "We have a common challenge which is to deal with an increasingly assertive China across the board, including its aggression toward India at the Line of Actual Control, but also using its economic might to coerce others and … to its advantage, ignoring international rules to advance its own interests, asserting unfounded maritime and territorial claims that threaten a freedom of navigation in some of the most important seas in the world," Blinken told the Indian-Americans during the virtual panel discussion on "US-India Relations and Indian Americans in Joe Biden Administration." India and China are engaged in a bitter stand-off on the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in Eastern Ladakh since May. Blinken, who then was the top foreign policy advisor to former vice president Biden, had also referred to the Chinese actions in Hong Kong as repression of the rights of its own people and democracy in the former British colony. "We have to sort of take a step back and start by putting ourselves in a position of strength from which to engage China so that the relationship moves forward more on our terms, not theirs," Blinken had said. "India has to be a key partner in that effort," Blinken then said. If Blinken is tapped by President-elect Biden and confirmed by the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, he would replace Mike Pompeo as the next Secretary of State. "Unfortunately, right now by virtually every key metric. China's strategic position is stronger and ours is weaker as a result of President Trump's failed leadership," he said. More importantly, he alleged that Trump had undermined US democracy. "In many ways, as we think about dealing with the challenges that China poses, it's almost less about their strength and more about some of our self-inflicted weaknesses," he said. "Put another way, this is really about us in the first instance, the competitiveness of our own economy and workers. "The strength of our own democracy and political system, the vibrancy of our own alliances and partnerships. And of course, the assertion of our own values, all of which President Trump has done so much to undermine," Blinken said. Relations between Washington and Beijing have spiralled downward since the outbreak of the novel coronavirus. The two countries have also sparred over trade issues, a new national security law in Hong Kong, restrictions on American journalists, treatment of Uyghurs Muslims and security measures in Tibet. Responding to a question from Richard Verma, the former US Ambassador to India, who was moderating the panel discussion, Blinken said that Biden as President would be investing "in ourselves renewing our democracy, working with our close partners like India, asserting our values, and so engaging China from a position of strength." "During the Obama-Biden administration, we worked very hard to establish India as a key contributing member of the Indo-Pacific strategy. And that includes India's role in working with like minded partners to strengthen and uphold a rules-based order in the Indo Pacific, in which no country, including China can threaten its neighbours with impunity," Blinken said. "That role needs to extend even beyond the region as vast as it is to the world at large. In a Biden administration we would be an advocate for India to play a leading role in international institutions and that includes helping India get a seat on a reformed United Nations Security Council," he said. "We would work together to strengthen India's defence, and also add its capabilities as a counterterrorism partner," he added. A Biden administration will also have no tolerance for terrorism in South Asia, he said in response to another question. "On the question of terrorism, specifically, we have no tolerance for terrorism, in South Asia or anywhere else: cross border or otherwise," he said. Asserting that Biden is a champion of the US-India relations, Blinken had said that the former vice president had a vision for the US-India relations. Referring to a 2006 statement by Biden that by 2020, US and India should be closest friends, Blinken said that that has not happened yet, but Biden will make it a reality. Former Assistant Secretary of State for South and Central Asia Nisha Desai Biswal was the other panelist at the event in August.

India has to be a key partner in engaging China from a position of strength: Antony Blinken

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, the United States, Japan and Australia began their largest joint naval exercises in over a decade on Tuesday (November 03), seen as part of efforts to balance China's vast military and economic power in the region.

What will US poll results mean for India? | US Presidential Election 2020

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper.

The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones.

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Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in New Delhi for a top-level security dialogue on Monday, seen as part of efforts to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the region.

The impact will be immediate. India and the US will share high-end satellite images, telephone intercepts, and data on Chinese troops and their weapons deployment.&nbsp;

On Tuesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was seen giving an elbow bump to Pompeo.

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Later, the American leaders met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well.

At the press conference, the target was China. The Indian side was measured in its response.

They didn't name China, but spoke about freedom of navigation and respect for territorial integrity.

The American leadership, however, didn't hesitate in taking China on.

Esper blamed China for destablising the region. Pompeo didn't hold back any punches. He referred to how the pandemic originated in Wuhan, and the threat the Communist Party poses to democratic values.

"This morning we visited the national war memorial to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed for the world’s largest democracy, including 20 that were killed by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) forces in the Galwan valley in June. The United States will stand with the people of india as they confront threats to their sovereignty and to their liberty." Pompeo said.

He added, "The challenge of defeating the pandemic which came from wuhan also fed into our robust discussions about the Chinese Communist Party. Our leaders and our citizens see with increasing clarity that the CCP is no friend to democracy, the rule of law, transparency, nor to freedom of navigation -- the foundation of an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. I’m glad to say that the United States and India are taking steps to strengthen our cooperation against all manners of threats, and not just those posed by the chinese communist party."

The US presidential election is less than a week away. And for the topmost officials of the Trump administration to undertake this visit at such a time shows how seriously they take this issue.

They are building alliances with not just India but with many players.&nbsp;

The mission is to make China pay.

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper. The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones.

India and the United States Tuesday signed a military agreement on sharing of satellite data during the current visit by US Defence Secretary Mark Esper. The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement on Geospatial Cooperation (BECA) will allow India access to topographical, nautical and aeronautical data for better accuracy of weapons like missiles and drones. Esper and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo landed in New Delhi for a top-level security dialogue on Monday, seen as part of efforts to counter China’s growing assertiveness in the region. The impact will be immediate. India and the US will share high-end satellite images, telephone intercepts, and data on Chinese troops and their weapons deployment. On Tuesday, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval was seen giving an elbow bump to Pompeo. Later, the American leaders met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi as well. At the press conference, the target was China. The Indian side was measured in its response. They didn't name China, but spoke about freedom of navigation and respect for territorial integrity. The American leadership, however, didn't hesitate in taking China on. Esper blamed China for destablising the region. Pompeo didn't hold back any punches. He referred to how the pandemic originated in Wuhan, and the threat the Communist Party poses to democratic values. "This morning we visited the national war memorial to honour the brave men and women of the armed forces who have sacrificed for the world’s largest democracy, including 20 that were killed by the PLA (People’s Liberation Army) forces in the Galwan valley in June. The United States will stand with the people of india as they confront threats to their sovereignty and to their liberty." Pompeo said. He added, "The challenge of defeating the pandemic which came from wuhan also fed into our robust discussions about the Chinese Communist Party. Our leaders and our citizens see with increasing clarity that the CCP is no friend to democracy, the rule of law, transparency, nor to freedom of navigation -- the foundation of an open and prosperous Indo-Pacific. I’m glad to say that the United States and India are taking steps to strengthen our cooperation against all manners of threats, and not just those posed by the chinese communist party." The US presidential election is less than a week away. And for the topmost officials of the Trump administration to undertake this visit at such a time shows how seriously they take this issue. They are building alliances with not just India but with many players. The mission is to make China pay.

India signs military agreement with US on sharing of satellite data

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States.

"Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday.

India and US have already signed Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002.

BECA is the last of the four foundational agreements agreed upon, and will allow for expanded geospatial information sharing between American and Indian armed forces.

Esper and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are in New Delhi for 2+2 meet. The visit is significant given it comes amid Chinese aggression on the border and the Covid-19 pandemic.

Rajnath Singh and Esper held a bilateral meeting on Monday.

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States. "Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday.

India will sign a key military pact -- BECA or Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement -- with the United States. "Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defence Secretary Mark Esper confirmed the agreement of BECA will be signed during the visit," the defence ministry said, in a statement on Monday. India and US have already signed Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018, Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002. BECA is the last of the four foundational agreements agreed upon, and will allow for expanded geospatial information sharing between American and Indian armed forces. Esper and US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo are in New Delhi for 2+2 meet. The visit is significant given it comes amid Chinese aggression on the border and the Covid-19 pandemic. Rajnath Singh and Esper held a bilateral meeting on Monday.

India to sign BECA military pact with US

United States' Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will be visiting India for the 3rd edition of India-US 2+2 dialogue starting on October 26.

US' Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to visit India for 3rd edition of 2+2 dialogue

India and the United States could ink the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) defence pact for “greater geospatial information-sharing” during the forthcoming Indo-US 2+2 talks at the foreign and defence ministerial level on October 27.

India-US 2+2 talks: Esper, Pompeo to also meet NSA Ajit Doval and PM Modi

India-US 2+2 dialogue to focus on regional security cooperation and defence

India, Israel and the United States have begun collaboration in developmental area, and in next generation of emerging technologies, including a transparent, open, reliable and secure 5G communication network, a top official has said.

The branching out of this trilateral initiative in development and technological arena is a result of the people-to-people collaboration, in particular those by Indian diaspora in the US and Israel, that was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his historic visit to Israel three years ago in July 2017, community leaders said.

A collaboration in 5G is a just tip of the iceberg and a first step, according to US Agency for International Development (USAID) Deputy Administrator Bonnie Glick.

"Because we'll collaborate in science and research and development in coming up with the next generations of technologies, things that the likes of you and the rest of us on the phone can't even imagine what they might be. But by partnering by officially, affirming the importance of this relationship, we'll advance it," Glick told PTI in an interview after the US-India-Israel forum featuring discussions on strategic, tech and development/water cooperation held last week.

"We are thrilled to work with these partners to solve the world's development challenges," she said in her keynote address to the virtual US-India-Israel summit that focused on trilateral partnerships in the strategic, technology and development arenas.

The summit was also addressed by Israeli Ambassador to India Ron Malka and his counterpart Sanjeev Singla. 
"One area we've been cooperating on is digital leadership and innovation, particularly in next generation 5G technology," Glick said.

"In July, I chaired a roundtable discussion with several like-minded donors on 5G and digital development. To me, it was extremely important that India and Israel be part of that conversation. And the discussion was richer because of their contributions," she said.

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Silicon Valley, Bangaluru and Tel Aviv have all earned reputations as leading, innovative technology hubs, and rightfully so, according to Glick.

"So it's only right that our three nations play a key role in delivering the promise of 5G in a way that is open, interoperable, reliable, and secure," she stressed. "We cannot allow any nation to dominate this technology or use it to dominate other nations."

When Israel, the US and India collaborate in defence, much of that collaboration and discussion is done in closed rooms, because the topics are highly sensitive, the official said.

"When we're talking about development cooperation, we're talking about transparent and open activities that can make all three countries extremely proud about the way that they impact the lives of people all over the world," Glick said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/tim-ceo-says-not-a-problem-to-develop-5g-without-huawei-325467">Also read:&nbsp;TIM CEO says not a problem to develop 5G without Huawei</a>

Javier Piedra, deputy assistant administrator of the Bureau for Asia at USAID, said that in the case of India and Israel, they had a "peer-to-peer relationship", always looking to see how they might advance their respective activities cooperatively so that they might leverage common goals, resources, and comparative advantages in pursuit of self-reliance globally.

"Moreover, we continue to set the stage to further international development trilaterally, wherever possible," he said. 
"Our partnerships with Israel and India, given our peer-to-peer relationship, exemplifies the importance of working together on issues related to water, water management and security," Piedra said.

M R Rangaswami from Indiaspora, who presented the tech-triangle (Silicon Valley-Tel Aviv and Bangalore) concept to Modi in Israel in 2017, said the beauty of this model was because technology was a commonality in the three things, all kinds of "incredible things" had come out of it.

Dr Bharat Barai, an Indian-American from Chicago, said the people-to-people relationship, business, science and technology among the three countries would not only strengthen the ties, but also help in developmental activities in the third-world countries.

Nissim Reuben, assistant director, Asia Pacific Institute (API) at the American Jewish Committee, said a strong, prosperous, vibrant and resilient Indian economy was a top priority for many countries, especially the US and Israel. 
To achieve that goal, India needs to continuously update its agro, water &amp; wastewater management techniques, an area where Mashav Development Agency of Israel could play a key role with support of the USAID.

AJC, Indiaspora, GIJRI &amp; the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) will jointly advocate for this expansion of this US-Israel-India developmental partnership, he said.

"We hope to be able to advocate the setting up of US-Israeli joint centres of excellence in health in India similar to the 29 centres of agro-tech excellence set up by Mashav in India.

"Skill development, innovation and entrepreneurship, water and renewable energy cooperation will be other areas of trilateral cooperation advocacy by our four organisations in the US," Reuben said.

India, Israel and the United States have begun collaboration in developmental area, and in next generation of emerging technologies, including a transparent, open, reliable and secure 5G communication network, a top official has said.

India, Israel and the United States have begun collaboration in developmental area, and in next generation of emerging technologies, including a transparent, open, reliable and secure 5G communication network, a top official has said. The branching out of this trilateral initiative in development and technological arena is a result of the people-to-people collaboration, in particular those by Indian diaspora in the US and Israel, that was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his historic visit to Israel three years ago in July 2017, community leaders said. A collaboration in 5G is a just tip of the iceberg and a first step, according to US Agency for International Development (USAID) Deputy Administrator Bonnie Glick. "Because we'll collaborate in science and research and development in coming up with the next generations of technologies, things that the likes of you and the rest of us on the phone can't even imagine what they might be. But by partnering by officially, affirming the importance of this relationship, we'll advance it," Glick told PTI in an interview after the US-India-Israel forum featuring discussions on strategic, tech and development/water cooperation held last week. "We are thrilled to work with these partners to solve the world's development challenges," she said in her keynote address to the virtual US-India-Israel summit that focused on trilateral partnerships in the strategic, technology and development arenas. The summit was also addressed by Israeli Ambassador to India Ron Malka and his counterpart Sanjeev Singla. "One area we've been cooperating on is digital leadership and innovation, particularly in next generation 5G technology," Glick said. "In July, I chaired a roundtable discussion with several like-minded donors on 5G and digital development. To me, it was extremely important that India and Israel be part of that conversation. And the discussion was richer because of their contributions," she said. × Silicon Valley, Bangaluru and Tel Aviv have all earned reputations as leading, innovative technology hubs, and rightfully so, according to Glick. "So it's only right that our three nations play a key role in delivering the promise of 5G in a way that is open, interoperable, reliable, and secure," she stressed. "We cannot allow any nation to dominate this technology or use it to dominate other nations." When Israel, the US and India collaborate in defence, much of that collaboration and discussion is done in closed rooms, because the topics are highly sensitive, the official said. "When we're talking about development cooperation, we're talking about transparent and open activities that can make all three countries extremely proud about the way that they impact the lives of people all over the world," Glick said. Also read: TIM CEO says not a problem to develop 5G without Huawei Javier Piedra, deputy assistant administrator of the Bureau for Asia at USAID, said that in the case of India and Israel, they had a "peer-to-peer relationship", always looking to see how they might advance their respective activities cooperatively so that they might leverage common goals, resources, and comparative advantages in pursuit of self-reliance globally. "Moreover, we continue to set the stage to further international development trilaterally, wherever possible," he said. "Our partnerships with Israel and India, given our peer-to-peer relationship, exemplifies the importance of working together on issues related to water, water management and security," Piedra said. M R Rangaswami from Indiaspora, who presented the tech-triangle (Silicon Valley-Tel Aviv and Bangalore) concept to Modi in Israel in 2017, said the beauty of this model was because technology was a commonality in the three things, all kinds of "incredible things" had come out of it. Dr Bharat Barai, an Indian-American from Chicago, said the people-to-people relationship, business, science and technology among the three countries would not only strengthen the ties, but also help in developmental activities in the third-world countries. Nissim Reuben, assistant director, Asia Pacific Institute (API) at the American Jewish Committee, said a strong, prosperous, vibrant and resilient Indian economy was a top priority for many countries, especially the US and Israel. To achieve that goal, India needs to continuously update its agro, water & wastewater management techniques, an area where Mashav Development Agency of Israel could play a key role with support of the USAID. AJC, Indiaspora, GIJRI & the American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI) will jointly advocate for this expansion of this US-Israel-India developmental partnership, he said. "We hope to be able to advocate the setting up of US-Israeli joint centres of excellence in health in India similar to the 29 centres of agro-tech excellence set up by Mashav in India. "Skill development, innovation and entrepreneurship, water and renewable energy cooperation will be other areas of trilateral cooperation advocacy by our four organisations in the US," Reuben said.

India, US, Israel collaborating in 5G tech: Official

Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden said that if elected, his administration will stand with New Delhi in confronting the threats it faces and called for strengthening the “bond” between India and the US.

'India-U.S shares a special bond' says Joe Biden; Promises H-1B reforms

The Trump administration moved to ease controls on exports of armed drones, saying that allies need US technology and that other countries outside of a non-proliferation pact were taking over the market.

Donald Trump looks to expand defence exports in election year

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem.

A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently.

Senator Mike Lee said on Wednesday that the current Green Card policy did nothing for the child of an immigrant whose dead parent's Green Card application was ultimately denied because his or her job was no longer available.

"Someone from India entering the backlog today would have to wait 195 years to receive an EB-3 green card. Even if we give their children this limbo status, none of them will have a prayer of becoming a US citizen," Lee said on the Senator floor.

In fiscal year 2019, Indian nationals received 9,008 category 1 (EB1), 2,908 category 2 (EB2), and 5,083 category 3 (EB3) Green Cards. EB1-3 are different categories of employment-based Green Cards.

Lee, the senator from Utah, was speaking on the legislation moved by Senator Dick Durbin that seeks to protect immigrant workers and their children who are stuck in the green card backlog.

"Green cards are critical in the lives of so many who are here on temporary work visas. The backlog puts families at risk of losing their immigration status as they wait year after weary year to finally make it through this green card backlog," Durbin said.

"Our bipartisan agreement would add critical protections that were not in the original bill for immigrant workers and their immediate family members who are stuck in the backlog. They would be able to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status. And children of immigrant workers would be protected from aging out so they will not face deportation," he said.

The Lee-Durbin agreement would make three changes to the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. First, it would immediately protect immigrants and their families who are stuck in the backlog by allowing them to "early file" for Green Cards.

This would allow workers to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status and prevent the children of immigrant workers from "aging out" of Green-Card eligibility so they will not face deportation while they are waiting for a Green Card.

Second, the amendment would create a green-card set aside for immigrant workers who are unable to "early file" because they are stuck in the backlog overseas.

Finally, the amendment would crackdown on abuse of H-1B temporary worker visas by outsourcing companies by prohibiting a company from hiring additional H-1B workers if the company's workforce is more than 50 employees and more than 50 per cent temporary workers.

The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China.

"While we continue to debate the best way to fix the Green Card backlog, let's make sure that no children of the affected families are harmed or deported. Just that simple. I offered a new bill, very simply stated, to?protect children of immigrant workers act. This brief three-page bill would ensure that children do not age out while waiting for a Green Card," Durbin said.

"Imagine if you brought your children to the United States, worked on an H-1B visa and your children are waiting for you for the Green Card, you are paying for them to go to college because they don't qualify as American Citizens for any type of federal financial aid. You're making great sacrifices for them and then the day comes when they reach the age of 21 and they can be deported and your family divided," he said.

"Why would we want to let that happen?" Durbin asked.

Noting that he has met many of these young people, the senator said it breaks his heart to hear their story that they may reach a point where they age out and be deported.

"That's why I wanted to offer this specific single provision. There is no reason these children should be punished for a broken immigration system. It's not beyond our control to help them," he added.&nbsp;

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem.

The backlog for an Indian national to get permanent residency or Green Card is more than 195 years, a top Republican senator has said, urging his Senate colleagues to come out with a legislative resolution to address this problem. A Green Card, known officially as a Permanent Resident Card, is a document issued to immigrants to the US as evidence that the bearer has been granted the privilege of residing permanently. Senator Mike Lee said on Wednesday that the current Green Card policy did nothing for the child of an immigrant whose dead parent's Green Card application was ultimately denied because his or her job was no longer available. "Someone from India entering the backlog today would have to wait 195 years to receive an EB-3 green card. Even if we give their children this limbo status, none of them will have a prayer of becoming a US citizen," Lee said on the Senator floor. In fiscal year 2019, Indian nationals received 9,008 category 1 (EB1), 2,908 category 2 (EB2), and 5,083 category 3 (EB3) Green Cards. EB1-3 are different categories of employment-based Green Cards. Lee, the senator from Utah, was speaking on the legislation moved by Senator Dick Durbin that seeks to protect immigrant workers and their children who are stuck in the green card backlog. "Green cards are critical in the lives of so many who are here on temporary work visas. The backlog puts families at risk of losing their immigration status as they wait year after weary year to finally make it through this green card backlog," Durbin said. "Our bipartisan agreement would add critical protections that were not in the original bill for immigrant workers and their immediate family members who are stuck in the backlog. They would be able to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status. And children of immigrant workers would be protected from aging out so they will not face deportation," he said. The Lee-Durbin agreement would make three changes to the Fairness for High-Skilled Immigrants Act. First, it would immediately protect immigrants and their families who are stuck in the backlog by allowing them to "early file" for Green Cards. This would allow workers to switch jobs and travel without losing immigration status and prevent the children of immigrant workers from "aging out" of Green-Card eligibility so they will not face deportation while they are waiting for a Green Card. Second, the amendment would create a green-card set aside for immigrant workers who are unable to "early file" because they are stuck in the backlog overseas. Finally, the amendment would crackdown on abuse of H-1B temporary worker visas by outsourcing companies by prohibiting a company from hiring additional H-1B workers if the company's workforce is more than 50 employees and more than 50 per cent temporary workers. The H-1B visa is a non-immigrant visa that allows US companies to employ foreign workers in speciality occupations that require theoretical or technical expertise. Companies depend on it to hire tens of thousands of employees each year from countries like India and China. "While we continue to debate the best way to fix the Green Card backlog, let's make sure that no children of the affected families are harmed or deported. Just that simple. I offered a new bill, very simply stated, to?protect children of immigrant workers act. This brief three-page bill would ensure that children do not age out while waiting for a Green Card," Durbin said. "Imagine if you brought your children to the United States, worked on an H-1B visa and your children are waiting for you for the Green Card, you are paying for them to go to college because they don't qualify as American Citizens for any type of federal financial aid. You're making great sacrifices for them and then the day comes when they reach the age of 21 and they can be deported and your family divided," he said. "Why would we want to let that happen?" Durbin asked. Noting that he has met many of these young people, the senator said it breaks his heart to hear their story that they may reach a point where they age out and be deported. "That's why I wanted to offer this specific single provision. There is no reason these children should be punished for a broken immigration system. It's not beyond our control to help them," he added.

Green Card waitlist for Indian is more than 195 years: US senator

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US.

Addressing the virtual India Ideas Summit organised by US India Business Council, India's Ambassador to the US on Wednesday said every crisis presents itself with a new opportunity.

The pandemic has made the world realize, the need for resilient and reliable partnerships, which can withstand shocks and uncertainties, Sandhu said.

"India has been a reliable partner, in the global supply chain. When the need arose, we stepped up and supplied COVID related medicines, and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the United States," he said.

Adressing the summit, immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his key note speech, Sandhu said there has been expanded collaboration, between India and the US in areas such as health, vaccine development, science and technology and innovation.

"We are learning from each other's best practices. I firmly believe, that technology will play in an important role, in the Covid and post-Covid world. Already, it is providing innovative solutions, to work, education, business, health-care and even diplomacy. The free and open exchange of ideas, and information, has been one of the biggest strengths, of our partnership," he said.

Noting that India has undertaken a series of structural reforms to attract investment, and improve, the ease of doing business in India, Sandhu said that recent investments announced by American companies, including Google, Facebook and others, reflect the confidence, of foreign investors in the economy. Observing that today India is one of the fastest digitizing countries, he said the reforms and initiatives undertaken by the government have facilitated creation of infrastructure in the sector, which has led to improved digital connectivity, achieved near universal coverage of telecom services and made available adequate spectrum for a range of activities.

This is also an area where there has been long standing cooperation between India and the United States. The potential for deepening is immense and sky is the limit, Sandhu said.

The need for faster internet, smart city plants, industrial automation, connected devices, etc. Make it imperative for India to adopt 5G. Moving beyond connectivity services, 5G even provide solutions for consumers and industry, the ambassador said.

Sandhu said the global economy will see major restructuring of supply chains in the future. 
With the recent disruption and risks, security management of supply chains has become a priority, he said, adding that India has been a reliable partner to many countries, including the United States during the current pandemic.

"As global MNCs, including US companies look for relocating and diversifying their supply chains, we welcome them to invest in India," Sandhu said.&nbsp;

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US.

Asserting that India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain, Ambassador Taranjit Singh Sandhu said the country has supplied COVID-19 related medicines and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the US. Addressing the virtual India Ideas Summit organised by US India Business Council, India's Ambassador to the US on Wednesday said every crisis presents itself with a new opportunity. The pandemic has made the world realize, the need for resilient and reliable partnerships, which can withstand shocks and uncertainties, Sandhu said. "India has been a reliable partner, in the global supply chain. When the need arose, we stepped up and supplied COVID related medicines, and medical equipment to over 100 countries, including the United States," he said. Adressing the summit, immediately after Prime Minister Narendra Modi delivered his key note speech, Sandhu said there has been expanded collaboration, between India and the US in areas such as health, vaccine development, science and technology and innovation. "We are learning from each other's best practices. I firmly believe, that technology will play in an important role, in the Covid and post-Covid world. Already, it is providing innovative solutions, to work, education, business, health-care and even diplomacy. The free and open exchange of ideas, and information, has been one of the biggest strengths, of our partnership," he said. Noting that India has undertaken a series of structural reforms to attract investment, and improve, the ease of doing business in India, Sandhu said that recent investments announced by American companies, including Google, Facebook and others, reflect the confidence, of foreign investors in the economy. Observing that today India is one of the fastest digitizing countries, he said the reforms and initiatives undertaken by the government have facilitated creation of infrastructure in the sector, which has led to improved digital connectivity, achieved near universal coverage of telecom services and made available adequate spectrum for a range of activities. This is also an area where there has been long standing cooperation between India and the United States. The potential for deepening is immense and sky is the limit, Sandhu said. The need for faster internet, smart city plants, industrial automation, connected devices, etc. Make it imperative for India to adopt 5G. Moving beyond connectivity services, 5G even provide solutions for consumers and industry, the ambassador said. Sandhu said the global economy will see major restructuring of supply chains in the future. With the recent disruption and risks, security management of supply chains has become a priority, he said, adding that India has been a reliable partner to many countries, including the United States during the current pandemic. "As global MNCs, including US companies look for relocating and diversifying their supply chains, we welcome them to invest in India," Sandhu said.

India has been a reliable partner in the global supply chain: Ambassador Sandhu

India and The US conducted a naval exercise off the coast of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands today. New Delhi might also invite Australia for the Malabar exercise later this year.

Gravitas: How India is countering China's expansionist designs

China has been acting in contradiction to its agreements with India to change the status quo and challenge Indian troops at the border, an influential bipartisan Congressional Caucus has said and hoped that Beijing will scale back on their excessive weaponry and infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control.

The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans on Thursday also expressed their condolences for the lives lost in the Galwan Valley.

The troops of India and China are locked in an over eight-week standoff in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring since May 5. The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes that left 20 Indian Army personnel dead.

"As members of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans, we are extremely disappointed by the events that took place at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Galwan Valley area on June 15," congressmen George Holding and Brad Sherman, co-chairmen of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans said in a statement on Thursday.

The House of Representatives Caucus on India and Indian Americans, led by congressmen Holding and Sherman in a letter to India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, said that over the last few months, the Chinese authorities have been acting with impunity and have attempted to transgress on the LAC, which resulted in diplomatic discussions to implement a process for de-escalation along the LAC on June 6.

The letter was signed by seven other lawmakers.

"Only nine days after the agreement, the Chinese attempted to build new infrastructure on the Indian side of the LAC, the letter said.

"Dissatisfied with your government's response, the Chinese troops disregarded the recently implemented disengagement process and erupted in premeditated violence, which resulted in the death of 20 Indian soldiers," it said.

The bipartisan letter was signed by four members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, two members of the House Armed Services Committee and one each from the House intelligence, judiciary and agricultural committees.

"We offer our condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, and we will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. We are disappointed that China has been acting in contradiction to their agreements with India, in their attempt to change the status quo and challenge Indian troops at the border," the letter said.

"It is my hope that they scale back on their excessive weaponry and infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control and uphold both their longstanding and new-founded agreements with India," said the letter.

The letter among others was signed by congressmen Ro Khanna, Joe Wilson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Steve Chabot, Pramila Jayapal, Ted Yoho and T J Cox.

Over the last few weeks, bipartisan support for India against China has been increasing.

A day earlier, Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said US-India partnership, based on their shared commitment to democracy, is vital to uphold international law, international norms and the institutions that can peacefully and diplomatically resolve disputes and aggression.

"As India and China work to disengage along the Line of Actual Control, I remain deeply concerned by China's aggressive behaviour in territorial disputes," Menendez said.

"From the 2017 Doklam standoff to the recent violence along the borders in Sikkim and Ladakh, to China's new claims to Bhutanese territory, Beijing has all too often sought to redraw the map of Asia without regard for its neighbours," he said.

Last month, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said that for the sake of grabbing territory, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) appears to have instigated the most violent clash between China and India since those nations went to war in 1962.

"I am extremely concerned by the ongoing Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control on the India-China border," said congressman Eliot Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs last month.

"China is demonstrating once again that it is willing to bully its neighbours rather than resolve conflicts according to international law," Engel said.

Top Republican Senator Marco Rubio also called recently India's Ambassador to the US to express his solidarity with the people of India as they firmly confront unwarranted and lawless armed aggression by the Communist Party of China.

"India has made it clear, they will not be bullied by Beijing," he said.

Senator Tom Cotton slammed China of its aggression against India.

China has been acting in contradiction to its agreements with India to change the status quo and challenge Indian troops at the border, an influential bipartisan Congressional Caucus has said and hoped that Beijing will scale back on their excessive weaponry and infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control.

China has been acting in contradiction to its agreements with India to change the status quo and challenge Indian troops at the border, an influential bipartisan Congressional Caucus has said and hoped that Beijing will scale back on their excessive weaponry and infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control. The Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans on Thursday also expressed their condolences for the lives lost in the Galwan Valley. The troops of India and China are locked in an over eight-week standoff in several areas in eastern Ladakh including Pangong Tso, Galwan Valley and Gogra Hot Spring since May 5. The situation deteriorated last month following the Galwan Valley clashes that left 20 Indian Army personnel dead. "As members of the Caucus on India and Indian Americans, we are extremely disappointed by the events that took place at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the Galwan Valley area on June 15," congressmen George Holding and Brad Sherman, co-chairmen of the Congressional Caucus on India and Indian Americans said in a statement on Thursday. The House of Representatives Caucus on India and Indian Americans, led by congressmen Holding and Sherman in a letter to India's Ambassador to the US, Taranjit Singh Sandhu, said that over the last few months, the Chinese authorities have been acting with impunity and have attempted to transgress on the LAC, which resulted in diplomatic discussions to implement a process for de-escalation along the LAC on June 6. The letter was signed by seven other lawmakers. "Only nine days after the agreement, the Chinese attempted to build new infrastructure on the Indian side of the LAC, the letter said. "Dissatisfied with your government's response, the Chinese troops disregarded the recently implemented disengagement process and erupted in premeditated violence, which resulted in the death of 20 Indian soldiers," it said. The bipartisan letter was signed by four members of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, two members of the House Armed Services Committee and one each from the House intelligence, judiciary and agricultural committees. "We offer our condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, and we will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. We are disappointed that China has been acting in contradiction to their agreements with India, in their attempt to change the status quo and challenge Indian troops at the border," the letter said. "It is my hope that they scale back on their excessive weaponry and infrastructure at the Line of Actual Control and uphold both their longstanding and new-founded agreements with India," said the letter. The letter among others was signed by congressmen Ro Khanna, Joe Wilson, Raja Krishnamoorthi, Steve Chabot, Pramila Jayapal, Ted Yoho and T J Cox. Over the last few weeks, bipartisan support for India against China has been increasing. A day earlier, Senator Bob Menendez, Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said US-India partnership, based on their shared commitment to democracy, is vital to uphold international law, international norms and the institutions that can peacefully and diplomatically resolve disputes and aggression. "As India and China work to disengage along the Line of Actual Control, I remain deeply concerned by China's aggressive behaviour in territorial disputes," Menendez said. "From the 2017 Doklam standoff to the recent violence along the borders in Sikkim and Ladakh, to China's new claims to Bhutanese territory, Beijing has all too often sought to redraw the map of Asia without regard for its neighbours," he said. Last month, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell said that for the sake of grabbing territory, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) appears to have instigated the most violent clash between China and India since those nations went to war in 1962. "I am extremely concerned by the ongoing Chinese aggression along the Line of Actual Control on the India-China border," said congressman Eliot Engel, Chairman of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs last month. "China is demonstrating once again that it is willing to bully its neighbours rather than resolve conflicts according to international law," Engel said. Top Republican Senator Marco Rubio also called recently India's Ambassador to the US to express his solidarity with the people of India as they firmly confront unwarranted and lawless armed aggression by the Communist Party of China. "India has made it clear, they will not be bullied by Beijing," he said. Senator Tom Cotton slammed China of its aggression against India.

China acting in contradiction to its agreements with India: US congressmen

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West".&nbsp;Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one&nbsp;but&nbsp;Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and&nbsp;India was one of the countries that complied.

Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world."

That statement was a sign of things to come.

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Donald Trump's&nbsp;administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not.

India was one of them,&nbsp;it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran,&nbsp;and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions.

Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the&nbsp;relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner.

A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium.

However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements&nbsp;and Iran was the third-largest supplier&nbsp;mainly because of the easy transaction terms.

Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but&nbsp;American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations.&nbsp;Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products.

Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US&nbsp;President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine.

Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership.

America gets its way and&nbsp;China gets a new partner&nbsp;but&nbsp;India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace.

Iran's Ayatollah Khamenei had a slogan "Neither East, nor West". Khamenei wanted the post-revolution Iran to depend on no one but Tehran is now ready to dump the non-alignment mantra and collapse into China’s embrace. The United States of America made it happen. It slapped crippling sanctions on Iran and bullied allies to keep distance from Tehran and India was one of the countries that complied. Last year, when the US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo made a visit to India, he had a clear message on Iran while sitting right next to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, Pompeo said: "We also know that Iran is the world’s largest state sponsor of terror, and we know the Indian people, how they have suffered from terror around the world." That statement was a sign of things to come. Donald Trump's administration is on a collision course with Iran. Trump walked out of the nuclear deal, slapped sanctions on Tehran and swept allies into confrontation, whether they liked it or not. India was one of them, it chose to side with the US and stopped buying oil from Iran, and put its investment in the Chabahar project in cold storage. India chose to comply with American sanctions. Close ties with America is a priority for the Modi government. Prime Minister Modi has invested personal political capital in the relationship. First with the 'Howdy Modi' event in Houston — an event that was attended by 50,000 people. Trump used the opportunity to attract more Indian-Americans to his corner. A few months later, the US President repeated this pitch in Ahmedabad. He received a king's welcome in Modi's home state. Trump was greeted by locals in a 22-kilometer roadshow and thrown a grand reception at the world's largest cricket stadium. However, New Delhi's list of complaints with Washington is growing. The biggest pinch that India has felt after siding with the US is on its oil bills. India is the world's third-biggest oil consumer. India imports almost 80 per cent of its oil requirements and Iran was the third-largest supplier mainly because of the easy transaction terms. Iran reportedly used to offer India a longer credit period of 60 days and the cargo insurance was free but American sanctions have forced India to buy from other West Asian nations. Other bilateral issues with the US have also been hurting India. The US terminated the preferential trade status for India — a move that led to duties on exports of nearly two thousand Indian products. Trump’s tone and tenor hasn’t helped the relationship. In April, the US President had warned of retaliation over the curbs on exports of hydroxychloroquine. Trump’s tough stand has driven Tehran towards Beijing. China and Iran are on the cusp of signing a $400 billion strategic partnership. America gets its way and China gets a new partner but India has lost a strategic ally and an oil supplier. Delhi's policy of strategic autonomy is yet to show in the case of Iran.

India suffers as Trump's tough line allows Iran to embrace China

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects.

"Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director.

Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville.

"He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said.

Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US.

Prominent Indian-American scientist Dr Parag Chitnis has been appointed as the Acting Director of the prestigious National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA), which drives all federally funded agricultural research in the US. Chitnis was named Associate Director for Programmes earlier this year and leads implementation of NIFA's approximately USD 1.7 billion research projects. "Dr Chitnis brings more than 31 years of scientific research and experience to the Director's office," US Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said while announcing the name of Chitnis as NIFA's Acting Director. Chitnis replaces Dr Scott Angle who accepted a position as Vice President of Agriculture and Natural Resources at the University of Florida in Gainesville. "He (Chitnis) has been instrumental in providing steady leadership and support to NIFA during its transition to Kansas City last fall, in addition to playing a lead role on NIFA's Project CAF? (Collaboratively Achieving Functional Excellence) initiative which aims to help NIFA maximize business operations to better serve its customers," Perdue said. Chitnis did his BSc in botany/plant breeding from the Konkan Agricultural University in Maharashtra and an MSc in genetics/biochemistry from New Delhi-based Indian Agricultural Research Institute. He did his PhD in biology from the University of California in Los Angeles.

Indian-American scientist appointed acting head of top US agriculture research organisation

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world.

"Hearty congratulations to India's successful election to the @UN Security Council.&nbsp;The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world," US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted.

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Hearty congratulations to India’s successful election to the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndia</a> <a href="https://t.co/f6LKVYE1hJ">pic.twitter.com/f6LKVYE1hJ</a>
— Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/USAmbIndia/status/1273495929828577280?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 18, 2020</a></blockquote>
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His remarks came hours after India's election as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, beginning January 1, 2021.

In the election where envoys from the 192 member-states voted wearing masks and in adherence to the strict social-distancing norms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, India, the endorsed candidate from the Asia-Pacific States, won 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the election for the five non-permanent seats of the Security Council, the world organisation's most powerful organ.

In 2021, India, Norway, Ireland and Mexico will sit in the most powerful UN organ along with the five permanent members -- China, France, Russia, the UK and the US -- as well as non-permanent members Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-elected-unopposed-as-a-non-permanent-member-to-united-nations-security-council-306641">Also read |&nbsp;India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council</a>

The two-year terms of Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa are ending this year.

This is the eighth time India will sit at the UN high-table.

Previously, India was elected for 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012, when Hardeep Singh Puri, now India's Minister for Housing &amp; Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation, was India's Permanent Representative to the UN.&nbsp;

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world.

The US on Thursday congratulated India on the successful election to the UN Security Council and said it looks forward to working with New Delhi for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. "Hearty congratulations to India's successful election to the @UN Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world," US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster tweeted. Hearty congratulations to India’s successful election to the @UN Security Council. The United States looks forward to working with India for a more stable, secure, and prosperous world. #USIndia pic.twitter.com/f6LKVYE1hJ — Ken Juster (@USAmbIndia) June 18, 2020 × His remarks came hours after India's election as a non-permanent member for a two-year term, beginning January 1, 2021. In the election where envoys from the 192 member-states voted wearing masks and in adherence to the strict social-distancing norms due to the COVID-19 pandemic, India, the endorsed candidate from the Asia-Pacific States, won 184 votes out of the 192 ballots cast in the election for the five non-permanent seats of the Security Council, the world organisation's most powerful organ. In 2021, India, Norway, Ireland and Mexico will sit in the most powerful UN organ along with the five permanent members -- China, France, Russia, the UK and the US -- as well as non-permanent members Estonia, Niger, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tunisia and Vietnam. Also read | India elected unopposed as a non-permanent member to United Nations Security Council The two-year terms of Belgium, Dominican Republic, Germany, Indonesia and South Africa are ending this year. This is the eighth time India will sit at the UN high-table. Previously, India was elected for 1950-1951, 1967-1968, 1972-1973, 1977-1978, 1984-1985, 1991-1992 and most recently in 2011-2012, when Hardeep Singh Puri, now India's Minister for Housing & Urban Affairs and Civil Aviation, was India's Permanent Representative to the UN.

Look forward to working with India for a more stable world: US on UNSC election

US President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday announced investigations into foreign digital services taxes it says are aimed squarely at American tech firms.

Following a similar trade investigation against France last year, the US Trade Representative office now is looking into taxes in Britain and the European Union, as well as Indonesia, Turkey and India.

"President Trump is concerned that many of our trading partners are adopting tax schemes designed to unfairly target our companies," USTR Robert Lighthizer said in a statement.

"We are prepared to take all appropriate action to defend our businesses and workers against any such discrimination."

Washington opposes the efforts to tax revenues from online sales and advertising, saying they single out US tech giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon and Netflix.

The US and France have agreed to negotiate till the end of the year over a digital services tax Paris approved in 2019, after USTR found them to be discriminating and threatened retaliatory duties of up to 100 percent on French imports such as champagne and camembert cheese.

Trump has embroiled the US in numerous trade disputes since taking office in 2017, including a months-long trade war with China that cooled with the signing of a partial deal in January.

US President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday announced investigations into foreign digital services taxes it says are aimed squarely at American tech firms.

US President Donald Trump's administration on Tuesday announced investigations into foreign digital services taxes it says are aimed squarely at American tech firms. Following a similar trade investigation against France last year, the US Trade Representative office now is looking into taxes in Britain and the European Union, as well as Indonesia, Turkey and India. "President Trump is concerned that many of our trading partners are adopting tax schemes designed to unfairly target our companies," USTR Robert Lighthizer said in a statement. "We are prepared to take all appropriate action to defend our businesses and workers against any such discrimination." Washington opposes the efforts to tax revenues from online sales and advertising, saying they single out US tech giants like Google, Apple, Facebook, Amazon and Netflix. The US and France have agreed to negotiate till the end of the year over a digital services tax Paris approved in 2019, after USTR found them to be discriminating and threatened retaliatory duties of up to 100 percent on French imports such as champagne and camembert cheese. Trump has embroiled the US in numerous trade disputes since taking office in 2017, including a months-long trade war with China that cooled with the signing of a partial deal in January.

Taxes on tech firms in India, other nations to be investigated by US

A US panel wants to blacklist India on religious freedom. India has rejected the report, calling it a "new level of misrepresentation."

Gravitas: Why India should stop seeking validation from the West

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-antibody-tests-may-give-false-positives-says-new-research-295533" hreflang="en">Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research</a>

On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account. The White House had also followed President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn), PM Modi's personal Twitter handle, the Prime Minister's Office (@PMO) and the Indian embassy in Washington DC (@IndianEmbassyUS) taking the toll of the 'following' to 19.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-registers-its-one-millionth-positive-case-europe-heading-towards-to-normal-295487" hreflang="en">US registers its one-millionth positive case; Europe heading towards to "normal"</a>

The handle decided to unfollow all the non-US accounts and now is following 13 accounts and has more than 22 million followers.&nbsp;

<img alt="cx" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="00afabc2-1214-4a94-b956-d67880af9d85" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Capture_7.JPG" />

India-US friendship hit a speedbump when India refused to lift a ban on hydroxychloroquine and Trump threatened India of 'retaliation'. But agreed to lift the ban and export the medicine to the US.

The significance of the move is unknown to all, although Donald Trump shared a warm tweet thanking PM Modi and India for agreeing on exporting the hydroxychloroquine calling him a "close friend".

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Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@NarendraModi</a> for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1247950299408498693?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 8, 2020</a></blockquote>
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But due to Trump's unpredictable nature, it could also signify bitterness.&nbsp;

Both countries are currently fighting against the global pandemic of coronavirus, the United States remains the worst-hit whereas India's COVID response was lauded by WHO.&nbsp;

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter. Also read: Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account.

After nearly three weeks, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Ram Nath Kovind have been unfollowed by the White House on Twitter. Also read: Coronavirus antibody tests may give false positives, says new research On April 10, the official Twitter handle of the White House had followed the PM Modi and President Kovind making them the only world leaders to be followed by the account. The White House had also followed President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn), PM Modi's personal Twitter handle, the Prime Minister's Office (@PMO) and the Indian embassy in Washington DC (@IndianEmbassyUS) taking the toll of the 'following' to 19. Also read: US registers its one-millionth positive case; Europe heading towards to "normal" The handle decided to unfollow all the non-US accounts and now is following 13 accounts and has more than 22 million followers. India-US friendship hit a speedbump when India refused to lift a ban on hydroxychloroquine and Trump threatened India of 'retaliation'. But agreed to lift the ban and export the medicine to the US. The significance of the move is unknown to all, although Donald Trump shared a warm tweet thanking PM Modi and India for agreeing on exporting the hydroxychloroquine calling him a "close friend". Extraordinary times require even closer cooperation between friends. Thank you India and the Indian people for the decision on HCQ. Will not be forgotten! Thank you Prime Minister @NarendraModi for your strong leadership in helping not just India, but humanity, in this fight! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 8, 2020 × But due to Trump's unpredictable nature, it could also signify bitterness. Both countries are currently fighting against the global pandemic of coronavirus, the United States remains the worst-hit whereas India's COVID response was lauded by WHO.

White House's official Twitter handle unfollows Prime Minister Narendra Modi

India and the US, despite their robust diplomatic ties, have quibbled on trade over the years and across administrations.To accommodate the US complain about the $18 billion trade surplus that it enjoys, India has increased buying crude oil and civilian aircraft from the US in recent times.

Namaste Trump: With trade off table, focus on defence | Trump India Visit

A report claims that India is spending more than 100 crores for the Trump visit. What is India getting in return?

Gravitas: Why India should demand more from the US

The White House has yet to confirm Trump’s expected visit this month, although preparations have begun in earnest. The US is seeking to conclude a modest bilateral deal with India that will bring an end to almost three years of trade hostilities.

Trump's India Policy: Full of Flip-Flops

"President @realDonaldTrump & @FLOTUS will travel to India from February 24-25 to visit Prime Minister @narendramodi! The trip will further strengthen the US-India strategic partnership & highlight the strong & enduring bonds between the American & Indian people," White House said in a tweet.

Trump India Visit: Big Ticket purchases on Agenda? Watch this report

US President Donald Trump will reach India February 24 for a two-day visit accompanied by First Lady Melania Trump, the White House spokesperson said in a statement Monday.

Trump to visit India on Feb 24th; 'Howdy Modi' style event in Gujarat

Donald Trump Visit: US to focus on trade,defence ties with India

US President Donald Trump to visit India on Feb 24 & 25: US Officials

India's Foreign Minister on Monday defended his country's right to buy a missile defence system from Russia despite the threat of sanctions from the United States.

On a visit to Washington, Foreign Minister S&nbsp;Jaishankar said India was discussing the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moscow-vows-to-retaliate-over-new-anti-russian-united-states-sanctions-252913">US concerns</a> but declined to forecast the ultimate decision on the fate of the S-400 purchase from Russia.

"We have always maintained that what we buy -- the sourcing of military equipment -- is very much a sovereign right," he told reporters ahead of a meeting with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

"We would not like any state to tell us what to buy or not to buy from Russia any more than we would like any state to tell us to buy or not buy from America," he said.

"That freedom of choice is ours and we think it's in everybody's interest to recognize that," he said.

India, a Cold War ally of the Soviet Union, last year agreed to buy five S-400 systems for $5.2 billion, and Russia has said that delivery is on track.

Under a 2017 law, the U<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-sanctions-russians-over-2018-elections-interference-252904">nited States imposes sanctions against countries over "major" arms purchases from Russia</a> due to Moscow's military involvement in Ukraine and Syria and alleged meddling in US elections.

Turkey, a NATO ally, in June angered the United States by also going ahead with an S-400 purchase.

President Donald Trump responded by ending Turkey's involvement in the F-35 fighter jet program but has yet to announce other sanctions.

Jaishankar hailed warm relations overall with the United States but underlined India's differences with Trump's hawkish stance on Iran.

The United States has threatened sanctions to force all countries to stop buying oil from Iran as it seeks to curb the clerical regime's influence in the Middle East.

In May, the Trump administration ended waivers for countries including India, formerly a leading customer for Iranian oil&nbsp;

"We view Iran from the east, and from east Iran has been a very stable, status quo power," Jaishankar said.

For India, "we've been repeatedly assured that the affordable and predictable access to energy will not change," he said, declining to comment further on discussions on Iran.

India has been teaming up to expand Iran's Chabahar port, a way to ensure a supply route to Afghanistan that bypasses Pakistan, New Delhi's rival and historical ally&nbsp;of the Taliban.

India's Foreign Minister on Monday defended his country's right to buy a missile defence system from Russia despite the threat of sanctions from the United States.

India's Foreign Minister on Monday defended his country's right to buy a missile defence system from Russia despite the threat of sanctions from the United States. On a visit to Washington, Foreign Minister S Jaishankar said India was discussing the US concerns but declined to forecast the ultimate decision on the fate of the S-400 purchase from Russia. "We have always maintained that what we buy -- the sourcing of military equipment -- is very much a sovereign right," he told reporters ahead of a meeting with Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. "We would not like any state to tell us what to buy or not to buy from Russia any more than we would like any state to tell us to buy or not buy from America," he said. "That freedom of choice is ours and we think it's in everybody's interest to recognize that," he said. India, a Cold War ally of the Soviet Union, last year agreed to buy five S-400 systems for $5.2 billion, and Russia has said that delivery is on track. Under a 2017 law, the United States imposes sanctions against countries over "major" arms purchases from Russia due to Moscow's military involvement in Ukraine and Syria and alleged meddling in US elections. Turkey, a NATO ally, in June angered the United States by also going ahead with an S-400 purchase. President Donald Trump responded by ending Turkey's involvement in the F-35 fighter jet program but has yet to announce other sanctions. Jaishankar hailed warm relations overall with the United States but underlined India's differences with Trump's hawkish stance on Iran. The United States has threatened sanctions to force all countries to stop buying oil from Iran as it seeks to curb the clerical regime's influence in the Middle East. In May, the Trump administration ended waivers for countries including India, formerly a leading customer for Iranian oil "We view Iran from the east, and from east Iran has been a very stable, status quo power," Jaishankar said. For India, "we've been repeatedly assured that the affordable and predictable access to energy will not change," he said, declining to comment further on discussions on Iran. India has been teaming up to expand Iran's Chabahar port, a way to ensure a supply route to Afghanistan that bypasses Pakistan, New Delhi's rival and historical ally of the Taliban.

India defends right to buy Russian arms on United States trip

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