Pointing out that India China ties being at a "crossroad", India's External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar has said that "choices that are made will have profound repercussion" not just for 2 countries, but also the entire world.

Indian External Affairs Minister: Ladakh incident 'profoundly disturbed' India-China ties

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "Our Indian colleagues fully understand that some countries would like to use the Indo-Pacific concept in a manner which is not inclusive and is confrontational," he said.

Pointing out Russian concerns on Indo-Pacific vision especially on it "undermining the central role of ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region", he explained that, "I know that India is not going to move this Indo-Pacific cooperation in a way which would be not positive and constructive." Indo Pacific vision is backed by India and Washington, along with other countries such as Japan and Australia. The Chinese are suspicious of it, believing it is aimed at encircling it.&nbsp;

Highlighting the absence of no common Indo Pacific vision, the Russian foreign minister said, "We don’t believe that it is just a terminological change" because "if you take it literally, from the geographical point of view, then 'Indo'&nbsp;means all littoral states of the Indian Ocean, but East Africa, we are told, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy. The Persian Gulf, which is a part of the Indian Ocean, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy" but "what is included, as the American sponsors of this concept say repeatedly, is the 'Quad'&nbsp;— India, Australia, Japan and USA”.&nbsp;

Interestingly, he pointed out to his previous statement on Indo pacific, clarifying, "Some of my previous statements on this issue have been widely discussed in India, by media which are not very friendly towards the Indian Government, but we don’t want any misunderstanding with our friends — the Indian people."

He had in December said, that "India is currently an object of the Western countries’ persistent, aggressive and devious policy" on the "anti-China games by promoting Indo Pacific strategies", something that was seen as harsh criticism.

While he did reiterate Russian views on the Indo Pacific, he reaffirmed the long-standing Moscow-New Delhi ties. Calling India, "very close, very strategic, very special, and very privileged partner", Lavrov said, "take the spheres of economy, innovation, military-technical and High-Tech cooperation. India is one of our closest partners on all these issues."

India and Russia have a special and privileged strategic partnership. Russia and India have an annual summit-level mechanism that alternates between the two countries. The only other country with which India shares this mechanism is Japan.

He made remarks on the current India China standoff as well, saying, "we are doing the utmost to make sure that India and China, our two great friends and brothers, live in peace with each other."

All the three countries are part of the BRICS, SCO and RIC groupings. While Russia was the host of RIC or Russia, India and China grouping in 2020, this year India will be hosting meetings of the grouping. He also assured that "in no way our closest cooperation and partnership with India is going to be affected" vis a vis Moscow's ties with China.

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar.

Speaking yet again on the Indo Pacific vision, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, on Monday, in response to a question recalled his conversation with his "good friend" External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar. "Our Indian colleagues fully understand that some countries would like to use the Indo-Pacific concept in a manner which is not inclusive and is confrontational," he said. Pointing out Russian concerns on Indo-Pacific vision especially on it "undermining the central role of ASEAN in the Asia-Pacific region", he explained that, "I know that India is not going to move this Indo-Pacific cooperation in a way which would be not positive and constructive." Indo Pacific vision is backed by India and Washington, along with other countries such as Japan and Australia. The Chinese are suspicious of it, believing it is aimed at encircling it. Highlighting the absence of no common Indo Pacific vision, the Russian foreign minister said, "We don’t believe that it is just a terminological change" because "if you take it literally, from the geographical point of view, then 'Indo' means all littoral states of the Indian Ocean, but East Africa, we are told, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy. The Persian Gulf, which is a part of the Indian Ocean, is not included in the Indo-Pacific strategy" but "what is included, as the American sponsors of this concept say repeatedly, is the 'Quad' — India, Australia, Japan and USA”. Interestingly, he pointed out to his previous statement on Indo pacific, clarifying, "Some of my previous statements on this issue have been widely discussed in India, by media which are not very friendly towards the Indian Government, but we don’t want any misunderstanding with our friends — the Indian people." He had in December said, that "India is currently an object of the Western countries’ persistent, aggressive and devious policy" on the "anti-China games by promoting Indo Pacific strategies", something that was seen as harsh criticism. While he did reiterate Russian views on the Indo Pacific, he reaffirmed the long-standing Moscow-New Delhi ties. Calling India, "very close, very strategic, very special, and very privileged partner", Lavrov said, "take the spheres of economy, innovation, military-technical and High-Tech cooperation. India is one of our closest partners on all these issues." India and Russia have a special and privileged strategic partnership. Russia and India have an annual summit-level mechanism that alternates between the two countries. The only other country with which India shares this mechanism is Japan. He made remarks on the current India China standoff as well, saying, "we are doing the utmost to make sure that India and China, our two great friends and brothers, live in peace with each other." All the three countries are part of the BRICS, SCO and RIC groupings. While Russia was the host of RIC or Russia, India and China grouping in 2020, this year India will be hosting meetings of the grouping. He also assured that "in no way our closest cooperation and partnership with India is going to be affected" vis a vis Moscow's ties with China.

Russian FM calls India 'very close partner'; says discussed Indo-Pacific with 'good friend' Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with his Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali with a focus on various key aspects of the bilateral relations.

The talks are taking place under the framework of the Indo-Nepal joint commission meeting (JCM), officials said.

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Gyawali arrived in India&nbsp;on Thursday on a three-day visit. He is the first senior political leader from Nepal to visit India after the ties between the two countries came under strain following a border row.

External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava on Thursday gave a clear indication that the boundary issue is unlikely to be discussed at the JCM.

Responding to questions on the border row, he said at a media briefing: "Our position on the boundary issue is well known. Let me say that the JCM and boundary talks are separate mechanisms."

He said the JCM is an important mechanism that provides the opportunity of reviewing the entire gamut of bilateral partnership and providing political guidance to further enhance the unique ties between the two countries.

"We look forward to constructive discussions on the numerous sectors that encompass our bilateral agenda," he said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with his Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali with a focus on various key aspects of the bilateral relations.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Friday held talks with his Nepalese counterpart Pradeep Kumar Gyawali with a focus on various key aspects of the bilateral relations. The talks are taking place under the framework of the Indo-Nepal joint commission meeting (JCM), officials said. Gyawali arrived in India on Thursday on a three-day visit. He is the first senior political leader from Nepal to visit India after the ties between the two countries came under strain following a border row. External Affairs Ministry Spokesperson Anurag Srivastava on Thursday gave a clear indication that the boundary issue is unlikely to be discussed at the JCM. Responding to questions on the border row, he said at a media briefing: "Our position on the boundary issue is well known. Let me say that the JCM and boundary talks are separate mechanisms." He said the JCM is an important mechanism that provides the opportunity of reviewing the entire gamut of bilateral partnership and providing political guidance to further enhance the unique ties between the two countries. "We look forward to constructive discussions on the numerous sectors that encompass our bilateral agenda," he said.

EAM Jaishankar holds talks with Nepalese counterpart Gyawali

Nepal Foreign Minister Pradeep Kumar Gyawali met his Indian counterpart S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on Friday (January 15) for talks even as the political crisis back in the Himalayan nation deepened.

Nepal Foreign Minister meets Indian counterpart in New Delhi

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said that trust with China had been deeply impaired after last summer's border clash which resulted in the first combat deaths in 45 years.

Jaishankar: Trust with China deeply impaired after border clash

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

"First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address.

Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month.

Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action.

He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously.

He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure.

"We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India.

Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism.

"Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said.

In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction.

The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks.

He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan.

India on Tuesday asserted that the international community must not allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified as it told the UN Security Council that the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts is given not just State protection but enjoying 5-star hospitality, a thinly-veiled reference to the D-company head Dawood Ibrahim believed to be hiding in Pakistan. "First, we must all summon up the political will to unhesitatingly combat terrorism. There must be no ifs and buts in this fight. Nor should we allow terrorism to be justified and terrorists glorified. All member States must fulfill their obligations enshrined in international counter terrorism instruments and conventions, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said in a virtual address. Jaishankar was speaking at the UNSC Ministerial Meeting on Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373 (2001),' the first address by the minister to the Security Council after India began its two-year tenure on the 15-nation body this month. Jaishankar proposed an eight-point Action Plan for the UN system to credibly address the menace of terrorism and ensure effective action. He asserted that linkages between terrorism and transnational organised crime must be fully recognised and addressed vigorously. He is the senior-most Indian leader to address the UNSC since India joined the powerful 15-member UN body as a non-permanent member this month for a two-year tenure. "We, in India, have seen the crime syndicate responsible for the 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts not just given State protection but actually enjoying 5-star hospitality," he said, alluding to D-Company and its head Ibrahim, believed to be hiding in Pakistan. In August last year, Pakistan had for the first time acknowledged the presence of Ibrahim on its soil after the government imposed sweeping sanctions on 88 banned terror groups and their leaders which also included the name of the underworld don wanted by India. Jaishankar emphasised that the international community must not "countenance double standards" in the battle against terrorism. "Terrorists are terrorists; there are no good and bad ones. Those who propagate this distinction have an agenda. And those who cover up for them are just as culpable," he said. In a strongly-worded statement, Jaishankar said combating terrorist financing will only be as effective as the weakest jurisdiction. The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) should continue to identify and remedy weaknesses in anti-money laundering and counter-terror financing frameworks. He also added that enlisting and delisting individuals and entities under the UN sanctions regimes must be done objectively, not for political or religious considerations.

Mumbai blasts perpetrators enjoying 5-star hospitality under State protection: Jaishankar tells UNSC

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”.

It will see all UNSC members speaking on 20 years of adoption of resolution 1373, which was adopted on 28th September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. The meet will happen via video conference and will start at around 7 pm IST or 8.30 am New York time (EST).

Tunisian foreign minister will chair the meet given that the country is the chair of the top body for the current month. Other key speakers will be Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. A presidential statement is under negotiation and is an anticipated outcome.

The development comes at a time even as India is all set to chair the Taliban sanctions committee and the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022. The Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror.

India took over its two-year term at the UNSC as a "non-permanent"&nbsp;member from January 1. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar will be addressing the United Nations Security Council on Tuesday. He will be addressing a meet on “Threats to international peace and security caused by terrorist acts: International cooperation in combating terrorism 20 years after the adoption of resolution 1373”. It will see all UNSC members speaking on 20 years of adoption of resolution 1373, which was adopted on 28th September 2001 in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks in New York. It calls on UN member states to implement measures to prevent and counter-terror at home and around the world. The meet will happen via video conference and will start at around 7 pm IST or 8.30 am New York time (EST). Tunisian foreign minister will chair the meet given that the country is the chair of the top body for the current month. Other key speakers will be Under-Secretary-General of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism Vladimir Voronkov, Executive Director of the Counter-Terrorism Executive Directorate, Michèle Coninsx. A presidential statement is under negotiation and is an anticipated outcome. The development comes at a time even as India is all set to chair the Taliban sanctions committee and the counter-terrorism committee for the year 2022. The Taliban sanctions committee which is also a committee dealing with terror and counter-terror committee, the spotlight is expected to increase on Islamabad's lacklustre record on acting on cross-border terror. India took over its two-year term at the UNSC as a "non-permanent" member from January 1. Last week India's foreign secretary Harsh Shringla addressed a meet at the body highlighting New Delhi's commitment to the African continent.

EAM Jaishankar to address UNSC on Tuesday

India could play multiple roles in the post-pandemic world - as the pharmacy of the world, or as one of the many poles of a multi-polar world.

India's outreach programmes include strategic alliances, and significant visits like the one undertaken by India’s Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who is currently in Sri Lanka. Jaishankar called on Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to discuss cooperation in the post-pandemic world especially in areas of health and economy.

Dr S&nbsp;Jaishankar also met his Lankan counterpart - Dinesh Gunawardena. India called on Sri Lanka to further the aspirations of Lanka's Tamil minorities. Issues of maritime security and safety also featured in the talks, as did coronavirus.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/india-news/coronavirus-pandemic-could-not-dent-indias-bilateral-cooperation-with-sri-lanka-jaishankar-354831" hreflang="en">Coronavirus pandemic could not dent India's bilateral cooperation with Sri Lanka: Jaishankar</a>

“As two close neighbours with such obvious synergies, the potential for further strengthening our cooperation is enormous. Some of that may help provide immediate relief, others would have very positive medium-term implications for Sri Lanka's development”, Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar said.

“During our talks, we focused on multiple areas of mutual cooperation in the identified sectors of economics, finance, trade, commerce, defence, security and fisheries, cultural and particularly on the ongoing covid-19 pandemic and the post-covid era that we are moving (towards)”, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka expressed interest in accessing vaccines from India. “India's neighbourhood first policy has made a positive impact on the health sector and economy during this period of unprecedented crisis”, Gunawardena said.

India has promised vaccines to Bangladesh, and New Delhi has also assured help to Bhutan and Nepal, and has maintained close ties with its neighbours through the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/south-asia/jaishankar-visits-sri-lanka-as-island-faces-economic-crisis-354679" hreflang="en">Jaishankar visits Sri Lanka as island faces economic crisis</a>

In November 2020, India's Army Chief -&nbsp;General MM Naravane visited Nepal. On December 17 - India's Prime Minister- Narendra Modi held a virtual summit with his Bangladeshi counterpart - Sheikh Hasina. Dr Jaishankar is the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka in 2021.

Colombo is critical to the regional geopolitics - given China's influence, and Sri Lanka's location. Beijing has invested nearly $15 billion in Sri Lanka. In 2017, Colombo handed over its Hambantota port to Beijing as a debt swap.

After exporting the virus, China offered a grant of $90 million to Sri Lanka. It also promised an additional $500 million loan - repayable in ten years.

The number of Chinese workers in Sri Lanka is on the rise. For China - debt trapping Sri Lanka means securing a strategic location in the Indian ocean. India views Sri Lanka as a partner - one it shares history, culture and people-to-people relations with.

As India prepares itself for a leadership role in the post-pandemic world, one of its many challenges will be to ensure that its neighbours like Sri Lanka remain free from the clutches of China.

India could play multiple roles in the post-pandemic world - as the pharmacy of the world, or as one of the many poles of a multi-polar world. India's outreach programmes include strategic alliances, and significant visits like the one undertaken by India’s Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who is currently in Sri Lanka.

India could play multiple roles in the post-pandemic world - as the pharmacy of the world, or as one of the many poles of a multi-polar world. India's outreach programmes include strategic alliances, and significant visits like the one undertaken by India’s Foreign Minister Dr S Jaishankar, who is currently in Sri Lanka. Jaishankar called on Lankan president Gotabaya Rajapaksa to discuss cooperation in the post-pandemic world especially in areas of health and economy. Dr S Jaishankar also met his Lankan counterpart - Dinesh Gunawardena. India called on Sri Lanka to further the aspirations of Lanka's Tamil minorities. Issues of maritime security and safety also featured in the talks, as did coronavirus. Also read: Coronavirus pandemic could not dent India's bilateral cooperation with Sri Lanka: Jaishankar “As two close neighbours with such obvious synergies, the potential for further strengthening our cooperation is enormous. Some of that may help provide immediate relief, others would have very positive medium-term implications for Sri Lanka's development”, Indian Foreign Minister Jaishankar said. “During our talks, we focused on multiple areas of mutual cooperation in the identified sectors of economics, finance, trade, commerce, defence, security and fisheries, cultural and particularly on the ongoing covid-19 pandemic and the post-covid era that we are moving (towards)”, Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Dinesh Gunawardena. Sri Lanka expressed interest in accessing vaccines from India. “India's neighbourhood first policy has made a positive impact on the health sector and economy during this period of unprecedented crisis”, Gunawardena said. India has promised vaccines to Bangladesh, and New Delhi has also assured help to Bhutan and Nepal, and has maintained close ties with its neighbours through the pandemic. Also read: Jaishankar visits Sri Lanka as island faces economic crisis In November 2020, India's Army Chief - General MM Naravane visited Nepal. On December 17 - India's Prime Minister- Narendra Modi held a virtual summit with his Bangladeshi counterpart - Sheikh Hasina. Dr Jaishankar is the first foreign dignitary to visit Sri Lanka in 2021. Colombo is critical to the regional geopolitics - given China's influence, and Sri Lanka's location. Beijing has invested nearly $15 billion in Sri Lanka. In 2017, Colombo handed over its Hambantota port to Beijing as a debt swap. After exporting the virus, China offered a grant of $90 million to Sri Lanka. It also promised an additional $500 million loan - repayable in ten years. The number of Chinese workers in Sri Lanka is on the rise. For China - debt trapping Sri Lanka means securing a strategic location in the Indian ocean. India views Sri Lanka as a partner - one it shares history, culture and people-to-people relations with. As India prepares itself for a leadership role in the post-pandemic world, one of its many challenges will be to ensure that its neighbours like Sri Lanka remain free from the clutches of China.

Why India's post-pandemic outreach programmes matter, especially in South Asia

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.

Seventh high-level visit from India to West Asia begins as Jaishankar reaches Qatar

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country.&nbsp;

Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders.

A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic."

This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months.&nbsp;

September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively.

October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November.

December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia.

Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year.

During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home.&nbsp;

India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues.

Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership.&nbsp;

In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha.

Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India.&nbsp;

The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20.

India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

Indian External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has reached Qatar for a two-day visit that will see him meeting top leadership of the politically significant West Asian country. Jaishankar will meet the foreign minister of the country, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, and other top political leaders. A Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) release said, "During the visit, he will hold talks with his counterpart on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest. He will convey special gratitude to the State of Qatar for taking care of Indians during the Covid-19 pandemic." This is the seventh high-level in-person visit from India to West Asia amid Covid pandemic in the last four months. September saw a stop-over by both India's defence minister Rajnath Singh and Jaishankar in Tehran, while on way to Moscow for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation defense and foreign ministers met respectively. October saw the visit of India's energy minister Dharmendra Pradhan to Kuwait to offer condolences on the passing away of former Emir of Kuwait Sheikh Sabah al Ahmed al Jaber al Sabah. It was followed by the visit of Jaishankar to UAE and Bahrain in November. December saw two visits -- the visit of Indian Army Chief MM Naravane to Saudi Arabia and UAE and Minister of State in the MEA V Muraleedharan to Oman. This visit by Indian Army chief was the first such visit to West Asia. Overall, Indian leaders have been to seven West Asian countries -- Iran (two visits), Kuwait, UAE (two visits), Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, Oman and Qatar -- the maximum to any region this year. During his current visit, Jaishankar will address the Indian community. The country hosts 7 lakh Indian workers, many of them send huge remittances to back home. India has welcomed the recent labour reforms measures adopted by the country -- which include the institutionalisation of rights of workers, their safe movement and settlement of labour issues. Qatar, which has punched above its weight in West Asia, also hosts the intra-Afghan talks and Taliban delegation with Afghanistan -- which is also expected to be the key focus of Jaishankar's talks with the country's leadership. In September, Jaishankar virtually joined the ceremony marking the start of talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government hosted by Doha. Earlier this month, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Amir Qatar Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani with investment being the focus of the talks. Both sides have decided to create a special task force to further facilitate investments by Qatar investment authority into India. They have also resolved to explore Qatari investments in the entire energy value-chain in India. The bilateral trade between the two countries stands at US$ 10.95 billion in 2019-20. India has continued its engagement via virtual means with West Asia amidst the COVID pandemic as well. Jaishankar has spoken to a number of his counterparts, including a meet with the GCC or Gulf Cooperation Council.

India's external affairs Minister S Jaishankar batting for the Indo-Pacific concept has said that it represents "a natural evolution... the evolution of India", a concept backed by Washington, several European countries, and ASEAN coming up with an outlook on it.

Indian EAM S Jaishankar: Indo-Pacific represents evolution of India

British Foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be on an India visit starting later tonight till Thursday, a visit that comes in the backdrop of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's India visit next month to take part in Republic day celebrations and Brexit.

He will hold talks with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday morning and later meet India's environment minister Prakash Javadekar and Education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal. In his 2nd leg of the visit, he will travel to the southern Indian city of Bengaluru and call on the Chief Minister of Karnataka B.S. Yediyurappa.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indias-defence-minister-highlights-chinas-unprovoked-aggression-build-up-in-ladakh-349692" hreflang="en">India's Defence Minister highlights China's ‘unprovoked aggression’, ‘build-up’ in Ladakh</a>

A release by the MEA said, "Raab’s visit will pave the way for further strengthening of the partnership across trade, defence, climate, migration and mobility, education and health sectors in the post-Covid, post-Brexit context."

India and the UK, who have strategic partnership since 2004, have seen a number of high-level engagements including the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the country in 2018 and 2015. This year, Indian PM and British PM have spoken many times, the main focus being the COVID-19 crisis.

British Foreign secretary's India visit is a third-highest level diplomatic visit to India amidst COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in October top Afghan govt negotiator, Dr Abdullah Abdulla had visited India, followed by the US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and the then US defence secretary Mark Esper for India, US 2+2 dialogue.

British Foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be on an India visit starting later tonight till Thursday, a visit that comes in the backdrop of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's India visit next month to take part in Republic day celebrations and Brexit.

British Foreign secretary Dominic Raab will be on an India visit starting later tonight till Thursday, a visit that comes in the backdrop of British Prime Minister Boris Johnson's India visit next month to take part in Republic day celebrations and Brexit. He will hold talks with India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar on Tuesday morning and later meet India's environment minister Prakash Javadekar and Education minister Ramesh Pokhriyal. In his 2nd leg of the visit, he will travel to the southern Indian city of Bengaluru and call on the Chief Minister of Karnataka B.S. Yediyurappa. Also read| India's Defence Minister highlights China's ‘unprovoked aggression’, ‘build-up’ in Ladakh A release by the MEA said, "Raab’s visit will pave the way for further strengthening of the partnership across trade, defence, climate, migration and mobility, education and health sectors in the post-Covid, post-Brexit context." India and the UK, who have strategic partnership since 2004, have seen a number of high-level engagements including the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the country in 2018 and 2015. This year, Indian PM and British PM have spoken many times, the main focus being the COVID-19 crisis. British Foreign secretary's India visit is a third-highest level diplomatic visit to India amidst COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier in October top Afghan govt negotiator, Dr Abdullah Abdulla had visited India, followed by the US secretary of state Mike Pompeo and the then US defence secretary Mark Esper for India, US 2+2 dialogue.

British foreign secretary Dominic Raab to visit India

India's External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has issued a strong statement on China. Jaishankar has said that China has become more nationalistic in its approach. EAM Jaishankar also talked about border tensions between India & China and said that this is the most difficult phase with china in last 30 years.

India's EAM Jaishankar: Most difficult phase with China in last 30 years

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar talked with Afghani counterpart Mohammed Haneef Atmar on Tuesday during which they discussed bilateral development cooperation between New Delhi and Kabul.

Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar said he appreciated the update on the ongoing Afghan peace process."Glad to converse with FM @MHaneefAtmar of Afghanistan. Appreciated the update on the peace process. Discussed our bilateral development cooperation. Agreed to remain in close touch," Atmar tweeted.

The talks come days after the Afghan government and the Taliban announced that they have agreed on the framework rules for peace talks after more than two months of discussions, allowing negotiations on ending a nearly 20-year civil war to finally begin.

The peace process, hosted by Qatar, is playing out against a backdrop of heavy violence on the ground in Afghanistan and an accelerated withdrawal of US troops.The three-page framework agreement for the talks was announced on Twitter by negotiators from both sides almost simultaneously on Wednesday.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar talked with Afghani counterpart Mohammed Haneef Atmar on Tuesday during which they discussed bilateral development cooperation between New Delhi and Kabul.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar talked with Afghani counterpart Mohammed Haneef Atmar on Tuesday during which they discussed bilateral development cooperation between New Delhi and Kabul. Taking to Twitter, Jaishankar said he appreciated the update on the ongoing Afghan peace process."Glad to converse with FM @MHaneefAtmar of Afghanistan. Appreciated the update on the peace process. Discussed our bilateral development cooperation. Agreed to remain in close touch," Atmar tweeted. The talks come days after the Afghan government and the Taliban announced that they have agreed on the framework rules for peace talks after more than two months of discussions, allowing negotiations on ending a nearly 20-year civil war to finally begin. The peace process, hosted by Qatar, is playing out against a backdrop of heavy violence on the ground in Afghanistan and an accelerated withdrawal of US troops.The three-page framework agreement for the talks was announced on Twitter by negotiators from both sides almost simultaneously on Wednesday.

Jaishankar talks to Afghan counterpart, appreciates update on peace process

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is&nbsp;visiting&nbsp;Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates on a six-day tour of West Asia.

Jaishankar's visit is crucial as it is the perfect opportunity for India to enhance its outreach with the Gulf region which is a key strategic partner of the country.

Jaishankar held talks on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest with his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.

He also conveyed condolences on behalf of the government and people of India to the Bahraini leadership on the sad demise of Prime Minister of Bahrain Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa on November 11.

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Discussed our historical ties and cooperation in diverse sectors. Exchanged views on regional and international issues. Thanked Bahrain for taking special care of the Indian community during COVID times.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) <a href="https://twitter.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1331305960615370759?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He&nbsp;visited Gulf's oldest temple - the Shreenathji (Shree Krishna) Hindu Temple - in Bahrain built by the Thattai Hindu community which had arrived from the Sindh, undivided India.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-visits-200-year-old-hindu-temple-in-bahrain-345224" hreflang="en">Foreign minister Jaishankar visits 200-year-old Hindu temple in Bahrain</a>

The 200-year-old Shree Krishna temple was built in 1817 and situated in Bahrain's capital Manama.

Jaishankar also&nbsp;interacted virtually, with members of the Indian community in Bahrain.

From Bahrain, Jaishankar will travel to UAE where he is scheduled to meet his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

During his UAE trip, Jaishankar will discuss ways for Indian workers to resume their jobs in UAE in the post-COVID scenario. More than 3 million Indians live and work in the UAE, the MEA had said in a statement before the commencement of the minister's journey.

In the last leg of his tour, the external affairs minister will travel to Seychelles on November 27 and 28.

In Seychelles, Jaishankar will call-on the newly elected President, Wavel Ramkalawan, to present greetings of Prime Minister Modi and will discuss with him the priorities of the new government and avenues for further strengthening of bilateral relations, the MEA said.

Jaishankar will also hold bilateral consultations with the newly appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde, it said.&nbsp;

Why is India reaching out to its Gulf partners right now?

India's regional influence is growing. It&nbsp;no longer wants to look at the Gulf&nbsp;just as a source of oil but also as a key strategic partner.

The visit is seen as important as it comes in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

The pandemic has triggered a lot of turbulence in this region.&nbsp;While new alliances are being built&nbsp;Gulf nations are looking within too.

As per an estimate,&nbsp;Arab states of the gulf could have a deficit of about 490 billion dollars between 2020 and 2023. Their government debt could surge&nbsp;by a record 100 billion this year.

Proposals are being floated around&nbsp;that could limit the entry of foreign workers. India&nbsp;urged the Gulf countries to facilitate the return of Indian workers and professionals who are now eager to resume their work following the easing of coronavirus-related restrictions.

The gulf is diversifying by&nbsp;making big-ticket investments to open up other sectors of the economy&nbsp;to generate income.&nbsp;India can offer many investment opportunities to the region.

Both the UAE and Bahrain have&nbsp;normalised ties with Israel, another ally for India.&nbsp;There is now an opening for all four countries&nbsp;to work together on areas of mutual interest.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi&nbsp;received state honours in all four countries. His foreign policy has been to elevate&nbsp;the Gulf and the Indian Ocean as the countries strategic priorities.&nbsp;

Gulf has sided with India in against Pakistan as well. Before Jaishankar's visit, the United Arab Emirates stopped issuing new visas to citizens of 13 mostly Muslim-majority countries, including&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/remember-abbottabad-india-slams-pakistan-for-presenting-dossier-of-lies-at-un-345189">Pakistan</a>, Iran, Syria and Somalia, according to a document issued by a state-owned business park.

&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates on a six-day tour of West Asia. Jaishankar's visit is crucial as it is the perfect opportunity for India to enhance its outreach with the Gulf region which is a key strategic partner of the country.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar is visiting Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates on a six-day tour of West Asia. Jaishankar's visit is crucial as it is the perfect opportunity for India to enhance its outreach with the Gulf region which is a key strategic partner of the country. Jaishankar held talks on bilateral issues as well as regional and international issues of mutual interest with his Bahraini counterpart Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani. He also conveyed condolences on behalf of the government and people of India to the Bahraini leadership on the sad demise of Prime Minister of Bahrain Prince Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa on November 11. Discussed our historical ties and cooperation in diverse sectors. Exchanged views on regional and international issues. Thanked Bahrain for taking special care of the Indian community during COVID times. — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 24, 2020 × He visited Gulf's oldest temple - the Shreenathji (Shree Krishna) Hindu Temple - in Bahrain built by the Thattai Hindu community which had arrived from the Sindh, undivided India. Also read: Foreign minister Jaishankar visits 200-year-old Hindu temple in Bahrain The 200-year-old Shree Krishna temple was built in 1817 and situated in Bahrain's capital Manama. Jaishankar also interacted virtually, with members of the Indian community in Bahrain. From Bahrain, Jaishankar will travel to UAE where he is scheduled to meet his counterpart Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan. During his UAE trip, Jaishankar will discuss ways for Indian workers to resume their jobs in UAE in the post-COVID scenario. More than 3 million Indians live and work in the UAE, the MEA had said in a statement before the commencement of the minister's journey. In the last leg of his tour, the external affairs minister will travel to Seychelles on November 27 and 28. In Seychelles, Jaishankar will call-on the newly elected President, Wavel Ramkalawan, to present greetings of Prime Minister Modi and will discuss with him the priorities of the new government and avenues for further strengthening of bilateral relations, the MEA said. Jaishankar will also hold bilateral consultations with the newly appointed Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Sylvestre Radegonde, it said. Why is India reaching out to its Gulf partners right now? India's regional influence is growing. It no longer wants to look at the Gulf just as a source of oil but also as a key strategic partner. The visit is seen as important as it comes in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic. The pandemic has triggered a lot of turbulence in this region. While new alliances are being built Gulf nations are looking within too. As per an estimate, Arab states of the gulf could have a deficit of about 490 billion dollars between 2020 and 2023. Their government debt could surge by a record 100 billion this year. Proposals are being floated around that could limit the entry of foreign workers. India urged the Gulf countries to facilitate the return of Indian workers and professionals who are now eager to resume their work following the easing of coronavirus-related restrictions. The gulf is diversifying by making big-ticket investments to open up other sectors of the economy to generate income. India can offer many investment opportunities to the region. Both the UAE and Bahrain have normalised ties with Israel, another ally for India. There is now an opening for all four countries to work together on areas of mutual interest. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi received state honours in all four countries. His foreign policy has been to elevate the Gulf and the Indian Ocean as the countries strategic priorities. Gulf has sided with India in against Pakistan as well. Before Jaishankar's visit, the United Arab Emirates stopped issuing new visas to citizens of 13 mostly Muslim-majority countries, including Pakistan, Iran, Syria and Somalia, according to a document issued by a state-owned business park.

How a structural shift in West Asia has opened up opportunities for India

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism. 
The external affairs minister called Europe a natural partner when it comes to best practices for an India that is focussed on "deep reforms and profound transformation". 
 
"For an India which is focused on deep reforms and profound transformation, Europe is a natural partner when it comes to resources, technology or best practices. Europeans need to appreciate the scale of this change and the opportunities that emerge from it," Jaishankar said at the India-Europe Strategy Group meeting virtually. 
 
"My focus is on the larger relevance of the India-EU partnership for the world. We are each political and economical poles in an increasingly multipolar world. Our ability to work together can help shape global outcomes,"Jaishankar pointed out that India-EU cooperation can take many forms and "unfold in many ways". 
 
"We can make a big difference in vaccine production and renewable energy. We can harmonise our developmental partnerships from Africa to CARICOM and the Pacific Islands. We can influence the creation of fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism," he said.The India-EU partnership could help create a greener, human-centric, and cooperative world, he said further.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday said that India and Europe`s ability to work together can help shape global outcomes, adding that the partnership could create fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism. The external affairs minister called Europe a natural partner when it comes to best practices for an India that is focussed on "deep reforms and profound transformation". "For an India which is focused on deep reforms and profound transformation, Europe is a natural partner when it comes to resources, technology or best practices. Europeans need to appreciate the scale of this change and the opportunities that emerge from it," Jaishankar said at the India-Europe Strategy Group meeting virtually. "My focus is on the larger relevance of the India-EU partnership for the world. We are each political and economical poles in an increasingly multipolar world. Our ability to work together can help shape global outcomes,"Jaishankar pointed out that India-EU cooperation can take many forms and "unfold in many ways". "We can make a big difference in vaccine production and renewable energy. We can harmonise our developmental partnerships from Africa to CARICOM and the Pacific Islands. We can influence the creation of fairer globalisation and more effective multilateralism," he said.The India-EU partnership could help create a greener, human-centric, and cooperative world, he said further.

India, EU can help shape global outcomes together: Indian External Affairs Minister Jaishankar

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

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

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

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

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation.

"As vice president, we dealt with him. I happened to be the ambassador during the last phase of the Obama administration.

"We'd known him earlier when he was in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as the ranking Democratic member and then as the chairman," Jaishankar said.

The external affairs minister was speaking at an online discussion organised by leading think-tank Gateway House.

"He (Biden) is very much part of this period when Indo-American relations underwent a radical transformation, which I reasonably date back to (Bill) Clinton's visit," Jaishankar said.

Jaishankar said President-elect Biden is "not a stranger" to India or to the relationship between the two countries.

"I am very confident that we will pick up where we left off, we have done that over the last four administrations.

"I think that will be the case as well here and I also say that because within the American politics, it's not just that we deal with the administration of the day, we also tend to deal with the Congress," Jaishankar said.

"American politics by its nature has very strong elements of bipartisanship," he said.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday exuded confidence that ties between India and the US will expand further under Joe Biden's administration, noting that he was part of the period when bilateral relations underwent a radical transformation. "As vice president, we dealt with him. I happened to be the ambassador during the last phase of the Obama administration. "We'd known him earlier when he was in the Senate Foreign Relations Committee as the ranking Democratic member and then as the chairman," Jaishankar said. The external affairs minister was speaking at an online discussion organised by leading think-tank Gateway House. "He (Biden) is very much part of this period when Indo-American relations underwent a radical transformation, which I reasonably date back to (Bill) Clinton's visit," Jaishankar said. Jaishankar said President-elect Biden is "not a stranger" to India or to the relationship between the two countries. "I am very confident that we will pick up where we left off, we have done that over the last four administrations. "I think that will be the case as well here and I also say that because within the American politics, it's not just that we deal with the administration of the day, we also tend to deal with the Congress," Jaishankar said. "American politics by its nature has very strong elements of bipartisanship," he said.

We will pick up where we left off: EAM Jaishankar on Indo-US ties under Joe Biden's administration

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism."

Speaking virtually at the Deccan Dialogue, he said, "As regards terrorism, the era of "not my problem” came to an end in 9/11" and called for "whole-hearted international collaborative effort.'

His comments come even as Islamabad is yet to be seen acting on the issue of terror. Last week, Islamabad accepted its involvement in the 26/11 terror attacks with the country's federal investigation agency issuing an 800-page list of the country's most wanted which included 11 terrorists involved in the 2008 attacks on India's financial centre.&nbsp;

EAM said, "The world is gradually becoming aware of the global nature of international terrorism. Our relentless efforts have kept it in the spotlight, bringing out related aspects like terror finance, radicalization and cyber recruitment."

Adding, "The goal remains to reach a comprehensive convention on the subject and we will not rest till that happens."

India-backed CCIT or comprehensive convention on international terrorism at the United Nations calls for a common definition of terrorism. It was introduced in 1996 and due to lack of global consensus on the issue of terror has not been passed.

Jaishankar also spoke about FATF or financial action task force saying, "On terrorism, our efforts have contributed to a larger awareness of its different facets. The FATF has become a more important forum and black money is today firmly on the agenda of the G-20. The world no longer sees it as a law and order issue."

It has been more than 2 years and Pakistan continues to languish in the anti-terror financing body's grey list impacting the country's economy. By Pakistan's govt's own admission, the country loses $10 billion annually by being on the FATF grey list.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has highlighted Pakistan's role in supporting terrorism, calling it a "particularly egregious example of state-sponsored cross-border terrorism." Speaking virtually at the Deccan Dialogue, he said, "As regards terrorism, the era of "not my problem” came to an end in 9/11" and called for "whole-hearted international collaborative effort.' His comments come even as Islamabad is yet to be seen acting on the issue of terror. Last week, Islamabad accepted its involvement in the 26/11 terror attacks with the country's federal investigation agency issuing an 800-page list of the country's most wanted which included 11 terrorists involved in the 2008 attacks on India's financial centre. EAM said, "The world is gradually becoming aware of the global nature of international terrorism. Our relentless efforts have kept it in the spotlight, bringing out related aspects like terror finance, radicalization and cyber recruitment." Adding, "The goal remains to reach a comprehensive convention on the subject and we will not rest till that happens." India-backed CCIT or comprehensive convention on international terrorism at the United Nations calls for a common definition of terrorism. It was introduced in 1996 and due to lack of global consensus on the issue of terror has not been passed. Jaishankar also spoke about FATF or financial action task force saying, "On terrorism, our efforts have contributed to a larger awareness of its different facets. The FATF has become a more important forum and black money is today firmly on the agenda of the G-20. The world no longer sees it as a law and order issue." It has been more than 2 years and Pakistan continues to languish in the anti-terror financing body's grey list impacting the country's economy. By Pakistan's govt's own admission, the country loses $10 billion annually by being on the FATF grey list.

'Egregious' state-sponsored terrorism in India's neighbourhood: Jaishankar

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Monday lauded India's COVID-19 response, saying that it should give people confidence in the country's future.

Speaking at the third edition of Deccan Dialogue, Jaishankar said: "A nation that had no preparedness for an enormous crisis, responded in a way that it should give us all confidence in our future."

The minister said during the onset of a pandemic, India was not able to provide enough PPEs and ventilators. Even N-95 masks were assembled in small quantities and testing kits were not produced in the country. "We should ask ourselves why not earlier, today not only (India) meets its national needs but helps beyond."

He also stated that during the ongoing pandemic situation, the social discipline in India stood out in comparison with many developed countries, which was the influence of leadership and motivation.

"If we had created more than 15,000 dedicated facilities, with 1.5 million isolation beds, if more than a million Indians are tested daily by 7,000 centres, if Aarogya Setu was devised to facilitate contract testing, then it speaks volumes about our inherent capabilities," Jaishankar said.

He further added: "The challenge now is to take this ability to rise to the moment of crisis and transform that to more routine sets of practices and procedures, and I do believe that the India which will come out of the Covid crisis, will do just that."

The External Affairs Minister also spoke on the Vande Bharat mission, informing that nearly 24 lakh Indians have been repatriated from foreign nations.

"From Air India to the Indian Navy we pressed all our resources to achieve this goal. The intention was very simple, today's India will not leave an Indian abroad in distress," he added.

Jaishankar also commented on issues of climate change and state-sponsored terrorism during his keynote address.

Deccan Dialogue is an initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, hosted by the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Monday lauded India's COVID-19 response, saying that it should give people confidence in the country's future.

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr S Jaishankar on Monday lauded India's COVID-19 response, saying that it should give people confidence in the country's future. Speaking at the third edition of Deccan Dialogue, Jaishankar said: "A nation that had no preparedness for an enormous crisis, responded in a way that it should give us all confidence in our future." The minister said during the onset of a pandemic, India was not able to provide enough PPEs and ventilators. Even N-95 masks were assembled in small quantities and testing kits were not produced in the country. "We should ask ourselves why not earlier, today not only (India) meets its national needs but helps beyond." He also stated that during the ongoing pandemic situation, the social discipline in India stood out in comparison with many developed countries, which was the influence of leadership and motivation. "If we had created more than 15,000 dedicated facilities, with 1.5 million isolation beds, if more than a million Indians are tested daily by 7,000 centres, if Aarogya Setu was devised to facilitate contract testing, then it speaks volumes about our inherent capabilities," Jaishankar said. He further added: "The challenge now is to take this ability to rise to the moment of crisis and transform that to more routine sets of practices and procedures, and I do believe that the India which will come out of the Covid crisis, will do just that." The External Affairs Minister also spoke on the Vande Bharat mission, informing that nearly 24 lakh Indians have been repatriated from foreign nations. "From Air India to the Indian Navy we pressed all our resources to achieve this goal. The intention was very simple, today's India will not leave an Indian abroad in distress," he added. Jaishankar also commented on issues of climate change and state-sponsored terrorism during his keynote address. Deccan Dialogue is an initiative of the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, hosted by the Indian School of Business, Hyderabad.

India's COVID-19 response should give people confidence in future, says S Jaishankar

Wishing Palestine on its Independence Day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar assured it that New Delhi remains supportive to "the aspirations of Palestinians" in their struggle to achieve "statehood", among other things.&nbsp;

"Greetings to FM Dr Riyad Al-Maliki and the Government and people of the State of Palestine on their Declaration of Independence Day. India remains supportive to the aspirations of Palestinians in their pursuit of statehood, peace and prosperity," Jaishankar tweeted.

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-will-work-with-nordic-baltic-countries-for-greener-smarter-digital-innovation-led-future-s-jaishankar-340935">India will work with Nordic-Baltic countries for greener, smarter, digital &amp; innovation-led future: S Jaishankar</a>

India became one of the first nations in 1988 to recognise the Palestinian State.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/days-before-us-election-2020-shoes-with-donald-trumps-name-appears-in-palestine-339345">Days before US election 2020, shoes with Donald Trump's name appears in Palestine</a>

The Palestine National Council, the legislative body of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), declared Palestine's Independence on November 15, 1988.&nbsp;

The declaration was made by then Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat from Algeria, in which he called Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Palestine.

Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Palestinians bid adieu to its veteran negotiator Saeb Erekat, who died from coronavirus on Tuesday.&nbsp;

Erekat's approach earned praise widely from world leaders as he had an enduring belief that negotiations could end the Middle East dispute and lead to the formation of a Palestinian state.

Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, called Erekat a "great fighter" for his people, while the foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said he was "an icon of the Palestinian cause".

Wishing Palestine on its Independence Day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar assured it that New Delhi remains supportive to "the aspirations of Palestinians" in their struggle to achieve "statehood", among other things.

Wishing Palestine on its Independence Day, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar assured it that New Delhi remains supportive to "the aspirations of Palestinians" in their struggle to achieve "statehood", among other things. "Greetings to FM Dr Riyad Al-Maliki and the Government and people of the State of Palestine on their Declaration of Independence Day. India remains supportive to the aspirations of Palestinians in their pursuit of statehood, peace and prosperity," Jaishankar tweeted. Also read | India will work with Nordic-Baltic countries for greener, smarter, digital & innovation-led future: S Jaishankar India became one of the first nations in 1988 to recognise the Palestinian State. Also read | Days before US election 2020, shoes with Donald Trump's name appears in Palestine The Palestine National Council, the legislative body of the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), declared Palestine's Independence on November 15, 1988. The declaration was made by then Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat from Algeria, in which he called Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Palestine. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, Palestinians bid adieu to its veteran negotiator Saeb Erekat, who died from coronavirus on Tuesday. Erekat's approach earned praise widely from world leaders as he had an enduring belief that negotiations could end the Middle East dispute and lead to the formation of a Palestinian state. Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas, called Erekat a "great fighter" for his people, while the foreign minister Riyad al-Maliki said he was "an icon of the Palestinian cause".

India remains supportive to the aspirations of Palestinians in their pursuit of statehood: Jaishankar

India and five central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have vowed to increase engagement on several areas with connectivity being the top focus area.

India and five central Asian countries - Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and the Kyrgyz Republic have vowed to increase engagement on several areas with connectivity being the top focus area. The foreign minister of these all these countries met virtually, along with the Afghan foreign minister who was a special invite at the meet. In his opening statement, India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar highlighted the "commonality of views on various regional and international issues" and since "we face common challenges of terrorism, extremism, drug trafficking and such other issues. All these commonalities make us a natural partner in our developmental journey." During the meet, India announced $ 1 billion Line of Credit for "priority developmental projects" in Central Asian countries in the fields of connectivity, energy, IT, healthcare, education, agriculture and offered to provide grant assistance for implementation of High Impact Community Development Projects (HICDP) for furthering socio-economic development. A joint statement after the meet said, "the ministers expressed their continued interest in further developing the transit and transport potential of their countries, improving the logistics network of the region and promoting joint initiatives to create regional and international transport corridors." The ministers of the Central Asian countries "appreciated" India’s efforts to modernize the infrastructure of the Chabahar port in Iran which the joint statement said, "could become an important link in trade and transport communications between the markets of Central and South Asia." New Delhi is keen to increase connectivity to the region via Chabahar port and is even planning on an air corridor. It already has an air corridor with Afghanistan bringing goods from Kabul and other parts to cities like Delhi and Mumbai. On the issue of terrorism, the joint statement, without mentioning Pakistan said, "strongly condemn terrorism in all its forms and manifestations" and reaffirmed the "determination of their countries to combat this menace by destroying terrorist safe-havens, networks, infrastructure and funding channels." Adding further, the ministers "underlined the need for every country to ensure that its territory is not used to launch terrorist attacks against other countries." This is the second such meet of the India-Central Asian countries foreign ministers. The first such meeting, which was a physical one had taken place in Uzbekistan's Samarkand in 2019 and aimed to become a platform to increase and strengthen New Delhi's ties with the region which it sees as its "extended neighbourhood". On Afghanistan, the joint statement called for the "settlement of the Afghan conflict on the principle of Afghan-led, Afghan-owned and Afghan-controlled peace process." and emphasized on "preserving the socio-economic development and political gains made by Afghanistan in the last 19 years." Three Central Asian countries--Tajikistan, Uzbekistan Turkmenistan share a land border with Afghanistan and that is why stability in the country is something all of them are keen on.

India and five Central Asian countries vow to increase engagement; New Delhi announces $1 billion line of credit

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi &nbsp;said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site.

Representatives of Twitter appeared before the joint committee of parliament on Data Protection Bill, 2019 and were questioned by the members on showing Ladakh as part of China, Lekhi said.

"The committee was unanimous in its opinion that Twitter's explanation on showing Ladakh as part of China was inadequate," Lekhi said.&nbsp;

However, representatives of Twitter told the panel that the social media company respects the sensitivities of India, she said.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
"It is not a question of sensitivities only, it is a matter of India's sovereignty and integrity, showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence which attracts imprisonment of seven years," Lekhi said.

Officials who deposed before the panel on behalf of Twitter India included Shagufta Kamran, senior manager, public policy, Ayushi Kapoor, legal counsel, Pallavi Walia, policy communications, and Manvinder Bali, corporate security.

Officials from the Ministry of Electronics, Information and Technology, and the Ministry of Law and Justice also deposed before the panel.

(With inputs from agencies)

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site.

Popular social media platform Twitter’s explanation for showing India’s Union Territory Ladakh as a part of China is "inadequate" for what amounts to a criminal offence, a panel of MPs headed by Meenakshi Lekhi said today after questioning officials of the microblogging site. Representatives of Twitter appeared before the joint committee of parliament on Data Protection Bill, 2019 and were questioned by the members on showing Ladakh as part of China, Lekhi said. "The committee was unanimous in its opinion that Twitter's explanation on showing Ladakh as part of China was inadequate," Lekhi said. However, representatives of Twitter told the panel that the social media company respects the sensitivities of India, she said. "It is not a question of sensitivities only, it is a matter of India's sovereignty and integrity, showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence which attracts imprisonment of seven years," Lekhi said. Officials who deposed before the panel on behalf of Twitter India included Shagufta Kamran, senior manager, public policy, Ayushi Kapoor, legal counsel, Pallavi Walia, policy communications, and Manvinder Bali, corporate security. Officials from the Ministry of Electronics, Information and Technology, and the Ministry of Law and Justice also deposed before the panel. (With inputs from agencies)

Showing Ladakh as part of China amounts to a criminal offence: MP’s Panel of India

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month.

Sources told WION, both sides, "exchanged views on current global situation and its contemporary challenges and discussed our shared concerns and interests including stability and security in Asia, and how best that can be ensured".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-to-sign-beca-military-pact-with-us-338112" hreflang="en">India to sign BECA military pact with US</a>

This is the second meeting between the 2 ministers in a months' time and comes amidst Chinese aggressiveness not only with India but with other countries in the region. Both also had an in-person meeting earlier this month on the sidelines of the QUAD --India, US, Japan and Australia foreign minister meet in Tokyo, Japan.

Other focus areas of discussions were&nbsp;maritime security, open connectivity and resilient supply chains.&nbsp;During the meet, US Secretary of state&nbsp;shared with EAM the Trump Administration’s thinking on Afghanistan with the latter highlighting "India’s stakes and its continuing concern that decisions should be made by Afghans themselves without the use of force", sources added.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rajnath-singh-mark-esper-discuss-joint-service-cooperation-in-bilateral-meet-338063" hreflang="en">Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet</a>

New Delhi also made, "clear that cross-border terrorism was completely unacceptable." This even as India has called on Pakistan to take action on terror safe havens it has been hosting, something that has gone deaf ears in Islamabad.&nbsp;

This is the fourth time US Secretary of the state is visiting India under Trump administration and how the closeness between the 2 countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

During the meet, EAM called for "supportive policies" that helps in talent flow and underlined that a "innovation partnership is central to our future".&nbsp;&nbsp;Washington has been tightening visa rules, something that has been concerning many Indians who have been going to US for jobs, education.&nbsp;&nbsp;The number of Indian students studying in the United States has increased five years in a row, doubling from 96,000 students in the 2012- 13 academic year to more than 200,000 in 2018-19.

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month.

In a two-hour-long bilateral meet between US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo and External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar, key focus areas were Indo-Pacific, the situation in Afghanistan and a follow up on their Tokyo discussions earlier this month. Sources told WION, both sides, "exchanged views on current global situation and its contemporary challenges and discussed our shared concerns and interests including stability and security in Asia, and how best that can be ensured". Also read: India to sign BECA military pact with US This is the second meeting between the 2 ministers in a months' time and comes amidst Chinese aggressiveness not only with India but with other countries in the region. Both also had an in-person meeting earlier this month on the sidelines of the QUAD --India, US, Japan and Australia foreign minister meet in Tokyo, Japan. Other focus areas of discussions were maritime security, open connectivity and resilient supply chains. During the meet, US Secretary of state shared with EAM the Trump Administration’s thinking on Afghanistan with the latter highlighting "India’s stakes and its continuing concern that decisions should be made by Afghans themselves without the use of force", sources added. Also read: Rajnath Singh, Mark Esper discuss joint service cooperation in bilateral meet New Delhi also made, "clear that cross-border terrorism was completely unacceptable." This even as India has called on Pakistan to take action on terror safe havens it has been hosting, something that has gone deaf ears in Islamabad. This is the fourth time US Secretary of the state is visiting India under Trump administration and how the closeness between the 2 countries. During the meet, EAM called for "supportive policies" that helps in talent flow and underlined that a "innovation partnership is central to our future". Washington has been tightening visa rules, something that has been concerning many Indians who have been going to US for jobs, education. The number of Indian students studying in the United States has increased five years in a row, doubling from 96,000 students in the 2012- 13 academic year to more than 200,000 in 2018-19.

Pompeo-Jaishankar discuss Indo-Pacific, Afghanistan

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar on Friday highlighted New Delhi's commitment to United Nations, and said it has deeply invested in UN's success. He added the world collectively needs to "work together to make this one UN we have the best possible UN there can be".

Speaking at an event marking the release of a stamp on the 75th anniversary of the New York-based global body, Jaishankar said, "In the last 75 years, the UN has served as a platform for nations of the world to come under one roof, and work together towards a better future for mankind. As a founding member of UN, India has invested its heart and soul, right from the crafting of the principles of the UN charter to being in forefront of keeping the peace."

He also commented on India's upcoming two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, saying, "As we look forward to beginning our eighth term as a non-permanent member of the UNSC on January 2021, it is important that at the historic juncture of the 75-year long journey of the UN, we recommit to join hands to work with vigour and dedication to bring the goals and objective of the UN, closer to the aspirations of its member states and more importantly the aspirations of our people."

India's postal department had previously released similar such commemorative postage stamps on UN’s 9th, 40th and 50th Anniversaries in 1954, 1985 and 1995 respectively.

Present on the occasion were Secretary West Vikas Swarup, Secretary (Posts), Department of Post and virtually Chief of UN Postal administration, heads of 22 UN agencies in India, India's permanent representatives and envoys from New York, Paris, Geneva, Vienna, Rome, Bangkok and Nairobi.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar on Friday highlighted New Delhi's commitment to United Nations, and said it has deeply invested in UN's success.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar on Friday highlighted New Delhi's commitment to United Nations, and said it has deeply invested in UN's success. He added the world collectively needs to "work together to make this one UN we have the best possible UN there can be". Speaking at an event marking the release of a stamp on the 75th anniversary of the New York-based global body, Jaishankar said, "In the last 75 years, the UN has served as a platform for nations of the world to come under one roof, and work together towards a better future for mankind. As a founding member of UN, India has invested its heart and soul, right from the crafting of the principles of the UN charter to being in forefront of keeping the peace." He also commented on India's upcoming two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, saying, "As we look forward to beginning our eighth term as a non-permanent member of the UNSC on January 2021, it is important that at the historic juncture of the 75-year long journey of the UN, we recommit to join hands to work with vigour and dedication to bring the goals and objective of the UN, closer to the aspirations of its member states and more importantly the aspirations of our people." India's postal department had previously released similar such commemorative postage stamps on UN’s 9th, 40th and 50th Anniversaries in 1954, 1985 and 1995 respectively. Present on the occasion were Secretary West Vikas Swarup, Secretary (Posts), Department of Post and virtually Chief of UN Postal administration, heads of 22 UN agencies in India, India's permanent representatives and envoys from New York, Paris, Geneva, Vienna, Rome, Bangkok and Nairobi.

India deeply invested in UN's success, EAM Jaishankar says

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) is "deeply disturbed" and this is obviously impacting the overall relationship between India and China.

Jaishankar made these comments against the backdrop of the over five-month-long border standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh where each side has deployed over 50,000 troops.

The Sino-India boundary question is a very "complicated" and "difficult" issue, he said at a webinar on his book titled 'The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World', giving a historical perspective to development of the relationship between the two neighbouring countries in the last three decades.

The external affairs minister said the relationship between India and China, which was "very difficult", was normalised since late 1980s through a plethora of initiatives like trade, travel, tourism, and societal activities on the premise of peace and tranquillity along the border.

"It is not our position that we should solve the boundary question. We understand that it is a very complicated and difficult issue. There have been many negotiations at different levels...That is a very high bar for a relationship," Jaishankar said through video conferencing at the webinar event in Pune moderated by former ambassador Gautam Bambawale.

"I am talking about a much more basic bar which is that there must be peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the border areas and that has been the case since the late 1980s," he added.

"Now, if peace and tranquillity is deeply disturbed, then obviously there will be an impact on the relationship and that is what we are seeing," he said referring to the border situation in eastern Ladakh.

Jaishankar said both China and India are rising and assuming "bigger" roles in the world, but the "big question" is how the two countries find an "equilibrium".

"That is the basic case I addressed in my book," the minister said, adding he completed the manuscript in April, a few weeks before the border standoff erupted in eastern Ladakh.

Asked whether India should be growing at a faster GDP growth rate so that the asymmetry with China economically, militarily and otherwise is reduced, Jaishankar referred to different sociology, politics and the nature of governance between the two neighbours.

Jaishankar said he would like India to grow much faster and develop more capabilities but noted that it should not be because of competition with China.

"I think we have to do it for ourselves. In a sense we are competing against everybody in the world. It is a world where every major power is competing against every other country, even friendly countries when it comes to eco capabilities," he said.

"I feel that there are lessons we can learn from China. The way China has grown. But at the same time, let's be very clear. We are not China. When people suggest that you fix this, they did this, you did this...Our sociology is different, our politics is different, the nature of our governance is very different."

He further added: "How do you learn from experiences from a dissimilar path? Even if we are dissimilar, there are lessons to be learnt."

Talking about key geo-political developments over the last seven decades, Jaishankar referred to prosperity of Europe and recovery of Japan after the Second World War, collapse of the Soviet Union and subsequent emergence of the US as major events, but noted that the turning point came in 2008 which was marked by global financial crisis and rise of China, India and the 10-nation ASEAN grouping.

"It turned the world into a visible economic rebalancing. Big issues of the day could not be decided by two countries, five countries or seven countries..."

"I think the process which started in 2008-09 has taken a sharper turn this year with the changes due to the coronavirus pandemic. Today, the big shift was towards a multipolar world" he said.

On India's economic growth and ways to bolster it, Jaishankar said there was a need for more focus on the manufacturing sector and human development reforms, adding the last five years have seen focus on skill development through a variety of initiatives like 'beti bachao beti padhao' programme.

The external affairs minister said there was a need for employment centric growth as well as focus on the manufacturing sector.

"I would say the manufacturing strategy needs to be adjusted," he said, favouring looking at the centrality of employment.

Jaishankar also asserted that the ability to "step up", "assume responsibility" and "do good" is an important part of India's "rise".

The union minister said countries look up to India as a more capable neighbour who they think will do something when needed.

"...Today you look at the entire Indian Ocean Region, right from Fiji to East Africa, in last five years, every time there was a major disaster, be it natural, man-made or civil war in Yemen, earthquake in Nepal, mudslide in Sri Lanka or cyclone in Myanmar, we have gone responding because today we have more capabilities."

"Today people look up to us as a more capable neighbour who will do something. So this ability to step up and assume global responsibility and do good has been an important part of our rise," Jaishankar said.

Referring to Africa, he said the rise of the continent is in India's interest.

"Facilitating, contributing and partnering the rise of Africa is in our strategic interest. If Africa becomes one of the poles of global polity, it is better for us. We have deep solidarity which came out from the anti-colonial movement," he added.&nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) is "deeply disturbed" and this is obviously impacting the overall relationship between India and China.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Saturday said peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) is "deeply disturbed" and this is obviously impacting the overall relationship between India and China. Jaishankar made these comments against the backdrop of the over five-month-long border standoff between India and China in eastern Ladakh where each side has deployed over 50,000 troops. The Sino-India boundary question is a very "complicated" and "difficult" issue, he said at a webinar on his book titled 'The India Way: Strategies for an Uncertain World', giving a historical perspective to development of the relationship between the two neighbouring countries in the last three decades. The external affairs minister said the relationship between India and China, which was "very difficult", was normalised since late 1980s through a plethora of initiatives like trade, travel, tourism, and societal activities on the premise of peace and tranquillity along the border. "It is not our position that we should solve the boundary question. We understand that it is a very complicated and difficult issue. There have been many negotiations at different levels...That is a very high bar for a relationship," Jaishankar said through video conferencing at the webinar event in Pune moderated by former ambassador Gautam Bambawale. "I am talking about a much more basic bar which is that there must be peace and tranquillity along the LAC in the border areas and that has been the case since the late 1980s," he added. "Now, if peace and tranquillity is deeply disturbed, then obviously there will be an impact on the relationship and that is what we are seeing," he said referring to the border situation in eastern Ladakh. Jaishankar said both China and India are rising and assuming "bigger" roles in the world, but the "big question" is how the two countries find an "equilibrium". "That is the basic case I addressed in my book," the minister said, adding he completed the manuscript in April, a few weeks before the border standoff erupted in eastern Ladakh. Asked whether India should be growing at a faster GDP growth rate so that the asymmetry with China economically, militarily and otherwise is reduced, Jaishankar referred to different sociology, politics and the nature of governance between the two neighbours. Jaishankar said he would like India to grow much faster and develop more capabilities but noted that it should not be because of competition with China. "I think we have to do it for ourselves. In a sense we are competing against everybody in the world. It is a world where every major power is competing against every other country, even friendly countries when it comes to eco capabilities," he said. "I feel that there are lessons we can learn from China. The way China has grown. But at the same time, let's be very clear. We are not China. When people suggest that you fix this, they did this, you did this...Our sociology is different, our politics is different, the nature of our governance is very different." He further added: "How do you learn from experiences from a dissimilar path? Even if we are dissimilar, there are lessons to be learnt." Talking about key geo-political developments over the last seven decades, Jaishankar referred to prosperity of Europe and recovery of Japan after the Second World War, collapse of the Soviet Union and subsequent emergence of the US as major events, but noted that the turning point came in 2008 which was marked by global financial crisis and rise of China, India and the 10-nation ASEAN grouping. "It turned the world into a visible economic rebalancing. Big issues of the day could not be decided by two countries, five countries or seven countries..." "I think the process which started in 2008-09 has taken a sharper turn this year with the changes due to the coronavirus pandemic. Today, the big shift was towards a multipolar world" he said. On India's economic growth and ways to bolster it, Jaishankar said there was a need for more focus on the manufacturing sector and human development reforms, adding the last five years have seen focus on skill development through a variety of initiatives like 'beti bachao beti padhao' programme. The external affairs minister said there was a need for employment centric growth as well as focus on the manufacturing sector. "I would say the manufacturing strategy needs to be adjusted," he said, favouring looking at the centrality of employment. Jaishankar also asserted that the ability to "step up", "assume responsibility" and "do good" is an important part of India's "rise". The union minister said countries look up to India as a more capable neighbour who they think will do something when needed. "...Today you look at the entire Indian Ocean Region, right from Fiji to East Africa, in last five years, every time there was a major disaster, be it natural, man-made or civil war in Yemen, earthquake in Nepal, mudslide in Sri Lanka or cyclone in Myanmar, we have gone responding because today we have more capabilities." "Today people look up to us as a more capable neighbour who will do something. So this ability to step up and assume global responsibility and do good has been an important part of our rise," Jaishankar said. Referring to Africa, he said the rise of the continent is in India's interest. "Facilitating, contributing and partnering the rise of Africa is in our strategic interest. If Africa becomes one of the poles of global polity, it is better for us. We have deep solidarity which came out from the anti-colonial movement," he added.

Peace and tranquillity along LAC "deeply disturbed", impacting India-China ties, says Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar said that Galwan incident has had a "deep public impact, very major political impact" and it has left India China relationship "profoundly disturbed".&nbsp;

The Galwan incident at Line of Actual Control (LAC) on June 15 saw clash&nbsp;between Chinese and Indian forces. It left 20 Indian soldiers dead.&nbsp;

China also suffered casualties, but never came out with a number.&nbsp;

Jaishankar said, "What we saw this year was a departure from the entire series of agreement, the massing of a large amount of Chinese forces on the border was clearly contrary to all of this. When you have friction point, a large number of troops very close to each other. Then something tragic like June 15 happened."

The Galwan incident was the first military casualty after 1975 at the LAC between India and China. The build up by the Chinese started in the month of May, and since then they have been present at the area.&nbsp;

When asked about the reason for Chinese aggression at the LAC, the minister said, "I haven't frankly got any reasonable explanation that I can tell from them on the matter," adding, "large number of troops with weapons concentrated at that segment of border. And it is a critical security challenge we face."

Both Indian and Chinese foreign and defence ministers met each other in the month of September, and since then two Corps Commanders-level talks have taken place to defuse the tensions.

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar said that Galwan incident has had a "deep public impact, very major political impact" and it has left India China relationship "profoundly disturbed".

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar said that Galwan incident has had a "deep public impact, very major political impact" and it has left India China relationship "profoundly disturbed". The Galwan incident at Line of Actual Control (LAC) on June 15 saw clash between Chinese and Indian forces. It left 20 Indian soldiers dead. China also suffered casualties, but never came out with a number. Jaishankar said, "What we saw this year was a departure from the entire series of agreement, the massing of a large amount of Chinese forces on the border was clearly contrary to all of this. When you have friction point, a large number of troops very close to each other. Then something tragic like June 15 happened." The Galwan incident was the first military casualty after 1975 at the LAC between India and China. The build up by the Chinese started in the month of May, and since then they have been present at the area. When asked about the reason for Chinese aggression at the LAC, the minister said, "I haven't frankly got any reasonable explanation that I can tell from them on the matter," adding, "large number of troops with weapons concentrated at that segment of border. And it is a critical security challenge we face." Both Indian and Chinese foreign and defence ministers met each other in the month of September, and since then two Corps Commanders-level talks have taken place to defuse the tensions.

Galwan incident has had deep political and public impact: Jaishankar

Terrorism remains publicly acknowledged by the Pakistan government as a policy that they justify, making it very hard to conduct normal relations with it, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday.

Speaking during an online event hosted by the Asia Society, Jaishankar said, 'In terms of your'&nbsp;question, how are we with Pakistan. Well, I am afraid we're still at the, if not the perennial issues, at least the long-lasting ones, which is terrorism from Pakistan continues."

"Terrorism from Pakistan remains publicly acknowledged by their government as a policy that they are justifying. So it makes it very hard to conduct normal relations with them,''&nbsp;Jaishankar said.

He added that it is not only terrorism, but Pakistan doesn't do normal trade with India and has not given New Delhi MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status.

''We don't have a normal visa relationship, they are very restrictive on that score. They have blocked connectivity between India and Afghanistan and from Afghanistan to India,''&nbsp;he said.

Jaishankar said that normal neighbours do visas and trade, ''they give you connectivity and most important they don't practice terrorism. And I think until we address that problem, this challenge of how do you have a normal relationship with this very unique neighbour is a very troubling issue for our foreign policy.''

Responding to a question on the developments in Kashmir since the bifurcation last year, Jaishankar said the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir has now become two union territories.

''The external boundaries of India have not changed. The external boundaries of India remain what they are today as opposed to what they were five years ago or 20 years ago, 40 years ago,''&nbsp;he said.

''So as far as our neighbours are concerned, our point to them is that this is something which is internal to us. Every country after all reserves the right to change its administrative jurisdictions. A country like China has also changed the borders of its provinces and I'm sure a lot of other countries do that.

''Neighbours get impacted only if your external boundaries change. That has not happened in this case,''&nbsp;he said.

Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship.

The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed.

Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue.&nbsp;

Terrorism remains publicly acknowledged by the Pakistan government as a policy that they justify, making it very hard to conduct normal relations with it, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday.

Terrorism remains publicly acknowledged by the Pakistan government as a policy that they justify, making it very hard to conduct normal relations with it, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Friday. Speaking during an online event hosted by the Asia Society, Jaishankar said, 'In terms of your' question, how are we with Pakistan. Well, I am afraid we're still at the, if not the perennial issues, at least the long-lasting ones, which is terrorism from Pakistan continues." "Terrorism from Pakistan remains publicly acknowledged by their government as a policy that they are justifying. So it makes it very hard to conduct normal relations with them,'' Jaishankar said. He added that it is not only terrorism, but Pakistan doesn't do normal trade with India and has not given New Delhi MFN (Most Favoured Nation) status. ''We don't have a normal visa relationship, they are very restrictive on that score. They have blocked connectivity between India and Afghanistan and from Afghanistan to India,'' he said. Jaishankar said that normal neighbours do visas and trade, ''they give you connectivity and most important they don't practice terrorism. And I think until we address that problem, this challenge of how do you have a normal relationship with this very unique neighbour is a very troubling issue for our foreign policy.'' Responding to a question on the developments in Kashmir since the bifurcation last year, Jaishankar said the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir has now become two union territories. ''The external boundaries of India have not changed. The external boundaries of India remain what they are today as opposed to what they were five years ago or 20 years ago, 40 years ago,'' he said. ''So as far as our neighbours are concerned, our point to them is that this is something which is internal to us. Every country after all reserves the right to change its administrative jurisdictions. A country like China has also changed the borders of its provinces and I'm sure a lot of other countries do that. ''Neighbours get impacted only if your external boundaries change. That has not happened in this case,'' he said. Ties between India and Pakistan nosedived after a terror attack on the Pathankot Air Force base in 2016 by terror groups based in the neighbouring country. Subsequent attacks, including one on Indian Army camp in Uri, further deteriorated the relationship. The relationship further dipped after India's war planes pounded a Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist training camp deep inside Pakistan on February 26 last year in response to the Pulwama terror attack in which 40 CRPF jawans were killed. Withdrawal of Jammu and Kashmir's special powers and bifurcating the state into two union territories in August last year also evoked a strong reaction from Pakistan, which has been unsuccessfully trying to rally international support against India on the Kashmir issue.

Terrorism from Pak continues, making it very hard to conduct normal relations with them: Jaishankar

Ministry of external affairs has asked China to stop commenting on India's internal matters after Beijing raked Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh.&nbsp;

The ministry of external affairs reminded China that "union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are, and would remain an integral part of India" and "China has no locus standi to comment on India's internal matters".

Advising Beijing that "We hope that countries will not comment on India’s internal matters, as much as they expect the same of others."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-talks-are-work-in-progress-eam-jaishankar-335585">Also read:&nbsp;India, China talks are work in progress: EAM Jaishankar</a>

New Delhi reiterated the same position on Arunachal Pradesh saying, "Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India. This fact has also been clearly conveyed to the Chinese side on several occasions, including at the highest level."

China earlier this week said, it "doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory... and also Arunachal Pradesh" after India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated bridges in the region. The defence minister inaugurated 44 bridges in seven union territories and states, many of them bordering China. &nbsp;

Beijing was irked with the development with its foreign ministry saying, "Indian side has been ramping up infrastructure development along the border...is root cause of the tension between the two sides." The comments come even as the country has ramped up infrastructure in its Tibet region, that borders with India in several areas.&nbsp;

Ministry of external affairs has asked China to stop commenting on India's internal matters after Beijing raked Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The ministry of external affairs reminded China that "union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are, and would remain an integral part of India" and "China has no locus standi to comment on India's internal matters".

Ministry of external affairs has asked China to stop commenting on India's internal matters after Beijing raked Ladakh and Arunachal Pradesh. The ministry of external affairs reminded China that "union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh have been, are, and would remain an integral part of India" and "China has no locus standi to comment on India's internal matters". Advising Beijing that "We hope that countries will not comment on India’s internal matters, as much as they expect the same of others." Also read: India, China talks are work in progress: EAM Jaishankar New Delhi reiterated the same position on Arunachal Pradesh saying, "Arunachal Pradesh is an integral and inalienable part of India. This fact has also been clearly conveyed to the Chinese side on several occasions, including at the highest level." China earlier this week said, it "doesn’t recognize Ladakh Union Territory... and also Arunachal Pradesh" after India's defence minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated bridges in the region. The defence minister inaugurated 44 bridges in seven union territories and states, many of them bordering China. Beijing was irked with the development with its foreign ministry saying, "Indian side has been ramping up infrastructure development along the border...is root cause of the tension between the two sides." The comments come even as the country has ramped up infrastructure in its Tibet region, that borders with India in several areas.

Stop commenting in internal issue, if you expect same from others: India after China rakes AP, Ladakh

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said the discussions with the Chinese on the Line of Actual Control row is "work in progress" and India will "wait to see how this plays out".

Speaking at a media event, EAM recalled his meet with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in September and said, "we had a discussion and we agreed on the importance of early disengagement and since then meeting have happened between the military commanders assisted by diplomats. That is work in progress."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/in-a-first-india-to-deliver-submarine-to-myanmar-navy-335553">Also read|&nbsp;In a first, India to deliver submarine to Myanmar navy</a> 
&nbsp; 
Adding, "we regularly patrol the line of actual control...Army is present and is monitoring...discussion are going on, it is work in progress. The first rule is don't predict what is going on".

Ties between the two countries have suffered after the increased Chinese build-up and Galwan incident in which India lost 20 of its soldiers.&nbsp;

Describing the Chinese troop build-up as one that "has no precedent in recent past" and whose "gravity..is certainly there", EAM said, "Can rising China and rising India find an equilibrium and situation at borders is an expression of that challenge, inability to meet the challenge"&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/no-message-sent-india-on-pakistan-nsas-claim-of-new-delhi-reaching-out-to-islamabad-335503">Also read|&nbsp;No message sent: India on Pakistan NSA's claim of New Delhi reaching out to Islamabad</a>

He explained, "If underlined peace and tranquility is disturbed, if the agreements...are not honored, then that is the primary cause of disruption."

The 7th corps commanders meet happened on Monday, in which the Chinese side gave a proposal. The proposal has been discussed at the China study group. &nbsp;

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said the discussions with the Chinese on the Line of Actual Control row is "work in progress" and India will "wait to see how this plays out".

India's external affairs minister Dr S Jaishankar has said the discussions with the Chinese on the Line of Actual Control row is "work in progress" and India will "wait to see how this plays out". Speaking at a media event, EAM recalled his meet with Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in September and said, "we had a discussion and we agreed on the importance of early disengagement and since then meeting have happened between the military commanders assisted by diplomats. That is work in progress." Also read| In a first, India to deliver submarine to Myanmar navy Adding, "we regularly patrol the line of actual control...Army is present and is monitoring...discussion are going on, it is work in progress. The first rule is don't predict what is going on". Ties between the two countries have suffered after the increased Chinese build-up and Galwan incident in which India lost 20 of its soldiers. Describing the Chinese troop build-up as one that "has no precedent in recent past" and whose "gravity..is certainly there", EAM said, "Can rising China and rising India find an equilibrium and situation at borders is an expression of that challenge, inability to meet the challenge" Also read| No message sent: India on Pakistan NSA's claim of New Delhi reaching out to Islamabad He explained, "If underlined peace and tranquility is disturbed, if the agreements...are not honored, then that is the primary cause of disruption." The 7th corps commanders meet happened on Monday, in which the Chinese side gave a proposal. The proposal has been discussed at the China study group.

India, China talks are work in progress: EAM Jaishankar

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called for "respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty" and "peaceful resolution of disputes" at the Quad Foreign Ministers meet in Tokyo.&nbsp;

The statement comes as China has been aggressive at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India in eastern Ladakh for months now.&nbsp;

Quad is a group of four countries -- India, Australia, Japan and United States. The group, which is seen by China as suspicious, has been calling for "free and open" Indo Pacific.

Jaishankar highlighted how "vibrant and pluralistic democracies with shared values" Quad member states are. They have "collectively affirmed the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific" and "remain committed to upholding the rules-based international order, underpinned by the rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas.

China, which has been locking horns in some way or the other with each Quad country, has been staking claim to 90 per cent of South China, irking ASEAN countries and drawing sharp reactions from Washington, New Delhi. Many countries have been reiterating calls for freedon of navigation in South China Sea amid Beijing's claims.

"Our objective remains advancing the security and the economic interests of all countries having legitimate and vital interests in the region and expressed satisfaction that the Indo-Pacific concept has gained increasingly wider acceptance," Jaishankar added.

Asean and Germany are among other blocks and countries to acknowledge the concept.

To this end, Jaishankar said, "The events of this year have clearly demonstrated how imperative it is for likeminded countries to coordinate responses to the various challenges that the pandemic has brought to the fore."

"You are all aware that India assumes membership of the UN Security Council next year. We look forward to seeking collective solutions to global challenges,including global recovery from the pandemic and reform of multilateral institutions," he further said.

This is the second Quad FMs meet -- the last one happened in New York.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called for "respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty" and "peaceful resolution of disputes" at the Quad Foreign Ministers meet in Tokyo.

India's external affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday called for "respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty" and "peaceful resolution of disputes" at the Quad Foreign Ministers meet in Tokyo. The statement comes as China has been aggressive at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with India in eastern Ladakh for months now. Quad is a group of four countries -- India, Australia, Japan and United States. The group, which is seen by China as suspicious, has been calling for "free and open" Indo Pacific. Jaishankar highlighted how "vibrant and pluralistic democracies with shared values" Quad member states are. They have "collectively affirmed the importance of maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific" and "remain committed to upholding the rules-based international order, underpinned by the rule of law, transparency, freedom of navigation in the international seas. China, which has been locking horns in some way or the other with each Quad country, has been staking claim to 90 per cent of South China, irking ASEAN countries and drawing sharp reactions from Washington, New Delhi. Many countries have been reiterating calls for freedon of navigation in South China Sea amid Beijing's claims. "Our objective remains advancing the security and the economic interests of all countries having legitimate and vital interests in the region and expressed satisfaction that the Indo-Pacific concept has gained increasingly wider acceptance," Jaishankar added. Asean and Germany are among other blocks and countries to acknowledge the concept. To this end, Jaishankar said, "The events of this year have clearly demonstrated how imperative it is for likeminded countries to coordinate responses to the various challenges that the pandemic has brought to the fore." "You are all aware that India assumes membership of the UN Security Council next year. We look forward to seeking collective solutions to global challenges,including global recovery from the pandemic and reform of multilateral institutions," he further said. This is the second Quad FMs meet -- the last one happened in New York.

At Quad FMs meet, Jaishankar calls for respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty

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