As the war rages on in Ukraine, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is headed to Russia for a bilateral visit. He will be holding talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov. WION in an exclusive conversation with Harsh V Pant, Head, ORF Strategic Studies Programme.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar heads to Russia for talks, Can India be a negotiator in Ukraine war?

As the war rages on in Ukraine, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is headed to Russia for a bilateral visit. He will be holding talks with his Russian counterpart Sergei Lavrov.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar heads to Russia for bilateral visit

Recalling the Mumbai terror attack at the UNSC counter-terrorism meet, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the 26/11 attack will never be forgotten and the masterminds must be punished.

UNSC meeting in India for the first time to attend memorial

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishnakar on Monday declined to disclose India's stand on the upcoming draft resolution against Russia in the UN General Assembly.

WION Dispatch | EAM Jaishankar on upcoming UN vote: We don't predict our votes in advance

EAM Jaishankar refuses to disclose India's stance on UN vote against Russia

<p>No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously.</p>

<p>"No other country practises <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-two-terrorists-killed-in-baramulla-encounter-in-kashmir-521148">terrorism</a> in the manner in which Pakistan has done. You show me anywhere in the world what Pakistan has done for so many years against India. After the 26/11 Mumbai attack, it is important for us to be clear to ourselves that this kind of behaviour and action is unacceptable and there will be consequences," Jaishankar said during an interaction with the audience after the talk.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/suzlon-energy-chairman-and-indias-renowned-renewable-energy-expert-tulsi-tanti-dies-521682">Suzlon Energy chairman and India's renowned renewable energy expert Tulsi Tanti dies at 64</a></p>

<p>While India is considered "expert in IT" (Information Technology), the neighbouring country is known as a "expert in International Terrorism", the minister quipped. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India successfully made other countries realise that terrorism,&nbsp;if not contained now, can harm them too in the future, Jaishankar said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | We've a neighbour, like we're expert in IT (information technology) they're expert in 'international terrorists'. It's going on for years...but we could explain to world that terrorism is terrorism, today it's being done against us, tomorrow it will be against you...:EAM <a href="https://t.co/zxuibuadjG">pic.twitter.com/zxuibuadjG</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1576225867197386755?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 1, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>When asked by a student from Sierra Leone how the Modi administration will fulfil Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of 'undivided India',&nbsp;Jaishankar responded that Partition was a great tragedy that led to issues like terrorism.</p>

<p>"The best way of realising the dream of Sardar Patel is for India to be strong, successful and confident, and other people to understand that they have to come to terms with this India and stop policies which are not in their interest and which are harmful for the entire region," said the minister.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously.

No other nation "practises terrorism" the manner Pakistan does, according to S Jaishankar, India's minister of external affairs. He claimed, in his speech on "Rising India and the World: Foreign Policy in the Modi Era," that the diplomacy of the Narendra Modi administration caused other nations to take the threat of terrorism seriously. "No other country practises terrorism in the manner in which Pakistan has done. You show me anywhere in the world what Pakistan has done for so many years against India. After the 26/11 Mumbai attack, it is important for us to be clear to ourselves that this kind of behaviour and action is unacceptable and there will be consequences," Jaishankar said during an interaction with the audience after the talk. Also read | Suzlon Energy chairman and India's renowned renewable energy expert Tulsi Tanti dies at 64 While India is considered "expert in IT" (Information Technology), the neighbouring country is known as a "expert in International Terrorism", the minister quipped. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India successfully made other countries realise that terrorism, if not contained now, can harm them too in the future, Jaishankar said. #WATCH | We've a neighbour, like we're expert in IT (information technology) they're expert in 'international terrorists'. It's going on for years...but we could explain to world that terrorism is terrorism, today it's being done against us, tomorrow it will be against you...:EAM pic.twitter.com/zxuibuadjG — ANI (@ANI) October 1, 2022 × When asked by a student from Sierra Leone how the Modi administration will fulfil Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel's vision of 'undivided India', Jaishankar responded that Partition was a great tragedy that led to issues like terrorism. "The best way of realising the dream of Sardar Patel is for India to be strong, successful and confident, and other people to understand that they have to come to terms with this India and stop policies which are not in their interest and which are harmful for the entire region," said the minister. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

India's IT is infotech, Pakistan's IT is international terrorism, quips Jaishankar

<p>Responding to Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar’s criticism against the US providing a multimillion-dollar security package to Pakistan, the Biden administration defended its decision, saying Washington doesn’t view its ties with New Delhi&nbsp;and Islamabad "in relation to one another”.</p>

<p>"We don't view our relationship with Pakistan... our relationship with India... in relation to one another... both partners of ours with different points of emphasis...," state department spokesperson Ned Price told reporters.</p>

<p>"We look to both as partners, because we do have in many cases shared values. We do have in many cases shared interests. And the relationship we have with India stands on its own. The relationship we have with Pakistan stands on its own," he said.</p>

<p>Jaishankar on Sunday had lashed out at the US for providing a $450 million package to Pakistan for technical and logistics services for follow-on support of F-16 fighter jet fleets.</p>

<p>The F-16 jets were first provided by the US to Pakistan as a reward for its assistance in the first Afghan war.</p>

<p>The decision to provide military aid to Pakistan incensed India as the F-16 was used against Indian warplanes following the 2019 Balakot air strikes — a bombing raid conducted by Indian Air Force in Pakistan-occupied territory Balakot against terrorist training camps.</p>

<p>Speaking at a community event in Washington, DC, Jaishankar referred to an argument made by the US that the F-16 sustenance package is to fight terrorism.</p>

<p>“Everybody knows where and against whom F-16 fighter jets are used. You're not fooling anybody by saying these things."</p>

<p>“Very honestly, it is a relationship that has ended up serving neither Pakistan nor serving American interests well... for the US to reflect what the merits of the relationship [are] and what they get by keeping it sort of continuing," Jaishankar had said.</p>

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Responding to Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar’s criticism against the US providing a multimillion-dollar security package to Pakistan, the Biden administration defended its decision, saying Washington doesn’t view its ties with New Delhi and Islamabad "in relation to one another”.

Responding to Indian foreign minister S Jaishankar’s criticism against the US providing a multimillion-dollar security package to Pakistan, the Biden administration defended its decision, saying Washington doesn’t view its ties with New Delhi and Islamabad "in relation to one another”. "We don't view our relationship with Pakistan... our relationship with India... in relation to one another... both partners of ours with different points of emphasis...," state department spokesperson Ned Price told reporters. "We look to both as partners, because we do have in many cases shared values. We do have in many cases shared interests. And the relationship we have with India stands on its own. The relationship we have with Pakistan stands on its own," he said. Jaishankar on Sunday had lashed out at the US for providing a $450 million package to Pakistan for technical and logistics services for follow-on support of F-16 fighter jet fleets. The F-16 jets were first provided by the US to Pakistan as a reward for its assistance in the first Afghan war. The decision to provide military aid to Pakistan incensed India as the F-16 was used against Indian warplanes following the 2019 Balakot air strikes — a bombing raid conducted by Indian Air Force in Pakistan-occupied territory Balakot against terrorist training camps. Speaking at a community event in Washington, DC, Jaishankar referred to an argument made by the US that the F-16 sustenance package is to fight terrorism. “Everybody knows where and against whom F-16 fighter jets are used. You're not fooling anybody by saying these things." “Very honestly, it is a relationship that has ended up serving neither Pakistan nor serving American interests well... for the US to reflect what the merits of the relationship [are] and what they get by keeping it sort of continuing," Jaishankar had said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

F-16 package to Pakistan: US responds to Indian foreign minister Jaishankar’s critical remarks

<p>US secretary of state Antony Blinken, during a press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, said the two countries have "the most consequential partnership" in the world.</p>

<p>He said both countries have made significant progress in elevating their partnership through organisations like QUAD, the G20, and other global organisations, including at the United Nations. India's takeover of the G20 presidency in December this year is a way to drive more global cooperation and action, he added.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Important discussion today with Indian External Affairs Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DrSJaishankar</a> about <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndia</a>'s continued collaboration on global health challenges, climate change and clean energy, food security, and the implications of Russia’s war in Ukraine. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USIndiaAt75?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USIndiaAt75</a> <a href="https://t.co/aZcMn9oXrP">pic.twitter.com/aZcMn9oXrP</a></p>
— Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken/status/1574821349763305478?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>During their bilateral&nbsp;meeting on Tuesday, Blinken and Jaishankar discussed how both countries could achieve their economic, geopolitical, and security goals, including strengthening the India-US partnership.</p>

<p>Blinken referred to this alliance as an essential need to address every political challenge that people face, including climate change, health, and food security.</p>

<p>Blinken said, "Over the past years, we have made real progress in elevating that partnership bilaterally that is directly between us through institutions like the QUAD and the G-20 and in international organisations, including at the United Nations."</p>

<p>Jaishankar stated that the scope and depth of the US-India relationship have grown significantly, PTI reported. The Indian external affairs minister specifically mentioned that his conversation with Blinken also included a discussion on the turmoil in Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific situation.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Our conversation covered the Ukraine conflict, its fuel-food-fertilizer implications, the Indo-pacific, resilient supply chains, climate change, Agenda 2030 , mobility, trusted research and G-20.<br />
<br />
Thank <a href="https://twitter.com/SecBlinken?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecBlinken</a> for his warm reception and many courtesies.</p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1574849967444922379?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 27, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>A day earlier, Jaishankar had also met defence secretary Llyod Austin and commerce secretary Gina Raimondo.</p>

<p>Blinken said that US and India are looking for new ways to develop a much stronger economic partnership, through Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, which both countries introduced in May.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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US secretary of state Antony Blinken, during a press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, said the two countries have "the most consequential partnership" in the world.

US secretary of state Antony Blinken, during a press conference with his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar, said the two countries have "the most consequential partnership" in the world. He said both countries have made significant progress in elevating their partnership through organisations like QUAD, the G20, and other global organisations, including at the United Nations. India's takeover of the G20 presidency in December this year is a way to drive more global cooperation and action, he added. Important discussion today with Indian External Affairs Minister @DrSJaishankar about #USIndia's continued collaboration on global health challenges, climate change and clean energy, food security, and the implications of Russia’s war in Ukraine. #USIndiaAt75 pic.twitter.com/aZcMn9oXrP — Secretary Antony Blinken (@SecBlinken) September 27, 2022 × During their bilateral meeting on Tuesday, Blinken and Jaishankar discussed how both countries could achieve their economic, geopolitical, and security goals, including strengthening the India-US partnership. Blinken referred to this alliance as an essential need to address every political challenge that people face, including climate change, health, and food security. Blinken said, "Over the past years, we have made real progress in elevating that partnership bilaterally that is directly between us through institutions like the QUAD and the G-20 and in international organisations, including at the United Nations." Jaishankar stated that the scope and depth of the US-India relationship have grown significantly, PTI reported. The Indian external affairs minister specifically mentioned that his conversation with Blinken also included a discussion on the turmoil in Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific situation. Our conversation covered the Ukraine conflict, its fuel-food-fertilizer implications, the Indo-pacific, resilient supply chains, climate change, Agenda 2030 , mobility, trusted research and G-20. Thank @SecBlinken for his warm reception and many courtesies. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 27, 2022 × A day earlier, Jaishankar had also met defence secretary Llyod Austin and commerce secretary Gina Raimondo. Blinken said that US and India are looking for new ways to develop a much stronger economic partnership, through Indo-Pacific Economic Framework, which both countries introduced in May. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Jaishankar, Blinken discuss ways to strengthen shared economic, security and geopolitical goals

Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar is all set to meet US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken. The Indian diplomat has reached Washington and was welcomed by US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin.

WION Dispatch: Indian EAM Jaishankar to meet US State Secretary Antony Blinken in Washington

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar received a grand welcome at the Pentagon as he met US Defense Secretary Lloyd J Austin for bilateral talks. Indian EAM will also hold talks with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken.

Indian EAM Jaishankar gets a grand welcome at Pentagon, all set to meet US State Secy Blinken

India's External Affairs minister S Jaishankar is all set to meet US secretary Antony Blinken. The top Indian diplomat has reached Washington and was received by US defence secretary Lloyd Austin.

Indian external minister S Jaishankar in Washington, will meet US secretary Antony Blinken today

A day after India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar questioned the rationale behind the latest American F-16 security assistance to Pakistan, the United States said that New Delhi and Islamabad are "both partners of the US" with different points of emphasis.

'We look at India and Pakistan as partners', US responds to Jaishankar's remarks on F-16 deal

Top Indian diplomat to meet US Secretary of State today, Defense Secretary welcomes Jaishankar

<p>India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings.</p>

<p>Many of his meetings with his counterparts were bilateral ones while some of them were informal meetings.</p>

<p>The bilateral meetings he had with are: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Sweden foreign ministers (FM) Ann Linde, Syria FM Mekdad, Belarus FM Makei, Armenia FM, Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Russia FM Lavrov, Venezuela FM Carlos Faria, Jordan FM Hsafadi, Cyprus FM Ioannis Kasoulides, Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Australia FM Penny Wong, Madagascar FM Richard J. Randriamandrato, Morocco FM Bourita, &nbsp;Spain FM José Manuel Albares Bueno, FMs of Greece, Paraguay, Moldova, Mexico, Japan, German, Bolivia, Norway, Estonia, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Austria, Libya, Türkiye, &nbsp;Trinidad &amp; Tobago, Albania, Malta, Egypt, Indonesia, UAE, Cuba, Ethiopia, Serbia and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly.</p>

<p>No structured bilateral meeting took place between Jaishankar and his Chinese or Pakistani counterparts given the present state of the relationship.</p>

<p>Jaishankar also participated in four key trilaterals at the ministerial level. These are the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA), India-France-Australia, India-Indonesia-Australia and India-France-UAE.</p>

<p>The IBSA meet issued a joint statement focussing on cooperation in multilateral organisations, South-South Cooperation and United Nations and Security Council reform.</p>

<p>India will be hosting the 6th IBSA summit on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in November 2022 even as the presidency of the grouping is handed over to Brazil.</p>

<p>The other three trilateral meets focused on the Indo-Pacific issue.</p>

<p>The Indian foreign minister attended a meeting of five grouping meetings. These are: Quad, BRICS, G4, India-Caricom, G77 and bodies such as L69, India-CELAC Quartet.</p>

<p>The Quad’s joint statement said the focus has been on ransomware and the announcement of a partnership on humanitarian assistance.</p>

<p>India will be hosting the Quad foreign ministers meeting next year, and the summit in 2024.</p>

<p>While the G4 meet, including India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, called for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, BRICS in a media statement saw China and Russia “reiterating the importance to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs” and expressing support to their aspiration to “play a greater role in the UN”.</p>

<p>The statement, a standard one, does not clarify if China is keen on India getting a seat on the UNSC.</p>

<p>Notably, Beijing has been putting a block on UN reforms, especially India being on the high table.</p>

<p>Jaishankar also addressed the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations General Assembly, where he put India's position and worldview on several issues.</p>

<p>The UNSC meet was on Ukraine and it was chaired by France. In the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Trajectory of the Ukraine conflict is a matter of profound concern for the entire international community" while expressing New Delhi's worries over the situation.</p>

<p>The UNGA speech undoubtedly was the key focus. The 17-minute-long speech saw, sending a message to both Islamabad on the issue of terrorism, and Beijing on four key counts—debt crisis, stalling UN reforms, stopping listing of terrorists at UN and stability and security of Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>He said, "Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril.”</p>

<p>China, earlier this month, put a hold on the listing of the key mastermind of 26/11 Sajid Mir from listing at the UNSC's international terror list—the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. This was the third time that China blocked the listing of a Pakistan terrorist after Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf.</p>

<p>In the next leg of his visit, the Indian foreign minister will be holding talks with US Secretary of state Blinken in Washington.</p>

<p>On Monday evening, the US Secretary of State will host a working dinner for Jaishankar in McLean, Virginia, according to the state department schedule.</p>


India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has concluded his New York leg of the 10-day visit to the United States, where he held more than 50 meetings, of which 40 were one-to-one, apart from bilateral, trilateral and group meetings. Many of his meetings with his counterparts were bilateral ones while some of them were informal meetings. The bilateral meetings he had with are: United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, Sweden foreign ministers (FM) Ann Linde, Syria FM Mekdad, Belarus FM Makei, Armenia FM, Saudi FM Prince Faisal bin Farhan, Russia FM Lavrov, Venezuela FM Carlos Faria, Jordan FM Hsafadi, Cyprus FM Ioannis Kasoulides, Maldives foreign minister Abdulla Shahid, Australia FM Penny Wong, Madagascar FM Richard J. Randriamandrato, Morocco FM Bourita, Spain FM José Manuel Albares Bueno, FMs of Greece, Paraguay, Moldova, Mexico, Japan, German, Bolivia, Norway, Estonia, Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Austria, Libya, Türkiye, Trinidad & Tobago, Albania, Malta, Egypt, Indonesia, UAE, Cuba, Ethiopia, Serbia and UK Foreign Secretary James Cleverly. No structured bilateral meeting took place between Jaishankar and his Chinese or Pakistani counterparts given the present state of the relationship. Jaishankar also participated in four key trilaterals at the ministerial level. These are the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA), India-France-Australia, India-Indonesia-Australia and India-France-UAE. The IBSA meet issued a joint statement focussing on cooperation in multilateral organisations, South-South Cooperation and United Nations and Security Council reform. India will be hosting the 6th IBSA summit on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in November 2022 even as the presidency of the grouping is handed over to Brazil. The other three trilateral meets focused on the Indo-Pacific issue. The Indian foreign minister attended a meeting of five grouping meetings. These are: Quad, BRICS, G4, India-Caricom, G77 and bodies such as L69, India-CELAC Quartet. The Quad’s joint statement said the focus has been on ransomware and the announcement of a partnership on humanitarian assistance. India will be hosting the Quad foreign ministers meeting next year, and the summit in 2024. While the G4 meet, including India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, called for reforms of the United Nations Security Council, BRICS in a media statement saw China and Russia “reiterating the importance to the status and role of Brazil, India and South Africa in international affairs” and expressing support to their aspiration to “play a greater role in the UN”. The statement, a standard one, does not clarify if China is keen on India getting a seat on the UNSC. Notably, Beijing has been putting a block on UN reforms, especially India being on the high table. Jaishankar also addressed the United Nations Security Council and the United Nations General Assembly, where he put India's position and worldview on several issues. The UNSC meet was on Ukraine and it was chaired by France. In the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Trajectory of the Ukraine conflict is a matter of profound concern for the entire international community" while expressing New Delhi's worries over the situation. The UNGA speech undoubtedly was the key focus. The 17-minute-long speech saw, sending a message to both Islamabad on the issue of terrorism, and Beijing on four key counts—debt crisis, stalling UN reforms, stopping listing of terrorists at UN and stability and security of Indo-Pacific. He said, "Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril.” China, earlier this month, put a hold on the listing of the key mastermind of 26/11 Sajid Mir from listing at the UNSC's international terror list—the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. This was the third time that China blocked the listing of a Pakistan terrorist after Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf. In the next leg of his visit, the Indian foreign minister will be holding talks with US Secretary of state Blinken in Washington. On Monday evening, the US Secretary of State will host a working dinner for Jaishankar in McLean, Virginia, according to the state department schedule.

India's Jaishankar concludes New York visit with over 50 meetings, focus shifts to Washington

The India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar has concluded his trip to the United Nations General Assembly and while speaking to a group of reporters after his address at the UNGA, the Indian external affairs minister said that there is no question that this UNGA reflects the state of the world which is particularly polarized at this moment.

WION Fineprint | 77th UNGA Meet: India charts its own way in global geopolitics

<p>India stated before the UN General Assembly on Saturday, September 24, that it stands "firmly on the side of peace" in the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>India and Russia have supported each other on defence and in commercial matters for many years. Since the beginning of the Ukraine war in February, India has increased its purchases of coal and oil from Russia.</p>

<p>India has not expressly criticised Russia's actions, but last week, in his most forceful public statement on the subject that was applauded by the United States, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned Russian President Vladimir Putin that this cannot be an era of war.</p>

<p>"We are on the side that calls for dialogue and diplomacy as the only way out,"&nbsp;India's foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said at the United Nations. "We are on the side of those struggling to make ends meet, even as they stare at escalating costs of food, fuel and fertilizers. It is therefore in our collective interest to work constructively, both within the United Nations and outside, in finding an early resolution to this conflict."</p>

<p>On Wednesday (September 21), Putin proclaimed Russia's first military mobilisation since World War Two and threatened to defend his nation with nuclear weapons.</p>

<p>India has been heavily dependent on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/report-putin-to-increase-expenditure-on-defence-and-police-amid-war-in-ukraine-519321">Russia</a> for military hardware for many years, and the US has been attempting to wean it off.</p>

<p>Since the battle, several American officials have travelled to India, offering it more defence gear in an effort to get it to cut ties with Moscow and limit its reliance on Russian energy imports.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-war-russian-president-vladimir-putin-signs-toughening-punishment-for-voluntary-surrender-519337">Russian President Putin toughens punishment for voluntary surrender, desertion with 10 years’ jail</a></p>

<p>In his speech to the organisation, Jaishankar also mentioned the tensions between India, Pakistan, and China while stating that India has "zero tolerance" for terrorism because it had "bearing the brunt of cross-border terrorism for decades."</p>

<p>Last Friday, Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping posed for group photos for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a regional security organisation (September 16). The presidents hadn't been spotted together since the deadly border battles between the Asian foes in 2020.</p>

<p>The incident occurred after more than two years of a stalemate between Indian and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-allies-join-forces-on-semiconductor-supply-to-stop-chinas-advancement-519309">Chinese </a>soldiers at a disputed location along a remote western Himalayan frontier. Since the start of the impasse, Modi and Xi have not communicated.</p>

<p>"There is no justification for any act of terrorism, regardless of motivation," Jaishankar said. "And no rhetoric, however sanctimonious, can ever cover up blood stains. The United Nations responds to terrorism by sanctioning its perpetrators. Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril. Believe me, they advance neither their own interests nor indeed their reputation."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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India stated before the UN General Assembly on Saturday, September 24, that it stands "firmly on the side of peace" in the war in Ukraine. India and Russia have supported each other on defence and in commercial matters for many years.

India stated before the UN General Assembly on Saturday, September 24, that it stands "firmly on the side of peace" in the war in Ukraine. India and Russia have supported each other on defence and in commercial matters for many years. Since the beginning of the Ukraine war in February, India has increased its purchases of coal and oil from Russia. India has not expressly criticised Russia's actions, but last week, in his most forceful public statement on the subject that was applauded by the United States, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi cautioned Russian President Vladimir Putin that this cannot be an era of war. "We are on the side that calls for dialogue and diplomacy as the only way out," India's foreign minister, Subrahmanyam Jaishankar said at the United Nations. "We are on the side of those struggling to make ends meet, even as they stare at escalating costs of food, fuel and fertilizers. It is therefore in our collective interest to work constructively, both within the United Nations and outside, in finding an early resolution to this conflict." On Wednesday (September 21), Putin proclaimed Russia's first military mobilisation since World War Two and threatened to defend his nation with nuclear weapons. India has been heavily dependent on Russia for military hardware for many years, and the US has been attempting to wean it off. Since the battle, several American officials have travelled to India, offering it more defence gear in an effort to get it to cut ties with Moscow and limit its reliance on Russian energy imports. Also read | Russian President Putin toughens punishment for voluntary surrender, desertion with 10 years’ jail In his speech to the organisation, Jaishankar also mentioned the tensions between India, Pakistan, and China while stating that India has "zero tolerance" for terrorism because it had "bearing the brunt of cross-border terrorism for decades." Last Friday, Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping posed for group photos for a summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a regional security organisation (September 16). The presidents hadn't been spotted together since the deadly border battles between the Asian foes in 2020. The incident occurred after more than two years of a stalemate between Indian and Chinese soldiers at a disputed location along a remote western Himalayan frontier. Since the start of the impasse, Modi and Xi have not communicated. "There is no justification for any act of terrorism, regardless of motivation," Jaishankar said. "And no rhetoric, however sanctimonious, can ever cover up blood stains. The United Nations responds to terrorism by sanctioning its perpetrators. Those who politicize the UNSC 1267 Sanctions regime, sometimes to the extent of defending proclaimed terrorists, do so at their own peril. Believe me, they advance neither their own interests nor indeed their reputation." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

'No rhetoric... can ever cover up blood stains' - India’s S. Jaishankar addresses UNGA

<p>India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar slammed China for putting a hold on listing of Pakistan-based terrorist at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He said the security council "must send an unambiguous and unequivocal message" and "politics should never ever provide cover to evade accountability. Nor indeed to facilitate impunity."&nbsp;</p>

<p>Explaining further, without mentioning China, he said, "Regrettably, we have seen this of late in this very chamber, when it comes to sanctioning some of the world’s most dreaded terrorists." &nbsp;</p>

<p>China earlier this month put a hold on listing of key mastermind of 26/11 terror attack, Sajid Mir, in the UNSC's international terror list--the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. Sajid Mir, based in Pakistan, has a reward of up to $5 million on his head announced by US FBI for information leading to his arrest and conviction. Mir allegedly conspired to commit a terrorist attack against a newspaper and its employees in Denmark between 2008 and 2009.</p>

<p>EAM said, "If egregious attacks committed in broad daylight are left unpunished, this Council must reflect on the signals we are sending on impunity. There must be consistency if we are to ensure credibility."&nbsp;</p>

<p>This is third&nbsp;time this year that China has put a hold on listing of a Pakistan-based terrorist as an international terrorist under UN Sanctions regime.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China, which is a permanent member of the security council and member of the committee that lists international terrorist, also blocked listing of Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf. Abdul Rehman Makki is 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's brother-in-law and has been involved in raising funds, recruiting, and radicalising youth to violence and planning attacks in India, particularly in Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdul Rauf is the younger brother of Masood Azhar and was involved in the hijacking of the Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 in 1999.</p>

<p>The external affairs minister was speaking at the UNSC meeting on Ukraine under French Presidency. He expressed "profound concern" over the conflict the impact of which "is being felt even in distant regions".&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pointing to its consequences "in terms of higher costs and actual shortages of food grains, fertilizers and fuel", he said, "Global south, especially, is feeling the pain acutely. We must not initiate measures that further complicate the global economy."&nbsp;</p>

<p>During PM Modi's bilateral meeting with Russian President Putin in Samarkand earlier this month, he emphasized that this is not an era of war. His comments have been welcomed by the US and France.</p>

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India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar slammed China for putting a hold on listing of Pakistan-based terrorist at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar slammed China for putting a hold on listing of Pakistan-based terrorist at the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). He said the security council "must send an unambiguous and unequivocal message" and "politics should never ever provide cover to evade accountability. Nor indeed to facilitate impunity." Explaining further, without mentioning China, he said, "Regrettably, we have seen this of late in this very chamber, when it comes to sanctioning some of the world’s most dreaded terrorists." China earlier this month put a hold on listing of key mastermind of 26/11 terror attack, Sajid Mir, in the UNSC's international terror list--the 1267 Al Qaeda Sanctions committee. Sajid Mir, based in Pakistan, has a reward of up to $5 million on his head announced by US FBI for information leading to his arrest and conviction. Mir allegedly conspired to commit a terrorist attack against a newspaper and its employees in Denmark between 2008 and 2009. EAM said, "If egregious attacks committed in broad daylight are left unpunished, this Council must reflect on the signals we are sending on impunity. There must be consistency if we are to ensure credibility." This is third time this year that China has put a hold on listing of a Pakistan-based terrorist as an international terrorist under UN Sanctions regime. China, which is a permanent member of the security council and member of the committee that lists international terrorist, also blocked listing of Abdul Rehman Makki and Abdul Rauf. Abdul Rehman Makki is 26/11 mastermind Hafiz Saeed's brother-in-law and has been involved in raising funds, recruiting, and radicalising youth to violence and planning attacks in India, particularly in Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Abdul Rauf is the younger brother of Masood Azhar and was involved in the hijacking of the Indian Airlines Flight IC-814 in 1999. The external affairs minister was speaking at the UNSC meeting on Ukraine under French Presidency. He expressed "profound concern" over the conflict the impact of which "is being felt even in distant regions". Pointing to its consequences "in terms of higher costs and actual shortages of food grains, fertilizers and fuel", he said, "Global south, especially, is feeling the pain acutely. We must not initiate measures that further complicate the global economy." During PM Modi's bilateral meeting with Russian President Putin in Samarkand earlier this month, he emphasized that this is not an era of war. His comments have been welcomed by the US and France. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

At UNSC, EAM Jaishankar slams China for putting hold on listing of Pakistan-based terrorist

<p>India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take part in the 14th India- UAE Joint commission meeting (JCM).</p>

<p>The thirteenth&nbsp;session of the India-UAE Joint Commission meeting took place virtually in August 2020, co-chaired by EAM Jaishankar &amp; his counterpart UAE FM Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan.</p>

<p>The last visit of EAM to UAE was in December 2021&nbsp;when he visited the country to take part in the fifth Indian Ocean Conference. The visit comes even as part of I2U2 grouping as both have increased engagement on renewable energy and&nbsp;agriculture products. The grouping&nbsp;with India, Israel, UAE and the US as its members&nbsp;held its first summit-level meeting in July.</p>

<p>Earlier this year, India and UAE signed the free trade agreement&nbsp;hailed as the key to increased economic cooperation. The FTA is India's first&nbsp;comprehensive trade agreement in a decade. Under the deal, duty is&nbsp;eliminated on 80 per cent&nbsp;of tariff lines. It is not only expected to add $9 billion to UAE's GDP by 2030 but it also will perform as a market for Indian products in the entire West Asian region.</p>

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India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take part in the 14th India- UAE Joint commission meeting (JCM).

India's external affairs minister Dr Jaishankar will be travelling to United Arab Emirates (UAE) to take part in the 14th India- UAE Joint commission meeting (JCM). The thirteenth session of the India-UAE Joint Commission meeting took place virtually in August 2020, co-chaired by EAM Jaishankar & his counterpart UAE FM Sheikh Abdullah Bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The last visit of EAM to UAE was in December 2021 when he visited the country to take part in the fifth Indian Ocean Conference. The visit comes even as part of I2U2 grouping as both have increased engagement on renewable energy and agriculture products. The grouping with India, Israel, UAE and the US as its members held its first summit-level meeting in July. Earlier this year, India and UAE signed the free trade agreement hailed as the key to increased economic cooperation. The FTA is India's first comprehensive trade agreement in a decade. Under the deal, duty is eliminated on 80 per cent of tariff lines. It is not only expected to add $9 billion to UAE's GDP by 2030 but it also will perform as a market for Indian products in the entire West Asian region. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

External affairs minister Dr. S. Jaishankar to travel to UAE

<p>Only countries with mindsets "built around spheres of influence" and who are "uncomfortable" with democratic ideas will oppose the concept of a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said Thursday, indirectly mocking China while emphasising "ASEAN centrality" within the strategic construct.</p>

<p>During a lecture on 'India's Vision of the Indo-Pacific' at Bangkok's prestigious Chulalongkorn University, Jaishankar also stated that the Quad, which includes the United States, India, Japan, and Australia,&nbsp;is the most prominent plurilateral platform that addresses contemporary challenges and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific.</p>

<p>"This is about recognising the realities of globalisation and the consequences of rebalancing. Only those whose mindsets are built around spheres of influence and uncomfortable with the democratisation of world affairs will dispute the Indo-Pacific today," he said.</p>

<p>"We envisage a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region built on a rules-based international order, sustainable and transparent infrastructure investment, freedom of navigation and overflight, unimpeded lawful commerce, mutual respect for sovereignty, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as equality of all nations," the minister said.<br />
<br />
<strong>Watch | 'India closely monitoring the docking,' says S Jaishankar on Chinese spy ship Yuan Wang 5</strong></p>

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<p>Jaishankar is currently in Thailand for a two-day visit for the 9th Meeting of the India-Thailand Joint Commission (JCM).</p>

<p>India's interests now lie to the east, beyond the Indian Ocean and into the Pacific, and that "a more collaborative outlook that transcends the orthodoxy of earlier theatres is the need of the day," he added.</p>

<p>During his visit, Jaishankar met his Thai counterpart and deputy prime minister, Don Pramudwinai. He also spoke to&nbsp;Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Wednesday.</p>

<p>He also sought to advance the long-delayed India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which he emphasised during his recent visit to Cambodia, as New Delhi plans to extend the highway all the way to Phnom Penh.</p>

<p>The trilateral highway, which is currently experiencing significant delays, will connect Moreh in Manipur to Mae Sot in Thailand via Bagan in Myanmar.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Only countries with mindsets "built around spheres of influence" and who are "uncomfortable" with democratic ideas will oppose the concept of a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said Thursday, indirectly mocking China while emphasising "ASEAN centrality" within the strategic construct.

Only countries with mindsets "built around spheres of influence" and who are "uncomfortable" with democratic ideas will oppose the concept of a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific, India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar said Thursday, indirectly mocking China while emphasising "ASEAN centrality" within the strategic construct. During a lecture on 'India's Vision of the Indo-Pacific' at Bangkok's prestigious Chulalongkorn University, Jaishankar also stated that the Quad, which includes the United States, India, Japan, and Australia, is the most prominent plurilateral platform that addresses contemporary challenges and opportunities in the Indo-Pacific. "This is about recognising the realities of globalisation and the consequences of rebalancing. Only those whose mindsets are built around spheres of influence and uncomfortable with the democratisation of world affairs will dispute the Indo-Pacific today," he said. "We envisage a free, open, inclusive, peaceful, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region built on a rules-based international order, sustainable and transparent infrastructure investment, freedom of navigation and overflight, unimpeded lawful commerce, mutual respect for sovereignty, peaceful resolution of disputes, as well as equality of all nations," the minister said. Watch | 'India closely monitoring the docking,' says S Jaishankar on Chinese spy ship Yuan Wang 5 Jaishankar is currently in Thailand for a two-day visit for the 9th Meeting of the India-Thailand Joint Commission (JCM). India's interests now lie to the east, beyond the Indian Ocean and into the Pacific, and that "a more collaborative outlook that transcends the orthodoxy of earlier theatres is the need of the day," he added. During his visit, Jaishankar met his Thai counterpart and deputy prime minister, Don Pramudwinai. He also spoke to Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha on Wednesday. He also sought to advance the long-delayed India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway, which he emphasised during his recent visit to Cambodia, as New Delhi plans to extend the highway all the way to Phnom Penh. The trilateral highway, which is currently experiencing significant delays, will connect Moreh in Manipur to Mae Sot in Thailand via Bagan in Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Quad is 'most prominent' platform, says Indian foreign minister in Thailand

<p>Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>"What happens in our neighborhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security, obviously are of interest to us. "I think our spokesmen said a while ago that we are obviously monitoring any development that has bearing on our interest very, very carefully," Jaishankar said at a press conference convened by Thailand and India's foreign ministries in Bangkok.</p>

<p>Despite objections from India and the US, Sri Lanka authorised China's dual-purpose navy monitoring vessel, Yuan Wang 5, to dock at the southern Hambantota Port, which is under Chinese control on a 99-year lease.</p>

<p>According to a Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement, India and the United States did not provide "concrete reasons" to reject entry, therefore Yuan Wang 5 was permitted to berth after being held back for a few days for consultations.</p>

<p>The statement underlined that the clearance was conditional on the Chinese vessel not doing any'research' (spying?) while in Hambantota and would only stop to refill its supplies.</p>

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<h5>According to foreign security analysts, the Yuan Wang 5 is one of China's most advanced space-tracking ships, designed to follow satellite, rocket, and intercontinental ballistic missile launches. According to the Pentagon, the Yuan Wang ships are operated by the People's Liberation Army's Strategic Support Force.</h5>
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<p><strong>Watch | Gravitas: Chinese ship to spy on India from Sri Lanka?</strong></p>

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<p>Two ministers met on Wednesday to discuss areas of cooperation such as tourism, commerce, and cyber security.</p>

<p>The two nations also agreed on significant infrastructure projects, such as motorways connecting India, Myanmar, and Thailand, but acknowledged that there are many obstacles to surmount, particularly given Myanmar's ongoing political uncertainty.</p>

<p>Don Pramudwinai, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, are co-chairing the 9th Thailand-India Joint Commission.</p>

<p>Both parties will witness the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding between Thailand and India.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
&nbsp;</p>

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Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka.

Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's foreign minister, said on Wednesday that his country is closely following developments involving a Chinese military ship moored in Sri Lanka. "What happens in our neighborhood, any developments which have a bearing on our security, obviously are of interest to us. "I think our spokesmen said a while ago that we are obviously monitoring any development that has bearing on our interest very, very carefully," Jaishankar said at a press conference convened by Thailand and India's foreign ministries in Bangkok. Despite objections from India and the US, Sri Lanka authorised China's dual-purpose navy monitoring vessel, Yuan Wang 5, to dock at the southern Hambantota Port, which is under Chinese control on a 99-year lease. According to a Sri Lankan Foreign Ministry statement, India and the United States did not provide "concrete reasons" to reject entry, therefore Yuan Wang 5 was permitted to berth after being held back for a few days for consultations. The statement underlined that the clearance was conditional on the Chinese vessel not doing any'research' (spying?) while in Hambantota and would only stop to refill its supplies. According to foreign security analysts, the Yuan Wang 5 is one of China's most advanced space-tracking ships, designed to follow satellite, rocket, and intercontinental ballistic missile launches. According to the Pentagon, the Yuan Wang ships are operated by the People's Liberation Army's Strategic Support Force. × Watch | Gravitas: Chinese ship to spy on India from Sri Lanka? Two ministers met on Wednesday to discuss areas of cooperation such as tourism, commerce, and cyber security. The two nations also agreed on significant infrastructure projects, such as motorways connecting India, Myanmar, and Thailand, but acknowledged that there are many obstacles to surmount, particularly given Myanmar's ongoing political uncertainty. Don Pramudwinai, Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, and Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's Minister of External Affairs, are co-chairing the 9th Thailand-India Joint Commission. Both parties will witness the signing of two Memorandums of Understanding between Thailand and India. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Watch | India monitoring China's 'spy ship' docked in Sri Lanka: Foreign minister Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister S. Jaishankar has now said that India is closely monitoring the docking of Chinese vessel ship.

'India closely monitoring the docking,' says S Jaishankar on Chinese spy ship Yuan Wang 5

<p>There have been several occasions where Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan has praised India for its strong independent foreign policy. He often expressed admiration of the Indian establishment for buying Russian oil in large quantities and defying sanctions imposed by the US following the invasion of Ukraine.</p>

<p>He has often used India’s strong policy to drive home the point that Pakistan’s ruling coalition government headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is meek in pursuing its own interests.</p>

<p>On Saturday, Khan went a step further to express his appreciation by playing out a video clip of India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar during his mega Lahore Rally.</p>

<p>He pointed out how India is buying Russian oil despite the western pressure, while Pakistan is struggling to secure its people’s interest.<br />
<br />
He then added, “Yeh hoti hai azad haqumat (This is what a strong and independent government looks like).”</p>

<p>“India, which got independence a day after us, is able to take a firm stand and design its foreign policy as per its people’s needs. Then why&nbsp;are they (Shehbaz) towing their (West) line.”</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Former Pak PM Imran Khan plays out video clip of India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar during his mega Lahore Rally on Saturday, pointing out his remarks how India is buying Russian oil despite western pressure. Says, 'yeh hoti hai Azad Haqumat' <a href="https://t.co/tsSiFLteIv">pic.twitter.com/tsSiFLteIv</a></p>
— Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) <a href="https://twitter.com/sidhant/status/1558693374437208064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>The Indian foreign minister clip&nbsp;Imran Khan was referring to was about an interaction session at the annual Bratislava Forum, organised by the think tank GLOBSEC in the Slovakian capital.</p>

<p>Jaishanakar, who was a keynote speaker, was responding to a question about India’s Russian oil purchases funding the war in Ukraine.</p>

<p>When he was asked by the moderator if India’s oil purchases are helping Russia’s cause in Ukraine, Jaishankar hit back saying, “Look I don't want to sound argumentative. If India buying Russia oil is funding the war... Tell me then, buying Russian gas is not funding the war? It's only Indian money and Russian oil coming to India funding the war and Russia's gas coming to Europe is not funding? Let's be a little even-handed.” he said.</p>

<p>He also spoke of&nbsp;how India’s increasing oil purchases are being played up without giving consideration to the low base of the previous imports.</p>

<p>"Europe is buying oil, Europe is buying gas...new package of sanctions, it is designed in a way that consideration has been given to the welfare of the population, pipeline have carve-outs... if you can be considerate to yourself, you can be considerate to other people. If Europe says, if we have to manage it in a way impact on the economy is not traumatic, that freedom should exist for other people as well,” he added.</p>

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There have been several occasions where Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan has praised India for its strong independent foreign policy. He often expressed admiration of the Indian establishment for buying Russian oil in large quantities and defying sanctions imposed by the US following the invasion of Ukraine.

There have been several occasions where Pakistan’s former prime minister Imran Khan has praised India for its strong independent foreign policy. He often expressed admiration of the Indian establishment for buying Russian oil in large quantities and defying sanctions imposed by the US following the invasion of Ukraine. He has often used India’s strong policy to drive home the point that Pakistan’s ruling coalition government headed by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is meek in pursuing its own interests. On Saturday, Khan went a step further to express his appreciation by playing out a video clip of India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar during his mega Lahore Rally. He pointed out how India is buying Russian oil despite the western pressure, while Pakistan is struggling to secure its people’s interest. He then added, “Yeh hoti hai azad haqumat (This is what a strong and independent government looks like).” “India, which got independence a day after us, is able to take a firm stand and design its foreign policy as per its people’s needs. Then why are they (Shehbaz) towing their (West) line.” Former Pak PM Imran Khan plays out video clip of India's foreign minister Dr S Jaishankar during his mega Lahore Rally on Saturday, pointing out his remarks how India is buying Russian oil despite western pressure. Says, 'yeh hoti hai Azad Haqumat' pic.twitter.com/tsSiFLteIv — Sidhant Sibal (@sidhant) August 14, 2022 × The Indian foreign minister clip Imran Khan was referring to was about an interaction session at the annual Bratislava Forum, organised by the think tank GLOBSEC in the Slovakian capital. Jaishanakar, who was a keynote speaker, was responding to a question about India’s Russian oil purchases funding the war in Ukraine. When he was asked by the moderator if India’s oil purchases are helping Russia’s cause in Ukraine, Jaishankar hit back saying, “Look I don't want to sound argumentative. If India buying Russia oil is funding the war... Tell me then, buying Russian gas is not funding the war? It's only Indian money and Russian oil coming to India funding the war and Russia's gas coming to Europe is not funding? Let's be a little even-handed.” he said. He also spoke of how India’s increasing oil purchases are being played up without giving consideration to the low base of the previous imports. "Europe is buying oil, Europe is buying gas...new package of sanctions, it is designed in a way that consideration has been given to the welfare of the population, pipeline have carve-outs... if you can be considerate to yourself, you can be considerate to other people. If Europe says, if we have to manage it in a way impact on the economy is not traumatic, that freedom should exist for other people as well,” he added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Imran Khan plays Jaishankar’s clip at rally, lauds India for resisting US pressure on Russian oil

<p>At an all-party meeting convened by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the Sri Lankan crisis, the members were informed that India needs to learn its lessons on fiscal prudence and good governance, and make sure that the country doesn’t slide into a similar path.</p>

<p>The meeting was attended by 28 political parties, including the Congress and the Left parties.</p>

<p>Addressing the reporters after the conclusion of the meeting on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India should also shun "a culture of freebies", while dismissing suggestions about such a situation arising in India.</p>

<p>"Lessons of Sri Lanka are very very strong. They are of fiscal prudence, responsible governance and that there should not be a culture of freebies."</p>

<p>"The reason we took the initiative to request you all to join an all-party meeting was...This is a very serious crisis and what we are seeing in Sri Lanka is in many ways an unprecedented situation," Jaishankar said in his initial remarks at the meeting.</p>

<p>"It is a matter which pertains to a very close neighbour and given the near proximity, we naturally worry about the consequences, the spillover it has for us," he added.</p>

<p>Later, talking to reporters, Jaishankar said longstanding issues such as those related to fishermen also came up during the meeting.</p>

<p>According to PTI news agency, two presentations were made at the meeting —one by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra on the Sri Lankan crisis and its political implications and another by Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth on the fiscal health of all the Indian states.</p>

<p>"We do not think that a Sri Lanka-like situation can arise in India. But there was a logic to what we were trying to do, we were trying to highlight the importance of fiscal prudence. So, it was not that we highlighted one or two states, we had almost every state. There was no political intent in this," Jaishankar said about the presentation on the states' fiscal health.</p>

<p>The minister told the reporters that the leaders were informed of the support extended by India to Sri Lanka since January and that it has so far reached to US $3.8 billion.</p>

<p>"No country has given this level of support to Sri Lanka and the initiative that we are taking to help them facilitate their engagement with others such as the IMF," he said.</p>

<p>From the government's side, eight ministers attended the meeting, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and Minister of Fisheries Parshottam Rupala.</p>

<p>Jaishankar also brushed aside "misinformed comparisons" between India and Sri Lanka, saying that some people have asked whether "such a situation can happen in India".</p>

<p>"So, what we have done is we have asked the finance ministry to make a presentation and brought out a state-wise revenue-to-expenses comparison...Unpaid dues of discoms," he said.</p>

<p>The external affairs minister asserted that it was a very open discussion with the leaders of all political parties speaking their mind.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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At an all-party meeting convened by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the Sri Lankan crisis, the members were informed that India needs to learn its lessons on fiscal prudence and good governance, and make sure that the country doesn’t slide into a similar path.

At an all-party meeting convened by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government over the Sri Lankan crisis, the members were informed that India needs to learn its lessons on fiscal prudence and good governance, and make sure that the country doesn’t slide into a similar path. The meeting was attended by 28 political parties, including the Congress and the Left parties. Addressing the reporters after the conclusion of the meeting on Tuesday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that India should also shun "a culture of freebies", while dismissing suggestions about such a situation arising in India. "Lessons of Sri Lanka are very very strong. They are of fiscal prudence, responsible governance and that there should not be a culture of freebies." "The reason we took the initiative to request you all to join an all-party meeting was...This is a very serious crisis and what we are seeing in Sri Lanka is in many ways an unprecedented situation," Jaishankar said in his initial remarks at the meeting. "It is a matter which pertains to a very close neighbour and given the near proximity, we naturally worry about the consequences, the spillover it has for us," he added. Later, talking to reporters, Jaishankar said longstanding issues such as those related to fishermen also came up during the meeting. According to PTI news agency, two presentations were made at the meeting —one by Foreign Secretary Vinay Mohan Kwatra on the Sri Lankan crisis and its political implications and another by Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth on the fiscal health of all the Indian states. "We do not think that a Sri Lanka-like situation can arise in India. But there was a logic to what we were trying to do, we were trying to highlight the importance of fiscal prudence. So, it was not that we highlighted one or two states, we had almost every state. There was no political intent in this," Jaishankar said about the presentation on the states' fiscal health. The minister told the reporters that the leaders were informed of the support extended by India to Sri Lanka since January and that it has so far reached to US $3.8 billion. "No country has given this level of support to Sri Lanka and the initiative that we are taking to help them facilitate their engagement with others such as the IMF," he said. From the government's side, eight ministers attended the meeting, including Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi and Minister of Fisheries Parshottam Rupala. Jaishankar also brushed aside "misinformed comparisons" between India and Sri Lanka, saying that some people have asked whether "such a situation can happen in India". "So, what we have done is we have asked the finance ministry to make a presentation and brought out a state-wise revenue-to-expenses comparison...Unpaid dues of discoms," he said. The external affairs minister asserted that it was a very open discussion with the leaders of all political parties speaking their mind. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

India needs to learn lessons on fiscal prudence: Jaishankar at all-party meet on Lanka crisis

<p>During Delhi visit, Top Nepal leader and Chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has called increased cooperation with India in areas like connectivity, energy, agriculture, tourism and other areas. Speaking at an event, he said, "we greatly value India’s longstanding cooperation in Nepal’s development pursuits" even as he pointed to railway links being scaled up. The passenger services in Janyanagar-Kurtha railway have resumed connecting Nepal with India's railway network. He said that his country is "expecting India’s favourable response to our request for additional air entry points as we expand the network of international/regional airports in Nepal", something that has been a long-standing request of Kathmandu to New Delhi.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-indian-army-officers-undertake-tibetology-course-498289" hreflang="en">In a first, Indian Army officers undertake Tibetology course</a></p>

<p>He hoped for more Indian tourist and explained that "Ramayan Circuit, Buddhist Circuit and other religious sites including Pashupatinath, Muktinath, Janakpur solidly represent our civilizational bonds and potentials for scaling up religious tourism". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year visited Nepal's Lumbani on Buddha Purnima. Lumbani is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and Indian PM's presence on the holiest day in Buddhist religious calendar was symbolic in many ways in terms of Buddhist connect between the 2 countries.</p>

<p>He said, as coalition partners in the government his view is that "our two countries should work together to fully harness the development potentials in order to uplift the living standard of our peoples who deserve a dignified life".&nbsp;Without pointing to any specific issues, Prachanda called for resolution of "some issues left by history" through "diplomatic efforts and dialogue" to "fully realize full potentials of Nepal-India relations and cooperation."&nbsp;Nepal claims Indian territories of Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani and previous KP Sharma Oli govt even issued new maps of the country which had riled New Delhi, calling the development as "unjustified cartographic assertion".</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">It was an honour to welcome Shri Pushpa K Dahal “Prachanda”, Former PM of Nepal and to interact with him today at the BJP HQ in New Delhi as part of ‘Know the BJP’ initiative. <a href="https://t.co/heLe3q2nUs">pic.twitter.com/heLe3q2nUs</a></p>
— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) <a href="https://twitter.com/JPNadda/status/1548580511949660160?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>On Sunday, the&nbsp;top Nepal Communist leader visited the headquarter of India's ruling&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) party and held talks with&nbsp;National President J.P. Nadda. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar was also present in the meet. On Saturday, he met External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. During the meet, EAM assured that "India&nbsp;will remain a steadfast partner of Nepal in its quest for progress and prosperity", a tweet-statement said.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Reflecting our Neighbourhood First policy, India will remain a steadfast partner of Nepal in its quest for progress and prosperity.</p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1548203875500302340?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2022</a></blockquote>
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<p>His visit to Delhi comes days after top Chinese leader visited Kathmandu and met the Nepali leadership. Minister of International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Liu Jianchao during Nepal visit met former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli, Foreign minister Narayan Khadka, PM Sher Bahadur Deuba and President Bidya Devi Bhandari. His visit is being seen as Beijing's push for unity among the communist parties.&nbsp;</p>


During Delhi visit, Top Nepal leader and Chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has called increased cooperation with India in areas like connectivity, energy, agriculture, tourism and other areas.

During Delhi visit, Top Nepal leader and Chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist Centre), Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ has called increased cooperation with India in areas like connectivity, energy, agriculture, tourism and other areas. Speaking at an event, he said, "we greatly value India’s longstanding cooperation in Nepal’s development pursuits" even as he pointed to railway links being scaled up. The passenger services in Janyanagar-Kurtha railway have resumed connecting Nepal with India's railway network. He said that his country is "expecting India’s favourable response to our request for additional air entry points as we expand the network of international/regional airports in Nepal", something that has been a long-standing request of Kathmandu to New Delhi. Also read | In a first, Indian Army officers undertake Tibetology course He hoped for more Indian tourist and explained that "Ramayan Circuit, Buddhist Circuit and other religious sites including Pashupatinath, Muktinath, Janakpur solidly represent our civilizational bonds and potentials for scaling up religious tourism". Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi earlier this year visited Nepal's Lumbani on Buddha Purnima. Lumbani is the birthplace of Lord Buddha and Indian PM's presence on the holiest day in Buddhist religious calendar was symbolic in many ways in terms of Buddhist connect between the 2 countries. He said, as coalition partners in the government his view is that "our two countries should work together to fully harness the development potentials in order to uplift the living standard of our peoples who deserve a dignified life". Without pointing to any specific issues, Prachanda called for resolution of "some issues left by history" through "diplomatic efforts and dialogue" to "fully realize full potentials of Nepal-India relations and cooperation." Nepal claims Indian territories of Limpiyadhura, Lipulekh and Kalapani and previous KP Sharma Oli govt even issued new maps of the country which had riled New Delhi, calling the development as "unjustified cartographic assertion". It was an honour to welcome Shri Pushpa K Dahal “Prachanda”, Former PM of Nepal and to interact with him today at the BJP HQ in New Delhi as part of ‘Know the BJP’ initiative. pic.twitter.com/heLe3q2nUs — Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) July 17, 2022 × On Sunday, the top Nepal Communist leader visited the headquarter of India's ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) party and held talks with National President J.P. Nadda. External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar was also present in the meet. On Saturday, he met External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. During the meet, EAM assured that "India will remain a steadfast partner of Nepal in its quest for progress and prosperity", a tweet-statement said. Reflecting our Neighbourhood First policy, India will remain a steadfast partner of Nepal in its quest for progress and prosperity. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) July 16, 2022 × His visit to Delhi comes days after top Chinese leader visited Kathmandu and met the Nepali leadership. Minister of International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China Liu Jianchao during Nepal visit met former Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli, Foreign minister Narayan Khadka, PM Sher Bahadur Deuba and President Bidya Devi Bhandari. His visit is being seen as Beijing's push for unity among the communist parties.

During Delhi visit, top Nepal Communist leader 'Prachanda' bats for cooperation, dialogue

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar meets his Chinese counterpart on the sidelines of the G20 foreign minister's meet in Bali. Jaishankar and Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi discussed outstanding border issues.

S Jaishankar hold talks with Wang Yi | India calls for early resolution of border issues with China

#InternationalYogaDay2022: India's holistic approach towards health- see pics

<p>External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Sunday expressed confidence in India-Bangladesh ties and said that the countries look forward to cooperating in new domains including cyber security and upgradation of the railway system.</p>

<p>"We now look forward to working with Bangladesh to take our ties to new domains...including cyber security, upgradation of the railway system," Jaishankar said during the 7th India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission meeting in New Delhi today.</p>

<p>Speaking on trade with Bangladesh, Jaishankar said, "Today Bangladesh is our largest development &amp; trade partner in the region." Jaishankar also mentioned how both countries came together to fight the pandemic. The EAM said, "We jointly overcame pandemic in terms of vaccine, medicine supply."</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/appreciated-indian-govts-position-foreign-minister-jaishankar-breaks-silence-on-prophet-remark-fiasco-489509">‘Appreciated Indian govt’s position’: Foreign Minister Jaishankar breaks silence on Prophet remark fiasco</a></strong></p>

<p>At the India-Bangladesh JCC meeting, AK Abdul Momen, Foreign Affairs Minister of Bangladesh, said that the relationship between both countries is based on mutual trust. FM Momen called India the "most important neighbour".</p>

<p>"India is the most important neighbour of Bangladesh. Initiatives taken by both nations have helped us achieve stability &amp; development across the region. Bangladesh-India relations are based on mutual trust &amp; respect," the Bangladeshi FM said.</p>

<p>Upon meeting with the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Jaishankar while taking to Twitter wrote, "A warm welcome to FM Dr AK Abdul Momen for the 7th India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission meeting. Our regular meetings reflect our unique friendship."</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Indian EAM S Jaishankar participates in BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting</strong></p>

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<p>The first physical JCC Meeting between India and Bangladesh is being held in New Delhi today and EAM S Jaishankar is the co-chair of the meeting along with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen.</p>

<p>The JCC is to review the bilateral ties including cooperation in the wake of COVID-19, border management and security, trade and investment, connectivity, energy, water resources, development partnership and regional and multilateral issues, the MEA said earlier in a statement.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/jaishankar-to-brief-mea-consultative-committee-on-sri-lanka-crisis-487565">Jaishankar to brief MEA Consultative Committee on Sri Lanka crisis</a></strong></p>

<p>This is the first physical meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. The previous meeting was held in 2020 virtually. Both countries actively engage in cooperation projects to boost bilateral relations.</p>

<p>As part of the ongoing Indo-Bangladesh defence cooperation, the armies of India and Bangladesh recently conducted the 10th edition of the joint military exercise, SAMPRITI X,&nbsp;from June 5 to June 16 in Bangladesh.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH WION LIVE HERE</strong></p>

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External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Sunday expressed confidence in India-Bangladesh ties and said that the countries look forward to cooperating in new domains including cyber security and upgradation of the railway system.

External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar on Sunday expressed confidence in India-Bangladesh ties and said that the countries look forward to cooperating in new domains including cyber security and upgradation of the railway system. "We now look forward to working with Bangladesh to take our ties to new domains...including cyber security, upgradation of the railway system," Jaishankar said during the 7th India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission meeting in New Delhi today. Speaking on trade with Bangladesh, Jaishankar said, "Today Bangladesh is our largest development & trade partner in the region." Jaishankar also mentioned how both countries came together to fight the pandemic. The EAM said, "We jointly overcame pandemic in terms of vaccine, medicine supply." Also read | ‘Appreciated Indian govt’s position’: Foreign Minister Jaishankar breaks silence on Prophet remark fiasco At the India-Bangladesh JCC meeting, AK Abdul Momen, Foreign Affairs Minister of Bangladesh, said that the relationship between both countries is based on mutual trust. FM Momen called India the "most important neighbour". "India is the most important neighbour of Bangladesh. Initiatives taken by both nations have helped us achieve stability & development across the region. Bangladesh-India relations are based on mutual trust & respect," the Bangladeshi FM said. Upon meeting with the Bangladeshi Foreign Minister Jaishankar while taking to Twitter wrote, "A warm welcome to FM Dr AK Abdul Momen for the 7th India-Bangladesh Joint Consultative Commission meeting. Our regular meetings reflect our unique friendship." Watch | Indian EAM S Jaishankar participates in BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting The first physical JCC Meeting between India and Bangladesh is being held in New Delhi today and EAM S Jaishankar is the co-chair of the meeting along with his Bangladeshi counterpart AK Abdul Momen. The JCC is to review the bilateral ties including cooperation in the wake of COVID-19, border management and security, trade and investment, connectivity, energy, water resources, development partnership and regional and multilateral issues, the MEA said earlier in a statement. Also read | Jaishankar to brief MEA Consultative Committee on Sri Lanka crisis This is the first physical meeting since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. The previous meeting was held in 2020 virtually. Both countries actively engage in cooperation projects to boost bilateral relations. As part of the ongoing Indo-Bangladesh defence cooperation, the armies of India and Bangladesh recently conducted the 10th edition of the joint military exercise, SAMPRITI X, from June 5 to June 16 in Bangladesh. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

India, Bangladesh keen to boost bilateral ties: Jaishankar

<p><meta charset="UTF-8" />Monsoon-triggered torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslide in northeastern states in&nbsp;India and Bangladesh, leaving more than 6 million people marooned and killing at least 18 people in both the countries, according to reports.&nbsp;Breaking silence on the Prophet remark fiasco where several Gulf countries expressed outrage against two former members of the ruling BJP, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the quick action taken against the two party members and articulating the Indian government’s stand on the issue was appreciated by the concerned countries.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/at-least-60-killed-over-6-million-marooned-as-monsoon-triggered-rain-wreaks-havoc-in-india-bangladesh-489517">At least 60 killed, over 6 million marooned as monsoon-triggered rain wreaks havoc in India, Bangladesh</a></p>

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<p>Monsoon-triggered torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslide in northeastern states in&nbsp;India and Bangladesh, leaving more than 6 million people marooned and killing at least 18 people in both the countries, according to reports. The authorities say that the situation could get worsen in the upcoming days.&nbsp;More than 3 million people were affected in India’s Assam state, where at least 63 people have lost their lives so far, including eight reported dead on Saturday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/appreciated-indian-govts-position-foreign-minister-jaishankar-breaks-silence-on-prophet-remark-fiasco-489509">‘Appreciated Indian govt’s position’: Foreign Minister Jaishankar breaks silence on Prophet remark fiasco</a></p>
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<p>Breaking the silence on the Prophet remark fiasco where several Gulf countries expressed outrage against two former members of the ruling BJP, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the quick action taken against the two-party members and articulating the Indian government’s stand on the issue was appreciated by the concerned countries.&nbsp;"The concerned countries appreciated once the party and the Indian government clarified the issue," Jaishankar said while speaking about the controversy at a town hall organised by CNN-News18.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/united-states-apple-store-workers-vote-to-form-a-union-489507">United States: Apple store workers vote to form union</a></p>
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<p>A group of employees called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees) campaigned for unionisation, resulting in a majority of employees at a US Apple store having voted to form a union, a first for Apple, which has so far tried to discourage unionizing attempts. Of the 110 employees at the Towson, Maryland shop, 65 voted in favour and 33 against, according to a live count broadcast Saturday by the federal agency overseeing the vote.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Watch:&nbsp;<strong>US President Joe Biden falls off bike during the beach ride, says 'I'm good'</strong></p>

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<p>Watch:&nbsp;<strong>Padma Bridge Not Part Of China's Belt and Road Initiative, says Bangladesh</strong></p>

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Monsoon-triggered torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslide in northeastern states in India and Bangladesh, leaving more than 6 million people marooned and killing at least 18 people in both the countries, according to reports.

Monsoon-triggered torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslide in northeastern states in India and Bangladesh, leaving more than 6 million people marooned and killing at least 18 people in both the countries, according to reports. Breaking silence on the Prophet remark fiasco where several Gulf countries expressed outrage against two former members of the ruling BJP, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the quick action taken against the two party members and articulating the Indian government’s stand on the issue was appreciated by the concerned countries. Click on headlines to read more: At least 60 killed, over 6 million marooned as monsoon-triggered rain wreaks havoc in India, Bangladesh Monsoon-triggered torrential rains have caused massive flooding and landslide in northeastern states in India and Bangladesh, leaving more than 6 million people marooned and killing at least 18 people in both the countries, according to reports. The authorities say that the situation could get worsen in the upcoming days. More than 3 million people were affected in India’s Assam state, where at least 63 people have lost their lives so far, including eight reported dead on Saturday. ‘Appreciated Indian govt’s position’: Foreign Minister Jaishankar breaks silence on Prophet remark fiasco Breaking the silence on the Prophet remark fiasco where several Gulf countries expressed outrage against two former members of the ruling BJP, India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said that the quick action taken against the two-party members and articulating the Indian government’s stand on the issue was appreciated by the concerned countries. "The concerned countries appreciated once the party and the Indian government clarified the issue," Jaishankar said while speaking about the controversy at a town hall organised by CNN-News18. United States: Apple store workers vote to form union A group of employees called AppleCORE (Coalition of Organized Retail Employees) campaigned for unionisation, resulting in a majority of employees at a US Apple store having voted to form a union, a first for Apple, which has so far tried to discourage unionizing attempts. Of the 110 employees at the Towson, Maryland shop, 65 voted in favour and 33 against, according to a live count broadcast Saturday by the federal agency overseeing the vote. Watch: US President Joe Biden falls off bike during the beach ride, says 'I'm good' Watch: Padma Bridge Not Part Of China's Belt and Road Initiative, says Bangladesh

Morning news brief: Flood in India and Bangladesh, Jaishankar breaks silence on Prophet remark, and more

<p>External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on External Affairs on June 18 over the ongoing crisis in Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>Apart from Jaishankar, India`s Foreign Secretary and other Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officers will be present at the meeting at the ministry office at 11 am.</p>

<p>During the meeting, the Indian government is likely to brief the members of Parliament on the economic crisis and the country`s neighbourhood policy and how and what kind of aid has been provided by New Delhi to Colombo.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/mea-india-says-vote-bank-politics-is-being-practised-in-international-relations-485002">MEA India says vote bank politics is being practised in international relations</a></strong></p>

<p>The members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee include Congress Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi, Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, DMK Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva, BJP MP from Silchar Dr Rajdeep Roy.</p>

<p>Members of the Parliament including from Tamil Nadu are expected to ask the government about the impact that will have on the subcontinent.</p>

<p>Tamil Nadu government has also sought help from the Centre to help out Sri Lanka in this crisis and has also sent consignments of medicines and other humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka.</p>

<p>India is becoming a stronger and more mutually beneficial partner to Sri Lanka. Apart from assistance during the pandemic and fertilizer chaos, India is also donating basic products for island nations.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;Big push for India-Norway relations: MEA briefing on India-Nordic Summit 2022</strong></p>

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<p>On June 3, High Commissioner to Colombo Gopal Baglay handed over a total of 3.3 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the 1990 Suwaseriya Ambulance Service.</p>

<p>Baglay said that Jaishankar was apprised of the looming shortage of medical supplies faced by the Foundation during his visit to the Suwaseriya Headquarters in Colombo in March 2022.</p>

<p>Earlier on May 27, Acting High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Vinod K Jacob handed over a consignment of over 25 tons of medical supplies to Minister of Health, Keheliya Rambukwella in Colombo.</p>

<p><strong>Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india/buying-russian-gas-is-not-funding-the-war-says-jaishankar-484836">Buying Russian gas is not funding the war, says Jaishankar</a></strong></p>

<p>Taking to Twitter, the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka said that the consignment is valued at close to Rs 260 million.</p>

<p>These humanitarian supplies are in continuation of the Government of India`s ongoing support to the people of Sri Lanka in multiple forms such as financial assistance, forex support, material supply and many more. These efforts prove that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s `Neighborhood First` policy which places people-to-people engagement is still active.&nbsp;</p>

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on External Affairs on June 18 over the ongoing crisis in Sri Lanka. Apart from Jaishankar, India`s Foreign Secretary and other Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officers will be present at the meeting at the ministry office at 11 am.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief the Parliamentary Consultative Committee on External Affairs on June 18 over the ongoing crisis in Sri Lanka. Apart from Jaishankar, India`s Foreign Secretary and other Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) officers will be present at the meeting at the ministry office at 11 am. During the meeting, the Indian government is likely to brief the members of Parliament on the economic crisis and the country`s neighbourhood policy and how and what kind of aid has been provided by New Delhi to Colombo. Also read | MEA India says vote bank politics is being practised in international relations The members of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee include Congress Wayanad MP Rahul Gandhi, Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha MP Priyanka Chaturvedi, DMK Rajya Sabha MP Tiruchi Siva, BJP MP from Silchar Dr Rajdeep Roy. Members of the Parliament including from Tamil Nadu are expected to ask the government about the impact that will have on the subcontinent. Tamil Nadu government has also sought help from the Centre to help out Sri Lanka in this crisis and has also sent consignments of medicines and other humanitarian assistance to Sri Lanka. India is becoming a stronger and more mutually beneficial partner to Sri Lanka. Apart from assistance during the pandemic and fertilizer chaos, India is also donating basic products for island nations. Watch | Big push for India-Norway relations: MEA briefing on India-Nordic Summit 2022 On June 3, High Commissioner to Colombo Gopal Baglay handed over a total of 3.3 tonnes of essential medical supplies to the 1990 Suwaseriya Ambulance Service. Baglay said that Jaishankar was apprised of the looming shortage of medical supplies faced by the Foundation during his visit to the Suwaseriya Headquarters in Colombo in March 2022. Earlier on May 27, Acting High Commissioner of India in Sri Lanka Vinod K Jacob handed over a consignment of over 25 tons of medical supplies to Minister of Health, Keheliya Rambukwella in Colombo. Also read | Buying Russian gas is not funding the war, says Jaishankar Taking to Twitter, the High Commission of India in Sri Lanka said that the consignment is valued at close to Rs 260 million. These humanitarian supplies are in continuation of the Government of India`s ongoing support to the people of Sri Lanka in multiple forms such as financial assistance, forex support, material supply and many more. These efforts prove that Prime Minister Narendra Modi`s `Neighborhood First` policy which places people-to-people engagement is still active. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Jaishankar to brief MEA Consultative Committee on Sri Lanka crisis

<p>India is gearing up to host the G20 summit in October or November of 2023. Preparation is in full swing including the construction of a mega state-of-the-art summit venue at Delhi's Pragati Maidan.</p>

<p>In addition to the summit, India will be hosting 190 meetings across the country under its yearlong presidency starting first December this year. Indian govt could, as part of its discretion invite other countries to take part in the summit, something that previous G20 Presidency have been doing.</p>

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<p>New Delhi is already in the G20 governance structure called the troika which consists of Indonesia, Italy, and India - the current, previous, and incoming G20 Presidencies, respectively. It will be for the first time it hosts the summit of the grouping since it was formed after the 2008 financial crisis.</p>

<p>Indonesia is the current chair of the group. It hosts the summit in November, in Bali. One of the key issues dominating the agenda is the participation of Russian President Putin which many western members of the group do not want.</p>

<p>Over the weekend, Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar &amp; Indonesia's Foreign Retno Marsudi held talks, with a key focus on G20. In a tweet statement, EAM said, 'exchanged views on G20 developments and progress. India is fully supportive of the Indonesian Presidency."</p>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Good conversation this morning with FM <a href="https://twitter.com/Menlu_RI?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Menlu_RI</a> of Indonesia.<br />
<br />
Exchanged views on G20 developments and progress. India is fully supportive of the Indonesian Presidency.</p>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1527493397053075456?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 20, 2022</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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<p>The grouping was formed after 2008 financial crisis but increasingly taking other roles as well, as United Nations is found missing to take collective action. Amid the covid crisis, grouping under Saudi leadership in 2020 had emergency meeting to deal with the pandemic including injecting financial support. India is among the founder member of the grouping which basically includes the top 20 economies of the world. G20 has taken collective action against issues like tax avoidance, debt time wavier to developing countries etc.</p>

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India is gearing up to host the G20 summit in October or November of 2023. Preparation is in full swing including the construction of a mega state-of-the-art summit venue at Delhi's Pragati Maidan.

India is gearing up to host the G20 summit in October or November of 2023. Preparation is in full swing including the construction of a mega state-of-the-art summit venue at Delhi's Pragati Maidan. In addition to the summit, India will be hosting 190 meetings across the country under its yearlong presidency starting first December this year. Indian govt could, as part of its discretion invite other countries to take part in the summit, something that previous G20 Presidency have been doing. New Delhi is already in the G20 governance structure called the troika which consists of Indonesia, Italy, and India - the current, previous, and incoming G20 Presidencies, respectively. It will be for the first time it hosts the summit of the grouping since it was formed after the 2008 financial crisis. Indonesia is the current chair of the group. It hosts the summit in November, in Bali. One of the key issues dominating the agenda is the participation of Russian President Putin which many western members of the group do not want. Over the weekend, Indian external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar & Indonesia's Foreign Retno Marsudi held talks, with a key focus on G20. In a tweet statement, EAM said, 'exchanged views on G20 developments and progress. India is fully supportive of the Indonesian Presidency." Good conversation this morning with FM @Menlu_RI of Indonesia. Exchanged views on G20 developments and progress. India is fully supportive of the Indonesian Presidency. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) May 20, 2022 × The grouping was formed after 2008 financial crisis but increasingly taking other roles as well, as United Nations is found missing to take collective action. Amid the covid crisis, grouping under Saudi leadership in 2020 had emergency meeting to deal with the pandemic including injecting financial support. India is among the founder member of the grouping which basically includes the top 20 economies of the world. G20 has taken collective action against issues like tax avoidance, debt time wavier to developing countries etc. Watch WION's live TV here:

India looking to host G20 summit in October or November 2023

<p>India's external&nbsp;affairs minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar has backed African representation at the United Nations Security Council, a long-standing policy of the Indian government.</p>

<p>Speaking at the Indian Council of World Affairs or Sapru house,&nbsp;EAM said that Africa must have an "adequate presence and voice in global decision-making, including in the reformed UN Security Council" and New Delhi in turn counts on "Africa to stand up for a partner with whom it has a past, a present and a future."</p>

<p>India has been calling for reform of the United Nations Security Council&nbsp;which reflects a world of 1940 and not of this century. While deliberations have been happening under inter-governmental negotiations, it hasn't been going anywhere, especially with China not enthusiastic about reforms at the top UN body.</p>

<p>Dr S Jaishankar explained, "When it comes to political issues, we share the frustration of international organizations being unrepresentative of contemporary reality. That this has made them increasingly ineffective is of little consolation".&nbsp;</p>

<p>India has been backing the common African position as mentioned in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration&nbsp;both call for at least two&nbsp;permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table.</p>

<p>Highlighting India and African "connections", EAM said, "shared bonding of fighting against colonialism is a deeply emotional one.." which "explains the solidarity that we intuitively express at global platforms, whether it was the issue of African independence itself, the battle against apartheid, the continuing debate on fair and just development, or more recently, the inequities of the pandemic response".</p>

<p>Key people-to-people connections exist&nbsp;with 3 million strong Indian diaspora spread across 46 countries. The largest concentration is at present in South Africa, Mauritius, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi and Mozambique. New Delhi has also extended e-Visa facilities to 33 African countries.</p>

<p>Indian PM Modi has been to the continent many times, and his July 2018 address to the Ugandan Parliament has been seen as New Delhi's policy statement on ties with Africa.</p>

<p>Since 2014, there have been 34 outgoing visits by the Indian president, vice-president and prime minister to the continent.&nbsp;India is keen to increase its engagement with Africa. Eighteen new embassies have opened since 2018, taking the number of Indian missions and posts in the continent to 49. Work is also on for the next India-Africa forum summit, the last one took place in Delhi in 2015.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Without mentioning China, EAM said, "India would respond to Africa’s priorities, to Africa’s demands and needs, rather than bring a unilateral agenda", adding, "we understand that Africa wants multiple options to get the best out of the international order and will endeavour to provide that credibly."&nbsp;</p>

<p>In terms of the development partnership, India has completed 189 projects in Africa, with 76 at the execution stage and 68 at the pre-execution stage.</p>

<p>Some of these projects that have been finished and handed over include the Railway line and Presidential Palace in Ghana, National Assembly Building in Gambia, the Rivatex textile factory in Kenya, the Metro Express project in Mauritius and the Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger.</p>

<p>India is the fourth largest partner for Africa registering trade of $69.7 billion during 2018-19.</p>

<p>The Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme announced by India has benefited African nations by extending duty-free access to 98.2 per cent&nbsp;of India’s total tariff lines.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On defence, the focus has been to increase engagement, especially under the India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave. India has been associated with the establishment of defence institutions in Nigeria, Ethiopia and Tanzania even as its military training teams have worked with their counterparts in Botswana, Lesotho, Zambia, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania, Mauritius and Seychelles.</p>

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India's external affairs minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar has backed African representation at the United Nations Security Council, a long-standing policy of the Indian government.

India's external affairs minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar has backed African representation at the United Nations Security Council, a long-standing policy of the Indian government. Speaking at the Indian Council of World Affairs or Sapru house, EAM said that Africa must have an "adequate presence and voice in global decision-making, including in the reformed UN Security Council" and New Delhi in turn counts on "Africa to stand up for a partner with whom it has a past, a present and a future." India has been calling for reform of the United Nations Security Council which reflects a world of 1940 and not of this century. While deliberations have been happening under inter-governmental negotiations, it hasn't been going anywhere, especially with China not enthusiastic about reforms at the top UN body. Dr S Jaishankar explained, "When it comes to political issues, we share the frustration of international organizations being unrepresentative of contemporary reality. That this has made them increasingly ineffective is of little consolation". India has been backing the common African position as mentioned in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration both call for at least two permanent and 5 to 2 non-permanent UNSC seats to be given to African countries at the high table. Highlighting India and African "connections", EAM said, "shared bonding of fighting against colonialism is a deeply emotional one.." which "explains the solidarity that we intuitively express at global platforms, whether it was the issue of African independence itself, the battle against apartheid, the continuing debate on fair and just development, or more recently, the inequities of the pandemic response". Key people-to-people connections exist with 3 million strong Indian diaspora spread across 46 countries. The largest concentration is at present in South Africa, Mauritius, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi and Mozambique. New Delhi has also extended e-Visa facilities to 33 African countries. Indian PM Modi has been to the continent many times, and his July 2018 address to the Ugandan Parliament has been seen as New Delhi's policy statement on ties with Africa. Since 2014, there have been 34 outgoing visits by the Indian president, vice-president and prime minister to the continent. India is keen to increase its engagement with Africa. Eighteen new embassies have opened since 2018, taking the number of Indian missions and posts in the continent to 49. Work is also on for the next India-Africa forum summit, the last one took place in Delhi in 2015. Without mentioning China, EAM said, "India would respond to Africa’s priorities, to Africa’s demands and needs, rather than bring a unilateral agenda", adding, "we understand that Africa wants multiple options to get the best out of the international order and will endeavour to provide that credibly." In terms of the development partnership, India has completed 189 projects in Africa, with 76 at the execution stage and 68 at the pre-execution stage. Some of these projects that have been finished and handed over include the Railway line and Presidential Palace in Ghana, National Assembly Building in Gambia, the Rivatex textile factory in Kenya, the Metro Express project in Mauritius and the Mahatma Gandhi Convention Centre in Niger. India is the fourth largest partner for Africa registering trade of $69.7 billion during 2018-19. The Duty-Free Tariff Preference (DFTP) scheme announced by India has benefited African nations by extending duty-free access to 98.2 per cent of India’s total tariff lines. On defence, the focus has been to increase engagement, especially under the India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave. India has been associated with the establishment of defence institutions in Nigeria, Ethiopia and Tanzania even as its military training teams have worked with their counterparts in Botswana, Lesotho, Zambia, Uganda, Namibia, Tanzania, Mauritius and Seychelles. WATCH WION LIVE HERE × You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Africa must be included in reformed UNSC, says EAM Jaishankar

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