Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is in Israel for the first high-level engagement with the Naftali Bennett government. He is on a three-day visit. A quadrilateral meet between U.S, India, Israel, and the UAE is on the agenda of his visit.

Indian FM S Jaishankar calls on Israeli President, PM in order to bolster ties with the nation

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar is in Israel for the first high-level engagement with the Naftali Bennett government. In focus - is a quadrilateral meet between U.S, India, Israel, and the UAE. The foreign ministers of the four countries will meet virtually later today.

Indian FM S Jaishankar visits Israel, holds talks with his counterpart Yair Lapid

Indian External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar visits Israel

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem.

About 900 Indian soldiers are interred in cemeteries across Israel in Jerusalem, Ramle and Haifa.

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Visited the Indian Cemetery at Talpiot as my first engagement in Jerusalem. Paid homage to the brave Indian soldiers who made the supreme sacrifie during World War I. <a href="https://t.co/oIqWfnVlga">pic.twitter.com/oIqWfnVlga</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1449737051310477314?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 17, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar, who arrived earlier in the day on his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister&nbsp;laid wreaths at the Talpiot cemetery.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-external-affairs-minister-s-jaishankar-visits-kazakhstan-highlights-afghan-situation-420230">Also Read: Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation</a>

"I am deeply honoured to pay homage to the valiant sons of India who fought with bravery and courage in this land during WWI, bringing glory to themselves, their comrades and their motherland," Jaishankar wrote in the visitor's book.

"The valour and supreme sacrifice of these bravehearts will forever remain etched in the heart of our nation. Your heroism and selfless service is&nbsp;an inspiration and beacon of light that will forever guide us in the service of our country. I wish to thanks you &amp; Commonwealth War Graves Commission for maintaining these memorials for Indian soldiers in Israel," he wrote.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/the-battle-of-haifa-indias-forgotten-soldiers-336">Also Read |&nbsp;Battle of Haifa: Remembering India's forgotten soldiers</a>

The heroics of the Indian soldiers have prominently come to light during the past two decades and the story of liberation of the northern coastal city of Haifa, in what most war historians consider "the last great cavalry campaign in history", has become a household tale with its inclusion in the city's local history textbooks.

The Indian Army commemorates September 23 every year as Haifa Day to pay its respects to the three brave Indian cavalry regiments - Mysore, Hyderabad and Jodhpur Lancers - that helped liberate Haifa following a dashing cavalry action by the 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade.

Captain Aman Singh Bahadur and Dafadar Jor Singh were awarded the Indian Order of Merit (IOM) and Captain Anop Singh and Second Lieutenant Sagat Singh were awarded the Military Cross (MC) as recognition for their bravery in this battle.

Major Dalpat Singh, widely known as the Hero of Haifa, was awarded a military cross for his bravery.&nbsp;Indian cavalry regiments armed with spears and swords had displayed the highest tradition of valour and cleared the enemy from the rocky slopes of Mount Carmel.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Sunday began his three-day visit to Israel by laying wreaths at a cemetery for Indian soldiers who laid down their lives in the region during World War I in Talpiot, Jerusalem. About 900 Indian soldiers are interred in cemeteries across Israel in Jerusalem, Ramle and Haifa. Visited the Indian Cemetery at Talpiot as my first engagement in Jerusalem. Paid homage to the brave Indian soldiers who made the supreme sacrifie during World War I. pic.twitter.com/oIqWfnVlga — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 17, 2021 × Jaishankar, who arrived earlier in the day on his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister laid wreaths at the Talpiot cemetery. Also Read: Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation "I am deeply honoured to pay homage to the valiant sons of India who fought with bravery and courage in this land during WWI, bringing glory to themselves, their comrades and their motherland," Jaishankar wrote in the visitor's book. "The valour and supreme sacrifice of these bravehearts will forever remain etched in the heart of our nation. Your heroism and selfless service is an inspiration and beacon of light that will forever guide us in the service of our country. I wish to thanks you & Commonwealth War Graves Commission for maintaining these memorials for Indian soldiers in Israel," he wrote. Also Read | Battle of Haifa: Remembering India's forgotten soldiers The heroics of the Indian soldiers have prominently come to light during the past two decades and the story of liberation of the northern coastal city of Haifa, in what most war historians consider "the last great cavalry campaign in history", has become a household tale with its inclusion in the city's local history textbooks. The Indian Army commemorates September 23 every year as Haifa Day to pay its respects to the three brave Indian cavalry regiments - Mysore, Hyderabad and Jodhpur Lancers - that helped liberate Haifa following a dashing cavalry action by the 15th Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade. Captain Aman Singh Bahadur and Dafadar Jor Singh were awarded the Indian Order of Merit (IOM) and Captain Anop Singh and Second Lieutenant Sagat Singh were awarded the Military Cross (MC) as recognition for their bravery in this battle. Major Dalpat Singh, widely known as the Hero of Haifa, was awarded a military cross for his bravery. Indian cavalry regiments armed with spears and swords had displayed the highest tradition of valour and cleared the enemy from the rocky slopes of Mount Carmel.

Jaishankar pays homage to Indian soldiers at war cemetery in Israel

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will embark on a three-day official visit to Israel from Sunday, in the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi government and the new Israeli government led by Naftali Bennett.

During his visit, the EAM Jaishankar will meet the top leadership of the Israel coalition government including Israeli PM Naftali Bennett, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and National Security Advisor Eyal Hulata.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/4-para-military-personnel-injured-in-accidental-blast-as-container-of-detonators-slips-while-boarding-train-421202">4 para military personnel injured in accidental blast as container of detonators slips while boarding train</a>

Israel's foreign secretary Alon Ushpiz tweeted his welcome for Jaishankar.

"Shubho Bijoya/Happy Dussehra to all of you, on the eve of @DrSJaishankar's important visit to Israel. India is a strategic partner and a very close friend."

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External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar to be on a three-day official visit to Israel from Sunday 
 
During his visit, the EAM will meet the top leadership of Israel including the PM, NSA and foreign minister 
 
(file photo) <a href="https://t.co/191ytbxZPx">pic.twitter.com/191ytbxZPx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1449240978972295169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar's Israel visit follows his three-nation tour of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia.

India and Israel have traditionally enjoyed close ties and has over the years developed close "cooperation" in intelligence sharing and "counter insurgency" operations.

Although India had recognised the Jewish State of Israel way back in 1950, it established full diplomatic relations only in 1992.

Since then there has been an upswing in the relations between the two countries in view of the common concerns about religious extremism and global terrorism.

India has become a major buyer of Israeli armaments and Israel is among the key partners of India in agriculture.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will embark on a three-day official visit to Israel from Sunday, in the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi government and the new Israeli government led by Naftali Bennett.

External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will embark on a three-day official visit to Israel from Sunday, in the first high-level engagement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi government and the new Israeli government led by Naftali Bennett. During his visit, the EAM Jaishankar will meet the top leadership of the Israel coalition government including Israeli PM Naftali Bennett, Foreign Minister Yair Lapid and National Security Advisor Eyal Hulata. Also Read | 4 para military personnel injured in accidental blast as container of detonators slips while boarding train Israel's foreign secretary Alon Ushpiz tweeted his welcome for Jaishankar. "Shubho Bijoya/Happy Dussehra to all of you, on the eve of @DrSJaishankar's important visit to Israel. India is a strategic partner and a very close friend." External Affairs Minister Dr. S Jaishankar to be on a three-day official visit to Israel from Sunday During his visit, the EAM will meet the top leadership of Israel including the PM, NSA and foreign minister (file photo) pic.twitter.com/191ytbxZPx — ANI (@ANI) October 16, 2021 × Jaishankar's Israel visit follows his three-nation tour of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia. India and Israel have traditionally enjoyed close ties and has over the years developed close "cooperation" in intelligence sharing and "counter insurgency" operations. Although India had recognised the Jewish State of Israel way back in 1950, it established full diplomatic relations only in 1992. Since then there has been an upswing in the relations between the two countries in view of the common concerns about religious extremism and global terrorism. India has become a major buyer of Israeli armaments and Israel is among the key partners of India in agriculture.

India's external affairs minister Jaishankar to embark on three-day visit to Israel

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership".

Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour.&nbsp;

"Delighted to meet my new Mongolian colleague @BattsetsegBatm2. Discussed our strong development partnership. India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Addressed the 6th meeting of CICA FMs. Made six important points: 
 
1. India's internationalism (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) drives our Vaccine Maitri. 
 
2. Covid response has brought out the limitations of current multilateralism. Case for reformed multilateralism is strong. <a href="https://t.co/VmdahK5jFk">pic.twitter.com/VmdahK5jFk</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1447839685632401413?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, Jaishankar had arrived at Nur-Sultan and participated in Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures (CICA) Ministerial.

Jaishankar began his Kazakhstan visit with a bilateral meeting with Uzbek foreign minister Abdulaziz Kamilov.

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Spoke at the collective call of FMs on Kazakh President <a href="https://twitter.com/TokayevKZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TokayevKZ</a>. 
 
Appreciated Kazakhstan's initiative in consolidating the unique CICA forum. Underlined its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges, including terrorism, pandemics and protection of global commons. <a href="https://t.co/PPxiGZsflE">pic.twitter.com/PPxiGZsflE</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1447832904843677696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 12, 2021</a></blockquote>
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CICA was established in 1999 as a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia.

It currently has 27 member states and nine observer states and five observer organisations. India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership". Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday met his Mongolian counterpart Battsetseg Batmunkh and discussed "development partnership". Jaishankar assured that India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour. "Delighted to meet my new Mongolian colleague @BattsetsegBatm2. Discussed our strong development partnership. India will always remain a strong spiritual neighbour," Jaishankar tweeted. Addressed the 6th meeting of CICA FMs. Made six important points: 1. India's internationalism (Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam) drives our Vaccine Maitri. 2. Covid response has brought out the limitations of current multilateralism. Case for reformed multilateralism is strong. pic.twitter.com/VmdahK5jFk — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 12, 2021 × On Monday, Jaishankar had arrived at Nur-Sultan and participated in Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building Measures (CICA) Ministerial. Jaishankar began his Kazakhstan visit with a bilateral meeting with Uzbek foreign minister Abdulaziz Kamilov. Spoke at the collective call of FMs on Kazakh President @TokayevKZ. Appreciated Kazakhstan's initiative in consolidating the unique CICA forum. Underlined its relevance in addressing contemporary challenges, including terrorism, pandemics and protection of global commons. pic.twitter.com/PPxiGZsflE — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 12, 2021 × CICA was established in 1999 as a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia. It currently has 27 member states and nine observer states and five observer organisations. India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar visits Kazakhstan, highlights Afghan situation

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, along with Kyrgyzstan Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbayev released a dictionary of common words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages. Also, he thanked the Kyrgyz State Language Commission for this initiative.

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Released a dictionary of common words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages along with FM Kazakbaev. 
 
Thank <a href="https://twitter.com/iccr_hq?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@iccr_hq</a> and Kyrgyz State Language Commission for this initiative. <a href="https://t.co/NnLEklIGD6">pic.twitter.com/NnLEklIGD6</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1447459698425229315?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 11, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Jaishankar arrived on Sunday at the Kyrgyz Republic as a part of his four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia with an aim to further expand bilateral ties with the three Central Asian countries.

At the meeting, India agreed to a USD 200 million Line of Credit support for development projects in Kyrgyzstan, as Jaishankar held "cordial and constructive" talks Kazakbaev on a wide range of bilateral and global issues, including Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jaishankar-to-embark-on-three-nation-tour-today-419537">Also read |&nbsp;Jaishankar to embark on three-nation tour today</a>

"Cordial and constructive talks with FM Ruslan Kazakbaev of Kyrgyz Republic. Agreed on USD 200 million LoC to support development projects. Also concluded an understanding on executing high impact community projects," Jaishankar tweeted.

Watch | Jaishankar landed in Kyrgystan to expand bilateral ties with key central Asian countries

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/jaishankar-landed-in-kyrgystan-to-expand-bilateral-ties-with-key-central-asian-countries-419790/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Jaishankar is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and call on the Kazakh leadership.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, along with Kyrgyzstan Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbayev released a dictionary of common words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday, along with Kyrgyzstan Foreign Minister Ruslan Kazakbayev released a dictionary of common words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages. Also, he thanked the Kyrgyz State Language Commission for this initiative. Released a dictionary of common words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages along with FM Kazakbaev. Thank @iccr_hq and Kyrgyz State Language Commission for this initiative. pic.twitter.com/NnLEklIGD6 — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 11, 2021 × Jaishankar arrived on Sunday at the Kyrgyz Republic as a part of his four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia with an aim to further expand bilateral ties with the three Central Asian countries. At the meeting, India agreed to a USD 200 million Line of Credit support for development projects in Kyrgyzstan, as Jaishankar held "cordial and constructive" talks Kazakbaev on a wide range of bilateral and global issues, including Afghanistan. Also read | Jaishankar to embark on three-nation tour today "Cordial and constructive talks with FM Ruslan Kazakbaev of Kyrgyz Republic. Agreed on USD 200 million LoC to support development projects. Also concluded an understanding on executing high impact community projects," Jaishankar tweeted. Watch | Jaishankar landed in Kyrgystan to expand bilateral ties with key central Asian countries Jaishankar is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and call on the Kazakh leadership.

Jaishankar releases dictionary of words in Hindi and Kyrgyz languages during his visit to Kyrgyz Republic

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday will embark on a three-nation tour of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia.

Jaishankar will be undertaking the tour from October 10 to 13.

He will be in the Kyrgyz Republic on October 10-11, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/infra-projects-buddha-link-rights-of-tamils-dominate-shringlas-sri-lanka-visit-418297">Infra projects, Buddha link, rights of Tamils dominate Shringla's Sri Lanka visit</a>

He will leave for Kazakhstan on Monday. He will then visit Armenia on October, 12-13, the MEA said.

The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in India's&nbsp;bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region, the ministry further said.

"It will be a continuation of our increased engagement with countries in our 'extended neighbourhood'," the ministry added.

This will be Jaishankar's first visit to Kyrgyzstan as External Affairs Minister.

He will hold a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Rusian Kazakbaev, apart from calling on President Sadyr Japarov.

Some agreements, MoUs are also expected to be signed during the visit.

From October 11-12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan.

Kazakhstan is the current Chair and initiator of the CICA Forum.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/foreign-secretary-shringla-visits-lanka-oil-tank-farms-in-trincomalee-417889">Foreign Secretary Shringla visits Lanka oil tank farms in Trincomalee</a>

Jaishankar is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and call on the Kazakh leadership.

Kazakhstan is the current Chair and initiator of the CICA Forum.Established in 1999, CICA is a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia.

It currently has 27 member states and 9 observer states and 5 observer organisations India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.Jaishankar will also be visiting Armenia on October, 12-13 the MEA said.

This will be the first-ever visit of an External Affairs Minister of India to independent Armenia. He will have meetings with his Armenian counterpart as well as call on the Prime Minister and President of the National Assembly of Armenia.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday will embark on a three-nation tour of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia. Jaishankar will be undertaking the tour from October 10 to 13.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday will embark on a three-nation tour of Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia. Jaishankar will be undertaking the tour from October 10 to 13. He will be in the Kyrgyz Republic on October 10-11, the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement. Also Read | Infra projects, Buddha link, rights of Tamils dominate Shringla's Sri Lanka visit He will leave for Kazakhstan on Monday. He will then visit Armenia on October, 12-13, the MEA said. The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in India's bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region, the ministry further said. "It will be a continuation of our increased engagement with countries in our 'extended neighbourhood'," the ministry added. This will be Jaishankar's first visit to Kyrgyzstan as External Affairs Minister. He will hold a bilateral meeting with the Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan, Rusian Kazakbaev, apart from calling on President Sadyr Japarov. Some agreements, MoUs are also expected to be signed during the visit. From October 11-12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is the current Chair and initiator of the CICA Forum. Also Read | Foreign Secretary Shringla visits Lanka oil tank farms in Trincomalee Jaishankar is also expected to hold bilateral talks with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Kazakhstan, Mukhtar Tileuberdi, and call on the Kazakh leadership. Kazakhstan is the current Chair and initiator of the CICA Forum.Established in 1999, CICA is a forum aimed at enhancing cooperation through elaborating multilateral approaches towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia. It currently has 27 member states and 9 observer states and 5 observer organisations India is a member of CICA since its inception in 1999 and has been actively participating in various activities conducted under the aegis of CICA.Jaishankar will also be visiting Armenia on October, 12-13 the MEA said. This will be the first-ever visit of an External Affairs Minister of India to independent Armenia. He will have meetings with his Armenian counterpart as well as call on the Prime Minister and President of the National Assembly of Armenia.

Jaishankar to embark on three-nation tour today

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday. The leaders are highly likely to discuss the developments in Afghanistan. &nbsp;

While announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday, "The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in our bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The visit will be a continuation of India's increased engagement with countries in its "extended neighbourhood". &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-defence-minister-lauds-coast-guard-for-ensuring-maritime-peace-security-saving-lives-419490" hreflang="en">Indian&nbsp;defence&nbsp;minister&nbsp;lauds coast guard for ensuring maritime peace, security, saving lives&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Jaishankar's first destination will be Kyrgyzstan, where he will hold talks with his counterpart apart from calling on the President of the nation, the MEA said. &nbsp;

"This will be his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister," the MEA said. Some agreements are also expected to be signed during the visit. &nbsp;

On October 11 and 12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is the current chair of the grouping. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/how-maharaja-returned-home-timeline-of-air-india-disinvestment-419460" hreflang="en">How Maharaja returned 'home': Timeline of Air India disinvestment</a>

Jaishankar will hold talks with the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Kazakhstan. &nbsp;

"The external affairs minister will be visiting Armenia on October 12 and 13. This will be the first-ever visit of an external affairs minister of India to independent Armenia," the MEA said. &nbsp;

The minister will have meetings with Armenian counterpart and Prime Minister. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday.

With an aim to expand bilateral ties and discuss key regional issues, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will pay a four-day visit to Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan and Armenia from Sunday. The leaders are highly likely to discuss the developments in Afghanistan. While announcing the visit, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Saturday, "The visit will provide an opportunity for reviewing the progress in our bilateral ties with the three countries as well as share views on developments in the region." The visit will be a continuation of India's increased engagement with countries in its "extended neighbourhood". Also Read: Indian defence minister lauds coast guard for ensuring maritime peace, security, saving lives Jaishankar's first destination will be Kyrgyzstan, where he will hold talks with his counterpart apart from calling on the President of the nation, the MEA said. "This will be his first visit to the country as the external affairs minister," the MEA said. Some agreements are also expected to be signed during the visit. On October 11 and 12, Jaishankar will be in Kazakhstan to attend the 6th Ministerial meeting of the Conference of Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Nur-Sultan. Kazakhstan is the current chair of the grouping. Also Read: How Maharaja returned 'home': Timeline of Air India disinvestment Jaishankar will hold talks with the deputy prime minister and foreign minister of Kazakhstan. "The external affairs minister will be visiting Armenia on October 12 and 13. This will be the first-ever visit of an external affairs minister of India to independent Armenia," the MEA said. The minister will have meetings with Armenian counterpart and Prime Minister. (With inputs from agencies)

From October 10 to 13, Jaishankar to visit Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Armenia

The ASEAN region is one of the major hubs for India's global economic engagement and the coronavirus pandemic has triggered a new urgency to re-imagine the cooperation and expand its ambition further, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Thursday.

In an address at a CII event, he also said that the centrality of ASEAN to the Indo-Pacific and the importance of ties between India and the grouping are self-evident.

"But if they have to continue to be salient, then we must strive to go beyond ideas and concepts that have outlived their shelf life," the external affairs minister said without elaborating.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thousands-of-covid-testing-kits-recalled-that-delivered-false-positives-418697">Thousands of Covid testing kits recalled that delivered false positives</a>

The 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is considered one of the most influential groupings in the region, and India and several other countries including the US, China, Japan and Australia are its dialogue partners.

Jaishankar said the larger region is undergoing "significant" socio-economic changes and that the pandemic has clearly accelerated them.

"It is important that we -- India, the ASEAN and our relationship -- we recognise that a different world awaits us. It is one that puts a greater premium on trust and transparency, resilience and reliability, as also on choices and redundancy," he said.

"Our contemporary conversations will be relevant only if we adequately capture these emerging concerns," he noted.

Jaishankar said India's ties with the ASEAN are rooted in history, geography and culture and what has energised them in recent years is a growing awareness of the potential they hold for mutual interests and development.

He said that as cooperation between the two sides grew in the course of the last 25 years, new facets and domains emerged for collaboration and that connectivity and security were among the more notable ones.

"As a result, our Look East policy matured into an Act East one. Its success is reflected in drawing India more comprehensively into the Indo-Pacific. There is no doubt that the ASEAN is one of the major hubs for India's global economic engagement," Jaishankar said

"As it develops, it is natural that we would like to re-visit the level of ambition that we have set for our partnership. That is also influenced by autonomous changes in the region. But what has given this objective a new urgency is the necessity to re-imagine our cooperation in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic," he said.

The external affairs minister said a crisis can often be the basis of creativity and the endeavour should be to come out of the pandemic stronger.

The 10 member countries of ASEAN are Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia.

The ties between India and ASEAN have been on an upswing in the last few years with the focus being on ramping up cooperation in the areas of trade and investment as well as security and defence.

The ASEAN region along with India together comprises a combined population of 1.85 billion people, which is one-fourth of the global population and their combined GDP has been estimated at over USD 3.8 trillion.

Jaishankar said that the pandemic provided the backdrop for how most countries approach both their economic policies and their global outlook now.

"After all, it has disrupted our supply chains, impacted our manufacturing, affected our trade and veritably ruined many services sectors. These developments have not just altered various dimensions of our day to day business; they have even shaped our way of life," he said.

"From the prolonged crisis of the last two years, four areas have come into sharp focus for international business cooperation: resilient and reliable supply chains, health security, digital for development and green and sustainable recovery," he added.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-covid-19-active-caseload-drops-to-246687-lowest-in-203-days-418548">India's COVID-19 active caseload drops to 2,46,687, lowest in 203 days</a>

Jaishankar said these four elements should constitute the core agenda for the ties.

He said uncertainties brought forth by the pandemic cannot just be wished away nor can it be considered as a one-time phenomenon.

"Therefore, we are tasked with responding to the immediate repercussions even as we are compelled to plan for the future. A large part of the answers - both short term and beyond - lies in diversification, expansion and transparency. De-risking our national economies will only be possible if we achieve a strong measure of success quickly in that regard," he said.

Jaishankar said the pandemic has brought out many inadequacies in the global health system and that meaningful partnerships, sharing of advanced technologies, collaboration in vaccine and pharmaceutical production and transparency in health information are all part of the answers.

He also highlighted the achievements of India's pharma sector.

"Apart from vaccines, Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing stepped up to the challenge by ramping up production for medicines that were in great demand. All this was happening even as we simultaneously transformed the public health system in India," he said.

"The fact is that health has emerged as a more serious priority for all societies. Business must recognise the ensuing opportunities," he added.

The ASEAN region is one of the major hubs for India's global economic engagement and the coronavirus pandemic has triggered a new urgency to re-imagine the cooperation and expand its ambition further, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Thursday.

The ASEAN region is one of the major hubs for India's global economic engagement and the coronavirus pandemic has triggered a new urgency to re-imagine the cooperation and expand its ambition further, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Thursday. In an address at a CII event, he also said that the centrality of ASEAN to the Indo-Pacific and the importance of ties between India and the grouping are self-evident. "But if they have to continue to be salient, then we must strive to go beyond ideas and concepts that have outlived their shelf life," the external affairs minister said without elaborating. Also Read | Thousands of Covid testing kits recalled that delivered false positives The 10-nation Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is considered one of the most influential groupings in the region, and India and several other countries including the US, China, Japan and Australia are its dialogue partners. Jaishankar said the larger region is undergoing "significant" socio-economic changes and that the pandemic has clearly accelerated them. "It is important that we -- India, the ASEAN and our relationship -- we recognise that a different world awaits us. It is one that puts a greater premium on trust and transparency, resilience and reliability, as also on choices and redundancy," he said. "Our contemporary conversations will be relevant only if we adequately capture these emerging concerns," he noted. Jaishankar said India's ties with the ASEAN are rooted in history, geography and culture and what has energised them in recent years is a growing awareness of the potential they hold for mutual interests and development. He said that as cooperation between the two sides grew in the course of the last 25 years, new facets and domains emerged for collaboration and that connectivity and security were among the more notable ones. "As a result, our Look East policy matured into an Act East one. Its success is reflected in drawing India more comprehensively into the Indo-Pacific. There is no doubt that the ASEAN is one of the major hubs for India's global economic engagement," Jaishankar said "As it develops, it is natural that we would like to re-visit the level of ambition that we have set for our partnership. That is also influenced by autonomous changes in the region. But what has given this objective a new urgency is the necessity to re-imagine our cooperation in the light of the COVID-19 pandemic," he said. The external affairs minister said a crisis can often be the basis of creativity and the endeavour should be to come out of the pandemic stronger. The 10 member countries of ASEAN are Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Brunei, Vietnam, Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia. The ties between India and ASEAN have been on an upswing in the last few years with the focus being on ramping up cooperation in the areas of trade and investment as well as security and defence. The ASEAN region along with India together comprises a combined population of 1.85 billion people, which is one-fourth of the global population and their combined GDP has been estimated at over USD 3.8 trillion. Jaishankar said that the pandemic provided the backdrop for how most countries approach both their economic policies and their global outlook now. "After all, it has disrupted our supply chains, impacted our manufacturing, affected our trade and veritably ruined many services sectors. These developments have not just altered various dimensions of our day to day business; they have even shaped our way of life," he said. "From the prolonged crisis of the last two years, four areas have come into sharp focus for international business cooperation: resilient and reliable supply chains, health security, digital for development and green and sustainable recovery," he added. Also Read | India's COVID-19 active caseload drops to 2,46,687, lowest in 203 days Jaishankar said these four elements should constitute the core agenda for the ties. He said uncertainties brought forth by the pandemic cannot just be wished away nor can it be considered as a one-time phenomenon. "Therefore, we are tasked with responding to the immediate repercussions even as we are compelled to plan for the future. A large part of the answers - both short term and beyond - lies in diversification, expansion and transparency. De-risking our national economies will only be possible if we achieve a strong measure of success quickly in that regard," he said. Jaishankar said the pandemic has brought out many inadequacies in the global health system and that meaningful partnerships, sharing of advanced technologies, collaboration in vaccine and pharmaceutical production and transparency in health information are all part of the answers. He also highlighted the achievements of India's pharma sector. "Apart from vaccines, Indian pharmaceutical manufacturing stepped up to the challenge by ramping up production for medicines that were in great demand. All this was happening even as we simultaneously transformed the public health system in India," he said. "The fact is that health has emerged as a more serious priority for all societies. Business must recognise the ensuing opportunities," he added.

Covid necessitated need for urgency to re-imagine cooperation: Jaishankar on India-ASEAN ties

The Mexican Envoy to India Federico Salas has lauded External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar's visit to his country, calling it as a "signal of commitment" by New Delhi. <o:p></o:p>

During the visit, EAM participated in the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican independence and engaged with the top leadership.<o:p></o:p>

Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Salas said, "we need to build up, recuperate the momentum that was lost due to pandemic".<o:p></o:p>

Mexico is India's second largest trade partner in Latin America and is a member of UNSC alongside India for the period 2021-22.<o:p></o:p>

At the G20, Envoy Salas explained that his country has given a proposal under which "all the vaccines certified by WHO should be given equal acceptance by all" the countries.<o:p></o:p>

WION: How do you see&nbsp;the visit of Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar to Mexico?<o:p></o:p>

Federico Salas: It was a very important visit and we are very happy he was able to come to Mexico. As you said, we had a very special celebration this year as we were commemorating three significant events in Mexican history that were foundation of the Aztec capital 700 years ago, foundation of Mexico City 500 years ago, and the end of the war of Independence 200 years ago. This was a particular time and we were very happy he was able to come to Mexico. <o:p></o:p>

While he was there, he had a good conversation with President, also had a long conversation with the foreign minister about wide range of issues of the bilateral agenda. He also met the business community and the Indian Mexican Indian chamber of commerce. He also visited the monument of Mahatma Gandhi in Mexico City to pay his respects. &nbsp;Overall, it was a very well-rounded visit that culminated in visit of the archaeological site of Teotihuacan — an ancient city on the outskirts of Mexico City. <o:p></o:p>

So, we are very happy that he was there. What is important is that this visit signals his commitment to enhance relations with Mexico and with Latin America. So, it is a very good first step.<o:p></o:p><o:p>&nbsp;</o:p>

WION: What is next in this relationship. Are there any engagements lined up?<o:p></o:p>

Federico Salas: of the things we want to do is to recover the lost space and time because of the pandemic in last two years. We need to recover the trade relationship which was very optimal up until and just before the pandemic. As you know, we had become the first trading partner of India in Latin America and second in Americas, only after US. India had become ninth largest trading partner of Mexico in the world. There have been significant investments in both directions. Mexico is the first Latin American investor in India for example. <o:p></o:p>

So, we need to build up, recuperate the momentum that was lost due to pandemic. Secondly, due to political conversations, dialogue between the two countries is very good. Visit of minister Jaishankar is proof that there is possibility our minister will come to India to continue the conversation. We hope we will have other high-level visits, including business delegation between the two countries.<o:p></o:p>

WION: How do you characterise the relationship between the two countries?<o:p></o:p>

Federico Salas: There are enormous number of similarities between Mexico and India. We do tend to look alike in many regards. For example, our cuisines are not the same, but there are similarities in terms of spiciness. There are many other cultural exchanges that go back few centuries, that have taken hold in much firmer way in past decades. <o:p></o:p>

We are working with India in a number of forums where we work together and have good level of exchanges. We are now both non-permanent member of the security council and have been having conversations in terms of global agenda about how can we work together on those issues and present challenges. We are also working with India at G20. India is going to hold the chairmanship of G20 in 2023. So, all of that is taking place, it's an evolving situation. There is constant engagement that we have, which gives richness and variety to the relationship.<o:p></o:p>

WION: What kind of conversations are happening at multilateral organisations, particularly on Covid Crisis. Have there been any suggestions by Mexico?<o:p></o:p>

Federico Salas: It's a very important point. We are working together, not only India but also with other members of the G20. We are raising many issues which are urgent, one of which is development recovery after the pandemic that has impacted everyone — rich or poor — in different fashion, but nevertheless impacted economic performance. <o:p></o:p>

We have presented an initiative to the G20 already, and will be addressed when G20 meets in Rome. The initiative is that there should be no discrimination on the issue of recognition of vaccines by any country. In other words, all the vaccines certified by WHO should be given equal acceptance by all the members, countries so that we avoid a situation where a country won't allow certain people. Maybe they have vaccine that they think is not good enough. This is something which is very important and Mexico is working very hard. This has special interest to India as the country which has not only vaccinated a large part of its population with its own home-made vaccine, but also question of vaccines made elsewhere will come to India. It is very important we have global agreement that is equitable for the acceptance of vaccines.<o:p></o:p>

The Mexican Envoy to India Federico Salas has lauded External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar's visit to his country, calling it as a "signal of commitment" by New Delhi.

The Mexican Envoy to India Federico Salas has lauded External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar's visit to his country, calling it as a "signal of commitment" by New Delhi. During the visit, EAM participated in the 200th anniversary of the consolidation of Mexican independence and engaged with the top leadership. Speaking to WION’s Sidhant Sibal, Envoy Salas said, "we need to build up, recuperate the momentum that was lost due to pandemic". Mexico is India's second largest trade partner in Latin America and is a member of UNSC alongside India for the period 2021-22. At the G20, Envoy Salas explained that his country has given a proposal under which "all the vaccines certified by WHO should be given equal acceptance by all" the countries. WION: How do you see the visit of Indian External Affairs Minister Dr Jaishankar to Mexico? Federico Salas: It was a very important visit and we are very happy he was able to come to Mexico. As you said, we had a very special celebration this year as we were commemorating three significant events in Mexican history that were foundation of the Aztec capital 700 years ago, foundation of Mexico City 500 years ago, and the end of the war of Independence 200 years ago. This was a particular time and we were very happy he was able to come to Mexico. While he was there, he had a good conversation with President, also had a long conversation with the foreign minister about wide range of issues of the bilateral agenda. He also met the business community and the Indian Mexican Indian chamber of commerce. He also visited the monument of Mahatma Gandhi in Mexico City to pay his respects. Overall, it was a very well-rounded visit that culminated in visit of the archaeological site of Teotihuacan — an ancient city on the outskirts of Mexico City. So, we are very happy that he was there. What is important is that this visit signals his commitment to enhance relations with Mexico and with Latin America. So, it is a very good first step. WION: What is next in this relationship. Are there any engagements lined up? Federico Salas: of the things we want to do is to recover the lost space and time because of the pandemic in last two years. We need to recover the trade relationship which was very optimal up until and just before the pandemic. As you know, we had become the first trading partner of India in Latin America and second in Americas, only after US. India had become ninth largest trading partner of Mexico in the world. There have been significant investments in both directions. Mexico is the first Latin American investor in India for example. So, we need to build up, recuperate the momentum that was lost due to pandemic. Secondly, due to political conversations, dialogue between the two countries is very good. Visit of minister Jaishankar is proof that there is possibility our minister will come to India to continue the conversation. We hope we will have other high-level visits, including business delegation between the two countries. WION: How do you characterise the relationship between the two countries? Federico Salas: There are enormous number of similarities between Mexico and India. We do tend to look alike in many regards. For example, our cuisines are not the same, but there are similarities in terms of spiciness. There are many other cultural exchanges that go back few centuries, that have taken hold in much firmer way in past decades. We are working with India in a number of forums where we work together and have good level of exchanges. We are now both non-permanent member of the security council and have been having conversations in terms of global agenda about how can we work together on those issues and present challenges. We are also working with India at G20. India is going to hold the chairmanship of G20 in 2023. So, all of that is taking place, it's an evolving situation. There is constant engagement that we have, which gives richness and variety to the relationship. WION: What kind of conversations are happening at multilateral organisations, particularly on Covid Crisis. Have there been any suggestions by Mexico? Federico Salas: It's a very important point. We are working together, not only India but also with other members of the G20. We are raising many issues which are urgent, one of which is development recovery after the pandemic that has impacted everyone — rich or poor — in different fashion, but nevertheless impacted economic performance. We have presented an initiative to the G20 already, and will be addressed when G20 meets in Rome. The initiative is that there should be no discrimination on the issue of recognition of vaccines by any country. In other words, all the vaccines certified by WHO should be given equal acceptance by all the members, countries so that we avoid a situation where a country won't allow certain people. Maybe they have vaccine that they think is not good enough. This is something which is very important and Mexico is working very hard. This has special interest to India as the country which has not only vaccinated a large part of its population with its own home-made vaccine, but also question of vaccines made elsewhere will come to India. It is very important we have global agreement that is equitable for the acceptance of vaccines.

Jaishankar's visit shows commitment to enhance relations, says Mexican Envoy Federico Salas

External Affairs Minister of India S Jaishankar will be paying an official visit to Mexico from September 26-28 at the invitation of his Mexican counterpart Marcelo Ebrard Casaubón, the ministry of external affairs said in a statement. Watch this report for more details.

Mexico: External Affairs Minister of India to meet leaders of business community

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The development comes after a bilateral meeting was held between Khadka and Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly.&nbsp;

According to the Nepal Foreign Ministry, Khadka thanked the Indian government for continued cooperation in the socio-economic development of Nepal.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nepal-to-hold-annual-joint-military-exercise-from-september-20-410856">India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20</a>

“The two sides also discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 on the lives and livelihoods of peoples of both the countries and agreed to work together in fighting the virus,” Foreign Ministry of Nepal said in a statement.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister Jaishankar further agreed to strengthen the existing cooperation between the two countries.&nbsp; &nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr. Narayan Khadka. 
 
Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward. <a href="https://t.co/NA5D3PYBjC">pic.twitter.com/NA5D3PYBjC</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1442148380298268680?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 26, 2021</a></blockquote>
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“Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward,” Jaishankar said in a tweet.&nbsp;

Later in the day, the Foreign Minister visited the office of the Consulate General of Nepal in New York. &nbsp;

“He instructed officials of the Consulate General to deliver consular services efficiently and promote economic diplomacy of Nepal giving particular attention to export trade, investment, and tourism,” it added.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-nepals-bittersweet-relationship-a-historical-friendship-turning-grim-307808">India-Nepal's bittersweet relationship: a historical friendship turning grim</a>

In addition, Khadka also attended the interaction program with Nepali diaspora which was co-organized by the office of the Consulate General, Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Association&nbsp;and Nepali community organizations.&nbsp;

He underscored the role of NRNs in Nepal’s socio-economic development largely in the sectors of investment, culture and tourism promotion, and urged them to contribute to Kathmandu’s development efforts.

Earlier, on the sidelines of UNGA, Khadka also held a bilateral meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart AK Abdul Momen, and both sides focused on the need for enhanced collaboration in the areas of trade, investment, hydropower development and cross-border energy trade among others.

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries.

Nepal Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar on Sunday discussed various matters of bilateral and multilateral affairs in New York and exchanged views on further promoting cooperation between the two countries. The development comes after a bilateral meeting was held between Khadka and Jaishankar on the sidelines of the 76th session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to the Nepal Foreign Ministry, Khadka thanked the Indian government for continued cooperation in the socio-economic development of Nepal. Also read | India, Nepal to hold annual joint military exercise from September 20 “The two sides also discussed the challenges posed by the COVID-19 on the lives and livelihoods of peoples of both the countries and agreed to work together in fighting the virus,” Foreign Ministry of Nepal said in a statement. External Affairs Minister Jaishankar further agreed to strengthen the existing cooperation between the two countries. Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr. Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward. pic.twitter.com/NA5D3PYBjC — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 26, 2021 × “Pleased to welcome my new Nepali colleague, Dr Narayan Khadka. Agreed that we should work together closely to take our special relationship forward,” Jaishankar said in a tweet. Later in the day, the Foreign Minister visited the office of the Consulate General of Nepal in New York. “He instructed officials of the Consulate General to deliver consular services efficiently and promote economic diplomacy of Nepal giving particular attention to export trade, investment, and tourism,” it added. Also read | India-Nepal's bittersweet relationship: a historical friendship turning grim In addition, Khadka also attended the interaction program with Nepali diaspora which was co-organized by the office of the Consulate General, Non-Resident Nepali (NRN) Association and Nepali community organizations. He underscored the role of NRNs in Nepal’s socio-economic development largely in the sectors of investment, culture and tourism promotion, and urged them to contribute to Kathmandu’s development efforts. Earlier, on the sidelines of UNGA, Khadka also held a bilateral meeting with his Bangladesh counterpart AK Abdul Momen, and both sides focused on the need for enhanced collaboration in the areas of trade, investment, hydropower development and cross-border energy trade among others.

Nepal, India agree to further promote existing cooperation between countries 

As 76th session of UNGA gets underway, the Indian EAM S Jaishankar held key bilateral meetings with leaders of various countries on the sidelines of the assembly. On Tuesday, the minister met with foreign ministers of France, Iran, Australia, Egypt and Italy among others.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar to meet foreign ministers of G4 countries | WION USA Direct

On the sidelines of the annual high-level UN General Assembly session, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific during his bilateral meetings with global counterparts. &nbsp;

The Indian external affairs minister, who arrived on Monday to participate at the high-level 76th session of the UN General Assembly, started the day with a meeting with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian. &nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;

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Jaishankar tweeted on Tuesday, "Began the day meeting with our strategic partner France. A comprehensive discussion with FM @JY_LeDrian on Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific and other contemporary issues. India and France are solid partners in the UN Security Council." &nbsp;&nbsp;

The minister then held a bilateral meeting with Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs H Amirabdollahian. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-first-address-at-un-general-assembly-2021-us-president-joe-biden-says-ended-afghan-war-to-enter-new-era-of-diplomacy-414726" hreflang="en">In first address at UN General Assembly 2021, US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy &nbsp;</a>

In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Good to meet FM @Amirabdolahian of Iran again. Continued our conversation on strengthening bilateral cooperation." He added that the meeting reaffirmed our convergence on regional issues. &nbsp;

The Indian minister also met Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry in the UN headquarters on the sidelines of the UNGA. &nbsp;&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-announce-expansion-to-interim-cabinet-fail-to-include-women-again-despite-outcry-414741" hreflang="en">Taliban&nbsp;announce expansion to&nbsp;interim Cabinet, fail to include women again despite outcry</a>

"Good to meet FM Sameh Shoukry of Egypt. Agreed to take forward our bilateral cooperation. Exchanged views on the GERD issue and Afghanistan," the minister said. &nbsp;

Jaishankar also met his Australian counterpart Marise Payne. "Met our Quad partner Australia. Took forward strategic conversations with FM @Marisepayne from our last meeting. Was apprised of recent developments in the Indo-Pacific," he said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

On the sidelines of the annual high-level UN General Assembly session, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific during his bilateral meetings with global counterparts.

On the sidelines of the annual high-level UN General Assembly session, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday discussed issues relating to Afghanistan and the Indo-Pacific during his bilateral meetings with global counterparts. The Indian external affairs minister, who arrived on Monday to participate at the high-level 76th session of the UN General Assembly, started the day with a meeting with French Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Jean-Yves Le Drian. Watch: × Jaishankar tweeted on Tuesday, "Began the day meeting with our strategic partner France. A comprehensive discussion with FM @JY_LeDrian on Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific and other contemporary issues. India and France are solid partners in the UN Security Council." The minister then held a bilateral meeting with Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs H Amirabdollahian. Also Read: In first address at UN General Assembly 2021, US President Joe Biden says ended Afghan war to enter new era of diplomacy In a tweet, Jaishankar said, "Good to meet FM @Amirabdolahian of Iran again. Continued our conversation on strengthening bilateral cooperation." He added that the meeting reaffirmed our convergence on regional issues. The Indian minister also met Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry in the UN headquarters on the sidelines of the UNGA. Also Read: Taliban announce expansion to interim Cabinet, fail to include women again despite outcry "Good to meet FM Sameh Shoukry of Egypt. Agreed to take forward our bilateral cooperation. Exchanged views on the GERD issue and Afghanistan," the minister said. Jaishankar also met his Australian counterpart Marise Payne. "Met our Quad partner Australia. Took forward strategic conversations with FM @Marisepayne from our last meeting. Was apprised of recent developments in the Indo-Pacific," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

On UNGA sidelines, Jaishankar discusses Afghanistan, Indo-Pacific in bilateral meetings 

As 76th session of UNGA gets underway, the Indian EAM S Jaishankar held key bilateral meetings with leaders of various countries on the sidelines of the assembly.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar holds bilateral meetings on the sidelines of UNGA | WION USA Direct

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday congratulated Nepal's new Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka, saying that he looks forward to working with him.

President Bidya Devi Bhandari appointed the senior Nepali Congress leader on the recommendation of the government led by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba.

"Congratulations to Hon’ble Dr&nbsp;Narayan Khadka on his appointment as Nepal's Foreign Minister. Look forward to working with him," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Congratulations to Hon’ble Dr. Narayan Khadka on his appointment as Nepal's Foreign Minister. 
 
Look forward to working with him.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1440659700702277639?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 22, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Khadka, 72, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Bhandari amid an official ceremony at Sheetal Niwas on Wednesday.

The post of the foreign minister had been vacant for more than two months after the formation of the new government led by Deuba. The Foreign Ministry portfolio was being held by the Nepali Prime Minister till now.

Jaishankar, who is here to participate in the high-level 76th UN General Assembly session, will attend the G4 and G20 meetings on Wednesday on the sidelines of UNGA.

The G-20 meeting will focus on Afghanistan and the G-4 Foreign Ministers meeting will be focussed on Security Council reforms.

According to officials in Nepal, Khadka, who is leading the Nepalese delegation to the UNGA, will leave Kathmandu for New York on Wednesday night.&nbsp;

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday congratulated Nepal's new Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka, saying that he looks forward to working with him.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday congratulated Nepal's new Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka, saying that he looks forward to working with him. President Bidya Devi Bhandari appointed the senior Nepali Congress leader on the recommendation of the government led by Prime Minister Sher Bahadur Deuba. "Congratulations to Hon’ble Dr Narayan Khadka on his appointment as Nepal's Foreign Minister. Look forward to working with him," Jaishankar tweeted. Congratulations to Hon’ble Dr. Narayan Khadka on his appointment as Nepal's Foreign Minister. Look forward to working with him. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 22, 2021 × Khadka, 72, was administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Bhandari amid an official ceremony at Sheetal Niwas on Wednesday. The post of the foreign minister had been vacant for more than two months after the formation of the new government led by Deuba. The Foreign Ministry portfolio was being held by the Nepali Prime Minister till now. Jaishankar, who is here to participate in the high-level 76th UN General Assembly session, will attend the G4 and G20 meetings on Wednesday on the sidelines of UNGA. The G-20 meeting will focus on Afghanistan and the G-4 Foreign Ministers meeting will be focussed on Security Council reforms. According to officials in Nepal, Khadka, who is leading the Nepalese delegation to the UNGA, will leave Kathmandu for New York on Wednesday night.

Look forward to working with Nepal’s new Foreign Minister Narayan Khadka: Jaishankar

Ahead of the general debate at the 76th UNGA session, India's External Affairs minister S. Jaishankar will be meeting UK's newly-appointed Foreign minister Liz Truss to evaluate the strategic 2030 roadmap.

WION USA Direct: India EAM S Jaishankar to meet UK counterpart, work closely on 'Roadmap 2030'

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order.

After a phone conversation between Le Drian and Jaishankar, the French foreign ministry said the two ministers also decided to deepen their strategic partnership based on a relationship of "political trust" between the two "great sovereign nations" of the Indo-Pacific.

"Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDria. Looking forward to our New York meeting," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM <a href="https://twitter.com/JY_LeDrian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JY_LeDrian</a> .Looking forward to our New York meeting.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1439184722823761925?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 18, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The conversation between the two foreign ministers came a day after France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia in protest against a trilateral security alliance among the US and the UK and Australia.

The alliance resulted in France effectively losing a multi-billion dollar deal to build 12 conventional submarines for Australia. France is also upset over its exclusion from the alliance.

India is yet to react to the formation of the trilateral security partnership.

"The two ministers decided to deepen their strategic partnership, based on a relationship of political trust between two great sovereign nations of the Indo-Pacific," the French foreign ministry said in a statement.

It said they also discussed the situation in Afghanistan, which is "deteriorating".

"The two ministers agreed to meet again in New York next week, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, to work on a common program of concrete actions to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order," the ministry said.

The AUKUS (Australia, the UK and the US) partnership was unveiled by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and British PM Boris Johnson on Thursday.

Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell on Friday said China's massive military modernisation programme, challenging strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific and intensification of great power competition in the region prompted Canberra to become part of the ambitious AUKUS partnership.

In a statement, Le Drian on Fridays said he was recalling French ambassadors to the US and Australia for consultations following a request by President Emmanuel Macron.

"This exceptional decision is justified by the exceptional gravity of the announcements made on 15th September by Australia and the United States," the French foreign ministers said.

"The cancellation of the attack class submarine program binding Australia and France since 2016, and the announcement of a new partnership with the United States meant to launch studies on a possible future cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, constitute unacceptable behaviour between allies and partners," he said.&nbsp;

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order.

France on Saturday said French foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian and his Indian counterpart S Jaishankar agreed to work on a common programme of "concrete actions" to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order. After a phone conversation between Le Drian and Jaishankar, the French foreign ministry said the two ministers also decided to deepen their strategic partnership based on a relationship of "political trust" between the two "great sovereign nations" of the Indo-Pacific. "Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDria. Looking forward to our New York meeting," Jaishankar tweeted. Discussed recent developments in the Indo-Pacific and Afghanistan with my friend FM @JY_LeDrian .Looking forward to our New York meeting. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 18, 2021 × The conversation between the two foreign ministers came a day after France recalled its ambassadors to the United States and Australia in protest against a trilateral security alliance among the US and the UK and Australia. The alliance resulted in France effectively losing a multi-billion dollar deal to build 12 conventional submarines for Australia. France is also upset over its exclusion from the alliance. India is yet to react to the formation of the trilateral security partnership. "The two ministers decided to deepen their strategic partnership, based on a relationship of political trust between two great sovereign nations of the Indo-Pacific," the French foreign ministry said in a statement. It said they also discussed the situation in Afghanistan, which is "deteriorating". "The two ministers agreed to meet again in New York next week, on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, to work on a common program of concrete actions to jointly defend a truly multilateral international order," the ministry said. The AUKUS (Australia, the UK and the US) partnership was unveiled by US President Joe Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and British PM Boris Johnson on Thursday. Australia's High Commissioner to India Barry O'Farrell on Friday said China's massive military modernisation programme, challenging strategic environment in the Indo-Pacific and intensification of great power competition in the region prompted Canberra to become part of the ambitious AUKUS partnership. In a statement, Le Drian on Fridays said he was recalling French ambassadors to the US and Australia for consultations following a request by President Emmanuel Macron. "This exceptional decision is justified by the exceptional gravity of the announcements made on 15th September by Australia and the United States," the French foreign ministers said. "The cancellation of the attack class submarine program binding Australia and France since 2016, and the announcement of a new partnership with the United States meant to launch studies on a possible future cooperation on nuclear-powered submarines, constitute unacceptable behaviour between allies and partners," he said.

Jaishankar, foreign minister Jean-Yves Le Drian seek to deepen India-France strategic partnership

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will hold extensive talks with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud here on Sunday with a focus on developments in Afghanistan as well as matters relating to bilateral ties.

The Saudi foreign minister begins his three-day visit to India on Saturday evening.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, he will hold talks with Jaishankar on Sunday and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday.

Al Saud is scheduled to leave for New York from here on Monday evening.

The visit by the Saudi foreign minister to India comes at a time India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan following its takeover by the Taliban.

People familiar with the visit said Afghanistan is expected to be a major focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud.

Being a major regional player, Saudi Arabia's position on the developments in Kabul assumes significance as several countries in the Gulf region including Qatar and Iran were playing a role in the Afghan peace process before the Taliban's capture of power.

In the Gulf region, India has been in touch with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Iran over the unfolding developments in Afghanistan.

In reflection of India's views on the matter, Prime Minister Modi on Friday said the global community should decide "collectively" and "thoughtfully" on according recognition to the new set-up in

Afghanistan in view of questions over its acceptability as the change of power was not "inclusive".

He made the remarks during a virtual address at a meeting on Afghanistan of the heads of state of the SCO and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation.

The defence and security ties between India and Saudi Arabia are witnessing gradual expansion.

Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane visited Saudi Arabia in December last in the first-ever visit by a head of the 1.3 million-strong Army to the strategically important Gulf nation. Gen Naravane held extensive talks with senior military officials of that country with an aim to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.&nbsp;

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will hold extensive talks with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud here on Sunday with a focus on developments in Afghanistan as well as matters relating to bilateral ties.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will hold extensive talks with his Saudi counterpart Faisal Bin Farhan Al Saud here on Sunday with a focus on developments in Afghanistan as well as matters relating to bilateral ties. The Saudi foreign minister begins his three-day visit to India on Saturday evening. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, he will hold talks with Jaishankar on Sunday and call on Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday. Al Saud is scheduled to leave for New York from here on Monday evening. The visit by the Saudi foreign minister to India comes at a time India has been engaged with all leading powers on the developments in Afghanistan following its takeover by the Taliban. People familiar with the visit said Afghanistan is expected to be a major focus of the talks between Jaishankar and Al Saud. Being a major regional player, Saudi Arabia's position on the developments in Kabul assumes significance as several countries in the Gulf region including Qatar and Iran were playing a role in the Afghan peace process before the Taliban's capture of power. In the Gulf region, India has been in touch with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Iran over the unfolding developments in Afghanistan. In reflection of India's views on the matter, Prime Minister Modi on Friday said the global community should decide "collectively" and "thoughtfully" on according recognition to the new set-up in Afghanistan in view of questions over its acceptability as the change of power was not "inclusive". He made the remarks during a virtual address at a meeting on Afghanistan of the heads of state of the SCO and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation. The defence and security ties between India and Saudi Arabia are witnessing gradual expansion. Chief of Army Staff Gen MM Naravane visited Saudi Arabia in December last in the first-ever visit by a head of the 1.3 million-strong Army to the strategically important Gulf nation. Gen Naravane held extensive talks with senior military officials of that country with an aim to enhance bilateral defence cooperation.

India's foreign minister Jaishankar to hold wide-ranging talks with Saudi counterpart on Sunday

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met his Chinese counterpart Wan Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation summit in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Jaishankar told Yi that progress in the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh was essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity and that it is the basis for the development of overall ties.

It is understood that developments in Afghanistan figured in the talks between the two foreign ministers.

"Met Chinese FM Wang Yi on the sidelines of SCO Summit in Dushanbe. Discussed disengagement in our border areas. Underlined that progress in this regard is essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity, which is the basis for development of bilateral ties," Jaishankar tweeted.

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Met Chinese FM Wang Yi on the sidelines of SCO Summit in Dushanbe. 
 
Discussed disengagement in our border areas. Underlined that progress in this regard is essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity, which is the basis for development of bilateral ties. <a href="https://t.co/wmO0sxeWwL">pic.twitter.com/wmO0sxeWwL</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1438577491308793861?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 16, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

After the meeting, Jaishankar said India does not subscribe to any clash of civilisations theory.

"Also exchanged views on global developments. Emphasized that India does not subscribe to any clash of civilisations theory. It is also essential that China does not view its relations with India through the lens of a third country," he said.

"As for Asian solidarity, it is for China and India to set an example," the external affairs minister said. 
The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 last year following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry.

As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in the Gogra area last month, in a significant forward movement towards the restoration of peace and tranquillity in the region.

In February, the two sides completed the withdrawal of troops and weapons from the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in line with an agreement on disengagement.

Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met his Chinese counterpart Wan Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation summit in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday met his Chinese counterpart Wan Yi on the sidelines of Shanghai Co-operation Organisation summit in Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Jaishankar told Yi that progress in the disengagement process in eastern Ladakh was essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity and that it is the basis for the development of overall ties. It is understood that developments in Afghanistan figured in the talks between the two foreign ministers. "Met Chinese FM Wang Yi on the sidelines of SCO Summit in Dushanbe. Discussed disengagement in our border areas. Underlined that progress in this regard is essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity, which is the basis for development of bilateral ties," Jaishankar tweeted. Met Chinese FM Wang Yi on the sidelines of SCO Summit in Dushanbe. Discussed disengagement in our border areas. Underlined that progress in this regard is essential for restoration of peace and tranquillity, which is the basis for development of bilateral ties. pic.twitter.com/wmO0sxeWwL — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 16, 2021 × After the meeting, Jaishankar said India does not subscribe to any clash of civilisations theory. "Also exchanged views on global developments. Emphasized that India does not subscribe to any clash of civilisations theory. It is also essential that China does not view its relations with India through the lens of a third country," he said. "As for Asian solidarity, it is for China and India to set an example," the external affairs minister said. The border standoff between the Indian and Chinese militaries erupted on May 5 last year following a violent clash in the Pangong lake area and both sides gradually enhanced their deployment by rushing in tens of thousands of soldiers as well as heavy weaponry. As a result of a series of military and diplomatic talks, the two sides completed the disengagement process in the Gogra area last month, in a significant forward movement towards the restoration of peace and tranquillity in the region. In February, the two sides completed the withdrawal of troops and weapons from the north and south banks of the Pangong lake in line with an agreement on disengagement. Each side currently has around 50,000 to 60,000 troops along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in the sensitive sector. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan features in Sino-Indian foreign minister talks at SCO

The Indian external affairs minister S. Jaishankar held talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi on the sidelines of the SCO meet.

MEA S Jaishankar, his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi hold key talks at SCO summit

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that “nobody saw the endgame coming” in Afghanistan and called on the international community to “work in the collective interest” of Afghans.

These were the first public comments by the minister on the current situation in Afghanistan, which saw a surprise takeover from the Taliban of Kabul on August 15. Earlier, he only made a public statement&nbsp;on the Afghanistan evacuation process but didn't express his views on the Taliban seizing power.

Speaking at the JG Crawford Oration 2021, he pointed out, “All of us understood for some years that the presence of the United States and its allies would wind down eventually in Afghanistan... The fact was that for all the debate and deliberations on it, it would be a fair statement to assert that the endgame was not something that anybody saw it coming. It wasn't exactly the scenario anybody was prepared for.”

Ever since the fall of Kabul, India left no stones unturned to evacuate as many of the citizens it can. It has been coordinating with several countries like the US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Oman and lifted more than 500 people, of which more than 200 are Afghans, mostly Sikhs and Hindus.&nbsp;

Highlighting New Delhi’s role in taking up the Afghanistan issue in the United Nations Security Council, he said, “I should emphasise that in the UNSC, in the month where we held the presidency, the members passed resolution 2593 on Taliban, demanding that Afghanistan’s territory should not be used for terrorism, and expecting them to live up to their promises of forming an inclusive government, and better treatment of minorities, women, children.”

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/how-will-the-taliban-govern-a-history-of-rebel-rule-offers-clues-410481">How will the Taliban govern? A history of rebel rule offers clues</a>

India is the non-permanent member of the council and it held the chair of the presidency in August, presiding over key meetings. Under its presidency, three meetings took place on Afghanistan—on August 6, August 16, and August 30—the last one saw a resolution being passed on the Afghanistan crisis. The resolution saw the backing of 13 countries, while the remaining two—Russia and China—abstained from voting.

Cautioning against some countries’ “natural temptation of diplomacy to score a point above the others and try to get ahead in the game", he said, “This is the time for the international community to actually come together and work in what is true for the collective interest.”

While heartbreaking visuals of Afghans fleeing the country via the Hamid Karzai International Airport emerged, there has been a deafening silence by the international community on the crisis. During the UNSC meeting, a divide emerged between the West, led by the US, and Russia and China on the issue of engaging with the Taliban.

Speaking on the role of the US in the aftermath of the Afghan crisis, the EAM said, “US is the US, it has deep strengths, an extraordinary capacity to re-invent itself, re-energize itself. We have seen that in history and that some variant of the debate would have also happened in the 1970s&nbsp;after Washington's Vietnam debacle.”

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that “nobody saw the endgame coming” in Afghanistan and called on the international community to “work in the collective interest” of Afghans.

India’s External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that “nobody saw the endgame coming” in Afghanistan and called on the international community to “work in the collective interest” of Afghans. These were the first public comments by the minister on the current situation in Afghanistan, which saw a surprise takeover from the Taliban of Kabul on August 15. Earlier, he only made a public statement on the Afghanistan evacuation process but didn't express his views on the Taliban seizing power. Speaking at the JG Crawford Oration 2021, he pointed out, “All of us understood for some years that the presence of the United States and its allies would wind down eventually in Afghanistan... The fact was that for all the debate and deliberations on it, it would be a fair statement to assert that the endgame was not something that anybody saw it coming. It wasn't exactly the scenario anybody was prepared for.” Ever since the fall of Kabul, India left no stones unturned to evacuate as many of the citizens it can. It has been coordinating with several countries like the US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Iran, Oman and lifted more than 500 people, of which more than 200 are Afghans, mostly Sikhs and Hindus. Highlighting New Delhi’s role in taking up the Afghanistan issue in the United Nations Security Council, he said, “I should emphasise that in the UNSC, in the month where we held the presidency, the members passed resolution 2593 on Taliban, demanding that Afghanistan’s territory should not be used for terrorism, and expecting them to live up to their promises of forming an inclusive government, and better treatment of minorities, women, children.” Also read | How will the Taliban govern? A history of rebel rule offers clues India is the non-permanent member of the council and it held the chair of the presidency in August, presiding over key meetings. Under its presidency, three meetings took place on Afghanistan—on August 6, August 16, and August 30—the last one saw a resolution being passed on the Afghanistan crisis. The resolution saw the backing of 13 countries, while the remaining two—Russia and China—abstained from voting. Cautioning against some countries’ “natural temptation of diplomacy to score a point above the others and try to get ahead in the game", he said, “This is the time for the international community to actually come together and work in what is true for the collective interest.” While heartbreaking visuals of Afghans fleeing the country via the Hamid Karzai International Airport emerged, there has been a deafening silence by the international community on the crisis. During the UNSC meeting, a divide emerged between the West, led by the US, and Russia and China on the issue of engaging with the Taliban. Speaking on the role of the US in the aftermath of the Afghan crisis, the EAM said, “US is the US, it has deep strengths, an extraordinary capacity to re-invent itself, re-energize itself. We have seen that in history and that some variant of the debate would have also happened in the 1970s after Washington's Vietnam debacle.”

Endgame was not something that anybody saw coming: Jaishankar on Afghanistan

Stressing that the Galwan clashes between India and China took the bilateral “relationship in a completely different direction”, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that managing relations with Beijing “ranks very high because there has been a complete departure from the norm."

Last year, the LAC border in eastern Ladakh saw a massive build-up by China’s People's Liberation Army which eventually led to clashes between India and Chinese armed forces in Galwan Valley in June.

India lost 20 soldiers in the clash, while China, though initially reluctant, finally accepted four deaths. However, there are credible reports to suggest that the toll from the Chinese side could be higher.

The Indian foreign minister pointed out that China didn't follow the treaties signed in the 1990s that called for peace and tranquillity at the border.

“There was a large Chinese military presence in a very operational mode that was brought to the border without, frankly, a good reason...Once India countered, it led to a very serious clash last June, in which a lot of lives were lost,” he said.

This year, however, both Indian and China managed to dial down the tempers and engaged in disengagement at Pangong Lake and Gogra post at the LAC. Earlier in the day, the&nbsp;Indian Army announced that both the armies completed the disengagement process and restored the pre-standoff ground position in the Gogra friction. But other friction points such as Hot Springs and Depsang plains are yet to be resolved.

The comments come even as plans are afoot for the first-ever Quad leaders level meet between India, the US, Japan and Australia later this month in Washington.&nbsp;

Speaking on the importance of the grouping, the EAM said, "The fact is that the days of unilateralism are over. Bilateralism has its own limits, and as Covid reminded us, multilateralism is simply not working well enough. The resistance to reforming the international organisations compel us to look for a more practical and immediate solution. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the case for the Quad.”.

The first Quad leaders level meeting was held in March virtually. The key outcome of that meeting was the Quad Covid vaccine initiative, in which vaccines will be produced in India for the Indo-Pacific region.

Stressing that the Galwan clashes between India and China took the bilateral “relationship in a completely different direction”, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that managing relations with Beijing “ranks very high because there has been a complete departure from the norm.

Stressing that the Galwan clashes between India and China took the bilateral “relationship in a completely different direction”, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has said that managing relations with Beijing “ranks very high because there has been a complete departure from the norm." Last year, the LAC border in eastern Ladakh saw a massive build-up by China’s People's Liberation Army which eventually led to clashes between India and Chinese armed forces in Galwan Valley in June. India lost 20 soldiers in the clash, while China, though initially reluctant, finally accepted four deaths. However, there are credible reports to suggest that the toll from the Chinese side could be higher. The Indian foreign minister pointed out that China didn't follow the treaties signed in the 1990s that called for peace and tranquillity at the border. “There was a large Chinese military presence in a very operational mode that was brought to the border without, frankly, a good reason...Once India countered, it led to a very serious clash last June, in which a lot of lives were lost,” he said. This year, however, both Indian and China managed to dial down the tempers and engaged in disengagement at Pangong Lake and Gogra post at the LAC. Earlier in the day, the Indian Army announced that both the armies completed the disengagement process and restored the pre-standoff ground position in the Gogra friction. But other friction points such as Hot Springs and Depsang plains are yet to be resolved. The comments come even as plans are afoot for the first-ever Quad leaders level meet between India, the US, Japan and Australia later this month in Washington. Speaking on the importance of the grouping, the EAM said, "The fact is that the days of unilateralism are over. Bilateralism has its own limits, and as Covid reminded us, multilateralism is simply not working well enough. The resistance to reforming the international organisations compel us to look for a more practical and immediate solution. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is the case for the Quad.”. The first Quad leaders level meeting was held in March virtually. The key outcome of that meeting was the Quad Covid vaccine initiative, in which vaccines will be produced in India for the Indo-Pacific region.

Challenge to manage relation with China ranks high, says India’s foreign minister

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman,&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations."

Watch:&nbsp;India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis

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In a tweet about the meeting,&nbsp;Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister&nbsp;Gordan Grlic Radman."

Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues.&nbsp;Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level."

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Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/grlicradman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@grlicradman</a> . 
 
Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. 
 
Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. <a href="https://t.co/bSPnNI4IlD">pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1433878467636957185?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said&nbsp;there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added.

In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations&nbsp;and post-COVID-19 recovery.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/militants-may-use-afghan-chaos-to-infiltrate-us-eu-nato-410633" hreflang="en">Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO</a>

After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached&nbsp;Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic&nbsp;received him.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.

At a joint press conference along with his Croatian counterpart Gordan Grlic Radman, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday that India and Croatia shared a lot of common positions on issues like the Indo-Pacific, situation in Afghanistan and the two countries' resolve to fight terrorism in all its forms and manifestations. The Indian external affairs minister said, "On international issues, we shared a lot of common positions and perspectives. It was very apparent in our discussions on Indo-Pacific, on Afghanistan, on our resolve how to counter terrorism in all its forms and manifestations." Watch: India's Foreign Secretary visits Washington to discuss bilateral ties, Afghan crisis × In a tweet about the meeting, Jaishankar said, "Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister Gordan Grlic Radman." Talking about the issues discussed, he added, "Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level." Fruitful talks with Croatia’s Foreign Minister @grlicradman . Detailed exchanges on full range of bilateral cooperation, regional and global issues. Committed to work with him to take our ties to a higher level. pic.twitter.com/bSPnNI4IlD — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 3, 2021 × With increasing economic cooperation between the two countries on mind, the Indian minister said there are a lot of opportunities in pharmaceuticals, digital and infrastructure sectors. "We believe that Indian companies will find Croatia a very good platform to operate and invest," minister added. In the meeting, the two leaders discussed numerous topics of mutual interest, which included situation in Afghanistan, economic and cultural cooperation, EU-India relations and post-COVID-19 recovery. Also Read | Militants may use Afghan chaos to infiltrate US, EU: NATO After completing two-day visit to Slovenia, the minister reached Croatia where Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic received him. (With inputs from agencies)

India, Croatia share common position on Afghanistan situation, says Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks&nbsp;with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project.

It&nbsp;was the first-ever call between the two&nbsp;since the new Iran foreign minister took charge. During the meeting, the&nbsp;EAM congratulated him on his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister.

On Afghanistan, both&nbsp;sides agreed to continue consultations with the Iranian readout saying that FM Amir reiterated Tehran's "principled policy to support the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan" which is "made up of all Afghan ethnic groups". He also emphasised on a regional approach to "defuse the crisis in Afghanistan."

A tweet statement by EAM said that India, "Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan."

India in September had evacuated more than 500 people after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. During the evacuation process, India had coordinated with many counties including Iran, US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and&nbsp;Oman.

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A warm congratulatory call to Iranian FM <a href="https://twitter.com/Amirabdolahian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Amirabdolahian</a>. 
 
Agreed to strengthen our bilateral cooperation. Discussed pressing regional issues. 
 
Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1433104965862494214?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 1, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Chabahar, Iran's FM called for "speeding up the Chabahar project and expanding trade with India."

Chabahar port is key to India's connectivity to its West as it provides&nbsp;links to Afghanistan and central Asia&nbsp;and is a key to the international north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow.&nbsp;

Discussions were also held on vaccines. India had sent a consignment of COVAX to Iran as its dealt with the Covid&nbsp;crisis&nbsp;while Iran had sent assistance to India during the second wave of the coronavirus outbreak&nbsp;earlier this year.&nbsp;

Last month, Jaishankar had represented India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. It&nbsp;was the second&nbsp;visit of the EAM in a matter of two&nbsp;months to Iran&nbsp;given that in July he had made a stopover in Tehran and called on Ebrahim Raisi.&nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar and Iran's new foreign minister Amir Abdollahian on Wednesday held talks with top focus on the Afghanistan situation and the Chabahar port project. It was the first-ever call between the two since the new Iran foreign minister took charge. During the meeting, the EAM congratulated him on his appointment as Iran’s foreign minister. On Afghanistan, both sides agreed to continue consultations with the Iranian readout saying that FM Amir reiterated Tehran's "principled policy to support the formation of an inclusive government in Afghanistan" which is "made up of all Afghan ethnic groups". He also emphasised on a regional approach to "defuse the crisis in Afghanistan." A tweet statement by EAM said that India, "Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan." India in September had evacuated more than 500 people after the fall of Kabul to the Taliban. During the evacuation process, India had coordinated with many counties including Iran, US, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan and Oman. A warm congratulatory call to Iranian FM @Amirabdolahian. Agreed to strengthen our bilateral cooperation. Discussed pressing regional issues. Appreciate Iran's facilitation of our repatriation flights from Afghanistan. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 1, 2021 × On Chabahar, Iran's FM called for "speeding up the Chabahar project and expanding trade with India." Chabahar port is key to India's connectivity to its West as it provides links to Afghanistan and central Asia and is a key to the international north-south transport corridor connecting Mumbai to Moscow. Discussions were also held on vaccines. India had sent a consignment of COVAX to Iran as its dealt with the Covid crisis while Iran had sent assistance to India during the second wave of the coronavirus outbreak earlier this year. Last month, Jaishankar had represented India at the oath-taking ceremony of the new Iran President Ebrahim Raisi. It was the second visit of the EAM in a matter of two months to Iran given that in July he had made a stopover in Tehran and called on Ebrahim Raisi.

In first call, new Iran foreign minister, EAM discuss Afghanistan, Chabahar

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to his British counterpart Dominic Raab on Wednesday on the situation in Afghanistan, their second such conversation in a week.

India has been in constant touch with all major countries on the fast-paced developments in Afghanistan, particularly after the Taliban took control of the country on August 15.

"Nice speaking again to UK Foreign Secretary @DominicRaab. Conversation focused on Afghanistan related developments," Jaishankar tweeted.

The Jaishankar-Raab conversation came a day after the US completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan, ending its two-decade war in the country.

The external affairs minister spoke to Raab on August 25 as well on the Afghan crisis.

On Wednesday, Jaishankar also spoke to Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi.

"Good to talk to Omani Foreign Minister @badralbusaidi. Discussed Afghanistan and Covid. Thank Oman for supporting our repatriation flights," Jaishankar tweeted.

India has been closely monitoring the unfolding developments in Afghanistan.

Indian Ambassador to Qatar Deepak Mittal met senior Taliban leader Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai in Doha on Tuesday, in the first formal and pubicly acknowledged contact between the two sides.

The meeting took place at the Indian embassy in Doha at the request of the Taliban side and came two weeks after the outfit seized control of Kabul.

India has been a key stakeholder in Afghanistan and it has invested nearly USD 3 billion in carrying out nearly 500 projects across Afghanistan.

The UN Security Council, under India's presidency, on Monday adopted a resolution demanding that the territory of Afghanistan not be used to threaten any country or shelter terrorists.

There have been mounting concerns in India over the possibility of rise in activities of various terror groups, including Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to his British counterpart Dominic Raab on Wednesday on the situation in Afghanistan, their second such conversation in a week.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to his British counterpart Dominic Raab on Wednesday on the situation in Afghanistan, their second such conversation in a week. India has been in constant touch with all major countries on the fast-paced developments in Afghanistan, particularly after the Taliban took control of the country on August 15. "Nice speaking again to UK Foreign Secretary @DominicRaab. Conversation focused on Afghanistan related developments," Jaishankar tweeted. The Jaishankar-Raab conversation came a day after the US completed the withdrawal of its forces from Afghanistan, ending its two-decade war in the country. The external affairs minister spoke to Raab on August 25 as well on the Afghan crisis. On Wednesday, Jaishankar also spoke to Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Al Busaidi. "Good to talk to Omani Foreign Minister @badralbusaidi. Discussed Afghanistan and Covid. Thank Oman for supporting our repatriation flights," Jaishankar tweeted. India has been closely monitoring the unfolding developments in Afghanistan. Indian Ambassador to Qatar Deepak Mittal met senior Taliban leader Sher Mohammad Abbas Stanekzai in Doha on Tuesday, in the first formal and pubicly acknowledged contact between the two sides. The meeting took place at the Indian embassy in Doha at the request of the Taliban side and came two weeks after the outfit seized control of Kabul. India has been a key stakeholder in Afghanistan and it has invested nearly USD 3 billion in carrying out nearly 500 projects across Afghanistan. The UN Security Council, under India's presidency, on Monday adopted a resolution demanding that the territory of Afghanistan not be used to threaten any country or shelter terrorists. There have been mounting concerns in India over the possibility of rise in activities of various terror groups, including Lashkar-e-Toiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed, from Taliban-controlled Afghanistan.

India's foreign minister speaks to British counterpart on situation in Afghanistan

As the US reached its final phase of evacuation from Afghanistan, US President Joe Biden warned of another attack in the next 24-36 hours just days after the deadly attack at Kabul airport in which 13 US troops were killed including several Afghan civilians.

Meanwhile,&nbsp;Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday to discuss the Afghanistan crisis.&nbsp;

Amid the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Pakistan PM Imran Khan said Islamabad cannot be held responsible for the actions of the group after the withdrawal of US troops.

Click on the headline to read the full story. &nbsp;

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/attack-highly-likely-in-next-24-36-hours-says-biden-on-kabul-airport-409079">Attack highly likely in next 24-36 hours, says Biden on Kabul airport</a>

<img alt="Joe Biden" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="e92bd3f7-01b2-4151-9a30-fadb4f6252f1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/B11.jpg" />

US embassy in Kabul warned its citizens to leave the airport vicinity immediately due to a "credible threat" of an attack amid the evacuation operation.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-govt-is-not-spokesperson-for-taliban-pm-imran-khan-409085">Pakistan govt is not spokesperson for Taliban: PM Imran Khan</a>

<img alt="Imran Khan" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b3306ca3-6527-4d8e-a33d-fae898eecec7" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/2341.jpg" />

Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Islamabad cannot be held responsible for the actions of the Taliban&nbsp;in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US troops.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-external-affairs-minister-us-secretary-of-state-discuss-afghan-crisis-409082">Indian external affairs minister, US secretary of state discuss Afghan crisis</a>

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US Secretary of State Blinken also said he and EAM Jaishankar discussed shared priorities of the two countries, which include continued coordination on Afghanistan.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-paralympics-silver-for-india-as-bhavinaben-patel-goes-down-fighting-in-table-tennis-final-409083">Tokyo Paralympics: Silver for India as Bhavinaben Patel goes down fighting in table tennis final</a>

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The first medal for India at the ongoing Tokyo Paralympics 2020 as star player Bhavinaben Patel won the historic&nbsp;silver in women's table tennis.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/big-setback-to-biden-amid-a-panic-stricken-evacuation-attempt-409065">Watch:&nbsp;Big setback to Biden amid a panic-stricken evacuation attempt</a>

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As the US reached its final phase of evacuation from Afghanistan, US President Joe Biden warned of another attack in the next 24-36 hours just days after the deadly attack at Kabul airport in which 13 US troops were killed including several Afghan civilians.

As the US reached its final phase of evacuation from Afghanistan, US President Joe Biden warned of another attack in the next 24-36 hours just days after the deadly attack at Kabul airport in which 13 US troops were killed including several Afghan civilians. Meanwhile, Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar spoke to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Saturday to discuss the Afghanistan crisis. Amid the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, Pakistan PM Imran Khan said Islamabad cannot be held responsible for the actions of the group after the withdrawal of US troops. Click on the headline to read the full story. Attack highly likely in next 24-36 hours, says Biden on Kabul airport US embassy in Kabul warned its citizens to leave the airport vicinity immediately due to a "credible threat" of an attack amid the evacuation operation. Pakistan govt is not spokesperson for Taliban: PM Imran Khan Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Islamabad cannot be held responsible for the actions of the Taliban in Afghanistan after the withdrawal of US troops. Indian external affairs minister, US secretary of state discuss Afghan crisis US Secretary of State Blinken also said he and EAM Jaishankar discussed shared priorities of the two countries, which include continued coordination on Afghanistan. Tokyo Paralympics: Silver for India as Bhavinaben Patel goes down fighting in table tennis final The first medal for India at the ongoing Tokyo Paralympics 2020 as star player Bhavinaben Patel won the historic silver in women's table tennis. Watch: Big setback to Biden amid a panic-stricken evacuation attempt

Morning news brief: Pakistan government is not spokesperson for Taliban, says Imran & more

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.”

Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

“Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted.

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Op Devi Shakti continues. 
 
78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. 
 
Salute <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IAF_MCC</a>, <a href="https://twitter.com/airindiain?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AirIndiain</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TeamMEA?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TeamMEA</a> for their untiring efforts. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DeviShakti?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DeviShakti</a>
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1430062198219366403?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 24, 2021</a></blockquote>
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India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/why-is-world-silent-asks-afghanistans-first-female-sikh-mp-407905">‘Why is world silent?’, asks Afghanistan’s first female Sikh MP</a>

So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport.

Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule.

On August 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security where he directed the officials to ensure the safe evacuation of all Indians from Afghanistan and provide refuge to Afghan Sikhs and Hindus wanting to come to India.

After India evacuated the Indian embassy staff from Kabul on August 17, Jaishankar had described the mission as a “difficult and complicated” exercise.

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operation of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. “Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts. #DeviShakti — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) August 24, 2021 × India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. Also read | ‘Why is world silent?’, asks Afghanistan’s first female Sikh MP So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. On August 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Security where he directed the officials to ensure the safe evacuation of all Indians from Afghanistan and provide refuge to Afghan Sikhs and Hindus wanting to come to India. After India evacuated the Indian embassy staff from Kabul on August 17, Jaishankar had described the mission as a “difficult and complicated” exercise.

‘Operation Devi Shakti’: 78 more evacuees from Afghanistan land in India, 800 rescued so far

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan.&nbsp;Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

"Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted.

Watch:&nbsp;146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha

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Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier.

The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/kabul-evacuations-several-indians-return-to-home-country-from-many-destinations-407551">Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations&nbsp;</a>

As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country.

On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital.

The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will brief parliamentary leaders of various political parties on August 26 on the developments in war-torn Afghanistan. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Pralhad Joshi said the physical briefing will take place at 11 am on Thursday in the Parliament House Annexe. "Floor Leaders of Political Parties would be briefed by EAM @DrSJaishankar on the present situation in Afghanistan, on 26th August, 11am in Main Committee Room, PHA, New Delhi. Invites are being sent through email. All concerned are requested to attend," Joshi tweeted. Watch: 146 Indians evacuated from Kabul repatriated to Delhi via Doha × Jaishankar said Prime Minister Narendra Modi instructed the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)) to brief the floor leaders of the political parties. "In view of developments in Afghanistan, PM @narendramodi has instructed that MEA brief Floor Leaders of political parties. Minister of Parliamentary Affairs @JoshiPralhad will be intimating further details," Jaishankar tweeted earlier. The government's briefing is expected to focus on its evacuation mission from Afghanistan as well as its assessment of the situation in that country. The Taliban swept across Afghanistan this month, seizing control of almost all key towns and cities, including Kabul, following the withdrawal of the US forces from the country. Also Read | Kabul evacuations: Several Indians return to home country from many destinations As part of its evacuation mission from Afghanistan, India has already brought back around 730 people including members of the Afghan Sikh and Hindu communities. India on Monday brought back 146 of its nationals in four different flights from Qatar's capital Doha, days after they were evacuated from Afghanistan by NATO and American aircraft in view of the deteriorating security situation in the war-torn country. On Sunday, 392 people including two Afghan lawmakers were evacuated in three different flights under the evacuation mission. The Taliban seized control of Kabul on August 15. Within two days of the Taliban's capture of Kabul, India had evacuated 200 people, including the Indian envoy and other staffers of its embassy in the Afghan capital. The first evacuation flight brought back over 40 people, mostly staffers at the Indian embassy, on August 16. The second aircraft evacuated around 150 people including Indian diplomats, officials, security personnel and some stranded Indians from Kabul on August 17.

Indian external affairs minister Jaishankar to brief political party leaders on developments in Afghanistan

For the first time since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's terror worries on Thursday, identifying particular groups in another first.

He said that the world must never compromise with the evil of terrorism.

Dr S Jaishankar was addressing the high-level UN Security Council briefing on threats to international peace and security by terrorist acts.

"There is no justification for any act of terrorism, regardless of motivations; terrorism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group; we must never be afraid to call out double standards; those who extend state hospitality to entities with the blood of innocent people on their hands," Jaishankar said at the UNSC.&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | "...Whether it's in Afghanistan or against India, LeT &amp; JeM continue to operate with both impunity &amp; encouragement.. This Council must not take a selective view of the problems we face..." EAM S Jaishankar ta UNSC briefing <a href="https://t.co/n56EhB3lQu">pic.twitter.com/n56EhB3lQu</a>
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"Whether in Afghanistan or against India, groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed continue to operate with impunity and encouragement," he said. "What is true of COVID-19 is true of terrorism. No one is safe until all of us are safe... (But) some countries undermine our collective resolve," Jaishankar said.

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It is also important therefore to end the stalemate preventing the adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, which India has championed for so long. We reiterate our full support for counter-terrorism cooperation under the auspices of the UN: EAM
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1428371617663492096?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 19, 2021</a></blockquote>
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"When we see state hospitality being extended to those with blood of innocents on their hands, we must call out the doublespeak," he added. 
 
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will return to India on Friday and not travel onwards to Mexico, Panama and Guyana in view of the developments in Afghanistan, sources said.

India on Tuesday rushed back home its ambassador, Rudrendra Tandon, and staff from the embassy in Kabul in a military transport aircraft following escalating tension, fear, and uncertainty gripping the Afghan capital after Taliban insurgents seized the Afghan capital on Sunday.

(With inputs from agencies)

For the first time since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's terror worries on Thursday, identifying particular groups in another first.

For the first time since the Taliban took over Afghanistan, India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar highlighted India's terror worries on Thursday, identifying particular groups in another first. He said that the world must never compromise with the evil of terrorism. Dr S Jaishankar was addressing the high-level UN Security Council briefing on threats to international peace and security by terrorist acts. "There is no justification for any act of terrorism, regardless of motivations; terrorism cannot and should not be associated with any religion, nationality, civilization, or ethnic group; we must never be afraid to call out double standards; those who extend state hospitality to entities with the blood of innocent people on their hands," Jaishankar said at the UNSC. #WATCH | "...Whether it's in Afghanistan or against India, LeT & JeM continue to operate with both impunity & encouragement.. This Council must not take a selective view of the problems we face..." EAM S Jaishankar ta UNSC briefing pic.twitter.com/n56EhB3lQu — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2021 × "Whether in Afghanistan or against India, groups like Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed continue to operate with impunity and encouragement," he said. "What is true of COVID-19 is true of terrorism. No one is safe until all of us are safe... (But) some countries undermine our collective resolve," Jaishankar said. It is also important therefore to end the stalemate preventing the adoption of a Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism, which India has championed for so long. We reiterate our full support for counter-terrorism cooperation under the auspices of the UN: EAM — ANI (@ANI) August 19, 2021 × "When we see state hospitality being extended to those with blood of innocents on their hands, we must call out the doublespeak," he added. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar will return to India on Friday and not travel onwards to Mexico, Panama and Guyana in view of the developments in Afghanistan, sources said. India on Tuesday rushed back home its ambassador, Rudrendra Tandon, and staff from the embassy in Kabul in a military transport aircraft following escalating tension, fear, and uncertainty gripping the Afghan capital after Taliban insurgents seized the Afghan capital on Sunday. (With inputs from agencies)

Terrorists are terrorists, distinctions can only be made at our own peril: Dr S Jaishankar

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