While addressing a rally in Assam, India Prime Minister Modi noted that people are trying to defame Indian tea at the world stage. PM Modi added that some documents have come up revealing plans of foreign powers to attack country's tea identity.

PM Modi says foreign powers are attacking Indian tea's image

In his first diplomatic address as President Joe Biden mentioned Myanmar, Yemen, China, Russia & Saudi Arabia, but there was no mention of India.

Gravitas: Biden doesn't mention India in diplomatic address

After 18 months India restores the 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir. According to reports, 4G internet has finally been restored after it was suspended in August 2019 when India revoke Article 370 in the state. This will be remembered as the world's longest-running internet shutdown in any democratic nation anywhere around the World.

4G internet has finally been restored in the entire Jammu and Kashmir region

Vaccine Manufacturer Pfizer on Friday withdraws its application from India. Pfizer vaccine was the first to get the emergency use authorization in India. This decision has come after reportedly failing to meet the drug regulator demand for local safety and immunogenicity study. So this decision means vaccines will not be available for sale in the world's second-most populous nation.

Pfizer drops India Vaccine Application, fail to meet drug regulators demand

India restores the 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir after 18 months. According to reports, 4G internet has finally been restored after it was suspended in August 2019 when India revoke Article 370 in the state. This will be remembered as the world's longest-running internet shutdown in any democratic nation anywhere around the World.

India restores high-speed 4G internet services in the entire Jammu and Kashmir

An Indian national was held at the Chicago airport for unlawful import of 3,200 pills of viagra worth over USD 96,000.

The passenger, whose identity has not been revealed, had travelled back to the US from India and was caught with the tablets during a baggage scan, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said in a statement on Friday.

The officials said the passenger was held by the authorities after he could not give a satisfactory justification for carrying such high quantity of viagra tablets -- 3,200 Sildenafil Citrate tablets (100 mg).&nbsp;

"When the traveller was asked why he was in possession of the pills he stated they were for his friends and they are considered over the counter medication in India," the CBP said in a statement.

The nine pounds of pills were then seized for unlawful importation of mediation. The pills have an estimated manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of approximately USD 96,608.

CBP said that as a general rule the Food and Drug Administration does not allow the importation of prescription drugs that were purchased outside the US.

An Indian national was held at the Chicago airport for unlawful import of 3,200 pills of viagra worth over USD 96,000. The passenger, whose identity has not been revealed, had travelled back to the US from India and was caught with the tablets during a baggage scan, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said in a statement on Friday.

An Indian national was held at the Chicago airport for unlawful import of 3,200 pills of viagra worth over USD 96,000. The passenger, whose identity has not been revealed, had travelled back to the US from India and was caught with the tablets during a baggage scan, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) said in a statement on Friday. The officials said the passenger was held by the authorities after he could not give a satisfactory justification for carrying such high quantity of viagra tablets -- 3,200 Sildenafil Citrate tablets (100 mg). "When the traveller was asked why he was in possession of the pills he stated they were for his friends and they are considered over the counter medication in India," the CBP said in a statement. The nine pounds of pills were then seized for unlawful importation of mediation. The pills have an estimated manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of approximately USD 96,608. CBP said that as a general rule the Food and Drug Administration does not allow the importation of prescription drugs that were purchased outside the US.

Indian held at Chicago airport with 3,200 viagra pills

India is seeking assistance from the U.S. justice department to probe 'Sikhs for justice', a U.S. based Khalistani successionist group. 'Sikhs for justice' wants the Indian state for Punjab to separate from the Union.

India requests US to probe into US-based 'Sikhs for Justice'

Israeli's top business chamber, the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce (FICC) has extended strong support to a free trade agreement (FTA) with India.

Uriel Lynn, President of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce in response to a question by WION said, "You can export to Israel as much you can, as much you want...we would like to see a free trade agreement with India because our economy is based on free competition.... You don't have to worry about Israel. We are not such a big country, you are a big country".

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/extracting-potable-water-from-air-this-israeli-firm-in-gaza-is-turning-air-into-drinking-water-354882/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

FICC, more than 100 years old was formed in 1919 is the country's largest business organization. &nbsp;"Many many Israeli countries would like to invest in India, you are a big market", Uriel Lynn pointing out to sectors like agriculture, cyber, water resources where Israel has a strong footprint.

India is Israel's third-largest trade partner in Asia and seventh largest globally. Bilateral trade has diversified into several sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, IT and telecom, and homeland security.

Even as high-level political engagement increased between the 2 countries, the focus is increasingly on business and investment. During PM Modi’s famous visit in July 2017, the first meeting of the newly established India-Israel CEOs Forum took place. The second meeting of the forum took place during PM Netanyahu’s visit to India. 
&nbsp;

Israeli's top business chamber, the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce (FICC) has extended strong support to a free trade agreement (FTA) with India. Uriel Lynn, President of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce in response to a question by WION said, "You can export to Israel as much you can, as much you want.

Israeli's top business chamber, the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce (FICC) has extended strong support to a free trade agreement (FTA) with India. Uriel Lynn, President of the Federation of Israeli Chambers of Commerce in response to a question by WION said, "You can export to Israel as much you can, as much you want...we would like to see a free trade agreement with India because our economy is based on free competition.... You don't have to worry about Israel. We are not such a big country, you are a big country". Watch | FICC, more than 100 years old was formed in 1919 is the country's largest business organization. "Many many Israeli countries would like to invest in India, you are a big market", Uriel Lynn pointing out to sectors like agriculture, cyber, water resources where Israel has a strong footprint. India is Israel's third-largest trade partner in Asia and seventh largest globally. Bilateral trade has diversified into several sectors such as pharmaceuticals, agriculture, IT and telecom, and homeland security. Even as high-level political engagement increased between the 2 countries, the focus is increasingly on business and investment. During PM Modi’s famous visit in July 2017, the first meeting of the newly established India-Israel CEOs Forum took place. The second meeting of the forum took place during PM Netanyahu’s visit to India.

Israel's top business chamber bats for FTA with India

European Union Parliamentarians have strongly backed India and South Africa's joint proposal at the World Trade Organization for a waiver on intellectual property rights for COVID-19 vaccine patents.

EU parliamentarians back India-South Africa push for COVID-19 vaccine patents ban

Pakistan is trying to talk peace with India. Sri Lanka has scrapped a key project with India. How can India win the support of its neighbours amidst the developments? WION's Palki Sharma has the details.

Gravitas: India and the Evolving World Order

Lobsang Sangay, Tibet's Prime Minister in Exile, tells exclusively to WION, what role does Tibet want New Delhi to play in highlighting China's human rights abuses.

What should be India's approach to highlight China's human rights abuses? Lobsang Sangay tells

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered. New Delhi's balanced approach, which has been perceived as a very constructive one, calls for support for the democratic process in the country, given it is a neighboring country.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

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The UNSC has not yet been able to come up with any statement on the coup in the country when the meeting took place on 2nd February. In the aftermath of the bloodless coup staged by the military in Myanmar, India's Ministry of External Affairs in a statement had expressed its "deep concern", calling for upholding of the "rule of law and the democratic process".

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/will-do-everything-possible-to-make-sure-myanmar-coup-fails-un-chief-361184">Will do everything possible to make sure Myanmar coup fails: UN chief</a>

India has a close relationship with the country. While Aung San Suu Kyi's India connect is well known, including her education in India and through her father Aung San, New Delhi has been able to build close military cooperation with Myanmar's military--especially in terms of counter-insurgency operations in border areas. Last year, Myanmar inducted INS Sindhuvir which was given by India. It was inducted as UMS Minye Theinkhathu and is the country's only submarine.

UK is the president of the core UN body for this month and as the chair, decides on the key issues that can be raised and scheduling of the talks on global issues. UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab in a tweet had said, "As President of the @UN Security Council we brought forward an emergency meeting on Myanmar to fast-track necessary discussions on what should be done."

The draft has called for the removal of the state of emergency and reinstatement of democratic norms, according to media reports quoting the leaked document. While UNSC is working on a common press statement on the coup in the country, especially in the face of differing views expressed primarily by China, it is expected that perhaps in the next stage, talks may resume to put more pressure if there is no progress. However, it is clear that forming a consensus on this contentious issue will be a difficult task. 
&nbsp;

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered.

India has called for a balanced approach on Myanmar at the United Nations Security Council meeting that took place on Tuesday even as the UK-backed draft is still being considered. New Delhi's balanced approach, which has been perceived as a very constructive one, calls for support for the democratic process in the country, given it is a neighboring country. Watch | The UNSC has not yet been able to come up with any statement on the coup in the country when the meeting took place on 2nd February. In the aftermath of the bloodless coup staged by the military in Myanmar, India's Ministry of External Affairs in a statement had expressed its "deep concern", calling for upholding of the "rule of law and the democratic process". Also read | Will do everything possible to make sure Myanmar coup fails: UN chief India has a close relationship with the country. While Aung San Suu Kyi's India connect is well known, including her education in India and through her father Aung San, New Delhi has been able to build close military cooperation with Myanmar's military--especially in terms of counter-insurgency operations in border areas. Last year, Myanmar inducted INS Sindhuvir which was given by India. It was inducted as UMS Minye Theinkhathu and is the country's only submarine. UK is the president of the core UN body for this month and as the chair, decides on the key issues that can be raised and scheduling of the talks on global issues. UK Foreign secretary Dominic Raab in a tweet had said, "As President of the @UN Security Council we brought forward an emergency meeting on Myanmar to fast-track necessary discussions on what should be done." The draft has called for the removal of the state of emergency and reinstatement of democratic norms, according to media reports quoting the leaked document. While UNSC is working on a common press statement on the coup in the country, especially in the face of differing views expressed primarily by China, it is expected that perhaps in the next stage, talks may resume to put more pressure if there is no progress. However, it is clear that forming a consensus on this contentious issue will be a difficult task.

India backs a balanced approach on Myanmar at UNSC

Poland has lauded India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">vaccine </a>diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Burakowski hoped the Air Transport bubble between the 2 countries can be started soon, pointing out, "We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. " LOT Polish Airlines had started a direct flight between Warsaw and Delhi in September 2019 but this was halted due to Covid-19 pandemic in 2020.

Watch |&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

He spoke on several subjects, like Economic and Political ties with India and China and his country's role in Afghanistan. On Afghanistan, the Polish envoy to Delhi, who is also accredited to Kabul said, "We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country". It is interesting to know, Poland prints Afghanistan's currency of 10 and 20 denominations.

Sidhant Sibal: How has been the cooperation between India and Poland has been when it comes to dealing with COVID crisis? 
Adam Burakowski : Covid has impacted the whole world in a very negative away. Poland is cooperating with India from the beginning. From the first lockdown in March, we cooperated in rescue flights. Few rescue flights were operated for Polish citizens and Vande Bharat flights for Indian Citizens stranded in Poland. It was a very good example of common cooperation against threats all over the world. Nowadays, the situation in the whole of Europe is much worse than India unfortunately. Many lockdowns in many countries. In Poland, we have a national quarantine. Many things are closed, restaurants are closed, hotels are closed, and also if you go to Polish cities, you don't see many people on the streets. This is very hard. We have started a program on vaccination. We are following the EU program and we are using vaccines accepted by the EU. One of them is AstraZeneca which is also produced in India and maybe some cooperation in the future. No cooperation as of now and we have already vaccinated one million out of 38 million Polish population and we hope it will go smoothly. And we hope lockdown is over and we can restore our normal activities and also Polish India ties. India is becoming more and more important in Polish thinking about the world.

Sidhant Sibal: How has been the connectivity between the 2 countries amid the pandemic. Has there been any transport bubble, which has opened? 
Adam Burakowski: We inaugurated direct flight from Delhi to Warsaw by LOT Polish Airlines in Sept 2019. So after half a year of this very successful flight connection, &nbsp;the occupancy was over 90%, we had to cancel it because of Covid. While there were some rescue flights by LOT Polish Airlines. Nowadays, we don't operate with passengers, it operates with cargo to Delhi and Mumbai. We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. We hope that when India decides to be more open, Poland and Warsaw will be on their list because we are ready to work on strengthening our ties and our cooperation. LOT flight is ready to fly to India at any moment and it will be solved very soon. There are around 4000 Indian students in Poland and leading Polish universities give program in the English language. We are still giving students visas so that students can go and start studies and we want to increase this. This will be more easy when we reopen the direct flight.

Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's vaccine diplomacy and any cooperation on the vaccine front. Any comments on the ongoing tiff between EU and AstraZeneca. 
Adam Burakowski: India, I think made a very good move to become one of the largest producers of the vaccine in the world. We observed India provided vaccine to south Asia, neighboring countries, and also some countries which are some distant. This program went quickly and rapidly and helps many countries and millions of people. We see that the Govt of India has some plan to be more active in this in the world. We are very hopeful that India will play a bigger role. India shares so many values with Poland and Europe. We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is a very important, very helpful tool for the world. Concerning EU AstraZeneca, I hope it will be solved very soon. And maybe, more quantity of AstraZeneca will be produced in India, but this is a question better to ask AstraZeneca company. We all hope vaccines in the world go smoothly and quickly.

Sidhant Sibal: On ties with India, how do you see the overall relationship when it comes to Europe. Also on China, do you see ties. So overall, India and China, and Poland's ties with both countries. This even as China has been aggressive with the countries in the region.

Adam Burakowski: China is important to partner with Poland and we have many ties with China, especially economic, political. We have totally different political system, we have a democratic system. But we cooperate on economics, there is also a train route, that takes cargo. We see the European Union prepared an agreement on investment with China. We were not so hurrying to have this agreement before some consultations especially our transatlantic partners, US and new admin of Joe Biden. We strongly advocate transatlantic ties. Concerning India, we hope India will be closer and closer to European Union as a whole. We have big expectations from the India EU summit that will take place in Portugal in May this year. Also, in Poland and central Europe group Visegrád, we want to show India can also have good and better relations with us, especially economy, students you mentioned, connectivity. We have some hopes of increasing cooperation with India in Cybersecurity. Ongoing India EU dialogue on cyber issues.

Sidhant Sibal: Poland has played an important role in Afghanistan if you can elaborate on that? 
Adam Burakowski: Poland always supported Freedom and stability in Afghanistan. Polish soldiers have been part of the missions, we have contributed not only militarily but also development projects. Especially in Ghazni and northern Areas. We strongly support freedom and stability in Afghanistan. And we not only support verbally but also in action. We have a Polish military contingent that is part of a resolute support mission. Poland has just printed the banknotes for Afghanistan. The banknote of 10 and 20 Afghani. This also example of very good cooperation with Afghanistan. We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country and enjoy the atmosphere, the food, views, the mountains. I hope the Afghan elite can set up some long-lasting solution for peace and stability. 
&nbsp;

Poland has lauded India's vaccine diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important".

Poland has lauded India's vaccine diplomacy, with its envoy in Delhi, Adam Burakowski saying, "We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is very important". Speaking to our Principal Diplomatic Correspondent Sidhant Sibal, Burakowski hoped the Air Transport bubble between the 2 countries can be started soon, pointing out, "We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. " LOT Polish Airlines had started a direct flight between Warsaw and Delhi in September 2019 but this was halted due to Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. Watch | He spoke on several subjects, like Economic and Political ties with India and China and his country's role in Afghanistan. On Afghanistan, the Polish envoy to Delhi, who is also accredited to Kabul said, "We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country". It is interesting to know, Poland prints Afghanistan's currency of 10 and 20 denominations. Sidhant Sibal: How has been the cooperation between India and Poland has been when it comes to dealing with COVID crisis? Adam Burakowski : Covid has impacted the whole world in a very negative away. Poland is cooperating with India from the beginning. From the first lockdown in March, we cooperated in rescue flights. Few rescue flights were operated for Polish citizens and Vande Bharat flights for Indian Citizens stranded in Poland. It was a very good example of common cooperation against threats all over the world. Nowadays, the situation in the whole of Europe is much worse than India unfortunately. Many lockdowns in many countries. In Poland, we have a national quarantine. Many things are closed, restaurants are closed, hotels are closed, and also if you go to Polish cities, you don't see many people on the streets. This is very hard. We have started a program on vaccination. We are following the EU program and we are using vaccines accepted by the EU. One of them is AstraZeneca which is also produced in India and maybe some cooperation in the future. No cooperation as of now and we have already vaccinated one million out of 38 million Polish population and we hope it will go smoothly. And we hope lockdown is over and we can restore our normal activities and also Polish India ties. India is becoming more and more important in Polish thinking about the world. Sidhant Sibal: How has been the connectivity between the 2 countries amid the pandemic. Has there been any transport bubble, which has opened? Adam Burakowski: We inaugurated direct flight from Delhi to Warsaw by LOT Polish Airlines in Sept 2019. So after half a year of this very successful flight connection, the occupancy was over 90%, we had to cancel it because of Covid. While there were some rescue flights by LOT Polish Airlines. Nowadays, we don't operate with passengers, it operates with cargo to Delhi and Mumbai. We have applied for an air bubble with India and we are waiting for the reply. We hope that when India decides to be more open, Poland and Warsaw will be on their list because we are ready to work on strengthening our ties and our cooperation. LOT flight is ready to fly to India at any moment and it will be solved very soon. There are around 4000 Indian students in Poland and leading Polish universities give program in the English language. We are still giving students visas so that students can go and start studies and we want to increase this. This will be more easy when we reopen the direct flight. Sidhant Sibal: How do you see India's vaccine diplomacy and any cooperation on the vaccine front. Any comments on the ongoing tiff between EU and AstraZeneca. Adam Burakowski: India, I think made a very good move to become one of the largest producers of the vaccine in the world. We observed India provided vaccine to south Asia, neighboring countries, and also some countries which are some distant. This program went quickly and rapidly and helps many countries and millions of people. We see that the Govt of India has some plan to be more active in this in the world. We are very hopeful that India will play a bigger role. India shares so many values with Poland and Europe. We are happy that your country is becoming more active and vaccine diplomacy is a very important, very helpful tool for the world. Concerning EU AstraZeneca, I hope it will be solved very soon. And maybe, more quantity of AstraZeneca will be produced in India, but this is a question better to ask AstraZeneca company. We all hope vaccines in the world go smoothly and quickly. Sidhant Sibal: On ties with India, how do you see the overall relationship when it comes to Europe. Also on China, do you see ties. So overall, India and China, and Poland's ties with both countries. This even as China has been aggressive with the countries in the region. Adam Burakowski: China is important to partner with Poland and we have many ties with China, especially economic, political. We have totally different political system, we have a democratic system. But we cooperate on economics, there is also a train route, that takes cargo. We see the European Union prepared an agreement on investment with China. We were not so hurrying to have this agreement before some consultations especially our transatlantic partners, US and new admin of Joe Biden. We strongly advocate transatlantic ties. Concerning India, we hope India will be closer and closer to European Union as a whole. We have big expectations from the India EU summit that will take place in Portugal in May this year. Also, in Poland and central Europe group Visegrád, we want to show India can also have good and better relations with us, especially economy, students you mentioned, connectivity. We have some hopes of increasing cooperation with India in Cybersecurity. Ongoing India EU dialogue on cyber issues. Sidhant Sibal: Poland has played an important role in Afghanistan if you can elaborate on that? Adam Burakowski: Poland always supported Freedom and stability in Afghanistan. Polish soldiers have been part of the missions, we have contributed not only militarily but also development projects. Especially in Ghazni and northern Areas. We strongly support freedom and stability in Afghanistan. And we not only support verbally but also in action. We have a Polish military contingent that is part of a resolute support mission. Poland has just printed the banknotes for Afghanistan. The banknote of 10 and 20 Afghani. This also example of very good cooperation with Afghanistan. We want a peaceful and stable Afghanistan. This is a fantastic country. My dream is someday Polish tourists can visit this country and enjoy the atmosphere, the food, views, the mountains. I hope the Afghan elite can set up some long-lasting solution for peace and stability.

Exclusive: Poland lauds India's vaccine diplomacy, hopes for early air transport bubble

The Ministry of External Affairs has said no foreign government has supported the farmer's agitation in the backdrop of the passage of farm laws by the Indian parliament, though there were few "motivated protests" and a comment by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.

In response to a question in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, Lok Sabha, minister of state in the MEA, V Muraleedharan said, "No foreign government has given support to the agitation of Indian farmers against three bills passed by Indian Parliament", pointing out, "In Canada, UK, USA, and in few European countries, protests by a few motivated PIO’s (Persons of Indian origin) on issues related to the Indian Farm Bill have been reported."

The only world leader to make a public comment on the issue was Canadian PM Justin Trudeau which was strongly slammed by India. The Canadian Ambassador to India Nadir Patel was summoned by MEA and a strong note of protest was handed over.&nbsp;

MEA MoS highlighted the Canadian PM's comments were taken up&nbsp;with the "Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are unwarranted, unacceptable" and "would damage India-Canada bilateral relations."

From India removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, CAA protests or farmers agitation, New Delhi has always sharply reacted to any reaction by foreign entities and reminded them that they have no locus to react on the country's internal matters.&nbsp;

The Ministry of External Affairs has said no foreign government has supported the farmer's agitation in the backdrop of the passage of farm laws by the Indian parliament, though there were few "motivated protests" and a comment by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau.

The Ministry of External Affairs has said no foreign government has supported the farmer's agitation in the backdrop of the passage of farm laws by the Indian parliament, though there were few "motivated protests" and a comment by Canadian PM Justin Trudeau. In response to a question in the lower house of the Indian Parliament, Lok Sabha, minister of state in the MEA, V Muraleedharan said, "No foreign government has given support to the agitation of Indian farmers against three bills passed by Indian Parliament", pointing out, "In Canada, UK, USA, and in few European countries, protests by a few motivated PIO’s (Persons of Indian origin) on issues related to the Indian Farm Bill have been reported." The only world leader to make a public comment on the issue was Canadian PM Justin Trudeau which was strongly slammed by India. The Canadian Ambassador to India Nadir Patel was summoned by MEA and a strong note of protest was handed over. MEA MoS highlighted the Canadian PM's comments were taken up with the "Canadian authorities both in Ottawa and New Delhi and conveyed that such comments pertaining to the internal affairs of India are unwarranted, unacceptable" and "would damage India-Canada bilateral relations." From India removing the special status for the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir, CAA protests or farmers agitation, New Delhi has always sharply reacted to any reaction by foreign entities and reminded them that they have no locus to react on the country's internal matters.

No foreign government supported farmers agitation: India's Ministry of External Affairs

A lot has been happening in and around India -- Pakistan wants to talk peace; China remains aggressive; Myanmar has seen a coup. And Sri Lanka has scrapped a key project with India.

The neighbourhood first policy will hence need a reboot.

Let's take a look.

PAKISTAN

The Pakistani army chief is talking peace. General Qamar Javed Bajwa has said, "It is time to extend a hand of peace in all directions."

The message is not lost on anyone.

General Bajwa is talking about India here. You may wonder why this is significant.

Pakistan has offered to talk many times. And India has declined every invitation, citing its zero tolerance policy against terrorism.

What's different this time? It's the tone of the general.

Bajwa was at the graduation ceremony of Pakistan Air Force cadets.

He chose this opportunity to tone down the rhetoric.

"We stand firmly committed to the ideal of mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. Pakistan and India must also resolve &nbsp;the long-standing issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner as per the aspirations of people of Jammu and Kashmir and bring this human tragedy to its logical conclusion."

Pakistan follows a military doctrine of "bleeding India with a thousand cuts". Now its army chief is talking about "peaceful co-existence".

This could be an outreach.

Or simply an attempt to make the right noises before the FATF, or the financial action task force, sits down to review terror financing in Pakistan.

It is too soon to make any assessment. But with his words, the general has certainly caught New Delhi's attention. It may be time to review the stand.

India has tried everything with Pakistan.

The prime minister began his first term with his Pakistani counterpart in attendance -- the first of its kind invite. But we know how things went downhill from there.

Seven years on, it may be time to engage, and see what kind of pressure India can put on Pakistan to deliver.

It's a gamble. But India isn't spoilt for choice here.

MYANMAR

Min Aung La-ing is now saying the coup is legal and was inevitable. And the Western powers are in no mood to forgive.

The United States has classified the takeover as a coup. But China seems to be blocking any efforts to reinstate democracy in Myanmar.

Yesterday the United Nations Security Council failed to condemn the coup. Because China vetoed the statement.

At the same time, Beijing took offence when journalists asked if China had supported the coup. Or if it gave a tacit consent to military rule.

Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin to this end said, "Relevant theories are not true. As Myanmar's friendly neighbouring country, we wish that all sides in Myanmar can appropriately resolve their differences, and uphold political and social stability."

China rejects the suggestion that it supported the military takeover. But it still won't call what happened in Myanmar a coup. And it continues to cast a shadow over India's ties with its neighbours. Like Sri Lanka.

Colombo has now gone back on a deal it made with India and Japan.

The east container terminal deal agreement has been scrapped. It was signed in 2019.

India and Japan had joined hands with Sri Lanka. They had agreed to develop a strategic terminal at the colombo port.

India and Japan would have owned 49 per cent of the shares in the terminal.

The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka issued a statement reminding Colombo that this was a trilateral agreement. The statement asks "all sides to abide by existing understandings and commitment".

But the Rajapaksas are unlikely to relent.

At the same time, a compensatory offer has been made. Reports say Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved another proposal -- to develop the western terminal at the Colombo port.

It remains to be seen how India will respond. And then there's one more neighbour orchestrating most of this trouble -- China.

It remains as difficult as ever.

Next time someone says 'love thy neighbour', think of India's lot.

A lot has been happening in and around India -- Pakistan wants to talk peace; China remains aggressive; Myanmar has seen a coup. And Sri Lanka has scrapped a key project with India.

A lot has been happening in and around India -- Pakistan wants to talk peace; China remains aggressive; Myanmar has seen a coup. And Sri Lanka has scrapped a key project with India. The neighbourhood first policy will hence need a reboot. Let's take a look. PAKISTAN The Pakistani army chief is talking peace. General Qamar Javed Bajwa has said, "It is time to extend a hand of peace in all directions." The message is not lost on anyone. General Bajwa is talking about India here. You may wonder why this is significant. Pakistan has offered to talk many times. And India has declined every invitation, citing its zero tolerance policy against terrorism. What's different this time? It's the tone of the general. Bajwa was at the graduation ceremony of Pakistan Air Force cadets. He chose this opportunity to tone down the rhetoric. "We stand firmly committed to the ideal of mutual respect and peaceful co-existence. Pakistan and India must also resolve the long-standing issue of Jammu and Kashmir in a dignified and peaceful manner as per the aspirations of people of Jammu and Kashmir and bring this human tragedy to its logical conclusion." Pakistan follows a military doctrine of "bleeding India with a thousand cuts". Now its army chief is talking about "peaceful co-existence". This could be an outreach. Or simply an attempt to make the right noises before the FATF, or the financial action task force, sits down to review terror financing in Pakistan. It is too soon to make any assessment. But with his words, the general has certainly caught New Delhi's attention. It may be time to review the stand. India has tried everything with Pakistan. The prime minister began his first term with his Pakistani counterpart in attendance -- the first of its kind invite. But we know how things went downhill from there. Seven years on, it may be time to engage, and see what kind of pressure India can put on Pakistan to deliver. It's a gamble. But India isn't spoilt for choice here. MYANMAR Min Aung La-ing is now saying the coup is legal and was inevitable. And the Western powers are in no mood to forgive. The United States has classified the takeover as a coup. But China seems to be blocking any efforts to reinstate democracy in Myanmar. Yesterday the United Nations Security Council failed to condemn the coup. Because China vetoed the statement. At the same time, Beijing took offence when journalists asked if China had supported the coup. Or if it gave a tacit consent to military rule. Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin to this end said, "Relevant theories are not true. As Myanmar's friendly neighbouring country, we wish that all sides in Myanmar can appropriately resolve their differences, and uphold political and social stability." China rejects the suggestion that it supported the military takeover. But it still won't call what happened in Myanmar a coup. And it continues to cast a shadow over India's ties with its neighbours. Like Sri Lanka. Colombo has now gone back on a deal it made with India and Japan. The east container terminal deal agreement has been scrapped. It was signed in 2019. India and Japan had joined hands with Sri Lanka. They had agreed to develop a strategic terminal at the colombo port. India and Japan would have owned 49 per cent of the shares in the terminal. The Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka issued a statement reminding Colombo that this was a trilateral agreement. The statement asks "all sides to abide by existing understandings and commitment". But the Rajapaksas are unlikely to relent. At the same time, a compensatory offer has been made. Reports say Sri Lanka's cabinet has approved another proposal -- to develop the western terminal at the Colombo port. It remains to be seen how India will respond. And then there's one more neighbour orchestrating most of this trouble -- China. It remains as difficult as ever. Next time someone says 'love thy neighbour', think of India's lot.

Love thy neighbour? Think of India's lot

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common?&nbsp;

Growing Chinese influence

Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them. Additionally, all three countries are a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative.

All three countries are India's immediate neighbours

How India responds to the developments across the border is crucial for its diplomatic goals and its role in the post-pandemic world. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently told his party that India has a big role to play in the emerging new world order. The prime minister drew parallels between this decade and the one following World War 2. He reportedly said that unlike earlier, India is not going to be a mute spectator this time.

India is expanding its global footprint by becoming more vocal at global forums. India recently paid its UN Regular budget assessment in full. Also, New Delhi has entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member. India will stay on the council for 2 years.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/japan-regrets-sri-lanka-scrapping-2019-deal-with-new-delhi-tokyo-361069" hreflang="en">Japan regrets Sri Lanka scrapping 2019 deal with New Delhi, Tokyo</a>

India has plans and a list of issues it wants to raise. The expansion of the security council, to begin within both permanent and non-permanent categories. The biggest challenge is coming from China. Beijing heads at least six UN organisations. It has previously shielded Pakistani terrorists, raised Kashmir at the UNSC at Pakistan's behest.

China is now blocking a resolution on the Myanmar coup. It is trading its veto power at global forums for support, land and business in the neighbourhood.If India wants to emerge as a global leader in the post-pandemic world, it must build strategic alliances, expand its outreach programmes and begin all of this by concentrating on its neighbourhood first.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/vaccine-diplomacy-intensifies-as-china-donates-sinovac-to-sri-lanka-after-india-supplies-covishield-359974" hreflang="en">Vaccine diplomacy intensifies as China donates Sinovac to Sri Lanka after India supplies Covishield</a>

South Asia is evolving -Experimenting with democracy, being threatened by dictatorship, and witnessing changing geopolitics. India must respond to all of this with seasoned diplomacy. 30 years ago, India condemned military rule in Myanmar. Today, India should not feel compelled to follow the west because that would only push Myanmar closer to China.

India must maintain diplomatic ties with Myanmar and at the same time, it must be careful to not legitimise dictatorship. The situation in Sri Lanka too calls for an innovative approach. It is a turf where India and China are fighting for greater influence. India must counter China by supporting the neighbourhood - by using programmes like Vaccine Maitri to steer the region away from dependence on Chinese chequebooks.

India must shift the balance away from Beijing by relying on history, people-to-people connect, culture. India must win the trust and support of its neighbours as it eyes a global leadership role. 
&nbsp;

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common? Growing Chinese influence Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them.

What do Myanmar, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have in common? Growing Chinese influence Chinese President Xi Jinping has visited two of these countries and has infused billions of dollars into all of them. Additionally, all three countries are a part of China's Belt and Road Initiative. All three countries are India's immediate neighbours How India responds to the developments across the border is crucial for its diplomatic goals and its role in the post-pandemic world. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently told his party that India has a big role to play in the emerging new world order. The prime minister drew parallels between this decade and the one following World War 2. He reportedly said that unlike earlier, India is not going to be a mute spectator this time. India is expanding its global footprint by becoming more vocal at global forums. India recently paid its UN Regular budget assessment in full. Also, New Delhi has entered the UNSC as a non-permanent member. India will stay on the council for 2 years. Also read: Japan regrets Sri Lanka scrapping 2019 deal with New Delhi, Tokyo India has plans and a list of issues it wants to raise. The expansion of the security council, to begin within both permanent and non-permanent categories. The biggest challenge is coming from China. Beijing heads at least six UN organisations. It has previously shielded Pakistani terrorists, raised Kashmir at the UNSC at Pakistan's behest. China is now blocking a resolution on the Myanmar coup. It is trading its veto power at global forums for support, land and business in the neighbourhood.If India wants to emerge as a global leader in the post-pandemic world, it must build strategic alliances, expand its outreach programmes and begin all of this by concentrating on its neighbourhood first. Also read: Vaccine diplomacy intensifies as China donates Sinovac to Sri Lanka after India supplies Covishield South Asia is evolving -Experimenting with democracy, being threatened by dictatorship, and witnessing changing geopolitics. India must respond to all of this with seasoned diplomacy. 30 years ago, India condemned military rule in Myanmar. Today, India should not feel compelled to follow the west because that would only push Myanmar closer to China. India must maintain diplomatic ties with Myanmar and at the same time, it must be careful to not legitimise dictatorship. The situation in Sri Lanka too calls for an innovative approach. It is a turf where India and China are fighting for greater influence. India must counter China by supporting the neighbourhood - by using programmes like Vaccine Maitri to steer the region away from dependence on Chinese chequebooks. India must shift the balance away from Beijing by relying on history, people-to-people connect, culture. India must win the trust and support of its neighbours as it eyes a global leadership role.

Why India should continue focusing on neighbourhood first

The Government of India has come out heavily on micro-blogging platform Twitter. Indian govt has issued the notice for unblocking 250 accounts despite specific order.

Indian govt sends notice to Twitter for unblocking accounts despite specific order

The Government of Sri Lanka on February 2 scrapped a deal to develop a major port terminal with India and Japan amid weeks-long protests by trade unions and opposition parties.

Indian government has asked Sri Lanka to abide by its commitment to allow India and Japan to develop the east container terminal (ECT) of Colombo port.

Sri Lanka had previously agreed to develop the strategic East Container Terminal at the Colombo port with India and Japan. Under the deal, India and Japan were to own 49 percent of the terminal’s shares while Sri Lanka’s Ports Authority would retain the majority stake.

But on February 2, Sri Lanka’s government declared the East terminal “a wholly owned container terminal of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.”

The Indian embassy in Colombo said India expects the timely implementation of the agreement the three countries signed in 2019.&nbsp;

The Colombo port trade unions had opposed the proposal of investors from India and Japan buying 49 per cent stake in the ETC. They had demanded the ECT to remain 100 per cent owned by the SLPA as opposed to the 51 per cent.

Some 23 trade unions had joined hands to oppose the port deal.

India, Japan and Sri Lanka had signed the Memorandum of Intent for a trilateral arrangement for the project under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt.&nbsp;

Under the arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities.

The Indian reaction comes even as Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured the local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity.&nbsp;

In a tweet, he said that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt". In fact, Sri Lanka cabinet three months ago took the decision to implement the project with foreign investors.

(With inputs from agencies)

The Government of Sri Lanka on February 2 scrapped a deal to develop a major port terminal with India and Japan amid weeks-long protests by trade unions and opposition parties.

The Government of Sri Lanka on February 2 scrapped a deal to develop a major port terminal with India and Japan amid weeks-long protests by trade unions and opposition parties. Indian government has asked Sri Lanka to abide by its commitment to allow India and Japan to develop the east container terminal (ECT) of Colombo port. Sri Lanka had previously agreed to develop the strategic East Container Terminal at the Colombo port with India and Japan. Under the deal, India and Japan were to own 49 percent of the terminal’s shares while Sri Lanka’s Ports Authority would retain the majority stake. But on February 2, Sri Lanka’s government declared the East terminal “a wholly owned container terminal of the Sri Lanka Ports Authority.” The Indian embassy in Colombo said India expects the timely implementation of the agreement the three countries signed in 2019. The Colombo port trade unions had opposed the proposal of investors from India and Japan buying 49 per cent stake in the ETC. They had demanded the ECT to remain 100 per cent owned by the SLPA as opposed to the 51 per cent. Some 23 trade unions had joined hands to oppose the port deal. India, Japan and Sri Lanka had signed the Memorandum of Intent for a trilateral arrangement for the project under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt. Under the arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities. The Indian reaction comes even as Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured the local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity. In a tweet, he said that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt". In fact, Sri Lanka cabinet three months ago took the decision to implement the project with foreign investors. (With inputs from agencies)

Sri Lanka halts port deal with India and Japan amid protests by trade unions

India has called for early implementation of the 2019 trilateral pact for the development of Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo port even as Sri Lanka is seen as dragging its feet in the backdrop of local protests. Local media reported that on Monday evening, the Sri Lankan cabinet unanimously approved to operate the East Terminal of the Colombo port 100% by the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA).

A spokesperson of the High Commission in Colombo in response to WION question "reiterate the expectation of Government of India for expeditious implementation of the trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signed in May 2019 among the Governments of India, Japan and Sri Lanka for the development of ECT with participation from these three countries."

Pointing out to the "commitment of Government of Sri Lanka in this regard has been conveyed several times in the recent past, including at the leadership level... All sides should continue to abide by the existing understandings and commitment."

India, Japan and Sri Lanka signed the Memorandum of Intent for a trilateral arrangement for the project under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt. Under the arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities.

The Indian reaction comes even as Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured the local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity. In a tweet, he said, that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt". In fact, Sri Lanka cabinet three months ago took the decision to implement the project with foreign investors.

India has called for early implementation of the 2019 trilateral pact for the development of Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo port even as Sri Lanka is seen as dragging its feet in the backdrop of local protests.

India has called for early implementation of the 2019 trilateral pact for the development of Eastern Container Terminal (ECT) of the Colombo port even as Sri Lanka is seen as dragging its feet in the backdrop of local protests. Local media reported that on Monday evening, the Sri Lankan cabinet unanimously approved to operate the East Terminal of the Colombo port 100% by the Sri Lanka Port Authority (SLPA). A spokesperson of the High Commission in Colombo in response to WION question "reiterate the expectation of Government of India for expeditious implementation of the trilateral Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) signed in May 2019 among the Governments of India, Japan and Sri Lanka for the development of ECT with participation from these three countries." Pointing out to the "commitment of Government of Sri Lanka in this regard has been conveyed several times in the recent past, including at the leadership level... All sides should continue to abide by the existing understandings and commitment." India, Japan and Sri Lanka signed the Memorandum of Intent for a trilateral arrangement for the project under the former Maithripala Sirisena-Ranil Wickremesinghe govt. Under the arrangement, a Sri Lankan govt PSU - Sri Lankan Port Authority will hold majority share with the remaining share being held between Japanese and Indian entities. The Indian reaction comes even as Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa assured the local worker's trade union that the terminal will not be sold or leased to any foreign entity. In a tweet, he said, that the Lankan Ports Authority will maintain control of the ECT and the Sri Lankan govt "adheres strictly to its policy of retaining assets belonging to the govt". In fact, Sri Lanka cabinet three months ago took the decision to implement the project with foreign investors.

India calls for implementation of Eastern Container Terminal Pact by Sri Lanka

India's EAM S. Jaishankar speaks with US State Secretary Antony Blinken to reaffirm growing US-India partnership and underscored the importance of working together.

India's EAM Jaishankar speaks to US' newly appointed State Secy Antony Blinken

Minor blast that took place near the Israeli embassy in New Delhi., no injuries were reported. The blast was reported while the beating retreat ceremony was underway. Israel is treating this blast as a terror incident.

Israel is treating minor blast near its embassy in New Delhi as a terror incident

An investigation team of Delhi Police's Special Cell on Saturday visited the blast site near the Israeli Embassy to collect more evidence as part of its ongoing probe. Forensic experts have also collected some samples from the crime scene that will ascertain the chemical composition used in the low-intensity improvised explosive device (IED).

Official sources said ball bearings seized from the spot were found scattered on the ground and the impact of the explosion was felt within a radius of 20-25 metres.

The minor blast took place on Friday evening in a high-security zone of the national capital. No one was injured.

The bomb appeared to have been planted in a flower pot on the road divider, police said. An envelope addressed to the Israeli Embassy and containing a note was found at the site of the blast.

The letter, addressed “to Israel Embassy ambassador”, contains a threat and describes the explosion as a “trailer”, the sources said. It also refers to two “Iranian martyrs”, Qasem Soleimani and Dr Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the sources said.

Maj Gen Soleimani, who was assassinated in a United States drone strike in January 2020, was Iran’s most powerful general.

Fakhrizadeh, who was assassinated in November last year, was Iran’s top nuclear scientist. Tehran believes he was killed by Israel using a remote-control weapon.

A 10-member team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) had on Friday visited the blast site and collected residues which include metallic swab and ball bearings.

Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava too had visited the site in the evening and took stock of the situation.

All materials seized from the spot have been handed over to the investigating officer of the Delhi Police, a source said.

"We are yet to receive the samples collected from the spot. Once the investigating officer submits the samples conclusively, we will be sending them to our explosives team. Only a chemical test will help us identify the exact composition of the samples," FSL sources said.

The blast took place when President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were present a few kilometres away at the Beating Retreat ceremony at the culmination of the Republic Day celebrations.

Investigators have scanned footage retrieved from CCTV cameras installed nearby and spotted a vehicle moving suspiciously near the embassy just before the explosion, sources said. 
The explosion took place on a day when India and Israel marked the completion of the 29th anniversary of establishment of their diplomatic relations.

An investigation team of Delhi Police's Special Cell on Saturday visited the blast site near the Israeli Embassy to collect more evidence as part of its ongoing probe.

An investigation team of Delhi Police's Special Cell on Saturday visited the blast site near the Israeli Embassy to collect more evidence as part of its ongoing probe. Forensic experts have also collected some samples from the crime scene that will ascertain the chemical composition used in the low-intensity improvised explosive device (IED). Official sources said ball bearings seized from the spot were found scattered on the ground and the impact of the explosion was felt within a radius of 20-25 metres. The minor blast took place on Friday evening in a high-security zone of the national capital. No one was injured. The bomb appeared to have been planted in a flower pot on the road divider, police said. An envelope addressed to the Israeli Embassy and containing a note was found at the site of the blast. The letter, addressed “to Israel Embassy ambassador”, contains a threat and describes the explosion as a “trailer”, the sources said. It also refers to two “Iranian martyrs”, Qasem Soleimani and Dr Mohsen Fakhrizadeh, the sources said. Maj Gen Soleimani, who was assassinated in a United States drone strike in January 2020, was Iran’s most powerful general. Fakhrizadeh, who was assassinated in November last year, was Iran’s top nuclear scientist. Tehran believes he was killed by Israel using a remote-control weapon. A 10-member team from the Forensic Science Laboratory (FSL) had on Friday visited the blast site and collected residues which include metallic swab and ball bearings. Delhi Police Commissioner SN Shrivastava too had visited the site in the evening and took stock of the situation. All materials seized from the spot have been handed over to the investigating officer of the Delhi Police, a source said. "We are yet to receive the samples collected from the spot. Once the investigating officer submits the samples conclusively, we will be sending them to our explosives team. Only a chemical test will help us identify the exact composition of the samples," FSL sources said. The blast took place when President Ram Nath Kovind, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu and Prime Minister Narendra Modi were present a few kilometres away at the Beating Retreat ceremony at the culmination of the Republic Day celebrations. Investigators have scanned footage retrieved from CCTV cameras installed nearby and spotted a vehicle moving suspiciously near the embassy just before the explosion, sources said. The explosion took place on a day when India and Israel marked the completion of the 29th anniversary of establishment of their diplomatic relations.

Delhi Police's special team visits blast site near Israeli embassy

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